63 pages • 2 hours read
Ta-Nehisi CoatesWe Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2017A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a collection of essays exploring America's persistent struggles with White supremacy, the significance and impact of Barack Obama's presidency on American culture, the author's career, and the enduring legacy of slavery. Spanning eight years, the essays address racism, identity, and political dynamics, concluding with reflections on Donald Trump's election. Topics include racially motivated violence, systemic discrimination, and political backlash.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a compelling blend of memoir and political analysis. Critics laud Coates' eloquent prose and insightful commentary on race and politics during the Obama presidency. Some criticize the repetitive nature of the essays. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and essential read on contemporary American issues.
Who Should Read We Were Eight Years in Power?
Readers who appreciated Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates or The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin will be captivated by We Were Eight Years in Power. This book is ideal for those interested in African American history, social justice, and political analysis through a poignant, reflective lens.