Unexpected Encounter

Justyce McAllister, a high-achieving African American teen, finds himself in a troubling situation when he tries to help his ex-girlfriend, Melo, who is drunk and stranded. His good intentions lead to a confrontation with a police officer, Officer Castillo, who arrests him under the assumption that Justyce is attempting a carjacking. This incident leaves Justyce shaken and questioning the racial dynamics that led to his arrest. He begins writing letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., seeking guidance and understanding in a world that seems stacked against him.

Arrest and Reflection

After his arrest, Justyce struggles to reconcile his identity as a promising student with the racial profiling he experienced. He reflects on the incident and the broader societal issues it represents, writing to Dr. King in search of answers. Justyce's friend Manny tries to support him, but their differing perspectives on race and privilege create tension. Justyce's internal conflict grows as he navigates his predominantly white prep school, where discussions about race reveal deep-seated biases among his peers.

Debate and Discontent

Justyce and his debate partner, Sarah-Jane (SJ), tackle racial profiling in a state tournament, using their platform to highlight systemic injustices. Despite their success, Justyce feels increasingly alienated from his peers, especially after a Halloween party where racial stereotypes are on full display. His relationship with SJ becomes complicated by his feelings for her and his mother's disapproval of interracial relationships. Justyce's frustration with the world around him intensifies, leading to a confrontation with his friend Manny and a growing sense of isolation.

Tragedy Strikes

Justyce's world is shattered when Manny is killed by an off-duty police officer, Garrett Tison, during a dispute over loud music. The incident leaves Justyce injured and grappling with grief and anger. As the media and public opinion swirl around the case, Justyce becomes a symbol of racial injustice, dubbed "the Boy Who Survived." The trial of Garrett Tison becomes a focal point for the community, but the outcome is uncertain, leaving Justyce and Manny's family in limbo.

Trial and Turmoil

The trial of Garrett Tison brings to light the complexities of race, justice, and perception. Justyce testifies, but the defense attorney's tactics highlight societal biases and question Justyce's character. The jury is unable to reach a verdict on the most serious charge, leaving Justyce feeling defeated. The mistrial and subsequent events, including Tison's death in custody, underscore the systemic issues Justyce has been grappling with, leaving him questioning the effectiveness of his efforts to "be like Martin."

Seeking Solace

Struggling with his identity and the weight of recent events, Justyce seeks solace in unexpected places. He visits Quan, a childhood friend now in juvenile detention, and considers joining a gang for a sense of belonging. However, a visit to Martel, a local gang leader, makes Justyce realize that this path is not for him. Instead, he finds comfort in reconnecting with SJ, who offers understanding and support. Their relationship deepens as Justyce begins to find his footing again.

New Beginnings

As Justyce prepares to leave for Yale, he reflects on the past year and the lessons learned. Despite the challenges and losses, he is determined to forge his own path and continue seeking justice in his own way. His relationship with SJ provides a source of strength, and he resolves to stay true to himself while navigating the complexities of race and identity. The story closes with Justyce visiting Manny's grave, finding peace in the memory of his friend and hope for the future.

Characters

Justyce McAllister

Justyce is a bright, ambitious African American teen navigating the complexities of race and identity. His arrest and the subsequent events force him to confront societal injustices and his place within them. Through letters to Dr. King, he seeks guidance and grapples with his beliefs, ultimately striving to find his own path in a world that often seems against him.

Manny Rivers

Manny is Justyce's best friend, who comes from a privileged background but faces his own struggles with identity and belonging. His tragic death at the hands of a police officer becomes a catalyst for Justyce's journey, highlighting the harsh realities of racial profiling and systemic injustice.

Sarah-Jane (SJ) Friedman

SJ is Justyce's debate partner and love interest, who challenges him to think critically about race and justice. Her unwavering support and understanding provide Justyce with a sense of belonging and hope, even as he navigates the complexities of their interracial relationship.

Officer Garrett Tison

Tison is the off-duty police officer who kills Manny and injures Justyce, claiming self-defense. His actions and the subsequent trial highlight the systemic biases and racial tensions that permeate the justice system, serving as a stark reminder of the challenges Justyce faces.

Officer Tomás Castillo

Castillo is the officer who arrests Justyce, setting off the chain of events that lead to Justyce's introspection and activism. His actions exemplify the racial profiling and discrimination that Justyce seeks to understand and combat.

Martel Montgomery

Martel is a local gang leader who offers Justyce a sense of belonging and understanding. Though initially tempted, Justyce ultimately rejects Martel's path, realizing that it is not the solution to his struggles.

Quan Banks

Quan is a childhood friend of Justyce's who becomes entangled in criminal activities. His perspective on resistance and survival offers Justyce insight into the challenges faced by many young black men, though their paths ultimately diverge.

Jared Christensen

Jared is Manny's childhood friend, whose views on race and privilege are challenged throughout the story. His journey toward understanding and allyship reflects the potential for change and growth in the face of adversity.

Plot Devices

Letters to Dr. King

Justyce's letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. serve as a narrative device that allows him to process his experiences and seek guidance. Through these letters, readers gain insight into Justyce's internal struggles and evolving understanding of race and justice.

Racial Profiling

Racial profiling is a key plot device that drives the narrative and highlights the systemic injustices faced by Justyce and other characters. It serves as a catalyst for Justyce's introspection and activism, underscoring the novel's exploration of race and identity.

The Trial

The trial of Garrett Tison is a pivotal plot device that brings the story's themes of justice and prejudice to the forefront. It exposes the biases within the legal system and forces Justyce to confront the harsh realities of seeking justice in a flawed world.

Analysis

"Dear Martin" by Nic Stone is a powerful exploration of race, identity, and justice in contemporary America. Through Justyce's journey, the novel examines the impact of systemic racism and the challenges faced by young black men in a society that often views them as threats. The story highlights the importance of introspection, allyship, and resilience in the face of adversity. By drawing on the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the novel encourages readers to consider their own roles in the fight for equality and to strive for a more just and inclusive world. Ultimately, "Dear Martin" is a call to action, urging readers to confront their biases and work toward meaningful change.

Last updated: March 21, 2025