My Soul Looks Back in Wonder: Voices of the Civil Rights Experience (AARP)

By Juan Williams

Book Overview

"More than 30 people tell personal stories about the nonviolent struggle for civil rights, then and now, not only the leaders but also ordinary citizens who bear witness to "transforming moments" when they suddenly found the courage to try to change things. David Dinkins, New York City's first black mayor, served with the U.S. Marines in World War II; at home, he had to use the back of the bus. A white woman remembers herself as a child after the Birmingham murders ("My worst fear was that my father might be a member of the Klan"). David Halberstam provides an excellent overview; Williams' brief, clear notes introduce each eyewitness account; and the combination of analysis and intimacy with powerful documentary photos makes for gripping narrative. Best of all are the connections with contemporary struggles for equality, including those of immigrants, the poor, and the disabled. Marion Wright Edelman's final impassioned essay speaks for the millions of all races who continue to be "left behind in our land of plenty."-- Booklist

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1402714157
• ISBN13: 9781402714153
• Release Date: May 2004
• Publisher: AARP
• Length: 216 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.4" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

Great for classroom use!

I used this book with my students, who were fascinated and inspired by the variety of stories. They were especially interested in reading the introductory poem/spiritual and comparing the struggles of the slaves with the struggles of the segregation era with the continuing struggles post-segregation. A good choice for high school and advanced middle-grade readers.

INCREDIBLE

I saw this book on display at a large bookstore and i was instantly attracted to it by merely reading the first page. It tells of the personal first hand experiences of couragous men and women who throughout history have stood up against injustice. Though many accounts are from the civil rights movement of the 50s and 60s many others are on the womens movement, native american, latin american and disability rights. This is the first book i have read by Juan Williams and after finishing it i have decided it will not be my last. Also after reading this book i feel empowered and confident just by reading the incredible experiences of others included in the book. I would DEFFINETLY reccomend this book. It is incredibly interesting from a historical standpoint, a civil rights standpoint and so many others. Go check out this book!