What do you think?
Rate this book
The Real Education of TJ Crowley
In this landmark work of historical YA fiction, two American families with different pigmentation of skin land side-by-side after the new Fair Housing law makes it a crime to discriminate against people of color. Nobody can prevent the Washingtons and their daughter from moving to the home of their dreams, even in an all-white neighborhood like the Crowley's. Not legally. But the Crowleys are a vengeful brood with ties to very evil men....
For TJ Crowley, it's been a bummer of a summer. With his father away from home and his brother gone off to fight in Vietnam, TJ and his mom are all alone in their house on the hill just one street away from the racial dividing line. When the nightly curfew kicks-in, their doors are locked tight. While his fearful mom drinks her worries away, TJ watches from the living room window as firebombs light the sky....
Despite everything, TJ is excited about going to Brooks Junior High where he plans to be a sports star. But he's worried about the 7thGrade because, with forced integration, black students will be bused over the dividing line to join him. He's also worried about his dorky best friend, Eric, who wears tie-dye and let his hair grow past his collar like a dang hippie.
At thirteen, TJ thinks he knows all there is to know, until the doorbell rings one day and The Real Education of TJ Crowley truly begins....
For TJ Crowley, it's been a bummer of a summer. With his father away from home and his brother gone off to fight in Vietnam, TJ and his mom are all alone in their house on the hill just one street away from the racial dividing line. When the nightly curfew kicks-in, their doors are locked tight. While his fearful mom drinks her worries away, TJ watches from the living room window as firebombs light the sky....
Despite everything, TJ is excited about going to Brooks Junior High where he plans to be a sports star. But he's worried about the 7thGrade because, with forced integration, black students will be bused over the dividing line to join him. He's also worried about his dorky best friend, Eric, who wears tie-dye and let his hair grow past his collar like a dang hippie.
At thirteen, TJ thinks he knows all there is to know, until the doorbell rings one day and The Real Education of TJ Crowley truly begins....
Unknown Binding
Published January 1, 2018
2 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 21, 2025
What a great “action” audio book! Loads of narrators, music and sound effect! Great depiction of what it was like growing up a white kid in the early 60’s!!!! (Very sad as well)
March 31, 2019
I enjoyed this young adult title much more than I expected.
TJ is entering 7th grade during 1968, in Wichita, Kansas. His home life is in an uproar and the role models he sees are not exactly conducive to a peaceful existence. His school is one that is now being integrated with kids bussed in from the black part of town. TJ has been exposed to only the worst of bigoted adults, so he has a pretty rocky start of the year.
But TJ's real education is now beginning. As his body is maturing, now his emotions and outlooks begin to do so, also. Although I was upset with the early TJ, I was happy with his maturing attitudes and the decisions he begins to make.
I think this would make a very good book discussion book for both young adults and adults.
TJ is entering 7th grade during 1968, in Wichita, Kansas. His home life is in an uproar and the role models he sees are not exactly conducive to a peaceful existence. His school is one that is now being integrated with kids bussed in from the black part of town. TJ has been exposed to only the worst of bigoted adults, so he has a pretty rocky start of the year.
But TJ's real education is now beginning. As his body is maturing, now his emotions and outlooks begin to do so, also. Although I was upset with the early TJ, I was happy with his maturing attitudes and the decisions he begins to make.
I think this would make a very good book discussion book for both young adults and adults.
April 19, 2025
The audio production of The Real Education of TJ Crowley: Coming of Age on the Redline by Grant Overstake and May Wuthrich recently won the Audie award for Best Young Adult Audio Book. I have never audio-read a more worthy book.
Full disclosure–I’m not a huge fan of full cast audio books. I was skeptical, but I’d been wanting to read The Real Education of TJ Crowley for some time, and my physical reading was all booked up. (LOL–pun intended, of course) When I saw that it had won the Audie Award, I decided to give it a try.
Listening to this production is a five-star experience.
The story is a historical fiction set in Wichita, Kansas during the height of the civil rights movement. It opens during the summer of 1968, after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. While the story is not autobiographical, it is inspired by actual events experienced by the author. An author’s note at the beginning of the production explains more about the real life history connected to the fictional story–including the African American spiritual motif supporting the theme of the story and gorgeously performed by the real life choral group, ARISE ensemble.
The main character, TJ Crowley, is a 7th grader who lives with his racist mother and her Klan-member boyfriend. When a black doctor moves in next door with his wife and 7th grade daughter, TJ is forced to choose between the values instilled in him by his mom and a community trying to heal from dangerously strained racial relations.
The story takes the reader into the very authentic world of 1960s middle school where TJ Crowley wrangles with cross-race friendships, unrequited puppy love, peer pressure, poverty, loneliness, and anger issues. The author creates a relatable character and realistic look into problems that still plague schools and communities today.
As with other great coming of age stories, such as To Kill a Mockingbird and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Real Education of TJ Crowley doesn’t offer a neat and tidy solution to society ills. Instead, it pulls back the curtain of how growing up in a flawed world affects and shapes our children. And like those other stories, this one also leaves the reader wanting more. I dare you to read it and not wonder what’s going to happen next.
The Real Education of TJ Crowley is a perfect read (or listen) for readers who love historical fiction, coming-of-age books, unforgettable characters, and book hangovers.
Full disclosure–I’m not a huge fan of full cast audio books. I was skeptical, but I’d been wanting to read The Real Education of TJ Crowley for some time, and my physical reading was all booked up. (LOL–pun intended, of course) When I saw that it had won the Audie Award, I decided to give it a try.
Listening to this production is a five-star experience.
The story is a historical fiction set in Wichita, Kansas during the height of the civil rights movement. It opens during the summer of 1968, after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. While the story is not autobiographical, it is inspired by actual events experienced by the author. An author’s note at the beginning of the production explains more about the real life history connected to the fictional story–including the African American spiritual motif supporting the theme of the story and gorgeously performed by the real life choral group, ARISE ensemble.
The main character, TJ Crowley, is a 7th grader who lives with his racist mother and her Klan-member boyfriend. When a black doctor moves in next door with his wife and 7th grade daughter, TJ is forced to choose between the values instilled in him by his mom and a community trying to heal from dangerously strained racial relations.
The story takes the reader into the very authentic world of 1960s middle school where TJ Crowley wrangles with cross-race friendships, unrequited puppy love, peer pressure, poverty, loneliness, and anger issues. The author creates a relatable character and realistic look into problems that still plague schools and communities today.
As with other great coming of age stories, such as To Kill a Mockingbird and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Real Education of TJ Crowley doesn’t offer a neat and tidy solution to society ills. Instead, it pulls back the curtain of how growing up in a flawed world affects and shapes our children. And like those other stories, this one also leaves the reader wanting more. I dare you to read it and not wonder what’s going to happen next.
The Real Education of TJ Crowley is a perfect read (or listen) for readers who love historical fiction, coming-of-age books, unforgettable characters, and book hangovers.
November 1, 2021
Reader beware: here is the most one-dimensional fictional depiction of white supremacy I am aware of. You would think, based on the title, that the main character would be redeemed in some way, but to me he was consistent throughout the book: unable to empathize, define his values, take another's perspective, or (most importantly probably) choose to act in any way. Throughout the book TJ experiences plenty that could provide fodder for a Come to Jesus moment or two, yet he never processes or reflects on any of it. He also experiences very little friction in his life (a few days suspension, lost opportunity for sportsing) related to violence he's involved with at school and outside of school. On top of my beefs with TJ as a character, I hate the bulk of the choices the author made here--the frequent use of the N word (albeit with asterisks) is beyond what's required to identify particular characters as racist actors, the shot-putting-as-substitute for character development in the back quarter of the book that I think is supposed to (because sports!) make us feel like TJ has gotten it together, and the preponderance of adults who try to extend a hand to TJ and then . . . just let him flounder in what feels like an EMERGENCY TYPE OF SITUATION: absent father, brother fighting in Vietnam, mom drinking herself to death and now . . . here comes the KKK! (Maybe that's how things went down in Wichita in 1968?) Most of all I loathed the characterizations of the Washingtons, the Black family whose move to TJ's street animates much of the action--Ivy is pretty! has dimples! How lucky for TJ that his racism is a teeny bit challenged because he likes the way Ivy looks. And the adult Washingtons are absolutely SAINTLY and willing to invest time and love in TJ despite *spoilers*. And the end! The major BAD GUY is removed from the action in a really dumb way, which robs TJ of any real way to atone for all the *spoilers* he's participated in, even after the author went to the time and trouble to set up law enforcement as a possible out for him. TJ drags his feet until the final scene and then . . . deus ex machina? That's weak! And after that, the saintly Washingtons have a chance to save the day again (they're saints!), and poof, the book is over. I honestly wouldn't expect any young person to get anything worthwhile out of this book.
February 9, 2019
I was really impressed with this book. Grant pulled no punches in painting the picture of a racist family, including son T.J. At times it was so painful to read chapters I wanted to throw the book across the room. But that starting point was needed to show how much T.J. changed over the course of the story. I would love to see this book in school libraries all over the country. Great fodder for discussions and introspection.
May 14, 2025
I don't know if you pay attention to the Audie Awards, but if you haven't heard, this gem won in that Young Adult Category!
𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑳 𝑬𝑫𝑼𝑪𝑨𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵 𝑶𝑭 𝑻𝑱 𝑪𝑹𝑶𝑾𝑳𝑬𝒀: 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒈𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒆𝒅𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑴𝒂𝒚 𝑾𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒉 is narrated by an outstanding cast that includes Dion Graham, Brittany Pressley, Thérèse Plummer, and so many more! I love a cast narration and this was fantastic with extra audio, including ARISE Ensemble, that immerse you into this coming-of-age story.
TJ is in the 7th grade in 1968, which is a tough year aside from all the cultural upheaval that was happening, but add to that his father up and disappeared and his older brother left for Vietnam. He is left with an alcoholic and unstable mother who is quick to show her racist beliefs when a prominent Black family moves in next door after the Fair Housing Act passes. This proximity starts to chip away at TJ's upbringing and continued pressure by his mom and her new boyfriend, and he has to figure out where he stands, even in the face of danger.
I thought this was a really great story that does not shy away from the realities of that day, and sadly again relevant for today. TJ is navigating his own internal demons without much guidance & is confused when Dr. Washington and his family reach out to help. This upending of hatred is a lesson that is timeless.
I appreciated that this book takes place in Wichita Kansas, a small city that shows how pervasive racism was and how difficult it was to chip away. In many ways it is still a very segregated city and we all miss out because of it.
This is recommended for ages 12 and over as it does include the racist language of that day, so be prepared. I would think it would be a great discussion book for kids regarding history and also some coping techniques for misplaced anger!
𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑳 𝑬𝑫𝑼𝑪𝑨𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵 𝑶𝑭 𝑻𝑱 𝑪𝑹𝑶𝑾𝑳𝑬𝒀: 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒈𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒆𝒅𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑴𝒂𝒚 𝑾𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒉 is narrated by an outstanding cast that includes Dion Graham, Brittany Pressley, Thérèse Plummer, and so many more! I love a cast narration and this was fantastic with extra audio, including ARISE Ensemble, that immerse you into this coming-of-age story.
TJ is in the 7th grade in 1968, which is a tough year aside from all the cultural upheaval that was happening, but add to that his father up and disappeared and his older brother left for Vietnam. He is left with an alcoholic and unstable mother who is quick to show her racist beliefs when a prominent Black family moves in next door after the Fair Housing Act passes. This proximity starts to chip away at TJ's upbringing and continued pressure by his mom and her new boyfriend, and he has to figure out where he stands, even in the face of danger.
I thought this was a really great story that does not shy away from the realities of that day, and sadly again relevant for today. TJ is navigating his own internal demons without much guidance & is confused when Dr. Washington and his family reach out to help. This upending of hatred is a lesson that is timeless.
I appreciated that this book takes place in Wichita Kansas, a small city that shows how pervasive racism was and how difficult it was to chip away. In many ways it is still a very segregated city and we all miss out because of it.
This is recommended for ages 12 and over as it does include the racist language of that day, so be prepared. I would think it would be a great discussion book for kids regarding history and also some coping techniques for misplaced anger!
May 3, 2020
This is an incredible creative coming-of-age novel that looks at critical themes of racism, friendship, and family. A remarkable story that is well-written and compelling as it follows the story of a spirited boy, growing up in a racially prejudiced family.
This book reminds me of the phrase from Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times and the worst of times.” This phrase points out a major conflict between family and love, hatred and oppression, good and evil, light and darkness, and wisdom and folly.
The author takes us to such times set during the youth of JT Crowley amidst forced integration during the Viet Nam conflict when prejudices meant a call to arms against persons of color, especially in all-white neighborhoods.
Set in Kansas, the bussing of students to previously all-white schools when generations of bias infiltrated the minds of both parties, had all the kindling for an explosive reaction.
Brilliantly crafted, The Real Education of TJ Crowley is a vital work that examines relevant themes through the powerful story of its main character. Read today and take a trip down memory lane, and explore TJ Crowley’s real education. You won’t be disappointed!
This book reminds me of the phrase from Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times and the worst of times.” This phrase points out a major conflict between family and love, hatred and oppression, good and evil, light and darkness, and wisdom and folly.
The author takes us to such times set during the youth of JT Crowley amidst forced integration during the Viet Nam conflict when prejudices meant a call to arms against persons of color, especially in all-white neighborhoods.
Set in Kansas, the bussing of students to previously all-white schools when generations of bias infiltrated the minds of both parties, had all the kindling for an explosive reaction.
Brilliantly crafted, The Real Education of TJ Crowley is a vital work that examines relevant themes through the powerful story of its main character. Read today and take a trip down memory lane, and explore TJ Crowley’s real education. You won’t be disappointed!
May 4, 2023
It’s 1968 in my hometown of Wichita Kansas. The civil rights movement is stirring and the Vietnam war is underway. This is a fictional story that feels very real in its time. I love all the Wichita places referenced it really grounded me in the story. Overstake paints a picture of uneasy as people of color start to move out of the ghetto’s society has placed them in for so long. This brought many characters fear and others cheer. Much of this story is meant for young readers as it was written for their prospective. If I was an English teacher in Wichita I would definitely be bringing this to my principal and see if every teacher can read this novel.
October 1, 2025
Reading 2025
Book 189: The Real Education of TJ Crowley by Grant Overstake
Book 12 of #30booksin30days is a full cast YA audio book selection. I found this book on the Audie Awards 2025 lists of nominees and winners.
Quick Take: What a great production for the audio book and a powerful story. TJ must learn what it is to grow up and interact with a black family who move in next door, all with the backdrop of the Fair Housing Act. Well done, 4.25⭐️.
Comments
No comments yet
Be the first to comment.
Book 189: The Real Education of TJ Crowley by Grant Overstake
Book 12 of #30booksin30days is a full cast YA audio book selection. I found this book on the Audie Awards 2025 lists of nominees and winners.
Quick Take: What a great production for the audio book and a powerful story. TJ must learn what it is to grow up and interact with a black family who move in next door, all with the backdrop of the Fair Housing Act. Well done, 4.25⭐️.
Comments
No comments yet
Be the first to comment.
October 23, 2025
I listened to the audiobook and the reading was well done. This book is about a 13 year old boy being brought up by an alcoholic mother whose dad just left. When his older brother decides to go to Vietnam, new neighbors move in. They are black, and to TJs mom and racist uncle, this becomes a constant fight.
Through the story TJ starts to spend time with his neighbor and becomes friends with two of the black people.
The story is sad, and anger inducing but very sweet in its conclusion. I recommend this book.
Through the story TJ starts to spend time with his neighbor and becomes friends with two of the black people.
The story is sad, and anger inducing but very sweet in its conclusion. I recommend this book.
July 15, 2025
I found it to be interesting to read about the perspective of a child struggling to live in a world where things are changing and he has been taught to believe one way but also is seeing contradictions in what he was taught. Overall I found his character to have not made a ton of progress throughout the book but I suppose these things are slow to occur. I didn't really like all the sports talk. I get that it was used to progress the story but it felt like a lot.
April 25, 2025
Excellent audio dramatization for a well written story. I especially loved the descriptive 1960s cultural references that took me back to my childhood. I don’t remember my family ever being intolerant of blacks, maybe because my brother played baseball and was friends with a kid from the only black family I ever knew.
August 19, 2025
Audio version. This YA book was highly recommended by a friend. It is a coming of age story which takes place in Wichita not long after Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated, during the height of the Viet Nam war. Because it was a dramatization, it had the feel of an old time radio program, and was very engaging. Being a YA book, it was somewhat simplistic, but was still a great story.
June 7, 2025
This was a pretty good work of historical fiction. Certainly some flaws. Obviously really difficult subject matter to cover but important to study. Scary how much of this novel is very relevant to today’s society. I would read if you enjoy US history and race studies.
March 19, 2025
Incredible audiobook production. Available on Hoopla: https://www.hoopladigital.com/audiobo...
March 22, 2025
Loved listening to this book with full cast and chorus. TJ shows how much you can grow, despite being raised by bigots.
April 2, 2025
Loved this story so so so much!!! Listening to it was such a gem! An amazing story of life during such a critical time in our nations history. And I can’t get over the ending !!
May 20, 2025
🎧 audio drama
May 23, 2025
I audiobooked this book. Great audiobook! Great coming of age story. In the audiobook, I couldn’t get Dave Chappelle out of my head reading for the character Birmingham. 😂
June 7, 2025
Love the full cast in this audiobook. Let us all work to make sure history like this does not repeat itself.
July 6, 2025
4 ⭐️ Based in Wichita and written by a local author, it’s a nice young-adult book that many adults should read.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews