COLIN KAEPERNICK

Athlete, activist, and transracial adoptee Kaepernick looks back on a pivotal decision he faced as a high school senior.

The multisport standout, dedicated student, and future NFL star’s admiration for the way basketball icon Allen Iverson “wore his Blackness like a suit of armor” opens the narrative as Kaepernick explores his racial identity in predominantly White school and home settings where both racist comments and obliviousness to his experiences as a Black boy are the norm. He consciously gravitates toward those who believe in him and accept him unconditionally as wrenching experiences of casual, everyday racism—his White parents’ denigrating his explorations of Black culture, adults praising a White player’s “high football I.Q.” while describing Black students in animalistic terms—fuel his feelings of alienation. From being inspired by the words of Toni Morrison to being embraced by girlfriend Tiffany’s close-knit Black family, Kaepernick successfully finds much-needed support at a crucial time for his developing self-identity. The memoir ends on a high note, as he decides to pivot away from baseball and accept a college football scholarship. Caicedo’s colorful, expressive images of the lanky, brooding teenager and dramatic diamond and gridiron montages complement the text. This work, co-authored with noted scholar Ewing, moves swiftly and clearly through a critical time in Kaepernick’s development and will resonate with sports fans and those interested in social issues and mental health alike.

A sympathetic glimpse into formative memories and experiences at a liminal time.