Let Me Be Honest: 28 Young Artists on Surviving an Uncertain World is a compelling anthology of poetry, interviews, prose, art, and expression from Toronto’s youth. Gathered over the course of five years, “the Neighbourhood Group Community Services engaged more than 500 youth in harm-reduction discussions and workshops on the topics of safe partying, substance misuse, mental health, and community through a program called Higher State of Mind.” 

In an editor’s note, co-editors Michaela Allen and P. Anneka Lynch provide insight into the making of the anthology: “as we read each piece, it became clear that in addition to serving as voices for those often silenced and forgotten, there was a universality to what the contributors were saying. Their stories reflected the often overlooked narratives of inner-city lives, but also represented a collective experience of young people everywhere.”

The editors also provide gentle guidance on how to approach the reading of the anthology, including a practice called “the 5 senses” that was used in the youth program. The young contributors featured in the collection do not shy away from challenging topics, and are able to fully be themselves in their own words, from asking “Why is my blackness seen as a threat?” to reflecting on their personal challenges including being exposed to drugs at a young age.

Let Me Be Honest is divided into five chapters with evocative titles that hint at the themes explored, including “I’m Doing my Best and that’s Good Enough” – a good reminder for adults, too. 

Self-described as “by youth, for youth,” the anthology would have been made all the richer had it included writing prompts for young readers as well. And while the chapters are listed in the index, the names of individual contributors and page numbers are not. It would have been beneficial to be able to search pieces by name/initials and titles for reference, especially if the text is used in classrooms for closer study.

The photography and artwork are raw, magical, and full of beauty, humour, and possibility, and provide windows into the lived experience of these talented artists. One of the most powerful aspects of this collection may be in what lies beyond the page: the steady hands of editors and facilitators who encouraged youth to share their struggles through a safe, supportive creative practice. 

While Let Me Be Honest: 28 Young Artists on Surviving an Uncertain World serves as a guide, tool, and companion for youth from youth, it will certainly resonate with adults, too.