We Are Not Broken

About this book

New memoir from George M. Johnson, the New York Times bestselling author of All Boys Aren't Blue—a "deeply impactful" (Nic Stone), "striking and joyful" (Laurie Halse Anderson), and "stunning read" (Publishers Weekly, starred) that celebrates Black boyhood and brotherhood in all its glory! This is the vibrant story of George, Garrett, Rall, and Rasul -- four children raised by Nanny, their fiercely devoted grandmother. The boys hold each other close through early brushes with racism, memorable experiences at the family barbershop, and first loves and losses. And with Nanny at their center, they are never broken. George M. Johnson captures the unique experience of growing up as a Black boy in America through rich family stories that explore themes of vulnerability, sacrifice, and culture. Complete with touching letters from the grandchildren to their beloved matriarch and a full color photo insert, this heartwarming and heartbreaking memoir is destined to become a modern classic of emerging adulthood.

Censorship history

In 2024, "We Are Not Broken" by George M. Johnson faced bans at the school level across multiple states in the United States due to its LGBTQ+ content and themes related to race and colonialism. Specific instances included challenges raised by local parent-teacher associations (PTAs) and school board votes in districts such as those in Texas and Florida, where the book was deemed inappropriate for students. The bans were upheld in several cases, reflecting a growing trend of censorship targeting literature that addresses issues of race and sexuality.

Bans

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