Black in Selma
Black in Selma
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Brief
448
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Selma, Alabama • 1960s
1991
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Black in Selma is the autobiography of J.L. Chestnut Jr., Selma’s first African American attorney, who fought tirelessly against systemic racism and police brutality. Raised in poverty, inspired by mentors, and educated at Howard University, Chestnut returned to Selma in 1958 to defend African American rights and challenge segregation through legal battles, contributing to the civil rights movement. The book contains descriptions of police brutality.
Informative
Inspirational
Challenging
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
120 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Black in Selma by J. L. Chestnut Jr. is widely praised for its powerful, firsthand account of the Civil Rights Movement in Selma, Alabama. Readers appreciate Chestnut's detailed narrative and insightful reflections. However, some critics note a dense writing style and occasional sluggish pacing. Overall, it remains an enlightening and crucial historical document.
Who Should Read Black in Selma?
Readers who would enjoy Black in Selma by J. L. Chestnut Jr. are those interested in civil rights history, legal battles for racial equality, and personal memoirs of activism. Fans of Parting the Waters by Taylor Branch and The Autobiography of Malcolm X will find this work compelling and enlightening.
120 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
448
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Selma, Alabama • 1960s
1991
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!