Shaft, Superfly, and Black Power

In chapter 2, McBride mentions a few movies that were popular to AAfrican American young men in the early 70s. Here are the movie trailers for Shaft - the story of a black private eye sticking it "to the man" - and Superfly - the story of a super cool pimp making his mark in world with drugs and cash.





In chapter 4, McBride mentions 'Black Power.' Here's a video of leader Malcolm X describing just what Black Power is:



Finally, here's an interview with Huey P. Newton, founder of the Black Panthers:

Lit Circles - Any Ideas?

Lit circle time is coming up. I'm compiling a list of books from which you get to select a book to read (in small groups). Here's the thing: I want to pick books you're going to be interested in. So I'm looking for ideas. Now, one rule is that no one can select a book they're already read, so I'm NOT looking for titles of books you've already read and enjoyed. Instead, I'm hoping you'll take a look at a few lists and tell me which one or ones look good to you.

Here's what I'm asking you to do...Click on the following links, take a look at the books and tell me what you like in the comments section.  I can't guarantee that we'll pick it (due to length, difficulty, appropriateness, etc.), but at least it will be a step in the direction of getting you to read a book you WANT to read...

The lists come from the Alex Awards. "The Alex Awards are given to ten books written for adults that have special appeal to young adults, ages 12 through 18." The page you'll be directed to has this year's winners listed. Lower on the page, it also has links to the winners of previous years. Check out as many as you can and let me know what you think.

Oh yeah, one more thing. No books that have been made into movies. Sorry.

The lists are here.