Medgar & Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story that Awakened America

Who is this book for?

• This book would likely appeal to readers with a strong interest in Civil Rights history, particularly those looking to expand their knowledge beyond the most well-known figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. History enthusiasts, especially those focused on African American history or the American South, would find value in its detailed account of the Evers' lives and the broader context of the Civil Rights movement in Mississippi.
• Academics, students, and those interested in social justice issues would appreciate the book's thorough research and its exploration of the personal costs of activism.
• Readers who enjoy biographies that blend personal stories with historical events would also find this book engaging.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

• Readers looking for a light or quick read might find this book challenging due to its detailed historical content and sometimes academic tone.
• Those who prefer more action-oriented narratives or are easily overwhelmed by numerous names and events might struggle with the book's level of detail.
• Individuals seeking a purely romantic 'love story' might be disappointed, as the book focuses more on the Evers' activism and historical context than on their personal relationship.
• Readers who are sensitive to descriptions of violence or racial injustice might find some parts of the book distressing.
• Those who prefer concise, tightly edited narratives might be frustrated by sections that some reviewers felt were overly detailed or repetitive.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

• Provides an intimate and detailed account of Medgar and Myrlie Evers' lives and their role in the Civil Rights movement
• Highlights Medgar Evers' often overlooked contributions to the Civil Rights movement
• Offers a powerful portrayal of the love story between Medgar and Myrlie
• Gives insight into the personal struggles and sacrifices of Civil Rights leaders and their families
• Sheds light on Myrlie Evers' own activism and contributions after Medgar's death
• Provides important historical context about the Civil Rights era in Mississippi
• Explores the friendship between Myrlie Evers, Coretta Scott King, and Betty Shabazz
• Offers a well-researched and meticulous account of historical events
• Brings attention to a crucial but often overlooked part of Civil Rights history
• Combines personal narrative with broader historical context effectively

Things people didn't like as much about this book

• Some readers found the first half of the book filled with too much minutiae
• The narrative sometimes introduces too many people, making it difficult to keep track
• Some felt it didn't fully live up to the "love story" aspect promised in the title
• The author's narration in the audiobook version was criticized as lacking engagement
• Some readers found the writing style dry or academic at times
• Excessive name-dropping and unnecessary details in some parts
• The book may be emotionally challenging due to its depiction of violence and tragedy
• Some felt the author was stretching to meet a page count requirement
• The structure of the book, divided into before and after Medgar's assassination, may not appeal to all readers
• Some readers found certain paragraphs more suitable as footnotes rather than main text