MARLEY DIAS GETS IT DONE

Teen social justice activist Dias shares her passion for changing the world.

When Dias was in sixth grade, she was “sooo sick and tired of reading books about white boys and their dogs!” She wondered why her school’s required-reading list didn’t include any books by black authors. In particular, she longed for books that featured black girls like her as the main characters. That wish became a hashtag—#1000BlackGirlBooks—and then a campaign to collect 1,000 children’s books featuring black girl protagonists. The campaign made headlines and has taken social media–savvy Dias across the country and beyond. Now a teenager, Dias shares her journey and her commitment to making the world a better place. And, as the book’s title suggests, she seeks to inspire and empower others to do their part. Part memoir, part history lesson, part social activism 101, Dias’ story draws readers into her world. The book reads like a lively, nonstop conversation with Dias, covering everything from social media safety tips and “stay-strong” activist strategies to her love of fashion—and how she doesn’t always agree with her parents. Dias wants readers to know the difference between charity and activism, which Disney princess is the most woke, and what it was like to visit a landmark along what was once the trans-Atlantic slave trade route. In a chapter on her personal style, she takes pride in her “crown” of black-girl hair. Dias understands that the personal is political and that one person has the power to make a difference.

Dias’ magnetic personality, outlook on life, and passion for change enliven every page, making this both a fun read and an irresistible call to action for people of all ages and backgrounds