The Jacket

How has reading The Jacket helped you identify your own implicit biases? What factors helped create those biases, and what is the most important step you can take to start overcoming the beliefs you’ve internalized as a result? How is Phil’s character arc helpful in overcoming implicit bias, and what lessons have you learned from Phil’s journey?

By the end of the book, Phil’s dad has not acknowledged or tried to overcome his biases. Why do you think the author chose to leave this character biased? What messages does Phil’s dad send about discussing bias with adults? How do you think it would go if Phil confronted his dad about his bias?

In Chapter 5, Daniel’s grandmother intentionally code-switches when she addresses Phil’s dad. What did this moment teach you about changing ourselves to make others more comfortable? Are there situations where code-switching could be harmful? Are there situations where code-switching could be helpful?