60 pages • 2 hours read
Chasing King's Killer: The Hunt for Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Assassin
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Book Brief
384
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 1960s
2018
YA
10-14 years
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
1,550 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
1,550 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
James Earl Ray
James Earl Ray
The convicted assassin of Martin Luther King, Jr., known for his criminal background and escape from prison, whose motives for the crime remain unclear.
John F. Kennedy
John F. Kennedy
The 35th president of the United States, known for his complex relationship with the civil rights movement and for assisting King during a notable arrest.
Lyndon B. Johnson
Lyndon B. Johnson
The U.S. president succeeding Kennedy, recognized for signing the Civil Rights Act and his initial support of King's efforts before their relationship soured over the Vietnam War.
Ralph Abernathy
Ralph Abernathy
A close friend and collaborator of King in the civil rights movement, who took up leadership roles after King’s assassination.
Coretta Scott King
Coretta Scott King
Martin Luther King, Jr.'s wife and supporter, who continued his work in the civil rights movement and preserved his legacy after his death.
Malcolm X
Malcolm X
A civil rights leader known for advocating more aggressive tactics compared to King’s nonviolent approach, illustrating varied strategies within the movement.
J. Edgar Hoover
J. Edgar Hoover
The FBI director who was a staunch critic of King, overseeing extensive surveillance and later in charge of the investigation into King’s murder.
Robert F. Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy
The U.S. attorney general who authorized wiretapping of King, his assassination followed closely after King’s, adding to the national turmoil of the era.
Izola Ware Curry
Izola Ware Curry
The woman who attempted to assassinate King in 1958, later deemed mentally disturbed and confined to a mental institution.
384
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 1960s
2018
YA
10-14 years
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