Customer Reviews

And We Are Not Saved: The Elusive Quest For Racial Justice

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This book provides a chilling account of traditional race relations in the United States, and also forces the reader to confront the problems with many of the proposed modern solutions. I recommend this book to anyone who has ever grappled with the issue of race in this country--even if one does not agree with all of Bell's analysis, the level of thought provoking questions and challenges are outstanding!

I thought this book brought a fresh new perspective to various debates about racial inequality in the U.S. The book is a series of allegories, called "Chronicles", which make the issues clearer and the book easier to read. The discussions after each chronicle raised some very thought-provoking questions. The sci-fi aspect of the chronicles makes them more fun to read while not detracting from one's ability to examine them and reflect on the real issues.

Only real downside to this book is that in 2010, this book is a bit outdated. I was left wondering how the main characters would discuss these issues in today's racial climate. Also, at times the legal discussions were a bit hard to follow, though they were still easier than other similar works I've read. (I have no legal background).

Bell's attempt to spin a tired concept into an interesting novel fails spectacularly. The "Chronicles" are difficult to read at best, thanks to unnatural dialogue and the constantly preaching Crenshaw. I would not recommend this to anyone.

This novel is a must read for everyone. Bell presented a funny yet sadly true concept of reality from the past to the present.