Inspired by James Baldwin's The Fire Next Time, one of the most important books of the decade is Between the World and Me. Ta-Nehisi Coates wrote a letter to his son about racism and how it is being black in America. It discusses the identity, outrage, struggle and the reality of being black. A controversial topic for a NY Times bestselling book. The main reason why this book was so controversial is because in 2015 it was selected by the NY Times as one of the Top Books of 2015.
Between the World and Me is incredibly challenging. It has some very hard truths and some sharp edges to say the least. He calls out those who believe themselves to be white dreamers and he believes that everyone needs to open their eyes and face the brutal and harsh reality of how oppressive it is to be black in America.
Its quite literally impossible to read without wincing, and this is how it should be. The author wants to open the eyes of those around him and wants them to know the truth and how it is to be black in this world. The book is inspirational, yet controversial, and it is one of the best books about modern racism in America. As MLK Day approaches, I'm reminded of the Dream that Dr. King spoke of in his famous speech.
Nearly 50 years after Dr. King, just how far have we come to creating a society where all people share racial equality and economic justice?
Suggested Reading:
Written in 1963, James Baldwin's essays detail what it is to be black in America. Considered one of the most influential books on race relations, this is a must read for all Americans.
Like Between the World and Me, Tears We Cannot Stop is thought-provoking, enlightening, yet harsh read. Written by Michael Eric Dyson, this book is written as a sermon to white america and holds nothing back.
A comprehensive and well-researched history on racism in America, this book is an easy to understand and extraordinary read.
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