Alberta and Edie’s friendship is tested when they discover a box of old journals that may reveal a hidden, racist history in their town.
Brandy Colbert’s “The Only Black Girls in Town” is a thoughtful middle-grade novel that balances friendship with historical exploration. Set in the small town of Ewing Beach, California, the story follows 12-year-old Alberta, a surfer who has grown up as one of the few Black residents in her community. Her life shifts when Edie, a Black goth from Brooklyn, moves into the bed-and-breakfast across the street. The girls’ initial awkwardness gives way to a bond forged through their shared experiences of racial isolation, and their discovery of journals hidden in Edie’s attic. Written by a Black woman who passed as white in the 1950s, the journals unravel a mystery that connects past and present, pushing Alberta and Edie to confront uncomfortable truths about identity and belonging. The novel has earned multiple accolades, including a 2021 ALSC Notable Children’s Book designation and a spot on the CCBC Choices list.
This book is a standout choice for educators addressing SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, as it tackles systemic racism through relatable, age-specific scenarios like Alberta enduring microaggressions from classmates or Edie navigating cultural displacement. Open-mindedness shines through the girls’ journey: Alberta learns to appreciate Edie’s Brooklyn roots and alternative style, while Edie begins to see value in small-town life.
Teachers can use the historical journals as a springboard for discussions about how racial inequities persist across generations. For example, students might compare the diarist’s experiences of passing with Alberta and Edie’s modern struggles, prompting reflections on privilege and allyship. Consider pairing the book with a classroom activity where students research pioneers from marginalised groups in their own communities, or create “identity maps” that celebrate their cultural backgrounds. Colbert’s nuanced storytelling makes tough conversations accessible without sacrificing warmth or humor, ensuring it resonates with tweens navigating their own social landscapes.
