Sharon G. Flake on Fatherhood, Vulnerability & Black Boyhood in “The Family I’m In”

In this deeply moving episode of The Color Between the Lines, host Esther Dillard sits down with award-winning author Sharon G. Flake, best known for her iconic book The Skin I’m In, to discuss her powerful new release, The Family I’m In—a heartfelt sequel exploring father-son dynamics, masculinity, and the emotional lives of Black boys.

Sharon shares what inspired her to revisit the characters of Malika and John-John, shedding light on:

• The pressure young Black boys face to “man up”
• The complicated relationships between fathers and sons
• The often-overlooked vulnerability, humor, and emotional depth of teenage boys
• Why she believes Black boys deserve space to feel, question, and grow

This episode speaks directly to educators, parents, book clubs, and youth advocates searching for stories that honor the complexity of Black identity and family life. You’ll also hear how Flake has reached over 300,000 young people through school visits—and how you can invite her to speak at your organization.

📚 Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Skin I’m In or discovering Sharon Flake for the first time, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone raising, teaching, or loving young Black boys.

👉 Like this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a teacher, parent, or teen in your life.
🎧 Visit SharonGFlake.com to learn more or book her for a school visit.

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