We Were Eight Years in Power

"This would not happen again, and everyone knew it." ~ 79%

We Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy is a strong reflection on America during the Obama years. Not only is it an examination of our country but also a roadmap of Ta-Nehisi Coates career as a black writer and eight (8) of his previously published articles. It gives a glimpse into his thoughts and behind-the-scenes of his writing assignments from 2008-2016.

"It was as if I had spent my years jiggling a key into the wrong lock. The lock was changed. The doors swung open, and we did not know how to act." ~ 13%

This nonfiction book is also a history lesson. Coates brings up things that even I hang my head in shame because I didn't know the full true story. It seems I am one of the few blacks to study The Civil War. He also mentions black and white supremacy, mass incarceration, hip-hop, reparations, call-outs, slavery, economic issues and other difficult topics that need to be discussed in the black community but are often glossed over. His writing style is more personal perspective than a politically correct rhetoric. This is a fine line for journalists so kudos to Coates!

If you are looking for an in-your-face, my President was black, more power to our people book then this is not for you. On the flip-side, this is not a book for those committed to whiteness (which you probably aren't reading this review anyway). At almost 400 pages, it brings a deeper vibe than Between the World and Me. It is for intelligent minds to digest and discuss. It is for readers ready to receive knowledge. It is motivation for bloggers. It is for the average person of color to read and reflect on those eight years of "Good Negro Government." And alas, it is for open-minded Americans.

Happy Pub Day, Ta-Nehisi Coates! We Were Eight Years in Power is now available.

Disclaimer: This book was received directly from the publisher for review purposes only. In no way does it influence my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins.

Title: We Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy
Author: Ta-Nehisi Coates
Published: October 2017
Pages: 384
Edition: Galley
Rating: 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤