"This will be the most important book in American history if white people read it. Because it will teach them who they are."

–James Meredith,
April 2003
“A book that takes its place as one of the best narratives to chronicle the epic contest between African-Americans bent on freedom and their most fanatic opponents.”

–Michael Kazin,
Washington Post
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A Washington Post "Book World Rave,"
one of the Best
Non-fiction Books
of the Year

Winner, 2002 American Bar Association Silver Gavel Award for fostering understanding of law and the legal system

Winner, 2002 American Library Association Alex Award for best adult books for young adult readers

Finalist, 2002 Robert
F. Kennedy Book Award
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