67 pages 2 hours read

Claudia Rankine

Just Us: An American Conversation

Nonfiction | Anthology/Varied Collection | Adult | Published in 2020

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Just Us: An American Conversation, Claudia Rankine combines photography, poetry, social media posts, historical texts, and research to explore the pervasive impact of structural racism on her daily life as a Black woman navigating various social settings, from airports to dinner parties. Her personal and political essays examine how white privilege shapes the experiences and interactions of both white people and people of color, while seeking to engage readers in meaningful conversations about racial hierarchies in the United States and beyond.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Just Us by Claudia Rankine is lauded for its powerful exploration of racial dynamics and personal introspection. Critics praise its innovative mix of poetry, essays, and visual elements that provoke deep, reflective engagement. However, some find its fragmented structure challenging. Overall, it’s a poignant and timely work that encourages critical conversation on race.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Just Us?

Readers who appreciate Claudia Rankine's Just Us are likely introspective and socially conscious individuals interested in exploring themes of race and identity through a blend of poetry, essays, and visual art. They might also enjoy Citizen by Rankine and Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Race / Racism

Trauma / Abuse / Violence

Arts / Culture

Themes

Identity: Race

Society: Politics & Government

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice