The 57 Bus

A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives

By: Dashka Slater

Narrated by: Robin Miles

This riveting nonfiction book for teens about race, class, gender, crime, and punishment tells the true story of an agender teen who was set on fire by another teen while riding a bus in Oakland, California.

One teenager in a skirt.

One teenager with a lighter.

One moment that changes both of their lives forever.

If it weren't for the 57 bus, Sasha and Richard never would have met. Both were high school students from Oakland, California, one of the most diverse cities in the country, but they inhabited different worlds. Sasha, a white teen, lived in the middle-class foothills and attended a small private school. Richard, a black teen, lived in the crime-plagued flatlands and attended a large public one. Each day, their paths overlapped for a mere eight minutes. But, one afternoon, on the bus ride home from school, a single reckless act left Sasha severely burned, and Richard charged with two hate crimes and facing life imprisonment. The case garnered international attention, thrusting both teenagers into the spotlight.

©2017 Dashka Slater (P)2017 Recorded Books

Incredible book!

Loved this book so much. Bravo! Keep on writing. Being a Californian myself and raising two teenagers, I really felt these characters.

It is very important to educate the public about gender identity especially at this time.

The strength and forgiveness of Sasha is remarkable. The parents stories from both sides are explained in detail and relatable.

Important

This is an important listen about the power of forgiveness and restorative justice. As shocking as the event that took place is, it isn't the major focus of the book. It's about understanding others, developing empathy, and how all parties can find peace after tragedy. An important focus for our time.

Amazing

This is such an amazing book it talks about general sexual orientation and race and race it’s a really good book and I recommend it to everyone

Heart Wrenching

A sad story of bad choices, determination and over coming struggles. Eye opening for those that want to see!

Vital information for anyone who cares about gender and justice

I learned a great deal about non-binary gender identity and also about the injustice in our legal system. That the USA treats (some, especially BIPOC) children as adults in regard to criminal behavior, while still proclaiming people the same age to be lacking the discernment necessary to drive, consume alcohol or nicotine, or join the military, is appalling. I’m grateful that there have been cultural advances to recognize differences among people, however, we still have a long road ahead before our society is fair and just to those who do not fit “traditional” Western concepts of gender.

Amazing reading

It’s an easy yet amazing book to read. The writer’s style was easy to understand and the reader’s tone was comfortable to listen to

Good story

It was a little slow for me, in the beginning, but overall a good read.

A sad yet touching story!

A sad yet touching story of the reality of today's racial and gender stereotyping and struggles.

Not Just a Review

Sometimes you get a book that tells you what happens to someone. A review. This book does that but not in a one sided way. Sometimes you get books that will look at both sides of a situation, perspectives. This book does that but from more than just two sides.

I am a no spoilers gal but will say if you know or yourself are struggling with understanding the Trans+ movement this book will open new pathways for thought and frustration on steps as a nation taken only to be undone. It goes beyond “always play nicely with others” into the spirit of who we really are.