Mark Whitaker Libri

"The other great Renaissance of black culture, influence, and glamour burst forth joyfully in what may seem an unlikely place--Pittsburgh, PA--from the 1920s through the 1950s. Today black Pittsburgh is known as the setting for August Wilson's famed plays about noble but doomed working-class strivers. But this community once had an impact on American history that rivaled the far larger black worlds of Harlem and Chicago. It published the most widely read black newspaper in the country, urging black voters to switch from the Republican to the Democratic Party and then rallying black support for World War II. It fielded two of the greatest baseball teams of the Negro Leagues and introduced Jackie Robinson to the Brooklyn Dodgers. Pittsburgh was the childhood home of jazz pioneers Billy Strayhorn, Billy Eckstine, Earl Hines, Mary Lou Williams, and Erroll Garner; Hall of Fame slugger Josh Gibson--and August Wilson himself. Some of the most glittering figures of the era were changed forever by the time they spent in the city, from Joe Louis and Satchel Paige to Duke Ellington and Lena Horne. Mark Whitaker's Smoketown is a captivating portrait of this unsung community and a vital addition to the story of black America."-- From the publisher

The book explores complex themes of identity and belonging through the eyes of its protagonist, who navigates personal struggles and societal expectations. Set against a richly detailed backdrop, it delves into the intricacies of relationships and the impact of past choices on the present. With a compelling narrative style, it invites readers to reflect on their own experiences while offering a poignant commentary on the human condition.

This biography offers a comprehensive exploration of Bill Cosby's life and career, delving into his rise as a groundbreaking comedian and cultural icon. It examines his influence on American comedy and television, highlighting his achievements and the complexities of his legacy. Through detailed research and personal anecdotes, the book presents a nuanced portrait of Cosby, addressing both his contributions to entertainment and the controversies surrounding him.

The book explores the pivotal year when the Civil Rights movement experienced a significant transformation, marked by the emergence of Stokely Carmichael and the "Black Power" slogan. This shift in Black identity challenged the previously dominant nonviolent approaches advocated by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis, highlighting the internal conflicts and evolving strategies within the movement. Whitaker delves into the complexities of this era, illustrating how it reshaped the fight for racial equality in America.

You're unlikely to have heard of Britain's greatest long-distance runner. Despite being a world-class athlete, Peter Gavuzzi was consigned to obscurity. His heyday was in 1929, when he took part in the most extraordinary race ever held u a transcontinental run across America. He covered an improbable 3,500 miles in just 78 days.