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Member Reviews

James Baldwin’s exceptional talent in writing both concisely and poetically is evident again in this memoir.
His childhood in Harlem, his memories of Hollywood, his travels are all in this book.
Beautifully told impressions and reflections which serve as a time capsule.

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A fascinating memoir that gives insight and context to James Baldwin's childhood, his relationship with America and his role in the civil rights movements. His writing style is just timeless and so much of what he talks about is still relevant today. Also provides interesting details of key figures in the Civil Rights movement. The events are slightly disjointed, we start with Baldwin's childhood, whizz through his time in Paris and then focus heavily on his later years, but even so a compelling read.

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I don't really know how I can do this book justice with a simple review. I only hope that someone reading this is compelled to read it themselves as a result. Baldwin is truly one of a kind, but the saddest thing about No Name in the Street is that it feels just as resonant now as it was 50 years ago.

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A master storytelling, Baldwin takes the reader on an incredibly personal retelling of his life. The way he writes and is able to shape the narrative is awe inspiring, truly a one of a kind author. This novel was deeply emotional and rooted in his trauma and life experiences, and was a gift to read.

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The experiences of the celebrated writer James Baldwin, which informed his childhood, his travels, his growing up in a segregated society, and the sheer difficulty of just being black.

Masterful

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