James Baldwin (Novelist and Critic)

"The connection between American whites and blacks is far deeper and more passionate than any of us like to think." These words from the introduction of his collection of essays in "Nobody Knows My Name" shows the truth-telling strength of a brave man. James Baldwin was an outspoken advocate for social justice and equality for black people in America. He lent a creative and powerful voice to the civil rights struggle of the 1960s and brilliantly critiqued the problems of race in the twentieth century. Through his novels, plays, poetry, and essays, Baldwin urged the world to understand and appreciate the humanity and complexity of African Americans. This thought-provoking biography analyzes the life behind this creative force and will inspire your readers to be true to themselves and strong of conviction.