The title to this book accurately describes it more than just about any other I’ve read. This is the history of America, the black (af) history of America, and, as author Michael Harrington points out: Black history is American history. When the story of black America is downplayed, minimized, or erased all together the result becomes almost fiction, like the time Shaq starred in Kazaam. I mean, he did lead the Lakers to multiple championships and was genie like in his absolute power but his music career wasn’t based in reality... wait, where was I? How can we improve our society if we don’t learn (and teach) the truth about our history? Answer, we can’t. We will be too busy fighting over, “states rights, or “which party loves slavery the most”. This book is full of some ugly truths (white people have done some terrible things), inspiring lessons (don’t ever take a black woman for granted), heartwarming personal anecdotes (can you get uncle rob a podcast of his own?), and best of all, the truth (told through the traditional black narrative of humor, sarcasm, and hilarious references). If you haven’t had the chance to study US history from a black author and want a great overview of what you weren’t taught in school: this is it. If you have studied and want a recap that will keep you laughing in between your anger at the brutality of white supremacy this is it. If you just want to read a good, entertaining book for no reason at all: this is it.

A must read for anyone who wants to unlearn and relearn, what America really is.

Excellent reading. I ask myself, why didn’t I know, how much I didn’t know?

amazing book i can NOT stop listening

It like Nicole Hannah Jones’s 1619 Project and Robin Walker’s the black secret educational site is psychologically emancipating and empowering. No true American should be without it, especially those who are descendants of formally enslaved peoples in any land.

Very informative as well as funny. Mr. Harriot’s research is top notch and his sense of humor is laugh out loud funny!!

It’s heavy material for those of us lacking historical learning. And yet it’s entertaining, thoughtful, emotional and empowering. 10/10

The narrator was terrible.

Beautifully written. Great stories. I didn’t expect to laugh so much. I didn’t expect to be so proud.

Information that everyone that values truth should know

A must read or listen

Extremely compelling book, read with the author’s own wit and charm. Highly-informative and also a great use of narrative to tie it all together. Check it out.

Fascinating and informative, with a much-appreciated touch of humour. Loved the narration.