Hello there! It’s time for another blog tour! This time I’m here to share some thoughts on Nevertheless We Persisted: 48 Voices of Defiance, Strength, and Courage.
About the Books:
A powerful collection of essays from actors, activists, athletes, politicians, musicians, writers, and teens, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, actress Alia Shawkat, actor Maulik Pancholy, poet Azure Antoinette, teen activist Gavin Grimm, and many, many more, each writing about a time in their youth when they were held back because of their race, gender, or sexual identity–but persisted.
“Aren’t you a terrorist?” “There are no roles for people who look like you.” “That’s a sin.” “No girls allowed.” They’ve heard it all. Actress Alia Shawkat reflects on all the parts she was told she was too “ethnic” to play. Former NFL player Wade Davis recalls his bullying of gay classmates in an attempt to hide his own sexuality. Teen Gavin Grimm shares the story that led to the infamous “bathroom bill,” and how he’s fighting it. Holocaust survivor Fanny Starr tells of her harrowing time in Auschwitz, where she watched her family disappear, one by one.
What made them rise up through the hate? What made them overcome the obstacles of their childhood to achieve extraordinary success? How did they break out of society’s limited view of who they are and find their way to the beautiful and hard-won lives they live today? With a foreword by Minnesota senator and up-and-coming Democratic party leader Amy Klobuchar, these essays share deeply personal stories of resilience, faith, love, and, yes, persistence.
My Thoughts:
This was a really interesting book to dive into. I’ve been into anthologies more and more lately and I loved that this one was nonfiction. I do want to admit right away… I have not read every entry yet. But what I have read has captured my attention and given me a glimpse into the lives of many different people.
I think that’s what I’m liking the most about this book… the variety! There are entries from such a wide age range! From a 12 year old female boxer to a 96 year old holocaust survivor and everything in between. And so many issues are discussed! Race, gender, LGBTQ+ issues, disabilities, poverty, and more. These stories come from people in all different professions including athletes, politicians, entrepreneurs, writers, teachers, students, entertainers, and others. PLUS! The formats themselves vary. The entries include essays as well as interviews, scripts, poetry, and even a comic. Basically, each entry is incredibly unique and gives the reader so many perspectives.
This is a book I would really love to see on all library shelves. Teens and adults alike can learn from and be inspired by the stories included. And it’s so easy to just read an entry or two before bed!
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