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Black Like Me cover art

Black Like Me

Written by: John Howard Griffin
Narrated by: Ray Childs
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Publisher's Summary

Writer John Howard Griffin (1920-1980) decided to perform an experiment in order to learn from the inside out how one race could withstand the second class citizenship imposed on it by another race. Through medication, he dyed his skin dark and left his family and home in Texas to find out.

The setting is the Deep South in 1959. What began as scientific research ended up changing his life in every way imaginable. When he decided the real story was in his journals, he published them, and the storm that followed is now part of American history.

As performed by Ray Childs, this first-ever recording of Black Like Me will leave each listener deeply affected. John Howard Griffin did the impossible to help bring the full effect of racism to the forefront of America's conscience.

©1989 Elizabeth Griffin-Bonazzi, Susan Griffin-Campbell, John H. Griffin, Jr., Gregory P. Griffin, and Amanda Griffin-Sanderson; 1960, 1961, 1977 John Howard Griffin (P)2004 Audio Bookshelf

What the critics say

"No one can read it without suffering." (Dallas Morning News)
"Only the coldest of hearts could be unaffected by this story, told with dignity and warmth, conviction and steadfast honesty. Audiobooks like this can help heal wounds and open minds about racism, an issue our nation still struggles with." (AudioFile)

What listeners say about Black Like Me

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AWESOME

One of the best books ever written
Should be mandatory school reading
It tells a real heartbreaking story
Really opens your eyes

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Ahead of it's time

Granted it was more than 60 years ago, but there is still much to learn from this experiment even today.

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Highly recommend for truthful view on racism

Thank you John Griffin for the research and grave risks to you and the many people who supported the research of this book.

The narrator was perfect he spoke with clear tone and It felt like you were in the room near him listening to his story often. John did not powder coat anything, yes at times he spoke the harsh truth even the horrible things white people said, did, and still thought they were entitled to do to coloured women but they were not racist.

He summarized this book off and the length was not too long. I will be looking for more information and books by John Griffin and his foundation.

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Enjoyable listen

I enjoyed the story of a white mans experience as a black and the perspective he gained. I did not, however, appreciate some of the language used. It is slightly crude at times, and some of the topics covered were a bit vulgar. But I understand, it was a part of the issue. Great performance by the reader in my opinion.

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read this in high school.

Had to relisten to this book. I want alot of my friends to listen to this book. it is very interesting and is all true how people treat each other just by the color of their skin

Shawn

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Still so relevant and powerful

I remember my parents having this paperback book on their bookshelf, when I was young (in the sixties). When I saw this available on Audible, I remembered my parents' interest and was motivated to listen... And what a book! I really admire the author for the process he undertook to look black, and for his writing.

The narration was perfect. I didn't really think about it, which to me is a very good indication. It seemed very natural and didn't annoy me. It was a very good listening experience.

The book is very moving at particular points in time, but I was always on edge wondering if the author would be beaten, etc., given the environment and the fact that he was taking rides with strangers. And the conversations that he had with various people -- what to say?! The language (which included many words that we cannot speak out loud today) felt essential to the story. Very authentic... That in itself is worth a discussion with friends around the table!

We must all try to be open, to listen, and to respect our fellow humans. All in all, still VERY relevant for today!

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  • LB
  • 2021-09-15

Life changing

I don't know why I've only stumbled upon it again now since high school but it's as relevant as ever, with much unchanged since its 1960 publication. So very, very good. Humanity needs to do better.

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Must Read

I think this is a must read book. Especially in high school. I am in grade 12 now and I was that this was mandatory because I think it had an incredible message and really demonstrates how he was the same person the whole time but how he was treated based only on the colour of his skin.

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A Must Listen

Very interesting perspective of 1950’s America and a key to understanding the modern issues facing us today. I would recommend to everyone. The narrator did an excellent job and makes the book come alive.

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