62 pages • 2 hours read
Arc of Justice
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Book Brief
415
Book • Nonfiction
Detroit, Michigan • 1920s
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle tells the story of Dr. Ossian Sweet, an African-American physician who faces murder charges after defending his home in an all-white Detroit neighborhood from a violent mob in 1925. Moving from the South during the Great Migration, Sweet settles in Detroit's Black Bottom before buying a house on Garland Avenue, where, anticipating an attack, he enlists friends and family to help protect his property, leading to a violent confrontation and subsequent trial. This book contains sensitive topics including racial violence and historical oppression.
Informative
Dark
Suspenseful
Emotional
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
3,425 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle is widely acclaimed for its compelling narrative and thorough historical research, vividly portraying racial tensions in 1920s America. Praise centers around its engaging storytelling and emotional depth. Some critics note a dense prose style that may challenge casual readers, but overall, it's celebrated for its rich, impactful recounting of history.
Who Should Read Arc of Justice?
A reader who enjoys Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle is likely passionate about American history, particularly civil rights and racial justice. This audience appreciates meticulously researched historical narratives with robust character development. Fans of The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson and The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson may find it compelling.
3,425 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Clarence Darrow
Clarence Darrow
A famous defense attorney known for his dramatic flair and views against the status quo, particularly interested in high-profile cases rather than race issues directly.
James Weldon Johnson
James Weldon Johnson
The NAACP's field secretary and a Renaissance-man figure aiming to raise awareness about racial segregation and support for the NAACP's Legal Defense Fund.
Walter White
Walter White
Johnson's assistant secretary at the NAACP, known for his public relations prowess and personal commitment to racial identity, instrumental in generating publicity for the Sweet case.
Frank Murphy
Frank Murphy
A Detroit lawyer and party activist, who becomes a judge committed to justice and fair treatment, especially noted during the legal trials surrounding Ossian Sweet.
Johnny Smith
Johnny Smith
A politician focused on labor rights and opposing white supremacist candidates, actively working towards creating a more inclusive environment in Detroit.
Henry Sweet
Henry Sweet
Ossian's younger brother, a student with aspirations in the sciences, who becomes intricately involved in the events on Garland Avenue.
Gladys Sweet
Gladys Sweet
Ossian's wife, known for her composure and influence within her family, who plays a visible role in the public eye during the trial and maintains her resilience in the face of adversity.
415
Book • Nonfiction
Detroit, Michigan • 1920s
2004
Adult
18+ years
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