Books matching: racism and survival
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'Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America' by Jill Leovy is a compelling non-fiction work that delves into the epidemic of murder in South Los Angeles, focusing on the killings of young black men in gang-related crimes. Through detailed storytelling and extensive research, the author sheds light on the challenges faced by law enforcement in solving these cases and the social underpinnings that contribute to the high crime rates in the area. Leovy weaves together narratives of detectives, families, and witnesses, providing a striking mix of facts, social commentary, and emotional truths of living in a war zone.
The box contained a pair of high-top sneakers that once belonged to a black teenage boy named Dovon Harris. Dovon, fifteen, had been murdered the previous June, and the shoes had been sitting in an ev...- #2
Octavia Butler's 'Kindred' follows the story of Dana, a black woman living in 1976 who unexpectedly travels back in time to the 1800s. She finds herself on a plantation in the antebellum South, witnessing firsthand the inhumane treatment of slaves. The book explores themes of racism, slavery, and survival as Dana navigates between her present life in the 1970s and the harsh realities of the past. The writing style is described as engaging, emotionally intense, and expertly crafted, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of race relations and identity.
'Kindred' is a time travel tale that delves into the psychology and sociology of slavery in America, challenging traditional narratives and exploring the effects of time travel on the characters. The protagonist, Dana, is portrayed as a complex and relatable character who grapples with the moral and ethical dilemmas of her time-traveling experiences. The novel deftly balances a swift narrative style with profound philosophical considerations, inviting readers to reflect on the themes of privilege, history, and relationships across power differentials.
The trouble began long before June 9, 1976, when I became aware of it, but June 9 is the day I remember. It was my twenty-sixth birthday. It was also the day I met Rufus—the day he called me to him fo... - #3
The Eleventh Plague by Jeff Hirsch is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a world where American civilization has been decimated by a biological attack and invasion launched by China. The story follows 15-year-old Stephen Quinn, who navigates a dystopian landscape with his father, scavenging for survival. After a tragic encounter with slavers, Stephen is taken in by a community in Settler's Landing, where he grapples with the choice between trust and self-preservation. The book combines elements of survival, societal collapse, and personal growth, reminiscent of Cormac McCarthy's The Road, offering a balanced portrayal of human nature in the face of adversity.
I was sitting at the edge of the clearing, trying not to stare at the body on the ground in front of me. Dad had said we’d be done before dark, but it had been hours since the sun went down and he was... - #4
The Witness by Sandra Brown is a thrilling novel that follows Kendall Deaton, a public defender who stumbles upon a chilling secret in her town involving a supremacist brotherhood. As she reports them to the FBI, she finds herself on the run, trying to save her life and her child's life. Teaming up with a federal agent, John McGrath, Kendall navigates a dangerous journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. The book expertly weaves together past and present events, slowly revealing the mystery surrounding Kendall's predicament and the dark secrets of the town she thought she knew.
The Witness is praised for its intense suspense, well-developed characters, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers engaged until the very end. Sandra Brown's writing style captivates readers with its fast-paced narrative, intricate storytelling, and gripping portrayal of a woman fighting against powerful forces to seek justice and protect her loved ones.
Laurelann Burnwood had passed away when Matt was a youngster, but he and Gibb spoke of her death as though it were recent. The widower cut an impressive figure, with his white crew cut and tall, trim... - #5
We're Going to Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union is a memoir that delves into the life experiences of the actress. Union shares stories from her life, addressing topics such as growing up African American in a predominantly white neighborhood, dating challenges, assault, and her work supporting survivors of sexual violence. The book is a mix of heartbreaking and funny moments, narrated in a conversational style that makes the reader feel like they are chatting with a friend over drinks. Union is honest, transparent, and unafraid to discuss issues like racism, rape, cancer, and infertility, while also reflecting on her personal and professional growth throughout her life.
The memoir is praised for its accessibility, humor, raw honesty, and feminist, anti-racist themes. Union's storytelling is described as both familiar and revelatory, with essays that hold nothing back and encourage self-reflection and personal growth. Through her candid narratives, Union not only shares her own experiences but also provides insights into navigating societal challenges, advocating for important causes, and embracing one's true self.
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Set in an alternate reality where slavery is legal in four states, 'Underground Airlines' follows Victor, a black bounty hunter tasked with tracking down escaped slaves. As Victor delves into his latest case, involving an escapee named Jackdaw, he uncovers a dark secret that challenges his beliefs and forces him to question his own past. The book combines elements of thriller and detective genres, offering a thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of race, history, and society in a chillingly realistic manner.
I knitted my fingers together and leaned forward across the table. I was aware of how I looked: I looked pathetic. Eager, nervous, confessional. I could feel my thin, cheap spectacles slipping down my... - #7
'Donners of the Dead' by Karina Halle follows the story of Eve, a half-Native tracker, who embarks on a dangerous journey with a group of strangers to uncover the mystery of a missing family member related to the Donner Party. Set in the 1850s, the novel intertwines horror and romance elements as Eve and the group face terrifying creatures in the mountains, reminiscent of the cannibalistic Donner Party. The plot unfolds with suspenseful twists, intense character dynamics, and a raw, gritty writing style that captivates readers and immerses them in a chilling and captivating narrative.
As the group delves deeper into the treacherous mountains, facing threats and unknown dangers, Eve's character shines through as a fierce and relatable protagonist trying to survive amidst horrifying situations. The author, Karina Halle, expertly weaves a complex storyline with rich character development, creating a compelling blend of historical fiction, horror, and romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Halle brings to life a tale of survival, betrayal, and unexpected alliances in a setting filled with suspense and dark secrets.
Sometimes I am six years old again and playing in the Truckee River, throwing up the cold mountain runoff with my tiny hands and shooting shy glances at him as he watches me, the smile spreading wide ... - #8
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is a powerful and poignant novel set in the Jim Crow South during the Civil Rights movement. The story follows Elwood Curtis, a black teenager who gets mistakenly arrested and sent to a reform school in Florida in the 1960s. Based on real events, the book delves into the injustices and mistreatment faced by Elwood and his friend Turner at the Nickel Academy, a place where racism, cruelty, and corruption thrive. Through well-crafted characters and a gripping plot, the author sheds light on the resilience and hope displayed by the characters amidst the harrowing mistreatment they endure.
The writing style of Colson Whitehead in The Nickel Boys is described as excellent, engaging, and evocative. Readers praise the author for his ability to tackle difficult topics like racism, abuse, and the broken criminal justice system with sensitivity and honesty. The book is commended for its compelling narrative that is based on real events but avoids graphic details, making it a worthwhile and enlightening read that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
Elwood received the best gift of his life on Christmas Day 1962, even if the ideas it put in his head were his undoing. Martin Luther King at Zion Hill was the only album he owned and it never left th... - #9
'The World In Winter' by John Christopher is a post-apocalyptic novel that presents a dark and unsettling depiction of Britain consumed by glacial ice. The story is compelling, drawing in the reader with the idea of civilization collapsing quickly under the weight of a sudden and extreme cooling in the northern hemisphere. The book explores themes of human frailty, gender roles, racism, politics, colonization, loyalty, customs, and social status.
The novel is well-written, with fleshed-out characters that act in ways that make them believable, even if a little old-fashioned. The relationships within the story help to drive it forward, although the sudden disintegration of relationships and the portrayal of racism towards Blacks may be unpleasant to some readers. Overall, 'The World In Winter' is considered a good read from an author who wrote some very good dystopian fiction.
The reading room seemed warm when one first came in from the outside, but the impression did not last. To stretch fuel stocks as far as possible, the burners had been set at their lowest working point... - #10
Set in Jim Crow South, Florida, 1950, 'The Reformatory' by Tananarive Due follows the story of twelve-year-old Robert Stephens, Jr., who is sentenced to the Gracetown Segregated Reform School for Boys. The novel delves into the horrors faced by the boys at the reformatory, blending historical fiction with supernatural elements as Robbie navigates the dark truths lurking within the institution. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of multiple characters, highlighting themes of family, friendship, survival, and the resilience exhibited in the face of injustice and hardship.
As Robbie uncovers the sinister secrets of the reformatory, the story evolves into a haunting tale of tragedy and survival, shedding light on the atrocities committed in the name of reform. Tananarive Due's powerful writing style weaves together a gripping plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, evoking a sense of foreboding and empathy for the well-drawn characters. Through Robbie's journey, the novel explores the racial discrimination, segregation, and violence prevalent in the Jim Crow South, ultimately delivering a poignant and impactful narrative.