We Grow the World Together: Parenting Toward Abolition, edited by Maya Schenwar and Kim Wilson, is an anthology of abolitionist thinkers exploring the critical intersection of abolition and parenting. This collection could not have arrived into the world at a more vital moment. As Maya states in her essay on learning from her toddler: ‘We must imagine outside the bounds of the "possible" because the current reality is, quite literally, lethal’.

Having previously attended a virtual panel discussion featuring Maya, Kim, and two other contributors, I anticipated a thought-provoking read, and my expectations were not only met but exceeded. The range of voices and perspectives contained within this collection is astounding. I learned from, felt moved by, and took something meaningful away from every essay. I frequently found myself pausing in my feelings of appreciation and gratitude for the opportunity to glimpse into the minds and lives of abolitionist thinkers I might never have encountered otherwise. I am deeply thankful to Maya and Kim for imagining this project into existence in a world so desperately in need of it. 

Some essays deeply influenced me, such as hearing from a six-year-old with an incarcerated parent, learning from Maya's toddler about the importance of imagination in transforming society, and gaining insights from Mariame Kaba on using children's books in abolition. As a collection this book offers countless practical examples and compelling calls to action.

As someone with a lot of love for ‘new beginners’ (as Sarah Tyson aptly puts it), who is not currently, and may never be, a ‘parent’ in the traditional sense, I often reflect on my role as a collective ‘co-parent’. Parenting, and specifically abolitionist parenting, is a shared duty. It is a call to action for all adults striving for a better, safer future for everyone. I am confident that this book is, and will continue to be, an essential resource for anyone committed to working collectively toward a freer future, with future adults in the lead.

I was incredibly fortunate to share this paradigm-shifting read with my favourite comrade, in reading, in thinking, in life and in the pursuit of collective freedom. I highly recommend experiencing this essay collection alongside a friend or two. Let’s continue engaging in critical conversations and collective action toward an abolitionist future. Let’s strive to grow the world together.

Thank you to NetGalley and Haymarket for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.