The Undiscovered Paul Robeson: Quest for Freedom, 1939 - 1976
* In this second volume (afterThe Undiscovered Paul Robeson: An Artist's Journey, 1898-1939) of the biography of scholar, athlete, performing artist, and human rights activist Paul Robeson, his son examines what are perhaps the most controversial and turbulent decades of his father's life. Robeson, an important figure of the 20th century, is only dimly remembered and has been marginalized to the point of tragedy. Drawing on family archives and his close relationship with his father, Robeson Jr. does not apologize or negate the contradictions and deep complexities of his father's personality—rather he acknowledges that these intricacies are part of what made Robeson such a powerful figure.VerdictUsing previously unpublished materials, Robeson Jr. has created a fascinating portrait of an outspoken man who never backed down from his beliefs, even when they threatened his life and work. Highly recommended for those interested in African American history, the early civil rights movement, and politics during the cold war.—Teri Shiel, Westfield State Coll. Lib., MA (LibraryJournal.com, January 29, 2010)