The Fire Next Time
By Barbara Schultz,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Baldwin's essays are essential reading to understand racism.
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What's the Story?
James Baldwin's iconic book THE FIRE NEXT TIME comprises two essays: "My Dungeon Shook -- Letter to my Nephew on the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Emancipation" and "Down at the Cross -- Letter From a Region of My Mind." Both essays were originally published in magazines in 1962 before being released in this book in 1963. Both examine the intersection of religion and race in America, and ways of addressing racial injustice. As a point of departure, Baldwin relates his own experiences as a teen pastor, his relationship with his father, and a meeting with Nation of Islam founder Elijah Muhammad.
Is It Any Good?
This short nonfiction work by one of America's greatest writers is essential reading for teens wanting to learn about the American civil rights movement, the experience of Black citizens, and racism. Almost every paragraph has memorable lines that speak volumes about the effects of racism. Readers will learn about the disparate ideas being debated in the Black community during Baldwin's life, and they'll be fascinated (but probably not surprised) to note how many problems remain unresolved.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the time when The Fire Next Time was written and compare the author's observations about conditions in 1963 with what it's like to be Black in America today. What's changed since the early 1960s? What problems linger?
What role did Christianity play in James Baldwin's life? Why did he leave the church?
James Baldwin was a key voice in the civil rights era. What writers are leading the discussion about African Americans' fight for racial justice today? How much influence can writers have in the struggle for social, economic, and politcal change?
What contemorary African American writers have you read? Who are your favorites?
Book Details
- Author: James Baldwin
- Genre: Autobiography
- Topics: Activism , Great Boy Role Models , History
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: Vintage
- Publication date: January 1, 1963
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 13 - 18
- Number of pages: 128
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: June 17, 2020
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