★★★★★ 4
Interesting and important read, but less objective than I expected.
Format: Hardcover
I feel this book has received higher review ratings than it probably deserves. Yet, it's still an overall good read and it discusses an important societal issue of U.S. history. This review will include both positive and negative feedback of this book.
The author, Ibram Kendi, has done a great job at making this book accessible to readers. It's not overly infused with academic jargon. The chapters are also quite short, which makes it easier to read. The substance of the book is pretty informative too. Kendi's frequent usage of quotes really exposes the racist attitudes and ideas that were (and still are) present in American society.
Although this book contains an abundance historical quotes, many of them lack sufficient explanation and context. As a student of history, I appreciate deeper, rounded discussions of historical figures. I felt that Kendi mostly includes short bits of statements from historical figures, then hastily shows how those statements equal racism in the person being discussed. I guess Kendi's style is OK. It just doesn't quite feel dedicated to historians craft. Another, less important critique is about the book title's usage of the term "Definitive." I'm surprised that this work was labeled as definitive. To be definitive, it would need to include racial histories of ALL ethnic/racial groups throughout both the American colonial and U.S. eras. Alternatively, this book's title may have been more appropriate as "The Definitive History of Racist Ideas Towards Peoples of sub-Sarahan African Descent in America."
Overall, I'm glad I purchased and read this book. It boldly explains certain sides of history that much of our society has missed. I did not grow up in a "racist" household. Yet, this book helped me reflect on my own attitudes, which have been influenced by racist ideas to some degree. I hope others (especially other Americans) can read this book with an open heart and mind.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on August 12, 2018

