Plot Summary

The Education of Kevin Powell

Kevin Powell
Guide cover placeholder

The Education of Kevin Powell

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Kevin Powell

The Education of Kevin Powell

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Brooklyn, New York • 1970s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Education of Kevin Powell: A Boy’s Journey into Manhood by Kevin Powell recounts his journey from a challenging childhood in New Jersey to becoming an influential student activist and journalist, overcoming significant obstacles such as racism and personal struggles with alcoholism and depression that impacted his relationships and career. The book explores themes of violence, misogyny, racism, and the influence of hip-hop culture in African-American life.

Emotional

Inspirational

Challenging

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

452 ratings

75%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Kevin Powell's The Education of Kevin Powell receives praise for its raw, honest portrayal of his journey from poverty to prominence. Critics highlight his compelling narrative and poignant reflections on race and identity. However, some found the memoir's structure disjointed and its tone occasionally self-indulgent, slightly detracting from its impactful message.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Education of Kevin Powell?

Readers who appreciate candid memoirs about overcoming adversity and personal transformation would enjoy Kevin Powell’s The Education of Kevin Powell. Fans of books like Barack Obama’s Dreams from My Father and Richard Wright’s Black Boy will find the themes of resilience, growth, and socio-political awareness compelling.

4.2

452 ratings

75%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Brooklyn, New York • 1970s

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!