“How To: You” is the story of You, a Young Black Spirit who awakens in The Forest of Learning and is tasked to complete several lessons so that he may be ready to enter The World. Earnest and eager, You is guided by an owl named Relax and encounters many teachers in the forest, only to realize that The World is much harder than he hoped it would be. 

 

Through music, media, and magical realism, “How To: You” explores the harsh realities young Black boys are expected to learn before they get to experience the world while also celebrating the radical joys they wish to pursue. A feast for the eyes and a punch to the gut, “How To: You” explores themes of race, identity, humanity, and community with the frankness of an old friend and the wonder of a fairy tale.