The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Length: 13:15:00
Narrated by: Karen Chilton
Published: April 2012

I downloaded the audiobook, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, by Michelle Alexander several months ago on the recommendation of another book lover. One of my online book clubs chose it for the monthly read-along, so I began listening to the book to and from work during the month of February. 

There was a lot to digest in this book. The author takes us on a journey from slavery to present day explaining racial relations in the United States and how they have affected the legal system. Alexander presents the data in a very academic manner. I can envision this book being used as a textbook in criminal justice or psychology courses at the collegiate level. For this reason, I wish I would have purchased a physical or electronic copy so I could have highlighted and referenced some of the statistics and data she shared. 

This book was not read by the author, but the narrator did an excellent job engaging the listener with her smooth tone, using inflection at the most appropriate times.  

Do not be mislead by the title. I think the author intended to be a bit sarcastic. We do not live in a colorblind society, and I don't know that we necessarily should. However, color should not affect justice, and I think that's the point she persuasively makes in this text. I don't know that we will ever get to a place where the U.S. legal system is fair and impartial. Race will play a factor as will financial status. 

There is too much in this book to unpack in a succinct blog review. If you're interested in learning some hard truths, I would recommend this book. Be fair warned: this is not your light, beach read. 

Recommendation: This is a hard read (or listen), but it is an important one. I think it is not only important for the disenfranchised but also for the privileged. I think it could start important conversations and become the impetus for the change so vastly needed in our legal system. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.