Babygirl, You've Got This!

Pennant has provided this generation of black girls and women with tools for understanding and tools for action and for self-affirmation as they participate in the transformation of their world and, commensurately, of the schooling and education system. She holds up a mirror to that system and to the mandarins that maintain its structures, so that they could see how wasteful, destructive and discriminatory the current structural, curricular, epistemological and awarding arrangements actually are. Babygirl deserves the widest readership among policymakers, education practitioners and learners across the nation. * Professor Gus John, Education and Human Rights Campaigner *
In this ultimate Black girl’s survival bible Pennant is babygirl - tenacious, smart, courageously calling out the endemic anti-Black sexualised racism that threatens to limit the life chances of her beautiful Black Sistas as they navigate the still racially unreconstructed hostile White world of school and university. Pennant has gifted us a classic in this intellectually robust, brave, brilliant tour de force! * Heidi Safia Mirza, Author of Young Female and Black, Professor Equalities Studies in Education UCL *
Too often we hear about Black Girls and Women and not from them. The women whose articulate voices are showcased here show why we all need to listen to them. Successful in English education, they have important things to say about it. * Sara Delamont, Cardiff University, UK *
Through this compelling and much needed text, April-Louise shines a spotlight on the voices and experiences of Black girls and women, ensuring that we are not just acknowledged but genuinely seen and heard. * Dr Dionne Taylor, Associate Professor in Sociology, Birmingham City University, UK *
This book makes an important contribution to scholarly understanding of the educational experiences of Black women – a group that are too often forgotten. Pennant weaves together theory, empirical evidence, lived experience and a clear political commitment, to offer an intervention that centres Black women. The use of composite characters makes this an incredibly readable book and the love for Black women is clear for all to see. A must read book for all who interested in racism and education. * Dr Remi Joseph-Salisbury, University of Manchester, UK *
A powerful, much needed contribution to the literature around ethnicity and educational experience in the UK... this book tells Black young women that their experiences are seen and heard, but also offers lots of encouragement. The title captures this brilliantly. Thank you, Dr. Pennant for seeing and hearing us. * Professor Louise Owusu-Kwarteng, Professor of Applied Sociology, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences Associate Dean, Student Success, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Greenwich *
Pennant provides a compelling exploration of the triumphs and challenges faced by Black girls within the English education system. This book is a testament to resilience and determination, sheds light on the unique experiences and perspectives of Black girls as they navigate through a system often marked by systemic barriers. The author skilfully weaves together personal narratives, research insights, and inspiring success stories, creating a must-read for educators, parents, and advocates alike. At its heart, the book is a catalyst for change, urging us to dismantle stereotypes, address biases, and foster an inclusive educational environment where every Black girl can thrive. An essential read for anyone committed to creating a more equitable and empowering educational landscape. * Dr Chantelle Jessica Lewis, Surviving Society & University of Oxford, UK *
The most interesting and engaging book I have read in a longtime. Written with beautiful precision April-Louise is a wonderful storyteller who brings to life the complex realities - ups and downs - of Black women as we navigate an education system that does not value our presence or nurture our voices. This book is healing and insightful. April-Louise powerfully illustrates the impact of structural inequalities on Black girls within the English education system whilst offering a guide for survival through the narration of the ‘strength, resilience and power’ Black girls use to get through. A must read for our mothers, daughters, brothers, fathers and sons. Thank you, April-Louise, for this outstanding contribution to Black Feminist thought. * Dr Annabel Wilson, Kings College London, UK *
Dr April-Louise Pennant has delivered a remarkable work of Blackness that navigates the realities of elite privilege locally and globally, exposes racial and gendered inequalities, yet initiates solidarity, affirmation and fortitude. This is a book of inspiration, academic excellence, and heartfelt achievement. -- Professor Tracey Skelton, University of Otago, New Zealand
Babygirl is an absolute must read! Pennant’s prolific study of Black British women's educational experiences, is crafted with courage, care, and commitment to educational transformation. The narrative and image of each woman’s story builds one on the other to generate portals of possibilities into more expansive ways of growing, learning, and being for us all. -- Professor Ruth Nicole Brown, Michigan State University, USA