MIRROR TO AMERICA

In this autobiography of one of the most celebrated, respected African-Americans of the twentieth century, the 90-year-old scholar, historian, and statesman relates the history of racism in black America. As Franklin says, "I look history straight in the eye, and tell it like it is." In a well-modulated, controlled, conversational voice, he, indeed, "tells it like it is" and was, about the early years of cruel discrimination, Civil Rights battles, and his struggles to achieve success in the academic community. Perhaps the telling is too controlled, with only tinges of the pain and anger he suffered and the joy of his triumphs. Nevertheless, this is an important document, a fascinating chronicle of an amazing life. M.T.B. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]