Somersfield Students Meet Acclaimed Creators
Students at Somersfield Academy engaged in a powerful live discussion this week with bestselling author Angie Thomas and film producer Robert [Bob] Teitel, exploring storytelling, activism, and the real-world impact of The Hate U Give.
A spokesperson said, “The session brought classroom study to life for M5 students in Devonshire. Teitel, who produced the novel’s 2018 film adaptation, joined students in person, while Thomas appeared virtually. Together, they discussed the responsibilities of writers and filmmakers, the power of narrative, and the role young people play in shaping society.
“The novel was introduced to the M5 curriculum by IB Language and Literature teacher Dani Usher, who emphasises the importance of contemporary literature in helping students understand the world around them.”
“Literature should help students understand the world they are growing up in, not just the world of the past,” Usher said. “This novel allows us to explore injustice, bias, and systemic inequality in ways that are honest, age-appropriate, and grounded in story.”
A spokesperson added, “In class, students analyse language, narrative voice, and perspective while examining how power and bias shape both personal experience and public perception. The unit also connects the novel’s themes to broader social systems and global movements, encouraging students to consider how individual stories reflect wider social realities — including those in Bermuda.
“For Usher, the text also holds personal significance.”
“As a Black woman, I recognise parts of myself in Starr,” she said, referring to the novel’s protagonist. “One line that stays with me is, ‘What’s the point of having a voice if you’re gonna be silent in those moments you shouldn’t be?’ That question is at the core of why I teach.”
A spokesperson added, “During the session, Thomas explained that the story began as a short piece she wrote in college, inspired by the 2009 police killing of Oscar Grant. She later expanded the work following the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, and others, as well as the rise of Black Lives Matter.
“Thomas spoke candidly about growing up in a community affected by gun violence and her determination to tell stories centred on voices often overlooked or unheard. She encouraged students to recognise their own influence.”
“You’re some of the most powerful people in the world,” she told them. “Industries depend on you — on your thoughts and ideas.”
A spokesperson added, “She also shared the realities of the publishing journey, revealing she received more than 300 rejections before securing representation — a process that ultimately led to a major publishing auction involving 13 competing publishers.
“Students asked thoughtful questions about how the novel was adapted for film. Thomas explained that changes were made collaboratively with director George Tillman Jr. and screenwriter Audrey Wells, describing the book and film as “fraternal twins” — closely related, but shaped differently.
“Teitel discussed the emotional and technical challenges of filming key scenes, particularly the shooting scene, which required careful handling. He also reflected on a moment in which Starr’s father explains to his children how to respond if stopped by police — a conversation he has had with his own family.
“He noted that authenticity was a priority throughout production, with Thomas closely involved and community representatives present during filming.
“Teitel also reflected on the broader cultural context surrounding the story, expressing doubt that the same film could be made in today’s political climate. Since publication, The Hate U Give has been challenged or banned in several countries, underscoring the continuing debate around stories that confront injustice.
“For Somersfield students, the session extended far beyond literary analysis. It offered a direct conversation with the creators of a work that challenges readers to examine voice, power, and responsibility — and demonstrated how storytelling can shape understanding, dialogue, and change.”
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