One of the Good Ones
on Goodreads (4,610)
What’s inside...
The Hate U Give meets Get Out in this honest and powerful exploration of prejudice in the stunning novel from sister-writer duo Maika and Maritza Moulite, authors of Dear Haiti, Love Alaine. ISN'T BEING HUMAN ENOUGH? When teen social activist and history buff Kezi Smith is killed under mysterious circumstances after attending a social justice rally, her devastated sister Happi and their family are left reeling in the aftermath. As Kezi becomes another immortalized victim in the fight against police brutality, Happi begins to question the idealized way her sister is remembered. Perfect. Angelic. One of the good ones. Even as the phrase rings wrong in her mind—why are only certain people deemed worthy to be missed?—Happi and her sister Genny embark on a journey to honor Kezi in their own way, using an heirloom copy of The Negro Motorist Green Book as their guide. But there's a twist to Kezi's story that no one could've ever expected—one that will change everything all over again.
Age
13-17
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Happi Smith
Kezi Smith
Genny Smith
Discussion points
How did the book's portrayal of social justice issues make you feel?
Why do you think it's important to remember and honor the stories of those who were 'one of the good ones'?
How do the characters in the story demonstrate resilience and courage?
In what ways do you think you can make a positive impact in your community?
What did you learn about the power of memory and the importance of history from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book’s events and characters, validating their emotions.
Discuss the historical context provided in the book to help your child understand the importance of the themes discussed.
Connect the book’s themes to current events to help your child see the relevance of the story in today's world.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the characters’ experiences and their own life, fostering empathy and understanding.
Explore together how learning from the past can help us make better decisions for a fairer future.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of understanding history
Explanation: The book delves into historical and racial issues, encouraging young readers to learn about and reflect on past injustices.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by engaging in conversations about history and social justice, promoting awareness and empathy.
Example Lesson: The value of family and community
Explanation: The story emphasizes the strong bonds between family members and their collective memory, showcasing how families can be a source of strength and support.
Real-World Application: Children can cherish and nurture their relationships with family members, understanding the importance of these support systems in their lives.
Example Lesson: The power of activism and fighting for justice
Explanation: Characters in the book advocate for social change and fight against racial injustice, illustrating the impact of standing up for one's beliefs.
Real-World Application: Children learn to voice their opinions on unfairness or inequality, realizing they can contribute to positive changes in their community.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and questioning the status quo
Explanation: The protagonists question the narratives presented to them, encouraging readers to think critically and not accept information at face value.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to analyze information critically, fostering curiosity and informed decision-making.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in the book face various challenges but remain resilient, providing a model for overcoming difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persevere through their own challenges, understanding that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.