The Classroom and the Cell: Conversations on Black Life in America by Mumia Abu-Jamal

by Mumia Abu-Jamal

This collection of conversations between celebrity intellectual Marc Lamont Hill and famed political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal is a shining example of African American men speaking for themselves about the many forces impacting their lives. Covering topics such as race, politics, hip-hop culture, education, mass incarceration, and love, their discussions shine a spotlight on some of the most pressing issues in 21st century African American life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Education, Race, African American, Politics, Anti Racist, Social Justice

Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

American political activist and journalist

Reviews

[Samuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s Marc Lamont hill, pussy!

[Andre(Read-A-Lot) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is like sitting with Mumia and having a conversation about various issues concerning Black life in America. The book flows very easily and is a fast read. Mumia is well known and thoroughly conversant with today's issues despite being on death row for over 20 years. The dialogue he is having with Professor Marc Hill is an important one, and we get a glimpse of each persons intellect and bits of their personal lives. They are mostly in agreement on the various subjects but there are areas of disagreement. I think those areas make for the livest parts of the book, because you get a deeper understanding of the position one is taking, when there is a spirited give and take.

The chapters are broken down into different subject matters like; Reimagining Race in the Era of Obama, Black Leadership: A Continuing Crisis?, and Black Life in the Age of Incarceration. Each of the chapters serves as the basis of the conversation for that particular part of the book. And one of the great things about the book is that each chapter ends with a "For Your library" section. So if you want to follow up on some of the books or ideas mentioned there are a list of suggested books. I think this format works well for this type of book.

I would reccomennd it for young and old. The conversations will certainly make you think about where you stand on some of these issues and may provoke you to start your own dialogue with those in and around your circle. So from that point alone this book is well worth your time and investment.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

This intense, passionate collection of conversations examining black societal issues between Dr. Marc Lamont Hill and Mumia Abu-Jamal provides brilliant insight for a better tomorrow. Both Dr. Hill and Abu-Jamal poignantly articulate on issues such as: black cultural politics, leadership, education, incarceration and many other pressing questions that have gone unanswered.

What astounded me the most about this book is how "in tune" Mumia Abu-Jamal is with society. As an award winning author, journalist and political prisoner on Pennsylvania's Death Row, Abu-Jamal's spirited acumen of black life in America is brilliant. Dr. Hill's humility throughout this book is of brilliance as well. As a professor at Columbia University, award winning author and host of "Our World with Black Enterprise," Dr. Hill is one of the most accomplished black men of our time. Despite his accomplishments, Dr. Hill illustrates that provocative thirst for more throughout this book. Both authors are beacons of light in some of our nation's darkest hours. Complex and deeply moving, this book shows us that with a deep understanding, love and compassion for one another, against all odds we can stand as one. This book is a must read.

[LANI · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not want this to end. Just beautiful conversations between two precious black men being real and thinking about abolition, education, gender, history, love, life...literally everything. I loved this format and I feel like more ""political"" books should just be conversations between people. Feels like so much can be said when it's at the pace of a conversation, thinking out loud, back and forth.

[ciara. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very insightful and informative read. I love that they recommended books based on the topics that was talked about.

I find it hard to find circles or people who I can talk to and learn from about the topics discussed in this book (and more) in real time (phone/in person), rather than zoom meetings and the like. This book kind of provides that conversation and much more.

[Corryn W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much that I read it twice. The dialog between Abu-Jamal, an imprisoned political activist, and Lamont Hill, a Columbia professor, are written in a causal, conversational style that makes for an engaging read. Though this stylistic choice is that of a back-and-forth dialog, this does not take away from the brilliant and profound observations of these educators. Must-read for those concerned with race, privilege, education, and incarceration.

[Mookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be thoroughly engaging. Although it seems to be an easy read, I often found myself lost in thought loops, which was both enjoyable and made the read a bit longer than expected. I loved the format of the book, which added to the human nature of the subject at hand.

[Mik · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most remarkable books I've ever read. You can feel the love and energy that Mumia and Mark have for each other vibrating on the page. The book is incredibly accessible and is a clear tipping point for larger conversations and investigations. It is brilliant, beautiful, and deep.

[Zacaharias Jensonius · Rating 5 out of 5]

very enlightening conversations. I found enjoyment and learned a great deal from this book. Also, love the book lists at the end of each chapter. Has offered me a lot of future reading possibilities.

[Karrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

a must read

[Deandra Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Great insight about Mumia & all aspects about black male life & masculinity.

[Rosenita Delva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has really opened my eyes and spoke to my heart. Amazing read.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"struggle goes on. it's just important to know which side you're on."

[alyssa]

This was thought provoking and interesting and the open-mindedness from them both when they disagreed was inspiring

[Abe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy a lot of interviews of Marc that I have heard (and indeed I actually think I would’ve enjoyed the audio of this more although obviously I’d imagine it be pretty difficult to arrange something like that) and started reading during Black August. It’s generally pretty light and I like some of Mumias perspectives the dialogue is always interesting even when they disagree. Definitely want to check out Live from Death Row.

[Susan Frazier-Kouassi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refreshing to have insight into the thoughts of these 2 brilliant Black minds through a male perspective