Between the World and Me

What is Between the World and Me primarily about?

• the Civil Rights Movement

• a father's letter to his son about race in America

• a historical overview of systemic racism

• a fictional story about growing up in Baltimore

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Which event inspired Coates to write this book?

• the election of Barack Obama

• the death of Trayvon Martin

• the shooting of Michael Brown

• his own experiences of police brutality

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What does Coates mean by "the Dream"?

• the American Dream as a reality for all

• a set of idealized but false beliefs about equality and opportunity

• the dream of achieving wealth and fame

• the fight for racial justice

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How does Coates describe the black body in the book?

• as sacred and untouchable

• as a constant target of violence

• as a metaphor for freedom

• as irrelevant to systemic oppression

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What historical event does Coates reference as a foundation of systemic racism in America?

• the Revolutionary War

• the Civil War

• the enslavement of African Americans

• the Civil Rights Movement

Coates refers to Prince Jones frequently in the book. Who was he?

• Coates’ brother

• Coates’ classmate who was killed by the police

• a Civil Rights activist

• a fictional character

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How does Coates feel about religion as a source of solace or answers for systemic racism?

• He embraces it wholeheartedly.

• He is skeptical of its promises.

• He believes it is central to fighting racism.

• He avoids discussing it.

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What institution does Coates describe as transformative in his intellectual development?

• Howard University

• Harvard University

• Princeton University

• The University of Chicago

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Coates references Malcolm X throughout the book. How does he describe Malcolm’s influence?

• as the ultimate Civil Rights leader

• as an intellectual hero and icon

• as someone whose methods were too extreme

• as irrelevant to modern issues

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What does Coates say about the portrayal of black history in schools?

• It is accurate and comprehensive.

• It is often sanitized and incomplete.

• It is celebrated appropriately.

• It is a central focus.

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