Passing Strange
Passing Strange
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Brief
400
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 19th century
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Passing Strange: A Gilded Age Tale of Love and Deception Across the Color Line by Martha A. Sandweiss is a non-fiction biography about Clarence King, a renowned 19th-century scientist and explorer who led a double life as James Todd, a Black Pullman porter, to marry an African American woman named Ada and father five biracial children. This story reveals the complexities of race, identity, and societal norms in America, exploring themes of deception, love, and racial passing. The book addresses topics of racial segregation and slavery.
Mysterious
Informative
Unnerving
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,240 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Martha A. Sandweiss's Passing Strange is highly praised for its thorough research and compelling narrative, illuminating a unique and lesser-known aspect of American history. Critics commend its blend of personal and public histories, though some find the pacing uneven. Nonetheless, it is widely regarded as a fascinating and significant contribution to historical literature.
Who Should Read Passing Strange?
A reader who enjoys Passing Strange by Martha A. Sandweiss would likely have an interest in American history, racial identity, and biographical narratives. Fans of The Hemingses of Monticello by Annette Gordon-Reed and The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson would find this book particularly engaging.
1,240 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
400
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 19th century
2009
Adult
18+ years
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