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

by Derrick A. Bell

Book Overview

A distinguished legal scholar and civil rights activist employs a series of dramatic fables and dialogues to probe the foundations of America's racial attitudes and raise disturbing questions about the nature of our society.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0465003281
• ISBN13: 9780465003280
• Release Date: October 1987
• Publisher: Basic Books
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Different spin on not-so-new matters

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 Only real downside to this book is that in 2010, this book is a bit outdated.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).

An Excellent Book

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

Excellent historical perspective and overall analysis

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!