Must-Read Book 'Above Ground By Clint Smith' Synopsis and Review
"Above Ground" by Clint Smith is a moving and thought-provoking work exploring the concept of "above ground" and its significance in the context of race and identity in America. It delves into the history, sociology, and personal experiences surrounding the concept of being "above ground" or "underground," shedding light on the complexities and intersectionalities of race, class, and power in the country. Through powerful narratives and thorough research, Smith examines the ways in which "above ground" and "underground" have been used to define and control Black life in the United States. The book invites readers to question the constructs of race, identity, and privilege, encouraging a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles for racial justice and equality.
Synopsis
"Above Ground" by Clint Smith is a compelling and poignant exploration of racial inequality in America, as seen through the lens of cemeteries. Smith juxtaposes stories of Black burial grounds and memorials with the often overlooked lives and deaths of Black people throughout American history.
Over the course of the book, Smith uncovers the hidden stories behind the headstones, exposing the systemic racism and discrimination that have shaped these hallowed grounds. He delves into the history of Red Summer, the Tulsa Race Massacre, and the MOVE bombing, demonstrating how racial violence and oppression have left an enduring mark on Black communities.
Smith also examines the ways in which Black people have resisted and commemorated the lives of their loved ones. He profiles activists and scholars who have worked tirelessly to preserve and honor Black burial grounds, and he explores the rituals and traditions that Black communities have developed to mourn and remember their dead.
Through its intimate and moving accounts, "Above Ground" sheds light on the complex intersections of race, death, and memory in America. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and a testament to the resilience and humanity of those who have been marginalized and forgotten.
Book Details
| Author | Clint Smith |
| Publisher | Little, Brown and Company |
| Pub Date | June 1, 2021 |
| ISBN | 9780316493345 |
| Page Count | 368 |
| Categories | Essays, Memoir, History, Race |
## About The Author
Smith is a graduate of Harvard University and the University of Iowa Writers' Workshop. He is currently a staff writer at The Atlantic.
Smith's work has been praised for its honesty, its lyricism, and its ability to illuminate the complexities of race in America. He has been awarded the Whiting Award, the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, and the National Book Critics Circle Award.
In addition to his writing, Smith is also a co-founder of the Harriet Tubman Freedom House, a museum and education center dedicated to the legacy of Harriet Tubman.
Review: Above Ground by Clint Smith
Clint Smith's "Above Ground" is a powerful and thought-provoking work that delves into the complexities of race and identity in America. Through a series of personal essays, Smith explores the ways in which the history and legacies of slavery, Jim Crow, and mass incarceration continue to haunt the country's present.
The book is rich with vivid anecdotes and haunting images, as Smith recounts his own experiences growing up in a predominantly white community, attending an Ivy League university, and witnessing the devastating effects of racism on his family and friends. He uses these personal stories to illustrate the larger systemic problems that face Black Americans today.
Smith's writing is eloquent, lyrical, and deeply personal. He weaves together historical facts, cultural commentary, and personal reflection to create a narrative that is both deeply moving and intellectually stimulating. The book is a testament to the enduring power of racism in America, but it also offers a glimmer of hope for a more just and equitable future.
"Above Ground" is an essential read for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of race and identity in America today. It is a powerful, moving, and ultimately hopeful book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
Where to Read
This book is available in bookstores.
Post a Comment