This seminal work is a collection of essays that explores the history and condition of African Americans at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the issues of race, class, and the socio-economic realities faced by black people post-emancipation. The author employs a combination of history, sociology, and personal narrative to present a powerful critique of American society, highlighting the struggle for civil rights, the importance of black spirituals, and the concept of "double consciousness" - the idea of viewing oneself through the lens of a society that sees you as inferior.

This book is a poignant autobiography that depicts the life of a young woman born into slavery in the southern United States in the early 19th century. The narrative provides a harrowing account of her childhood and adolescence, marked by abuse and exploitation. In her desperate quest for freedom, she spends seven years in a tiny attic, hiding from her oppressive master. The narrative serves as a powerful critique of the brutalities of slavery, and a testament to the author's indomitable spirit and pursuit of freedom.

"Common Ground" is a non-fiction book that provides an in-depth examination of racial tensions in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1960s and 1970s, primarily focusing on the controversial issue of court-ordered busing to integrate public schools. The narrative follows three families - one African-American, one Irish-American, and one Yankee - to depict the effects of these tensions on the city's different communities. The book also explores the historical, political, and social context of these events, offering a comprehensive analysis of a critical period in American history.

"Country Of My Skull" is a powerful and deeply personal account of the author's experiences as a journalist covering the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in post-apartheid South Africa. Through her vivid and introspective narrative, the author explores the complexities of forgiveness, justice, and the collective healing process of a nation grappling with its painful past. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of reconciliation and the enduring impact of trauma on individuals and societies.

"The Silent Steppe: The Story Of A Kazakh Nomad Under Stalin" is a gripping memoir that chronicles the life of a Kazakh nomad during the brutal reign of Stalin. The book offers a firsthand account of the hardships, persecution, and forced collectivization experienced by the Kazakh people under Soviet rule. Through the eyes of the author, readers gain insight into the resilience, traditions, and struggles of the Kazakh nomadic culture in the face of political oppression.

"Sons of Mississippi" is a powerful exploration of the legacy of racism in the American South. The book uses a famous photograph of seven Mississippi sheriffs preparing to thwart James Meredith's integration of the University of Mississippi in 1962 as a starting point. The author then traces the lives and descendants of these men, providing a deep and nuanced look at the enduring effects of prejudice and discrimination, as well as the struggle for civil rights and racial equality in the United States.

This comprehensive biography delves into the life and work of Alain Locke, the first African American Rhodes Scholar and a leading figure in the Harlem Renaissance. The book explores Locke's upbringing, his education, and his struggles with racism and homophobia. It also highlights his role in promoting and shaping black culture and arts during the Harlem Renaissance, his philosophy of the "New Negro," and his influence on a generation of African American artists and intellectuals.

This book tells the true story of General Alex Dumas, a man of mixed race who rose to power in France during the French Revolution. Despite his achievements and contributions, Dumas faced severe racial discrimination and was eventually imprisoned. His life and experiences served as inspiration for his son, who became a famous novelist. The book explores themes of race, class, and the struggle for equality, providing a fascinating look at a lesser-known figure in French history.

This biography delves into the life of W.E.B. Du Bois, a prominent African-American civil rights activist and scholar. It explores his tireless fight for racial equality in the United States during the 20th century. The book chronicles his role as a founder and leader of the NAACP, his influence in the Harlem Renaissance, his controversial advocacy for black separatism, and his later years as an expatriate in Ghana. It paints a comprehensive picture of Du Bois as a key figure in the struggle for civil rights and the shaping of the American century.