Jason Belongs: The Story of Jason Schachter McKinney by Audrey Ades, Jason Schachter McKinney

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Illustrator: Isabel Muñoz

The true story of Jason Schachter McKinney.

Jason has a big voice. He sings everywhere―until a whisper runs through his Jewish day school: Jason is Black. Is he really Jewish? “Can I be both Black and Jewish?” wonders Jason. He stops caring about Jewish songs and prayers.

His African ancestors’ music continues to touch Jason’s heart and spirit, but he longs for a community where he can be his complete self. When he finds his way to services at a synagogue years later, can Jason learn to sing with his whole spirit, both Black and Jewish?

Year first published: 2025