Chronicles the experiences of Black girls across the country whose intricate lives are misunderstood, highly judged--by teachers, administrators, and the justice system--and degraded by the very institutions charged with helping them flourish. The book exposes a world of confined potential and supports the rising movement to challenge the policies, practices, and cultural illiteracy that push countless students out of school and into unhealthy, unstable, and often unsafe futures.

Struggling to survive -- A blues for Black girls when the "attitude" in enuf -- Jezebel in the classroom -- Learning to lockdown -- Repairing relationships, rebuilding connections -- Appendix A. Girls, we got you! A Q & A for girls, parents, community members, and educators ; Resources for African American girls -- Appendix B. Alternatives to punishment.