This is a powerful story about a boy named James growing up in the South during the 1930's and the Ku Klux Klan. He learns about racism and violent men who dress in white and hurt African Americans. One morning, James' view of his father is shattered when he discovers he is part of the Klan and things are never the same again and between the two. The illustrations really portray the deep mood and tone of this story, with detailed facial expressions and scenery like a tree with a frayed rope hanging from its branches. This book could be viewed as controversial because it touches on the topic of racism and includes graphic references like lynchings and burning homes. However, this story is based on a period in American history that included economic turmoil and racial tension. It could be used during a unit on the history of race relations in America. As a reader, I thought this story was thought-provoking and the twist at the end was both emotional and telling. As a teacher, I feel this book would be best for upper elementary students and it would be important to discuss James' feelings and they change throughout this book, especially once he learns the truth about his father.
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