The Hate U Give: Your Book Club Reading Guide
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Books, most especially banned books, have a unique way of sparking dialogue, and Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give does so exceptionally—fearlessly opening the door to conversations about race, justice, and the systems that shape our world. Like any story that challenges the status quo, it hasn’t escaped censorship. But the pushback only underscores its importance.
Why The Hate U Give Has Faced Censorship
Since its publication, The Hate U Give has been banned or challenged in schools and libraries for its language, references to drugs, critiques of law enforcement, and its honest portrayal of systemic racism. Yet, these very elements make the story powerful and relatable. It’s an authentic exploration of issues too often silenced, yet still the lived experience of many—and that’s exactly why it resonates.
Key Themes
Racial Injustice and Police Brutality: A raw and moving look at systemic racism and the impact of police violence.
Identity and Code-Switching: Starr’s struggle to navigate two different worlds—a Black neighborhood and a predominantly white school—sheds light on the complexities of identity.
Activism and Speaking Out: At its core, this is a story about finding the courage to stand up for what’s right.
Family and Community: Amid crisis, the strength of Starr’s family and community is both grounding and empowering.
About Angie Thomas
Angie Thomas, born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, is a former teen rapper turned acclaimed author. Her debut novel, The Hate U Give, was inspired by the real-life police shooting of Oscar Grant and has received numerous accolades, including the William C. Morris Award and the Coretta Scott King Award.
Thomas followed up her debut with On the Come Up and Concrete Rose, both of which expanded her literary universe while continuing to center marginalized voices and the complexities of Black life in America. In addition to her novels, Thomas is a vocal advocate for diverse representation in literature, encouraging young writers from underrepresented communities to share their stories.
Learn more about her work at www.angiethomas.com.
Angie Thomas on Book Bans
For Thomas, the censorship of her work goes beyond personal frustration—it’s about what it says to the young people who see themselves in her stories.
“It’s emotionally taxing to have my book(s) banned. But not because they’re my books, but because all I can think about is the message it sends to the Black kids who see themselves in my books. They deserve to have their stories told whether it makes you comfortable or not.”
Her words remind us why stories like The Hate U Give matter: they offer representation, provoke thought, and drive essential conversations.
Book Club Questions
How does Starr’s experience with code-switching affect her understanding of who she is?
What does Tupac’s concept of "Thug Life" mean within the context of the story?
How does The Hate U Give explore the challenges and impact of activism?
In what ways do family and community relationships shape Starr’s journey?
How does the portrayal of media in the book influence public perception of Khalil and the events that unfold?
Does knowing the book’s history of being banned change the way you interpret its themes?
If You Liked This, You’ll Like
On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
Advocacy Against Book Bans
The Hate U Give has faced bans in various school districts across the United States.
If you're concerned about book bans and wish to take action, consider the following steps:
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with news on book bans in your area and nationwide.
Attend School Board Meetings: Participate in local school board meetings to voice your concerns about censorship.
Contact Decision-Makers: Reach out to school administrators, board members, and local legislators to express your opposition to book bans.
Sample Email Template
Subject: Concern Regarding Book Bans in Our School District
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I am writing to express my concern about the recent decision to remove certain books from our school libraries, including The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. This novel offers valuable insights into complex social issues and provides students with opportunities for critical thinking and empathy development.
I believe that access to diverse literature is essential for a well-rounded education. I respectfully urge you to reconsider the removal of these books and to uphold the principles of intellectual freedom in our schools.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Contact Information
While specific email addresses may vary by district, you can typically find contact information for school board members and administrators on your local school district's official website. Engaging with local advocacy groups and organizations like the American Library Association and PEN America can also provide additional resources and support in opposing book bans.
Here’s to meaningful conversations and thoughtful reading!
