A review of John Howard Griffin's "Black Like Me"

"Black like me" was written in 1959 by John Howard Griffin. Griffin is a middle-aged white Southerner with a passionate commitment to the cause of racial justice. In order to understand what life is like for black Americans, Griffin undergoes medical therapy to darken his skin color, then poses as a black man for nearly two months. This is an extent book, and provides a clear window into a black mans life in the 1950's. This …

…Southern newspapers print every rape, attempted rape, suspected rape, and 'maybe rape,' but outstanding accomplishment is not considered newsworthy." This book should be read by everyone who wishes to learn about life in the 1950, not just for African Americans, but for all people. Griffin reveals the grim truth of Americas past, and hopefully by understanding this fascinating piece of literature, we can learn from our past and not commit similar atrocities in the future.