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James L. Swanson

Chasing King's Killer: The Hunt for Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Assassin

James L. SwansonNonfiction | Biography | YA | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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James L. Swanson

Chasing King's Killer

Nonfiction | Biography | YA | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 1960s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Chasing King's Killer by James L. Swanson traces the journey of Martin Luther King Jr. from his rise in the civil rights movement to his tragic assassination by James Earl Ray, detailing Ray’s troubled background, his escape from prison, and subsequent manhunt. Swanson explores the convergence of these two historical figures, highlighting the twists of fate and lasting impact of King's legacy on the United States.

Informative

Dark

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

1,550 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

James L. Swanson's Chasing King’s Killer is praised for its gripping narrative and thorough research, making history accessible and engaging for young readers. Critics laud its comprehensive examination of the events leading up to and following Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. However, some feel the book could benefit from a more nuanced exploration of racial issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Chasing King's Killer?

A reader who would enjoy Chasing King's Killer by James L. Swanson is likely a history and true crime enthusiast, particularly interested in the civil rights movement and the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Those who appreciated Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer or Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Reilly may find this book equally compelling.

4.4

1,550 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 1960s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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