Stand: A journey of friendship and self-discovery

by Joel O. Estes

In Stand , readers are introduced to middle schooler Ethan Strong, whose journey to discover his own identity evolves over the course of a number of challenging and formative events. Largely by coincidence, Ethan is connected to a guarded agemate, Demarcus Washington. Slowly, over the summer, a friendship develops between the two boys, and Ethan discovers mysterious and endearing facets of his new friend’s character. However, as summer comes to a close, Ethan and Demarcus part ways, heading to different middle schools in the city.

After a year apart, Clarkson Public School’s new redistricting policy brings Ethan and Demarcus together again in seventh grade at Easton Middle School on the city’s north side. Despite attempts to understand from a caring teacher, Mrs. Wright, Ethan is forced to come to terms with the repeated troubling treatment of Demarcus, by adults and classmates alike. He is driven to see his own advantages and Demarcus’s challenges, as a young black boy in America. He must decide when and how he will stand for his growing awareness of prejudice and discrimination, and against his own privilege.

Stand is a unique, timely, and relevant book that will connect with all middle-grade readers. It is a book that speaks to all of us, young and old alike, about the power of self, of bravery, and of conviction to justice. Stand is a middle-grade roadmap for the journey of becoming a true friend and ally. This story will appeal to a broad audience of middle-grade and young adult readers who are in the midst of their own journey to understand how they fit in our diverse society.

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 17, 2023

About the author

Joel Estes serves as emeritus faculty in the Educational Studies Department at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, where he most recently held the position of Chair of the Department. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Illinois Wesleyan University and a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Administration from Western Illinois University. He has served on the boards of various educational and civic organizations. He currently serves as the advisor for the Blessings in a Backpack Chapter at Knox College and as the Congregation President of Grace Lutheran Church. Upon retirement, he rediscovered his passion for writing and has numerous writing projects in the works.

Preceding his time at Knox, he was an elementary school teacher and principal, coach, and school administrator. During his career, he served thousands of students and worked with hundreds of future teachers and educators. He is particularly proud of the work he did in high-need elementary schools, alternative education, and working with underserved students.

While his debut novel, Stand, is his first formally published book, his work in the field of education, in graduate work, and in various civic responsibilities has required the development of a substantial collection of writing. Upon retirement, writing has become a major focus. Most of his recent writing focuses on his experiences and perspectives on his career working with children. This motivates him and provides a treasure trove of situations and ideas.

Joel and his wife, Diane, live in Knoxville, Illinois. They have two sons and six grandsons.

Reviews

[Susan Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and well written book! Got to know the author, Joel Estes, from working at the school district and he is a wonderful man. Great inspiration to staff and students. Hope he will write more books!

[Chuck Schrader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect this book to sit with me the way it has. Ethan and Demarcus’s friendship unfolds so naturally, it almost felt like I was sitting on the porch eavesdropping on two real kids figuring out life. What struck me most is how gently Estes handles the moment Ethan begins to recognize his own privilege no preaching, no heavy-handedness. Just honest, uncomfortable, necessary growth. I wish every middle schooler (and honestly, every adult) would read this.

[Colin Merce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure at first where the story was going. But wow, once Ethan and Demarcus find each other again in seventh grade, everything clicks. Their dynamic is layered and complicated in the best way. By the time Ethan has to decide what he stands for, I was turning pages like crazy. A beautiful coming-of-age story.

[Autumn Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a 7th-grade language arts teacher, I’m always looking for stories that resonate with my students while challenging them to think critically about the world. Stand does that effortlessly. The racial dynamics are presented in a way kids truly understand, and Ethan’s moral tug-of-war feels incredibly real. I cannot wait to add this to my classroom library.

[Eric Worre · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a mother of two boys, this book hit me right in the heart. The vulnerability, the awkwardness, the bravery everything about Ethan and Demarcus felt authentic. What I appreciated most is the way it encourages kids to look beyond themselves and question what’s “normal.” Mrs. Wright especially reminded me of the teachers who changed my own kids’ lives. A beautiful, important read.

[Shauna Bivens · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great YA book about race relations and friendship, as well as the relationship between a boy and his grandfather. Well written and relatable. While it’s written for the young adult, it’s certainly relevant for all ages.

[Denise]

4/02/24 Macomb paper, WIU alum.

[Bev Asbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for book club at Grace Lutheran churc