The cross and the lynching tree (original 2011; edição 2013)

Recommended by numerous people I know, and a possibly more meaningful place to start with Dr. Cone than some of his earlier books

A powerful and provocative read that calls attention to a connection that in Cone's writing seems almost self-evident but has been obfuscated by White supremacist thinking. I found some of the analysis to be a bit meandering, in the way of essays exploring a topic, which surprised me as I expected a more academic analysis.

This is an original concept and glimpse at American theology by juxtaposing the lynching tree with the Christian Cross. The analogy fades in and out, but Cone draws literature, history, music, and art to weave a rich tapestry of work.

I will say that this is not really a book for the average public. The chapter on Niebuhr is dry and academic in focus, plus Cone assumes that his audience knows liberation theology, and I do not. Nevertheless, a provocative book with an urgent and timely focus. ( )

The author compares the lynchings of black people to the crucifixion of Christ. While there's a fascinating and accurate parallel, not much was said beyond giving a history of lynching and showing the hypocrisy of white Christians who were involved in them. I wish it was slightly less repetitive and dove a bit deeper into what that parallel should mean for Christians. The most powerful moments came from his explanation of the song "Strange Fruit" and the description of lynchings witnessed by young black people like Martin Luther King Jr.'s father. It's a heartbreaking piece of our history, but one that is absolutely critical that we don't forget or look away from.

"When we remember we give voice to the victims." ( )

Although a bit repetitive, this is an enlightening, powerful, and carefully presented book. There is enough material covered in it that an essay on the topic would not have sufficed. A good read during these troubling #BlackLivesMatter days. ( )