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304
Biography • Nonfiction
2010s
2018
Adult
16+ years
1180L
Rising Out of Hatred by Eli Saslow is a biography detailing the transformation of Derek Black, the son of a former Ku Klux Klan Grand Wizard, from a prominent white nationalist to a critic of white supremacy after forming meaningful relationships with diverse peers at a liberal arts college.
Informative
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Hopeful
12,333 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Eli Saslow's Rising Out of Hatred is widely praised for its compelling, introspective narrative about Derek Black’s transformation from a white nationalist to an advocate for tolerance. Critics appreciate Saslow’s nuanced storytelling and in-depth research. However, some noted a lack of deeper exploration into systemic issues. Overall, it is a powerful, thought-provoking read.
A reader who values profound, transformative stories about racial identity, redemption, and societal impact would appreciate Rising Out of Hatred. Comparable to Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates or The Strange Career of Jim Crow by C. Vann Woodward, it appeals to those interested in racial justice and personal change narratives.
12,333 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Don Black
Derek’s father, a former Ku Klux Klan leader who founded the white supremacist website Stormfront and is involved in the white nationalist movement.
Chloe Black
Derek's mother, who shares white supremacist ideology but is less active in the movement than her husband, Don.
David Duke
A prominent white supremacist and former Ku Klux Klan leader, he is Derek’s godfather and serves as a mentor figure in his early life.
Juan Elias
A Peruvian immigrant and Derek's first friend at New College, who remains friends with Derek during his transformative college years.
Matthew Stevenson
An Orthodox Jewish student at New College who befriends Derek, encouraging him to reconsider his beliefs through inclusive, nonjudgmental interactions.
Rose
A Jewish student from Arkansas at New College whose initial romantic involvement with Derek challenges his preconceived biases.
Allison Gornik
Matthew’s roommate and a psychology major who eventually becomes Derek’s girlfriend and plays a significant role in his ideological transformation.
Donald Trump
The 45th President of the United States, known for his controversial rhetoric, which resonated with white nationalists during his political ascent.
Richard Spencer
A leading figure in the "alt-right" movement, known for attempting to bring white nationalist ideas into mainstream politics.
304
Biography • Nonfiction
2010s
2018
Adult
16+ years
1180L
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