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Everyone Versus Racism: A Letter to Change the World
'The best of England' The New Statesman 'A powerful open letter about racism' The Sun ‘I just want equality, equality for all of us. At the moment, the scales are unfairly balanced and I just want things to be fair for my children, my grandchildren and future generations.’ On 13 June 2020, Patrick Hutchinson, a black man, was photographed carrying a white injured man to safety during a confrontation in London between Black Lives Matter demonstrators and counter-protestors. The powerful image was shared and discussed all around the world. Everyone versus Racism is a poignant letter from Patrick to his children and grandchildren. Writing from the heart, he describes the realities of life as a black man today and why we must unite to inspire change for generations to come.
256 pages, Paperback
Published August 31, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 28, 2020
Since the description says it is a letter, the book doesn’t disappoint in this matter. Reading this indeed feels like someone wise is sitting in front of you, and explains everything from scratch. I could feel the warmth in the tone of narration, with an underlying shade of anger and sadness. But the thing worth appreciating is that the author is hopeful and is optimistic about the future, which he should be because racism is completely unacceptable and I don’t need to emphasize it time and again.
“Textbooks have done enough damage to the truth, and a novel can often find itself mixing fact with fiction – much like the news channels of today. But a letter is the product of my heart being given a pen.”
A point that bugged me is that here the author tried to compare racial discrimination with caste-based discrimination that happens in India, which is a good comparison but the author doesn’t have the complete idea of how people are discriminated against based on caste. Here are the exact lines that are mentioned in the book :
“We could be talking about the caste system in India that favours lighter skin while quite literally killing those with darker skin.”
The system of caste and the resultant discrimination is quite complex and different and goes way beyond the duality of light and dark skin. It is alright to not have an idea but if such an example was to be mentioned then a little bit of research could have been done to avoid this mistake that shows slight ignorance towards such sensitive topics.
This heartfelt letter, which reads like a memoir, was indeed an eye-opening read for me. Reading this book made me realize how ill-informed or how oblivious I was towards black culture and history. I am sure many like me are victims of mainstream media that mostly spoon-feeds hate and prejudice in our heads. I completely appreciate the hopeful tone of narration of the author and I could completely feel the love and concern that was overflowing from his words.
“Joy is a form of resistance. It breaks open a tightened face and encourages it to smile.”
But still, I felt sad that where are we heading to where a blatant man-made concept like racism, that harms and affects a community of people where they are often not treated as humans let alone demand equality. Reading the experiences of the author, only one thing was revolving around my mind, that in every generation, every step, and almost every day the author has had his serving of racism. From driving a car to going to his workplace, there probably hasn’t been a single place where he wasn’t disrespected based on his skin color.
“My skin is not black. It is not equivalent to a black hole or the night sky, something for children to be scared of. It is a specific shade of brown, more similar to the earth than a shadow.”
“Deep in the anatomy of the black being, there is a resource so rare in the fallen world. Something that has perhaps had to be conditioned into us so we can survive. Hope. A grieving, electric hope for a more balanced tomorrow.”
Honestly speaking I am glad that I came across this book. It was less of reading and more of a heart to heart conversation. That is what a good memoir looks like.
“Black people are over-policed, and under-protected.”
I have a lot to say, a lot to reflect upon and of course, a long way to walk to enlighten and educate myself more on such issues, and this book was a very personal perspective on things happening that directly affected the author and his community. So, do not make the mistake of considering it as a perfect textbook. But be assured, that all the words written here are raw and honest and will strike your heart instantly. P.S.: This book has also some really sweet pictures from the author’s family album that I immensely loved looking at!
“we keep breathing long enough to see our grandchildren scream only in laughter, and not in protest."
“Textbooks have done enough damage to the truth, and a novel can often find itself mixing fact with fiction – much like the news channels of today. But a letter is the product of my heart being given a pen.”
A point that bugged me is that here the author tried to compare racial discrimination with caste-based discrimination that happens in India, which is a good comparison but the author doesn’t have the complete idea of how people are discriminated against based on caste. Here are the exact lines that are mentioned in the book :
“We could be talking about the caste system in India that favours lighter skin while quite literally killing those with darker skin.”
The system of caste and the resultant discrimination is quite complex and different and goes way beyond the duality of light and dark skin. It is alright to not have an idea but if such an example was to be mentioned then a little bit of research could have been done to avoid this mistake that shows slight ignorance towards such sensitive topics.
This heartfelt letter, which reads like a memoir, was indeed an eye-opening read for me. Reading this book made me realize how ill-informed or how oblivious I was towards black culture and history. I am sure many like me are victims of mainstream media that mostly spoon-feeds hate and prejudice in our heads. I completely appreciate the hopeful tone of narration of the author and I could completely feel the love and concern that was overflowing from his words.
“Joy is a form of resistance. It breaks open a tightened face and encourages it to smile.”
But still, I felt sad that where are we heading to where a blatant man-made concept like racism, that harms and affects a community of people where they are often not treated as humans let alone demand equality. Reading the experiences of the author, only one thing was revolving around my mind, that in every generation, every step, and almost every day the author has had his serving of racism. From driving a car to going to his workplace, there probably hasn’t been a single place where he wasn’t disrespected based on his skin color.
“My skin is not black. It is not equivalent to a black hole or the night sky, something for children to be scared of. It is a specific shade of brown, more similar to the earth than a shadow.”
“Deep in the anatomy of the black being, there is a resource so rare in the fallen world. Something that has perhaps had to be conditioned into us so we can survive. Hope. A grieving, electric hope for a more balanced tomorrow.”
Honestly speaking I am glad that I came across this book. It was less of reading and more of a heart to heart conversation. That is what a good memoir looks like.
“Black people are over-policed, and under-protected.”
I have a lot to say, a lot to reflect upon and of course, a long way to walk to enlighten and educate myself more on such issues, and this book was a very personal perspective on things happening that directly affected the author and his community. So, do not make the mistake of considering it as a perfect textbook. But be assured, that all the words written here are raw and honest and will strike your heart instantly. P.S.: This book has also some really sweet pictures from the author’s family album that I immensely loved looking at!
“we keep breathing long enough to see our grandchildren scream only in laughter, and not in protest."
November 30, 2020
I saw this on the new e-shelf of my library and the title caught my eye.
I found Hutchinson writes eloquently and with great readability. I've been reading more non-fiction this year, but given the times, not as much as I might, as I also crave more escapism.
Despite this, I was quick to pick the book back up, and I read it in a day.
Tone & content-wise, it reminds me of Natives by Akala; personal insights and recollection, in themed chapters, studded with statistics. Where it differs, perhaps, is that Hutchinson writes more personally, and I think this comes across in the narrative. The importance of his role as a father and grandfather to him is clear. Natives, I read slowly, digesting each chapter, but EvR guided me along.
I also appreciated the hope and optimism that Hutchinson maintained throughout the book. Racism isn't an easy thing to experience, and it isn't an easy thing to discuss. Differing from other books I've read, Hutchinson puts hope over anger.
I found 'Chapter 7 - The Outcry' particularly interesting, as I've seen discussion about the role of the police in racism in America, but I want to read more about the UK.
Throughout the book, I also learnt about aspects of British history, both from this year and before, that I hadn't known about before.
Finally, some quotes I highlighted;
- "But I believe that in our fight to move forward, we must arm ourselves with as much empathy as we do energy."
- "Nobody is born hating somebody because of their colour. It's something we have been taught, based on a period of time when the colour of your skin determined your standing in society. Today, thanks to globalisation, we live in a melting-pot world, and the hearts and minds of our nations need to wake up to the beauty of this, instead of perpetuating our horrible, history."
- "The feeling of finally finding happiness in a job that you have to wake up and do every morning is truly underrated. I wish this feeling on every single human under the sun."
- [Jane Elliott] said that 'racism is ignorance based on being miseducated. Racism is a result of being indoctrinated instead of educated.'"
I found Hutchinson writes eloquently and with great readability. I've been reading more non-fiction this year, but given the times, not as much as I might, as I also crave more escapism.
Despite this, I was quick to pick the book back up, and I read it in a day.
Tone & content-wise, it reminds me of Natives by Akala; personal insights and recollection, in themed chapters, studded with statistics. Where it differs, perhaps, is that Hutchinson writes more personally, and I think this comes across in the narrative. The importance of his role as a father and grandfather to him is clear. Natives, I read slowly, digesting each chapter, but EvR guided me along.
I also appreciated the hope and optimism that Hutchinson maintained throughout the book. Racism isn't an easy thing to experience, and it isn't an easy thing to discuss. Differing from other books I've read, Hutchinson puts hope over anger.
I found 'Chapter 7 - The Outcry' particularly interesting, as I've seen discussion about the role of the police in racism in America, but I want to read more about the UK.
Throughout the book, I also learnt about aspects of British history, both from this year and before, that I hadn't known about before.
Finally, some quotes I highlighted;
- "But I believe that in our fight to move forward, we must arm ourselves with as much empathy as we do energy."
- "Nobody is born hating somebody because of their colour. It's something we have been taught, based on a period of time when the colour of your skin determined your standing in society. Today, thanks to globalisation, we live in a melting-pot world, and the hearts and minds of our nations need to wake up to the beauty of this, instead of perpetuating our horrible, history."
- "The feeling of finally finding happiness in a job that you have to wake up and do every morning is truly underrated. I wish this feeling on every single human under the sun."
- [Jane Elliott] said that 'racism is ignorance based on being miseducated. Racism is a result of being indoctrinated instead of educated.'"
December 20, 2020
When footage of a black British man saving an EDL supporter from an angry mob during the BLM demonstrations in London went viral, it gave a different narrative to the ongoing events. That man was Patrick Hutchinson, and he was immediately elevated to hero status overnight after he demonstrated in his purest form Michelle Obama's oft-repeated idea of "when they go low, we go high".
Since that day, he has used the platform he has been given to continue to promote ideas to improve the perception, the prospects and the potential of the black community in the UK and beyond, culminating in this book, styled as a letter to his children and grandchildren, which outlines how we got to this point in history and what we can do going forward to effect lasting change.
Hutchinson gives a brief history of his life growing up in London, highlighting the challenges faced as a black youth in our supposedly multi-cultural city - a city in which the colour of your skin correlates with the likelihood that the police will pull you over, that the courts will find you guilty of any crime, that you will be less likely to get approved for a mortgage, etc. Hutchinson found his calling in martial arts, focusing his energies on empowering the youth, giving them a purpose, giving them a place to channel their energy, and giving them positive role models in their community.
Hutchinson gives you hope that things can change, as he uses his newly-bequeathed pulpit to preach positivity and provide a beacon in these challenging times. Essential reading.
Since that day, he has used the platform he has been given to continue to promote ideas to improve the perception, the prospects and the potential of the black community in the UK and beyond, culminating in this book, styled as a letter to his children and grandchildren, which outlines how we got to this point in history and what we can do going forward to effect lasting change.
Hutchinson gives a brief history of his life growing up in London, highlighting the challenges faced as a black youth in our supposedly multi-cultural city - a city in which the colour of your skin correlates with the likelihood that the police will pull you over, that the courts will find you guilty of any crime, that you will be less likely to get approved for a mortgage, etc. Hutchinson found his calling in martial arts, focusing his energies on empowering the youth, giving them a purpose, giving them a place to channel their energy, and giving them positive role models in their community.
Hutchinson gives you hope that things can change, as he uses his newly-bequeathed pulpit to preach positivity and provide a beacon in these challenging times. Essential reading.
August 16, 2023
A compelling and thoroughly researched exploration of racism through the letters of an ageing African American grandfather to his beloved grandchildren urging them and others to continue the fight for equality between the races. Heartfelt and poignant, this was a touching and emotional read from start to finish.
November 14, 2020
A hero of 2020! Was fascinating to hear his story. The picture that encapsulated 2020, I was desperate to find out more about Patrick Hutchinson and how his early years and growing up in the U.K. shaped him. Also his thoughts on the current climate. The book did not disappoint, what a guy!! Incredible how he is using his new found fame as a force for change.
December 29, 2020
Amazing
Patrick I knew you when growing up on Heathbrook and you was always a lovely person. So proud of this book I read it in two days and how lucky are your children and grandchildren to have you as their role model. I will definitely be sharing with my grandson too. keep up the amazing positive work Patrick
Patrick I knew you when growing up on Heathbrook and you was always a lovely person. So proud of this book I read it in two days and how lucky are your children and grandchildren to have you as their role model. I will definitely be sharing with my grandson too. keep up the amazing positive work Patrick
May 16, 2021
I would give this 10 stars if I could !!! Such a beautifully written and insightful piece of work.
March 2, 2024
An important letter to everyone, really. It's interesting to read about the author's life and opinions on racism and activism. It breaks your heart but in the way that it makes you want to act.
February 17, 2022
"Textbooks have done enough damage to the truth, and a novel can often find itself mixing fact with fiction - much like the news channels of today. but a letter is the product of my heart being given a pen"
Patrick Hutchinson is a British Black man who became viral after he was photographed saving a member of the EDL from being harmed during the Black Lives Matter demonstrations on 13th June 2020, little did the author know that this photo would go viral and headline the narrative for the
ongoing events, since then Patrick has used his platform to continue to demonstrate and provide support and encouragement and more. In regards to the pictured event Patrick gives a rundown of the events leading to that day as well as the days events and events thereafter, he also mentions time and time again in his book that all he saw was a man in an unsafe situation that needed to be removed, and I still find it shocking to this day that the individual Patrick saved still hasn't reached out to say thanks, really brings the idea that "actions speak louder than words"
I completely devoured this letter come novel, and I find it a really important tool for discussion and
education, I agree with the author that the curriculum and education system are lacking. They are not rich enough in information and learning about history and cultures, as well as the fact that the slave trade history that is taught is tainted and needs to be educated properly for children to fully understand, as described by the author; "Black children are taught that their history began with slavery. Children from other ethnicities are taught that Black people's history began with slavery".
Furthermore this book points out just how problematic the political system and justice system is, especially with individuals such as Boris Johnson and Donald Trump (at the time) in power, and case in point as mentioned in the book when Trump pretty much gave the NFL the freedom to fire any player who decided to take the knee, it was just another sign of oppression - "when you've held power for so long, equality will look like oppression"
Additionally there are a number of influential people and charities that I was not aware of until I read this book, such as UTCAI and the impact that this charity is making within communities and Shirley Jackson, who had the most advanced idea of the time, for phones to become touch screen, and here we are with an abundance of technology that holds touch screen powers. There is a lot that I have taken away from this book and I honestly feel like I could write a letter myself, but first and foremost I feel that this novel has served its purpose of educating his children
and grandchildren, as well as other readers, all the words in this book come from Patrick's heart and it
honestly felt more like having deep discussion with him rather than reading a book, this isn't a perfect
textbook, but I honestly believe this to be essential reading, with further research required after, on certain topics that individuals may not be educated enough on, I know that is exactly what I did.
"We keep breathing long enough to see our grandchildren scream only in laughter, and not in protest"
Patrick Hutchinson is a British Black man who became viral after he was photographed saving a member of the EDL from being harmed during the Black Lives Matter demonstrations on 13th June 2020, little did the author know that this photo would go viral and headline the narrative for the
ongoing events, since then Patrick has used his platform to continue to demonstrate and provide support and encouragement and more. In regards to the pictured event Patrick gives a rundown of the events leading to that day as well as the days events and events thereafter, he also mentions time and time again in his book that all he saw was a man in an unsafe situation that needed to be removed, and I still find it shocking to this day that the individual Patrick saved still hasn't reached out to say thanks, really brings the idea that "actions speak louder than words"
I completely devoured this letter come novel, and I find it a really important tool for discussion and
education, I agree with the author that the curriculum and education system are lacking. They are not rich enough in information and learning about history and cultures, as well as the fact that the slave trade history that is taught is tainted and needs to be educated properly for children to fully understand, as described by the author; "Black children are taught that their history began with slavery. Children from other ethnicities are taught that Black people's history began with slavery".
Furthermore this book points out just how problematic the political system and justice system is, especially with individuals such as Boris Johnson and Donald Trump (at the time) in power, and case in point as mentioned in the book when Trump pretty much gave the NFL the freedom to fire any player who decided to take the knee, it was just another sign of oppression - "when you've held power for so long, equality will look like oppression"
Additionally there are a number of influential people and charities that I was not aware of until I read this book, such as UTCAI and the impact that this charity is making within communities and Shirley Jackson, who had the most advanced idea of the time, for phones to become touch screen, and here we are with an abundance of technology that holds touch screen powers. There is a lot that I have taken away from this book and I honestly feel like I could write a letter myself, but first and foremost I feel that this novel has served its purpose of educating his children
and grandchildren, as well as other readers, all the words in this book come from Patrick's heart and it
honestly felt more like having deep discussion with him rather than reading a book, this isn't a perfect
textbook, but I honestly believe this to be essential reading, with further research required after, on certain topics that individuals may not be educated enough on, I know that is exactly what I did.
"We keep breathing long enough to see our grandchildren scream only in laughter, and not in protest"
March 13, 2022
I, like many other people, saw the photo of Patrick Hutchinson, a tall Black man at a BLM march, carrying an anti-BLM protester, a white man, to safety. The photo went viral in the days after the march and in this book, Hutchinson writes a letter to his children and grandchildren (and future generations) explaining why he saved that man's life.
Hutchinson describes his childhood, growing up as a Black youth in London, and interweaves this narrative with information and statistics about racial profiling, police stop and search checks, the lack of Black history in UK school curriculums, and racism in the UK government.
He explains how he began his career as a banker, one of very few Black people in an overwhelmingly white company, before turning to his true calling as a fitness and martial arts trainer. His passion and love of sports and the job he currently does really shine through in this book.
We also find out that on the day of the photograph, Hutchinson and his friends didn't go to march to protest, they went to keep the peace. As a group of martial artists all trained in different self defense, they hoped to ease tensions and defuse any violent situations. In the moment where Hutchinson saw the anti-BLM protester being beaten up, he knew the man would likely die if he didn't step in. And it was a no-brainer; it was the right thing to do.
One of my favourite aspects of this book is how hopeful Hutchinson is. In every chapter, there's an underlying tone of optimism and hope for a better future, one where people are better educated and are actively fighting racism.
Content warnings for violence, discussions of racism and racist abuse, racial profiling.
Hutchinson describes his childhood, growing up as a Black youth in London, and interweaves this narrative with information and statistics about racial profiling, police stop and search checks, the lack of Black history in UK school curriculums, and racism in the UK government.
He explains how he began his career as a banker, one of very few Black people in an overwhelmingly white company, before turning to his true calling as a fitness and martial arts trainer. His passion and love of sports and the job he currently does really shine through in this book.
We also find out that on the day of the photograph, Hutchinson and his friends didn't go to march to protest, they went to keep the peace. As a group of martial artists all trained in different self defense, they hoped to ease tensions and defuse any violent situations. In the moment where Hutchinson saw the anti-BLM protester being beaten up, he knew the man would likely die if he didn't step in. And it was a no-brainer; it was the right thing to do.
One of my favourite aspects of this book is how hopeful Hutchinson is. In every chapter, there's an underlying tone of optimism and hope for a better future, one where people are better educated and are actively fighting racism.
Content warnings for violence, discussions of racism and racist abuse, racial profiling.
April 10, 2021
First of all I want to say a big thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
•
“We hold signs, take to the streets and pull fire from our throats in the hope that we keep breathing long enough to see our grandchildren scream only in laughter, and not in protest”
This book starts with the revisiting of the Black Lives Matter protest in London, and the truth of what actually happened there, rather than the racist bigotry claims from the media. This books contains heartbreaking and powerful words that are sure to resonate deeply in anyone’s hearts.
Patrick Hutchinson writes with such pain and heartache, it spills out onto the pages, hopefully reminding any white person reading of their privilege, in respect to not having to worry about being killed just for leaving their homes or ‘looking suspicious’. This book is deeply moving and resonates deeply, but it’s also an poignant and critical piece of literature within our time.
This book is incredibly emotional and personal. It really ingrains the harrowing reality of being a black person in the UK and it’s a lesson that black people shouldn’t have to educate us on. I cannot imagine how tiring, and deeply upsetting it must’ve been to have to spill such traumatic and distressing events onto paper. However, I am as always, eternally grateful to get the chance to read Patrick’s story. It’s so thought provoking and important.
•
Patrick’s words radiate just how pure, warm hearted and kind he is. His love of helping others is utterly endearing. If his words aren’t thought provoking or deeply moving to you, I honestly believe and invite you to read it again, and pay attention, listen and actually absorb the words on the pages.
As well as the important aspects of racism that are a running theme throughout the book. I also really
enjoyed the wholesome connection that entwined him into his fellow siblings lives and how it shaped the kind and wise man he is today.
•
Overall, as with all books revolving around racism or likewise important themes, this book is an absolute must read to anyone, especially white people.It’s one of the best books I’ve read and I’m so grateful to Patrick for writing such an important and critical novel. I would recommend this to everyone, and only hope there comes a day where black people around the world will no longer have to fear for their children’s or their own lives.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
“We hold signs, take to the streets and pull fire from our throats in the hope that we keep breathing long enough to see our grandchildren scream only in laughter, and not in protest”
This book starts with the revisiting of the Black Lives Matter protest in London, and the truth of what actually happened there, rather than the racist bigotry claims from the media. This books contains heartbreaking and powerful words that are sure to resonate deeply in anyone’s hearts.
Patrick Hutchinson writes with such pain and heartache, it spills out onto the pages, hopefully reminding any white person reading of their privilege, in respect to not having to worry about being killed just for leaving their homes or ‘looking suspicious’. This book is deeply moving and resonates deeply, but it’s also an poignant and critical piece of literature within our time.
This book is incredibly emotional and personal. It really ingrains the harrowing reality of being a black person in the UK and it’s a lesson that black people shouldn’t have to educate us on. I cannot imagine how tiring, and deeply upsetting it must’ve been to have to spill such traumatic and distressing events onto paper. However, I am as always, eternally grateful to get the chance to read Patrick’s story. It’s so thought provoking and important.
•
Patrick’s words radiate just how pure, warm hearted and kind he is. His love of helping others is utterly endearing. If his words aren’t thought provoking or deeply moving to you, I honestly believe and invite you to read it again, and pay attention, listen and actually absorb the words on the pages.
As well as the important aspects of racism that are a running theme throughout the book. I also really
enjoyed the wholesome connection that entwined him into his fellow siblings lives and how it shaped the kind and wise man he is today.
•
Overall, as with all books revolving around racism or likewise important themes, this book is an absolute must read to anyone, especially white people.It’s one of the best books I’ve read and I’m so grateful to Patrick for writing such an important and critical novel. I would recommend this to everyone, and only hope there comes a day where black people around the world will no longer have to fear for their children’s or their own lives.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 17, 2021
This is that bloke who was carrying an edl sort out of the blm March last year. So in a sense I was expecting this to be a bit 'nice bloke gets his ten minutes in the sun, fair play'. But it's a lot better than that - this is just a beautiful account of a bloke and his thoughts on what racism is and can be done about it. It's written as a letter to his kids and grandkids.
It's also a man being open and clear about emotions in a way you don't often read straight men doing. Stuff about his family, kids, community. Like I'd say that even if the BLM bit isn't something you're up for, this book has a huge amount to say about being a man and sorting out emotional relationships. He's very London and clearly a proud black man but I'd say that this is a book that men should read even if you can't relate to chatting to the mandem in the barbers. Just lovely. Like in some parallel universe a load of awkward young men read this and go 'ah right, it's OK to be awkward but I can not be a bellend to people around me' rather than reading 12 rules for life and taking up fascism.
Also gets points from me for being a clear account of working class life and identity, chatting about fitness and sport and stuff in a way that recognises the complexities but sees how a bunch of these things can help a lot of kids - and his focus is on young black kids - out of the racist quagmire that is UK 2021.
Really lovely.
It's also a man being open and clear about emotions in a way you don't often read straight men doing. Stuff about his family, kids, community. Like I'd say that even if the BLM bit isn't something you're up for, this book has a huge amount to say about being a man and sorting out emotional relationships. He's very London and clearly a proud black man but I'd say that this is a book that men should read even if you can't relate to chatting to the mandem in the barbers. Just lovely. Like in some parallel universe a load of awkward young men read this and go 'ah right, it's OK to be awkward but I can not be a bellend to people around me' rather than reading 12 rules for life and taking up fascism.
Also gets points from me for being a clear account of working class life and identity, chatting about fitness and sport and stuff in a way that recognises the complexities but sees how a bunch of these things can help a lot of kids - and his focus is on young black kids - out of the racist quagmire that is UK 2021.
Really lovely.
June 20, 2022
Patrick Hutchinson rose suddenly to prominence when, in the summer of 2020, his image was caught on camera, a black man who picked up a white man at risk and removed him from harm. This took place in the context of English Defense League members coming face to face with Black Lives Matter demonstrators following the death of George Floyd. Within weeks, Harper Collins had published this book. I wondered if it had been written by a ghostwriter given the speed of publication, though this matters very little.
The book is billed as a letter by the author to his children and grandchildren. It covers aspects of Hutchinson's personal life story, how he came to be at the demonstration and why he helped that white man, as well as a wider manifesto for the future. Only once did I feel a slight tension between the idea of a letter to his family and the way this book clearly addresses a wider audience.
For me, the thing that makes this book most remarkable and readworthy is the way it captures a particular moment in time. It seems to me to be a verbal snapshot of racism in 2020.
And like all people schooled in racist thinking from an early age and wanting to do better, I am glad to get to know another black man - albeit this time through the pages of a book - whose humanity jumps off the page and whose behaviour commands respect. It takes time to chip away at racist tropes and stereotypes.
Well worth the read.
The book is billed as a letter by the author to his children and grandchildren. It covers aspects of Hutchinson's personal life story, how he came to be at the demonstration and why he helped that white man, as well as a wider manifesto for the future. Only once did I feel a slight tension between the idea of a letter to his family and the way this book clearly addresses a wider audience.
For me, the thing that makes this book most remarkable and readworthy is the way it captures a particular moment in time. It seems to me to be a verbal snapshot of racism in 2020.
And like all people schooled in racist thinking from an early age and wanting to do better, I am glad to get to know another black man - albeit this time through the pages of a book - whose humanity jumps off the page and whose behaviour commands respect. It takes time to chip away at racist tropes and stereotypes.
Well worth the read.
January 16, 2023
This is such a great book and I would urge everyone to read it. Patrick shares his experience of being a black man in the UK in a wonderful way. The language isn’t overly emotive but he makes you think about his experience, and the experience of others, by posing questions. Is this an experience you can identify with? If not, how would you feel if it was your experience? There are some stats that demonstrates that institutional racism is still very much a problem for the UK, but there are also personal stories that are show that subtle, almost accepted racism is equally as present.
It’s very thought provoking. I have been an advocate of equality for all for many years but this book made me think about my own views in a new way. In particular when Patrick talks about people who say that they don’t see colour, that’s something that I’ve probably said in the past, I never really thought about how that is itself is a privilege. I don’t have to see colour because people don’t see my colour. If the colour of my skin put me at a disadvantage repeatedly throughout my life, and if the colour of my skin put me in danger, I can’t imagine that I would be ever be able to simply not see colour. That said hope is a major theme of this book, and I sincerely hope that one we’ll all have the luxury of not seeing colour.
It’s very thought provoking. I have been an advocate of equality for all for many years but this book made me think about my own views in a new way. In particular when Patrick talks about people who say that they don’t see colour, that’s something that I’ve probably said in the past, I never really thought about how that is itself is a privilege. I don’t have to see colour because people don’t see my colour. If the colour of my skin put me at a disadvantage repeatedly throughout my life, and if the colour of my skin put me in danger, I can’t imagine that I would be ever be able to simply not see colour. That said hope is a major theme of this book, and I sincerely hope that one we’ll all have the luxury of not seeing colour.
January 9, 2021
Everyone versus racism a letter written by a family oriented father and grandfather who is black and as he saw the world around him changing in June 2020 for him and the black community he decided to leave behind the letter that talks about the micro racism,the sense of identity and where does the writer belong. He raises issues of work place sexism and the coherent stereotypes that have been established over the years for the entire black community and how one George Floyd s death called for enough is enough! Patrick knows what he is writing about and mentions the caste system in India and the voices that have been left unheard of the community for so many years. His quote "when one has held power for so long equality feels like oppression" that has stuck with me because the concept of treating blacks as equals has not been visible in the society since so long that white people are actually scared. This is an account from a black man who went through the BLM protests from real close and saw how coming to terms with the blackness being called BLACK was no longer associated with shame but pride. This is an extremely detailed letter by Patrick Hutchinson that should be passed on to children and grandchildren of every household without any restrictions. I certainly would.
January 2, 2022
Actual rating (3.75 / 5)
It was lovely to read about Patrick Hutchinson, his personal story with Britain, British culture and subtle everyday racism that exists whilst also trying to raise his family, love and live life to its fullest.
However this book was presented as a letter to his grandchildren but this message got lost I felt towards the end of the book. It made me lose empathy for the writer when a whole chapter was dedicated on UTCAI, the charity organisation which was born from Patrick's efforts at the BLM protests of 2020.
Although UTCAI is a fantastic thing to keep involved within the book, I didn't think it needed the whole chapter.
In essence, fantastic read for those who want to read black literature but don't know where to quite start.
This book isn't too heady with statistics and it does feel like Patrick is guiding you gently through the issues he has seen and lived throughout his life which although can be uncomfortable at times to read are exactly the right approach.
Would recommend!
It was lovely to read about Patrick Hutchinson, his personal story with Britain, British culture and subtle everyday racism that exists whilst also trying to raise his family, love and live life to its fullest.
However this book was presented as a letter to his grandchildren but this message got lost I felt towards the end of the book. It made me lose empathy for the writer when a whole chapter was dedicated on UTCAI, the charity organisation which was born from Patrick's efforts at the BLM protests of 2020.
Although UTCAI is a fantastic thing to keep involved within the book, I didn't think it needed the whole chapter.
In essence, fantastic read for those who want to read black literature but don't know where to quite start.
This book isn't too heady with statistics and it does feel like Patrick is guiding you gently through the issues he has seen and lived throughout his life which although can be uncomfortable at times to read are exactly the right approach.
Would recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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October 27, 2022Thank you to Patrick Hutchinson for making connections for me that I hadn't understood. (Goodreads should have a notes function..my notes would be as follows since I am not commenting on writing style or plot etc as I would normally in my reviews..)
In the past I have supported curriculum improvement, but I did not understand that this did not specifically mean taking time away from the study of the horrors of slavery as well. I was aware that there were a lack of African history units..however I assumed the extensive detailing of the brutality was intended to instill a healthy sense of national guilt and force undeniable sympathy into students who may be raised around racist families. However, I hand't considered the study of these horrors from the black students perspective. It has made advocating for improved curriculum into something I am much more confident in and hope to improve as a history student. Connecting this perspective to the changes I was in support of previously was not something I had been able to do alone, this letter is what got me there.
In the past I have supported curriculum improvement, but I did not understand that this did not specifically mean taking time away from the study of the horrors of slavery as well. I was aware that there were a lack of African history units..however I assumed the extensive detailing of the brutality was intended to instill a healthy sense of national guilt and force undeniable sympathy into students who may be raised around racist families. However, I hand't considered the study of these horrors from the black students perspective. It has made advocating for improved curriculum into something I am much more confident in and hope to improve as a history student. Connecting this perspective to the changes I was in support of previously was not something I had been able to do alone, this letter is what got me there.
May 28, 2021
4.5 stars. I feel it's incredibly important for us all to read about the experiences of fellow humans who are in some way oppressed or treated differently purely because they are seen as somehow 'other'. Unfortunately, many books on these subjects go about things the wrong way, in my opinion; seeking to attack rather than educate. And education is the key. Patrick Hutchinson understands this. Framing his book as a (long) letter to his children and grandchildren is a masterstroke. It sheds a huge light on what it's like to be a black person in this age; well written, and easily digestible, this is essential reading
August 13, 2021
A letter to all our children, and parents, everyone in fact
This book was recommended to me by a friend some time ago. I didn't have time to read it until now. It has reminded me that the fight goes on even when individuals stop because they're tired. As a 60 year old white mother of two black children I have done that, I stopped fighting because they started. I can do that, that privilege is mine and this letter reminded me how wrong that is. I will use your mantra UTCAI and take up your challenge to change and inspire where I can. Thank you for a great read that humbled and inspired me. Look forward to the next books.
This book was recommended to me by a friend some time ago. I didn't have time to read it until now. It has reminded me that the fight goes on even when individuals stop because they're tired. As a 60 year old white mother of two black children I have done that, I stopped fighting because they started. I can do that, that privilege is mine and this letter reminded me how wrong that is. I will use your mantra UTCAI and take up your challenge to change and inspire where I can. Thank you for a great read that humbled and inspired me. Look forward to the next books.
September 4, 2022
I was well into this excellent book when, one morning last week, I turned on the news to hear the story of an unarmed black man who had been shot and killed in his bed by a police officer the night before. Sadly, stories like this are not all that rare.
Everyone Versus Racism offers an articulate perspective, factual and frustrated, yet ever hopeful. Hutchinson provides his viewpoint and his story as well as solutions and vision which he directs to his children, grandchildren and us the reader.
The world would be a better place if more people read this book and took the lessons learned to heart.
Everyone Versus Racism offers an articulate perspective, factual and frustrated, yet ever hopeful. Hutchinson provides his viewpoint and his story as well as solutions and vision which he directs to his children, grandchildren and us the reader.
The world would be a better place if more people read this book and took the lessons learned to heart.
June 21, 2021
A cash-in, despite the noble words on race and family. This should really have Sophia Thakur's name on the title too, since her poetry and ghosted prose is the strength of the book. Patrick's eyewitness account of the June 13 BLM protest and anti-protest is excellent, though he could have saved some of the memoir for the book he really wants to write: about fitness. I hope we don't forget his role in the conversation about race, all the same.
August 2, 2025
I was intrigued to read about the picture that showed a true act of humanity. If I'm honest I find it really hard to watch anything on the news that involves any kind of violence but I really wanted to read the book, about this man, who stepped in when potentially no-one else would have. I felt the love he has for his family, it bounced off every page. He opened my eyes to atrocities I didn't want to see.
April 20, 2021
A powerfully written, honest account of one man’s attitude, approach to life and desire for a better future.
It’s incredibly well written, and the author’s voice is clear and unwavering.
Written as a letter to his children and grandchildren it works very well, and lays out a thoughtful and insightful process as to how things can improve and the roles we all have to play.,
It’s incredibly well written, and the author’s voice is clear and unwavering.
Written as a letter to his children and grandchildren it works very well, and lays out a thoughtful and insightful process as to how things can improve and the roles we all have to play.,
May 21, 2022
UK focused insight to BLM protests for equality and the road still to travel
Good coverage and discussion of UK protests following murder of George Floyd from person at centre of one of the iconic images of the protests. Good use of a letter format to tell personal story in context of racial inequality as it impacts black people's daily life
Good coverage and discussion of UK protests following murder of George Floyd from person at centre of one of the iconic images of the protests. Good use of a letter format to tell personal story in context of racial inequality as it impacts black people's daily life
February 12, 2024
This is a really poignant and emotional read discussing systemic racism within the UK. I thought the author articulated himself perfectly and I thoroughly valued his reflections. This book has left me with a range of emotions, mainly sadness that this is the experience of people in their daily lives. I hope more books like this are made by passionate authors like this one. Great book.
December 8, 2021
Beautifully written for such a harrowing and disturbing topic. Inspiring, hopeful and full of insight. This gave me food for thought, further awareness and retrospect on my own family's experiences. A highly recommended read for everyone.
September 20, 2022
This book was absolutely amazing. It really spoke of current society and what we need to do to change inequality. I think this should be studied at GCSE level so that children can learn about their own society. This book should be read by everyone!
December 14, 2020
Very rushed book. Couldn't quite see the point in it.
January 15, 2021
A beautiful man wrote a great book!. Let us hope the children of the world will live in better times and are shocked to think any of this was ever possible. What an inspiration a real role model.
April 2, 2021
Patrick Hutchinson talks through the realities of racism in today's UK and yet remains so positive about the future. A really uplifting and inspiring letter.
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