In Stand, readers are introduced to middle schooler ETHAN STRONG (11), whose journey to discover his own identity and privilege evolves over the course of a number of challenging and formative events. His mom, SARA STRONG, is a struggling, single parent whose job in the city makes her rely heavily upon her Ethan’s grandparents for support and daycare. When Ethan’s grandmother gets cancer, his world is rocked and he is sent to summer daycare. He and sister KINZIE STRONG (5) are taken to the home of ANNABEL “TOOT” SMITH, a matronly, quirky, nurturing, and determined African-American woman. There he meets his guarded agemate, and Toot’s grandson, DEMARCUS WASHINGTON (10). 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. Like many middle schoolers, Ethan is troubled and confused by the question of his own identity. Upon the death of his grandmother, Ethan’s relationship with his grandfather, BILL “HUTCH” HUTCHINGS, deepens. When he and his grandfather begin emailing one another privately, Ethan connects and finds a confidant who’ll actually listen to him. Though recently widowed, his grandfather discovers solace and hope in the exchanges with his inquisitive grandson. They share numerous questions, dilemmas, and discoveries with one another. 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. Demarcus and a number of his friends from the center of the city are transferred away from their neighborhood school and into the less than welcoming halls of Easton. 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. Unwittingly, he is driven to come to terms with his own advantages and Demarcus’s challenges, as a young black boy in America. Eventually, Ethan reaches a point where he is compelled to act on his own. He must decide when and how he will stand for his growing awareness of prejudice and discrimination, and against his own privilege. Repeatedly, Demarcus is targeted by students and adults at Easton. He’s disciplined frequently, while Ethan and other middle schoolers slide by or use their advantage to avoid punishment. When Demarcus faces a second suspension for something Ethan has done, the time has come for Ethan to stand. In an act of defiance and bravery, he challenges his teacher and principal and is kicked out of school for three days. Being suspended with his best friend turns out to be a defining moment for him, and one which solidifies his relationship with his grandfather and Demarcus. 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 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.