Book Summary and Reviews of The Sum of Us by Heather McGhee

Book Summary

The New York Times bestseller, now adapted for a new generation of young readers, leaders, thinkers, and activists. A groundbreaking call to action that examines how racism affects and harms all of us and how we need to face it head-on, together.

The future can be prosperous for everyone, but only if we address the problems of racial and economic inequality.

McGhee believes that all people, of all ages and all backgrounds, need to rethink their attitude toward race and strive together to create opportunities that benefit everyone.

This book is a call to action. McGhee examines how damaging racism is, not only to people of color but also to white people. She offers hope and real solutions so we can all prosper. An expert in economic policy, McGhee draws lessons both from her work at a think tank and from her travels around the country talking to everyday Americans fighting for a more just and inclusive society.

The people she meets prove how the stories we tell ourselves about race and belonging influence the policies that determine our shared economic future.

The Sum of Us provides hope that with understanding and open-mindedness, the world can be more united and equitable than it is today.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. What is the zero-sum paradigm? Who currently benefits from the belief that progress for people of color must come at the expense of white people? Where in society do you observe this story being communicated, and by whom? Do you believe that it is possible to build a fairer economy? What are the most promising signs that another way is possible?
2. What are some of the ways that the U.S. economy has been dependent upon systems of exploitation and harm? How did white people, including people in northern states where slavery was abolished, profit from exploitation? How did this history advance the idea that liberation and justice for people of color would require taking something away from white people?
3. How did New Deal public...