Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 43 votes)
5 stars
10(23%)
4 stars
24(56%)
3 stars
9(21%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
43 reviews
July 15,2025
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This is an incredibly powerfully woven story. It is about a group of extremely virulently racist Mississippi sheriffs. One of them was even my neighbor in Natchez. They went to Ole Miss with the intention of opposing James Meredith's admittance.



The story also delves into how their sons, and in some cases their grandsons, have had to deal with the legacy. This legacy is the sheriffs' arrogant and angry stance that was captured for all time in a Life magazine photo by Charles Moore.



Now, let me tell you about the writing of this book. It is simply superb. I found myself starting to underline passages and expressions in pencil. This way, I can go back time and again to be inspired by Paul Hendrickson's supreme way with words.



Overall, this is an exceptional and truly memorable read. It not only tells a captivating story but also showcases the author's remarkable writing skills. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written and thought-provoking book.
July 15,2025
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**Title: 1st Edition, Signed by Author**

The 1st edition of a book holds a special allure. It is the initial printing, often considered a collector's item.

When it is also signed by the author, its value and significance increase manifold. The author's signature adds a personal touch, making it a unique piece.

Readers who own such a copy feel a special connection to the book and its creator. It becomes not just a literary work but a cherished memento.

The act of signing the book is a way for the author to leave their mark and share a part of themselves with the reader.

Collectors eagerly seek out these signed 1st editions, as they represent a piece of literary history.

Whether it's a rare find at a bookstore or a prized possession passed down through generations, a 1st edition signed by the author is truly a treasure.

July 15,2025
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An excellent and well-researched account is of utmost importance. It provides a comprehensive and accurate understanding of a particular subject or topic. Such an account is the result of meticulous research, gathering of relevant information from reliable sources, and careful analysis. It presents a detailed and objective view, leaving no stone unturned. The author takes the time to explore various aspects, consider different perspectives, and present a well-structured and coherent narrative. This type of account not only educates but also engages the reader, captivating their attention and sparking their curiosity. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking in-depth knowledge and can have a significant impact on the field or area of study it pertains to. In conclusion, an excellent and well-researched account is a testament to the author's dedication and expertise, and it enriches the body of knowledge available.

July 15,2025
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(3.5 stars) This work delves into the men who are the subjects of one of the more notorious photographs from the Civil Rights struggles of the 1960s.

As these law enforcement officials were gearing up for the showdown at Ole Miss, where James Meredith was set to become the first African-American to attend, the author embarks on a journey to follow the lives of those men, Meredith, and their families.

For some, life took a relatively favorable turn, while others faced hardships. However, most of the men and their families did not express remorse for their actions and beliefs as depicted in that photo.

The work has a tendency to jump around a bit as it attempts to cover the lives of the men in the photo, the Meredith family, and the broader Civil Rights struggle. Emmitt Till is frequently referenced, but it doesn't necessarily enhance the specific narrative of these men. It provides context, yet at times, a work like this can overemphasize the context.

Overall, it is a good story that is well-written, but it does seem to reach a bit too far. It makes for a decent read, but perhaps it may not be worth a purchase.
July 15,2025
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The man has an extraordinary ability when it comes to language.

He can turn a hell of a phrase, which means he has a remarkable talent for expressing himself in a vivid and impactful way.

His words have the power to captivate and engage his audience, whether it's in a speech, a written piece, or a simple conversation.

People are often amazed by his choice of words and the way he weaves them together to create a powerful message.

His phrases have a certain charm and elegance that makes them stand out and linger in the minds of those who hear or read them.

It's as if he has a magic touch when it comes to language, and he uses it to great effect to communicate his ideas and emotions.

Overall, the man's ability to turn a hell of a phrase is truly a gift, and it sets him apart from others in the world of communication.
July 15,2025
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In 1962, the young American James Meredith wanted to enroll at the University of Mississippi. This plan led to armed uprisings because in the eyes of most, James had the wrong skin color. Among those who wanted to stop James Meredith were seven men, whose images were captured by photographer Charles Moore for posterity.

One cannot tell from the seven men what purpose they had gathered for. Even though one of them was brandishing a baseball bat, they seemed rather as if they were on a picnic. In fact, they were not really close to the event, yet their faces are among those that are most remembered.

Paul Hendrickson delved into the lives of these men, their children, and grandchildren. He wanted to know if the seven were really so racist that they went to the university on that day or if they were just carried away by the mood and if they passed on their attitude to their children.

It was difficult to get a clear impression of the seven men. What was said about them, whether from family or friends, was surprisingly模糊. Much was hinted at, but little was really said. The strongest impression was that a lot of flowery talk was going on. Racism was and still is present, but only among others. In their own family, "it wasn't that bad." Only one of the sons had clearer words, but even in his case, there was a hint of surprise that he actually made such a statement.

James Meredith surprised me. He seemed not only completely unfazed by the riots caused by his actions: he also talked beautifully about the behavior of the students towards him. What he said in retrospect about it seems as模糊 as the statements of the families of the seven men.

The rest of the book was also similarly模糊. The time back then was surely interesting, but Paul Hendrickson could not convey this to me. He has a personal connection to the events in several aspects, but he only mentions this incidentally. Instead, he gets bogged down in琐事 and repetitions.

All of this made the reading difficult for me. I found the book tedious. Even though the topic is still relevant today, Hendrickson could not convey this importance to me.
July 15,2025
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This is a book that is closely related to the Civil Rights movement of the Sixties in the deep South of Mississippi.

Here, James Meredith made history as the first black person to enroll at the University of Mississippi.

I had high expectations of learning more about the story and its context within the broader Civil Rights movement. However, I was a little disappointed.

In a rather different twist, the author chooses to focus on the lives of 7 individuals who are featured in the photograph on the front cover of the book.

These individuals were all Mississippi lawmen and, in a sense, they represent the racist attitudes of that era.

The author delves into who these relatively ordinary men were and what became of them.

He also discusses their families and how and what has changed in the attitudes of the South since that tumultuous time.

The book mainly consists of his interviews with the surviving men and their relatives and families.

His point is that the change in attitudes takes time and that slowly but surely those racist attitudes are fading away.

It is more about the stories of some individuals rather than a comprehensive history of a specific Civil Rights event.
July 15,2025
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I happened to come across this book when I was shopping in a Big Lots store in Virginia. To my surprise, it only cost me a dollar. Little did I know at that time that it would turn out to be one of the best books I read last year.


As I started reading, I was immediately drawn into the captivating story and the well-developed characters. The author's writing style was engaging and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read.


The book covered a wide range of themes and emotions, from love and loss to hope and redemption. It made me think deeply about life and its many challenges.


Overall, I am extremely glad that I picked up this book for such a bargain price. It has truly been a gem and a memorable reading experience.

July 15,2025
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This is a truly very interesting read that offers a unique perspective.

It's important to note that it is not just a typical survey course on the Civil Rights Movement.

Rather, it delves deeper into the subject matter, presenting ideas and insights that might not be found in a more traditional educational setting.

The author's approach brings a fresh light to the topic, making it engaging and thought-provoking.

Readers will likely find themselves immersed in the details and stories, gaining a new understanding and appreciation for the significance of the Civil Rights Movement.

Whether you are already well-versed in the subject or new to it, this piece offers something valuable and值得一读.
July 15,2025
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I truly had a great affection for the subject matter that this book delved into.

By making use of a photo that was taken by the renowned Civil Rights photographer, Charles Moore, Paul Hendrickson endeavors to establish a connection between the impact of the civil rights movement and the next two generations.

The conclusions that he uncovers are truly astonishing. It becomes evident that change does not occur in a rapid manner.

This book serves as an excellent resource for引发深入的讨论. It offers valuable insights and perspectives that can stimulate thought and encourage individuals to reflect on the significance and lasting effects of the civil rights movement.

Overall, it is a remarkable piece of work that is well worth exploring and engaging with.
July 15,2025
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As a newcomer to the US, I am perhaps more acutely aware of the role of race here than I was in the UK. However, despite having lived here for 2 years, I was still at a loss as to its origins and why it occurred here.

This remarkable book has truly opened my eyes and helped me see the American "South" in a whole new light. Gone are my previous perceptions that large swathes of the old Confederate South were filled with typical "KKK style bigots". Instead, it has been replaced with a profound recognition that the racism that the African-American community endured may very well still persist.

Of course, the burning crosses are no longer a common sight, but the "racism of the mind", that unspoken form of racism that most people are too ashamed to openly express yet which must still be present among some, both in the North and in the South, is still very much alive and well in the US. It is a disturbing reality that we must all confront and work towards eradicating.
July 15,2025
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In case you needed reminding that the South was a terribly racist place.

The history of the South is marred by the deeply ingrained and systemic racism that prevailed for centuries. Slavery was a central institution, with African Americans being treated as property and subjected to inhumane conditions.

Even after the end of slavery, segregation laws were put in place, further marginalizing and oppressing the black community. Public facilities, schools, and transportation were segregated, creating a divided and unequal society.

Racist attitudes and violence were also common, with lynchings and other forms of intimidation being used to keep African Americans in a subservient position.

The South's racist past has had a lasting impact on the region and the nation as a whole, and it is important to remember and learn from this history in order to work towards a more just and equal future.
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