The Freedom Summer Murders

Reviewed by: Sybil Shiland - Retired, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: September 17, 2014

Review

This is a riveting account of the individual and institutional racism that existed in America and specifically in the south. Andrew Goodman, James Chaney, and Michael Schwerner were idealistic, young men working in Mississippi to help register African-Americans to vote. On the night of June 21, 1964 they were jailed by the local sheriff and with his permission, abducted and murdered by members of the Klan. This meticulously researched book introduces the reader to the racial climate of 1960s America, profiles the 3 men, documents their murders and also the long struggle to bring the perpetrators to justice. The black and white photos are often disturbing but bring this turbulent period of American history into clear focus. An extensive bibliography, source notes, and a comprehensive index complete the package.

Overall Book Score: excellent