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Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin
Trayvon Martin's parents take readers beyond the news cycle with an account only they could give: the intimate story of a tragically foreshortened life and the rise of a movement.
On a February evening in 2012, in a small town in central Florida, seventeen-year-old Trayvon Martin was walking home with candy and a can of juice in hand and talking on the phone with a friend when a fatal encounter with a gun-wielding neighborhood watchman ended his young life. The watchman was briefly detained by the police and released.
Trayvon's father, a truck driver named Tracy, tried to get answers from the police but was shut down and ignored. Trayvon's mother, a civil servant for the city of Miami, was paralyzed by the news of her son's death and lost in mourning, unable to leave her room for days. But in a matter of weeks, their son's name would be spoken by President Obama, honored by professional athletes, and passionately discussed all over traditional and social media. And at the head of a growing nationwide campaign for justice were Trayvon's parents, who driven by their intense love for their lost son discovered their voices, gathered allies, and launched a movement that would change the country.
Five years after his tragic death, Travyon Martin's name is still evoked every day. He has become a symbol of social justice activism, as has his hauntingly familiar image: the photo of a child still in the process of becoming a young man, wearing a hoodie and gazing silently at the camera. But who was Trayvon Martin, before he became, in death, an icon? And how did one black child s death on a dark, rainy street in a small Florida town become the match that lit a civil rights crusade?
Rest in Power, told through the compelling alternating narratives of Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, answers, for the first time, those questions from the most intimate of sources. It s the story of the beautiful and complex child they lost, the cruel unresponsiveness of the police and the hostility of the legal system, and the inspiring journey they took from grief and pain to power, and from tragedy and senselessness to meaning.
Advance praise for Rest in Power
"Not since Emmitt Till has a parent's love for a murdered child moved the nation to search its soul about racial injustice and inequality. Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin's extraordinary witness, indomitable spirit and unwavering demand for change have altered the dynamics of racial justice discourse in this country. This powerful book illuminates the witness, the grief, and the commitment to reform that Trayvon Martin's death has mobilized; it is a story fueled by a demand for justice but rooted in love." -- Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy
"As the fifth anniversary of this tragic crime nears, Fulton and Martin share a remarkably candid and deeply affecting in-the-moment chronicle of the explosive aftermath of the murder. Writing in alternate chapters, they share every detail of their shock, grief, and grueling quest for justice. . . . Given the unconscionable shooting deaths of young black men, many by police, that followed Trayvon's, this galvanizing testimony from parents who channeled their sorrow into action offers a deeply humanizing perspective on the crisis propelling a national movement." --Booklist (starred review)
On a February evening in 2012, in a small town in central Florida, seventeen-year-old Trayvon Martin was walking home with candy and a can of juice in hand and talking on the phone with a friend when a fatal encounter with a gun-wielding neighborhood watchman ended his young life. The watchman was briefly detained by the police and released.
Trayvon's father, a truck driver named Tracy, tried to get answers from the police but was shut down and ignored. Trayvon's mother, a civil servant for the city of Miami, was paralyzed by the news of her son's death and lost in mourning, unable to leave her room for days. But in a matter of weeks, their son's name would be spoken by President Obama, honored by professional athletes, and passionately discussed all over traditional and social media. And at the head of a growing nationwide campaign for justice were Trayvon's parents, who driven by their intense love for their lost son discovered their voices, gathered allies, and launched a movement that would change the country.
Five years after his tragic death, Travyon Martin's name is still evoked every day. He has become a symbol of social justice activism, as has his hauntingly familiar image: the photo of a child still in the process of becoming a young man, wearing a hoodie and gazing silently at the camera. But who was Trayvon Martin, before he became, in death, an icon? And how did one black child s death on a dark, rainy street in a small Florida town become the match that lit a civil rights crusade?
Rest in Power, told through the compelling alternating narratives of Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, answers, for the first time, those questions from the most intimate of sources. It s the story of the beautiful and complex child they lost, the cruel unresponsiveness of the police and the hostility of the legal system, and the inspiring journey they took from grief and pain to power, and from tragedy and senselessness to meaning.
Advance praise for Rest in Power
"Not since Emmitt Till has a parent's love for a murdered child moved the nation to search its soul about racial injustice and inequality. Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin's extraordinary witness, indomitable spirit and unwavering demand for change have altered the dynamics of racial justice discourse in this country. This powerful book illuminates the witness, the grief, and the commitment to reform that Trayvon Martin's death has mobilized; it is a story fueled by a demand for justice but rooted in love." -- Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy
"As the fifth anniversary of this tragic crime nears, Fulton and Martin share a remarkably candid and deeply affecting in-the-moment chronicle of the explosive aftermath of the murder. Writing in alternate chapters, they share every detail of their shock, grief, and grueling quest for justice. . . . Given the unconscionable shooting deaths of young black men, many by police, that followed Trayvon's, this galvanizing testimony from parents who channeled their sorrow into action offers a deeply humanizing perspective on the crisis propelling a national movement." --Booklist (starred review)
331 pages, Hardcover
First published January 31, 2017
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February 22, 2017
Five years ago, a neighborhood watch volunteer shot and killed seventeen-year-old Trayvon Martin as he was walking back to the residence he was staying at with his father. The shooter was quickly released, but Trayvon's parents fought to have him tried in a court of law: "We’re not looking for revenge. We’re looking for justice—the same justice anyone would expect if their son were shot and killed for no reason.” They won their day in court and the battle played out in both in the media and the courtroom. The shooter maintained he was acting in self-defense. The trial lasted twenty-four days and ended with a "not guilty" verdict.
The chapters alternate between the writing of Trayvon's mother Sybrina Fulton and his father Tracy Martin. They've been divorced for many years, but they maintain a close relationship and have supported each other during this tragedy. There's occasional overlap in their stories, but it was helpful to read both their perspectives. Most of the book is devoted to the time period between the evening of Trayvon's death on February 26, 2012 to the verdict on July 13, 2013. They give us a more complete portrait of the son that never had the chance to grow into adulthood, an adventurous young man who had an interest in aviation. It's very thorough, giving a clear picture of what was happening at the time, as well as their reactions. I thought it was surprisingly candid, given the parental perspective. They write about the difficult questions asked during the deposition and Sybrina talks about the painful realization that the state hadn't proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. They address many of the controversies and rumors that arose, including the pictures used by the media, Trayvon's texting history, and the controversial testimony of their star witness Rachel Jeantel.
So many out-of-the-ordinary events lined up to result in this tragedy. There are so many questions that will never be answered. The altercation happened on a rainy evening which muddied the eyewitness accounts, which are already notoriously unreliable. Of the two people who know exactly what happened, only the shooter is alive to tell their account. Trayvon's parents describe their journey to find answers and get justice: the building of a movement to bring the case to trial, gratitude for the opportunity to have their case heard, their personal reactions to the grueling legal process, frustrations with the prosecution's strategy, the sinking feeling of defeat, and their efforts to help others who have gone through similar tragedies. While the media coverage played a large part in the pressure to bring the case to trial, having their personal tragedy becoming national news also had a negative side. There were vicious attacks on the characters of Trayvon and his parents and passionate support for the shooter. False stories and mischaracterizations still circulate about the case and distract from the central issues.
If Jodi Picoult’s Small Great Things made an impact on you, I recommend reading this book. Rest in Power is a real-life account of how far lawyers will go to avoid mentioning race and how damaging the consequences of mentioning it can be in the courtroom and the court of public opinion. It also addresses racial prejudice in jury pools and the challenges of ensuring a fair trial. There was a sickening moment during jury selection where a potential juror stated that "Trayvon would be alive today if his father was involved in his life,” a statement that was clearly based on prejudice and speculation rather than fact. In terms of the initial investigation, it seems that the police made assumptions about what type of this case was and it wasn't as fully investigated as it could have been. The shooter was taken at his word, despite the suspicions of the investigating detective.
I jumped at the opportunity to read this book, because I've never stopped thinking about this case. We have no way of knowing exactly what happened that night, but it seems very clear that there was ample opportunity for that evening not to end with Trayvon Martin's death. While I was already familiar with most of the details on a surface level, it was enlightening to read the parents' perspectives and it brought me to tears several times. It had me crying from the introduction! Unfortunately, this story does not stop with Trayvon. Stories like his have made the news frequently, including the murder of Jordan Davis (his killer is currently serving life without parole after a retrial). Trayvon's parents continue to keep their son's name alive through the Trayvon Martin Foundation, an organization that works to prevent similar tragedies from happening and offers support to those who've been affected by gun violence.
I received this book for free from NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. It’s available now!
“We’re going to stand up for justice, and stand up for what’s right. This is not a black and white thing. This is about a right and wrong thing.” - Sybrina Fulton
The chapters alternate between the writing of Trayvon's mother Sybrina Fulton and his father Tracy Martin. They've been divorced for many years, but they maintain a close relationship and have supported each other during this tragedy. There's occasional overlap in their stories, but it was helpful to read both their perspectives. Most of the book is devoted to the time period between the evening of Trayvon's death on February 26, 2012 to the verdict on July 13, 2013. They give us a more complete portrait of the son that never had the chance to grow into adulthood, an adventurous young man who had an interest in aviation. It's very thorough, giving a clear picture of what was happening at the time, as well as their reactions. I thought it was surprisingly candid, given the parental perspective. They write about the difficult questions asked during the deposition and Sybrina talks about the painful realization that the state hadn't proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. They address many of the controversies and rumors that arose, including the pictures used by the media, Trayvon's texting history, and the controversial testimony of their star witness Rachel Jeantel.
“Can’t you understand that none of this would be going on if they simply would have treated George Zimmerman like they would have treated Trayvon Martin?” - Benjamin L. Crump, the family's lawyer at town hall meeting with Sanford mayor
So many out-of-the-ordinary events lined up to result in this tragedy. There are so many questions that will never be answered. The altercation happened on a rainy evening which muddied the eyewitness accounts, which are already notoriously unreliable. Of the two people who know exactly what happened, only the shooter is alive to tell their account. Trayvon's parents describe their journey to find answers and get justice: the building of a movement to bring the case to trial, gratitude for the opportunity to have their case heard, their personal reactions to the grueling legal process, frustrations with the prosecution's strategy, the sinking feeling of defeat, and their efforts to help others who have gone through similar tragedies. While the media coverage played a large part in the pressure to bring the case to trial, having their personal tragedy becoming national news also had a negative side. There were vicious attacks on the characters of Trayvon and his parents and passionate support for the shooter. False stories and mischaracterizations still circulate about the case and distract from the central issues.
Race was the elephant in the room: a white man—or at least a white-identified man—killed a black kid. So it wasn’t surprising to me that so much of the coverage approached it from that angle. It worried me, though. Because we knew that once it became a racial issue, once it was more than the plain and simple act of a kid walking home shot dead—people were going to be divided. Once you throw race into the equation, mothers in the white community that could identify with Sybrina’s pain of losing a child are left to choose: am I loyal to my motherhood or am I loyal to my race? They would likely never put it in those terms themselves, but I’d lived through enough events—like the O. J. Simpson case—where at some point people stop caring about the truth or the complications, all they care about is whether you’re on team Black or team White. - Tracy Martin
If Jodi Picoult’s Small Great Things made an impact on you, I recommend reading this book. Rest in Power is a real-life account of how far lawyers will go to avoid mentioning race and how damaging the consequences of mentioning it can be in the courtroom and the court of public opinion. It also addresses racial prejudice in jury pools and the challenges of ensuring a fair trial. There was a sickening moment during jury selection where a potential juror stated that "Trayvon would be alive today if his father was involved in his life,” a statement that was clearly based on prejudice and speculation rather than fact. In terms of the initial investigation, it seems that the police made assumptions about what type of this case was and it wasn't as fully investigated as it could have been. The shooter was taken at his word, despite the suspicions of the investigating detective.
"And then, finally, I think it's going to be important for all of us to do some soul-searching. ... Am I wringing as much bias out of myself as I can? Am I judging people as much as I can, based on not the color of their skin but the content of their character? That would, I think, be an appropriate exercise in the wake of this tragedy.” -- President Barack Obama, July 19, 2013.
I jumped at the opportunity to read this book, because I've never stopped thinking about this case. We have no way of knowing exactly what happened that night, but it seems very clear that there was ample opportunity for that evening not to end with Trayvon Martin's death. While I was already familiar with most of the details on a surface level, it was enlightening to read the parents' perspectives and it brought me to tears several times. It had me crying from the introduction! Unfortunately, this story does not stop with Trayvon. Stories like his have made the news frequently, including the murder of Jordan Davis (his killer is currently serving life without parole after a retrial). Trayvon's parents continue to keep their son's name alive through the Trayvon Martin Foundation, an organization that works to prevent similar tragedies from happening and offers support to those who've been affected by gun violence.
I received this book for free from NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. It’s available now!
August 6, 2018
Six and a half years ago, Trayvon Martin was murdered - A 17 year old walking home in the rain on a Sunday night in late February, wearing a hoodie, with a bag of Skittles and a can of Arizona iced tea. His killer, George Zimmerman - racist, liar and neighborhood watch “captain”.
“After a year and a half of searching for answers and demanding justice in the killing of our son, the man who admitted to shooting Trayvon was found not guilty of second-degree murder. Not guilty of manslaughter. Not guilty of anything. Those two words felt burned into my brain—Not Guilty—and forever pierced my heart.”
While not forgotten, reading Rest In Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin brought back many of the feelings I initially had following this case all over again. Disappointment. Infuriation. Sadness. Anger.
Rest in Power is written in first person perspective by Trayvon’s parents, Sybrina Fuller and Tracy Martin. The courage and strength of these two is impressive. Sitting stoically, composed in a courtroom day after day, in close proximity to their son’s killer, spewing shit that’s obviously untrue.
I do not shed tears lightly - This book made me teary at multiple points as I read it. I’m not a parent and I cannot imagine losing a child at all, but especially to something so wrong and then having to watch the murderer walk free. It’s unreal and wildly unfair! No prom. No HS graduation. No college. No marriage. No children of his own. These are all things a racist prick took away from a 17 year old kid, and his family, for absolutely No reason.
“His is the story of a life cut tragically short, but it’s also the story of a boy who in death became a symbol, a beacon, and a mirror in which a whole nation came to see its reflection. It’s the story of a young life that at its seeming end was transfigured into something else. The truth is that my son took his last breath and that will never change. The hole in my heart will never heal. They say when an adult dies you bury the past; when a child dies you bury the future. But though his physical life ended, he isn’t yet finished leaving his mark on the world. And so I will never stop saying his name and telling others the story of his life and his death, and all that followed. His spirit lives on, and even his death may yet be redeemed.”
It’s unfortunate that this happened and that it’s not an isolated incident. The number of shootings, of young African-American men in particular, is alarming, as is the lack of justice in so many of these incidents. It’s admirable that Sybrina and Tracy and others find the strength to carry on in the fight after all they’ve been through. Amidst the heartbreaking tragedy, it’s inspiring.
“After a year and a half of searching for answers and demanding justice in the killing of our son, the man who admitted to shooting Trayvon was found not guilty of second-degree murder. Not guilty of manslaughter. Not guilty of anything. Those two words felt burned into my brain—Not Guilty—and forever pierced my heart.”
While not forgotten, reading Rest In Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin brought back many of the feelings I initially had following this case all over again. Disappointment. Infuriation. Sadness. Anger.
Rest in Power is written in first person perspective by Trayvon’s parents, Sybrina Fuller and Tracy Martin. The courage and strength of these two is impressive. Sitting stoically, composed in a courtroom day after day, in close proximity to their son’s killer, spewing shit that’s obviously untrue.
I do not shed tears lightly - This book made me teary at multiple points as I read it. I’m not a parent and I cannot imagine losing a child at all, but especially to something so wrong and then having to watch the murderer walk free. It’s unreal and wildly unfair! No prom. No HS graduation. No college. No marriage. No children of his own. These are all things a racist prick took away from a 17 year old kid, and his family, for absolutely No reason.
“His is the story of a life cut tragically short, but it’s also the story of a boy who in death became a symbol, a beacon, and a mirror in which a whole nation came to see its reflection. It’s the story of a young life that at its seeming end was transfigured into something else. The truth is that my son took his last breath and that will never change. The hole in my heart will never heal. They say when an adult dies you bury the past; when a child dies you bury the future. But though his physical life ended, he isn’t yet finished leaving his mark on the world. And so I will never stop saying his name and telling others the story of his life and his death, and all that followed. His spirit lives on, and even his death may yet be redeemed.”
It’s unfortunate that this happened and that it’s not an isolated incident. The number of shootings, of young African-American men in particular, is alarming, as is the lack of justice in so many of these incidents. It’s admirable that Sybrina and Tracy and others find the strength to carry on in the fight after all they’ve been through. Amidst the heartbreaking tragedy, it’s inspiring.
April 26, 2017
I literally have no words for this book. I finished the last sentence and simply stared at my kindle, then at the wall, and then back at my kindle. Devastating. Frustrating. Heartbreaking. Those are the first three words I thought of to describe this retelling of events from his parent's point of view. If you want an inside look at how police stations and trials work, then you should pick up this book. If you're in denial that racial profiling does exist in this country and that victims are made out to be the villains, then you should pick up this book. If you're a person of color and you think that we have passed the time of lynchings in this country, then you should pick up this book. Everyone and I mean everyone, should read this book.
The strength Trayvon Martin's parents displayed and still continue to display is unbelievable and inspiring.
The strength Trayvon Martin's parents displayed and still continue to display is unbelievable and inspiring.
May 4, 2017
On February 26, 2012 17 year old Trayvon Martin was executed for the crime of walking while black, by a person with a history of violence including assaulting a police officer. George Zimmerman is Child Killer and he is free to walk the streets.
What Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin experienced was horrific and unimaginable. In Rest in Power Trayvon's parents take you on a nearly moment by moment walk through learning of the brutal slaying of their baby boy through the trial and its aftermath. This book was well written and extremely hard to read emotionally.
I highly recommend this book.
What Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin experienced was horrific and unimaginable. In Rest in Power Trayvon's parents take you on a nearly moment by moment walk through learning of the brutal slaying of their baby boy through the trial and its aftermath. This book was well written and extremely hard to read emotionally.
I highly recommend this book.
September 24, 2024
Rest in Power by Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin. So much to say. Very little would be considered nice. My son was 15 when Trayvon was murdered while walking down a rainy street. I’ve had all different kids welcomed in my home over the years. All races, cultures, sexual status, socioeconomic status, ect. Some kids better than others. Some clean, some not. And not one deserves to die. This was the first racially motivated shooting I really stood up for. To say I took sides, I was pissed off, would be an understatement. The only thing this kid did wrong was being black, wearing a hoodie, and being a teenager. George Zimmerman has cashed in on this cold blooded murder to the amount of 10 million as of 2022. He was a nothing put on the map as the world’s biggest loser, racist pig who got away with a murder legally in one of the biggest racially motivated parts of the USA. During this period of time I was taunted and bullied as being a reverse racist and an embarrassment to the white population. Often I am ashamed to be white…if you have followed me for a while you know why.
What I enjoyed learning is Tracy and Synrina worked together to raise their sons in a positive environment emphasizing the importance of working toward a future. Be better than them. I personally was impressed by their coparenting and obvious love for their children. I understand I was being spoon fed what they want the public to know. I liked it. I applaud them. I am ashamed of a culture that is supposed to be progressive and still condoning death of a 17 yo for walking in the rain while black. Well you get the gyst of the review. My feelings on the situation and everyone there after. NO ONE SHOULD DIE BECAUSE OF RACE CULTURE ETHNICITY SEX SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS. EVER!
✨REST IN POWER✨
What I enjoyed learning is Tracy and Synrina worked together to raise their sons in a positive environment emphasizing the importance of working toward a future. Be better than them. I personally was impressed by their coparenting and obvious love for their children. I understand I was being spoon fed what they want the public to know. I liked it. I applaud them. I am ashamed of a culture that is supposed to be progressive and still condoning death of a 17 yo for walking in the rain while black. Well you get the gyst of the review. My feelings on the situation and everyone there after. NO ONE SHOULD DIE BECAUSE OF RACE CULTURE ETHNICITY SEX SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS. EVER!
✨REST IN POWER✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 16, 2022This book destroyed me.
I remember when I first heard about Trayvon Martin and was saddened and enraged by this story of injustice. Shortly after I attended a Million Hoodie March event, which ignited a Anti-Racism Network in my city. I became involved in that organization, which is still active in one of the local housing projects and works with residents and law enforcement to promote peace and nonviolence. Trayvon Martin's story isn't the first of its kind and it certainly hasn't been the last, but what happened to Trayvon sparked a movement and helped wake up America to how much racism and injustice still persists today. The impact lives on, like with the organization in my community.
When I found out Trayvon's parents wrote a book, I knew it would be a gut-punch, but also that I had to read it. From the first sentence I had tears in my throat. In the days I read this book I was always on the verge of crying because Trayvon's story has always stayed with me and this book brought it to life in a whole new way. I know Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin's story will stay with me for a long time.
The book is written by both Trayvon's mother and father, told in alternating chapters, and follows the aftermath and trial. The writing isn't always spectacular, but the tone and story are heart-wrenching and extraordinary. The book is both difficult to read and put down. Overall it's a very strong portrayal of the tragedy behind Trayvon's death and George Zimmerman's trial, and I'd argue essential reading.
I remember when I first heard about Trayvon Martin and was saddened and enraged by this story of injustice. Shortly after I attended a Million Hoodie March event, which ignited a Anti-Racism Network in my city. I became involved in that organization, which is still active in one of the local housing projects and works with residents and law enforcement to promote peace and nonviolence. Trayvon Martin's story isn't the first of its kind and it certainly hasn't been the last, but what happened to Trayvon sparked a movement and helped wake up America to how much racism and injustice still persists today. The impact lives on, like with the organization in my community.
When I found out Trayvon's parents wrote a book, I knew it would be a gut-punch, but also that I had to read it. From the first sentence I had tears in my throat. In the days I read this book I was always on the verge of crying because Trayvon's story has always stayed with me and this book brought it to life in a whole new way. I know Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin's story will stay with me for a long time.
The book is written by both Trayvon's mother and father, told in alternating chapters, and follows the aftermath and trial. The writing isn't always spectacular, but the tone and story are heart-wrenching and extraordinary. The book is both difficult to read and put down. Overall it's a very strong portrayal of the tragedy behind Trayvon's death and George Zimmerman's trial, and I'd argue essential reading.
March 4, 2023
Very Sad
This book yanked at my heart stings from the opening until the end.
The feelings, emotions and pain of the family and the nation are spelled out with presicion.
I give it my highest recommendation.
This book yanked at my heart stings from the opening until the end.
The feelings, emotions and pain of the family and the nation are spelled out with presicion.
I give it my highest recommendation.
March 8, 2017
Rest in power, Trayvon. To have to bury your child under any circumstance, is devastating. Then to have to fight for justice for that child in the midst of mourning is crushing. Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, the parents of Trayvon
fought the good fight and their battle is intimately described in this book.
The struggle to get justice for Trayvon was never fully realized as the killer was found not guilty.
The parents of Trayvon were cast in roles they never wanted to play yet they soldiered on through the hundreds of interviews and media appearances that were necessary to keep the spotlight on Trayvon and garner support in their fight for justice. There are some parts of sadness in the book, but the overall tone of the book is one of resoluteness. Two ordinary people gathering the resolve to endure through the pain.
They wanted to present a fuller picture of who Trayvon was, and in that mission I believe they succeeded. I'm sure the book was cathartic for them, but as the mother states in the introduction, the loss of a child is not something you never get over. "I can never forget. Nobody ever “gets over” the death of a child. All I can do is remember, and in remembering I pay homage to my son in the hope that the truths I tell can help others and that maybe, someday, through God’s grace, what happened to my son will never happen to another mother’s child." 3.5 stars.
fought the good fight and their battle is intimately described in this book.
The struggle to get justice for Trayvon was never fully realized as the killer was found not guilty.
The parents of Trayvon were cast in roles they never wanted to play yet they soldiered on through the hundreds of interviews and media appearances that were necessary to keep the spotlight on Trayvon and garner support in their fight for justice. There are some parts of sadness in the book, but the overall tone of the book is one of resoluteness. Two ordinary people gathering the resolve to endure through the pain.
They wanted to present a fuller picture of who Trayvon was, and in that mission I believe they succeeded. I'm sure the book was cathartic for them, but as the mother states in the introduction, the loss of a child is not something you never get over. "I can never forget. Nobody ever “gets over” the death of a child. All I can do is remember, and in remembering I pay homage to my son in the hope that the truths I tell can help others and that maybe, someday, through God’s grace, what happened to my son will never happen to another mother’s child." 3.5 stars.
February 7, 2017
Living in Australia I was not aware of the Trayvon Martin case. Having just finished reading Rest In Power the book written by Trayvon's parents, Sybrina Fulton & Tracy Martin, following his senseless death in 2012 I have a strong desire to know more.
Trayvon was a 17 year old African American boy, walking from the local shop and returning to the home he was staying at when he was shot and killed by the Neighbourhood Watchman. The book tells of Sybrina & Tracy's experiences in learning of their sons death and subsequently trying to bring justice for him. As a mother I couldn't begin to imagine the horrors they had experienced, the anger, the sorrow. It made for heartbreaking reading. Several passages brought me close to tears but there were a couple that really stood out for me. Whilst it may have appeared to be an example of racial profiling that lead to his murder, Sybrina indicated it was not about black and white but about right and wrong. Toward the end of the book they quoted President Obama's words, spoken at a press conference after the verdict was passed. His words made me admire the man who has just finished his term as American President and somewhat fearful of what might transpire under the new one.
As I was reading I was impatient to know the outcome of the trial. This was indeed a powerful and moving story. I felt their frustration and was inspired by their faith and their willingness to turn their loss into an opportunity to help others. I admired what they set out to achieve, I hope they are successful and trust that five years on they are finding a way to fill the gap left by the loss of their beloved son.
Many thanks to the publisher Spiegel & Grau, together with NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review.
Trayvon was a 17 year old African American boy, walking from the local shop and returning to the home he was staying at when he was shot and killed by the Neighbourhood Watchman. The book tells of Sybrina & Tracy's experiences in learning of their sons death and subsequently trying to bring justice for him. As a mother I couldn't begin to imagine the horrors they had experienced, the anger, the sorrow. It made for heartbreaking reading. Several passages brought me close to tears but there were a couple that really stood out for me. Whilst it may have appeared to be an example of racial profiling that lead to his murder, Sybrina indicated it was not about black and white but about right and wrong. Toward the end of the book they quoted President Obama's words, spoken at a press conference after the verdict was passed. His words made me admire the man who has just finished his term as American President and somewhat fearful of what might transpire under the new one.
As I was reading I was impatient to know the outcome of the trial. This was indeed a powerful and moving story. I felt their frustration and was inspired by their faith and their willingness to turn their loss into an opportunity to help others. I admired what they set out to achieve, I hope they are successful and trust that five years on they are finding a way to fill the gap left by the loss of their beloved son.
Many thanks to the publisher Spiegel & Grau, together with NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2017
As emotionally difficult it was to read this book (especially in public places), I can't begin to imagine how difficult it must have been for these parents to relive their most tragic moments in writing this book.
I'm glad they did. This is essential reading.
Rest in Power tells the story not just of parents who overcame the brutal murder of their child, but of two human beings who somehow channeled their immense sorrow into creating social change in the name of their son only days after his death.
With Trump going from crisis to crisis, I've noticed less coverage of police brutality, mass-incarceration, and other cases of systemic oppression of Black Americans in the media. And it's not that there's been less cases of police brutality since Trump took office, in fact, quite the opposite: https://newsone.com/3661666/donald-tr....
Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin's call to action in writing Rest in Power could not have come at a better time.
I'm glad they did. This is essential reading.
Rest in Power tells the story not just of parents who overcame the brutal murder of their child, but of two human beings who somehow channeled their immense sorrow into creating social change in the name of their son only days after his death.
With Trump going from crisis to crisis, I've noticed less coverage of police brutality, mass-incarceration, and other cases of systemic oppression of Black Americans in the media. And it's not that there's been less cases of police brutality since Trump took office, in fact, quite the opposite: https://newsone.com/3661666/donald-tr....
Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin's call to action in writing Rest in Power could not have come at a better time.
March 25, 2017
I have seen other reviewers of this book say how hard it is to criticize these parents' book about the unfathomable loss of their young son and I agree it is hard to be critical of what is essentially the diary of these two grieving parents.
However, I found this book tediously repetitive. I did not find the characterization of Rachel Jeantel's testimony to be accurate in the least. I watched this young woman's testimony live and it was an unmitigated disaster. To blame it on anything other than her behavior is not credible.
The fact is Trayvon Martin was murdered and his death shattered his family. I cannot imagine how that feels for his family and friends. Their love for their treasured son is evident throughout the pages of this book. I wish his loved ones peace in their lives and I hope that being able to speak their truth in the pages of this book helped them to some extent.
However, I found this book tediously repetitive. I did not find the characterization of Rachel Jeantel's testimony to be accurate in the least. I watched this young woman's testimony live and it was an unmitigated disaster. To blame it on anything other than her behavior is not credible.
The fact is Trayvon Martin was murdered and his death shattered his family. I cannot imagine how that feels for his family and friends. Their love for their treasured son is evident throughout the pages of this book. I wish his loved ones peace in their lives and I hope that being able to speak their truth in the pages of this book helped them to some extent.
February 7, 2017
Trayvon Martin certainly wasn't the first young, unarmed black man to be gunned down--and, sadly, he most likely will not be the last--but what sets his story apart is that his death became the catalyst for great social change and fights for injustice. Trayvon was a remarkable young man walking that fine line between boyhood and adulthood; he loved his parents, he loved his friends, and sure: he got into the usual teenage mischief (honestly, who hasn't?) but he was by no means a danger to anyone. That made it all the more infuriating and baffling when wannabe cop and neighborhood watchdog George Zimmerman decided to take it upon himself to hunt and kill Trayvon, simply because he racially profiled him as a "thug" and one of "[those] assholes" who "always get[s] away". Despite what should have been an open and shut case of first degree murder, the authorities only detained Zimmerman for a short period of time and seemed to focus more of their attention on running background checks/drug and alcohol screens on TRAYVON--you know, the CHILD who had just been MURDERED. The man who wielded the gun wasn't looked into at all (and, later on when he WAS looked into, it was discovered that he had a long history of violence and assault charges). Instead of being given time to grieve, Trayvon's parents, Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, had to focus their attention on pressuring authorities to arrest and prosecute Zimmerman. And, unfortunately, we all know how that turned out. While there are some people who claim race had nothing to do with this case, I would be inclined to point out their naivety and list all the reasons why it WAS. From the way the media covered the story, to the pathetic excuse of a trial, Trayvon was the one who was portrayed as the "thug", the "bad guy" despite being armed that fateful evening with nothing but a can of iced tea and a bag of skittles. Fulton and Martin have been devoting every waking moment of their lives since their son's death fighting injustice, giving speeches, and challenging the ridiculous "Stand Your Ground" law that Zimmerman hid behind like the coward that he was. Their persistence and relentlessness are nothing short of admirable. If the story of Trayvon Martin and what happened to him doesn't tear at your heart, infuriate you and drive you to take action, then you might not be human. Rest in power, Trayvon.
February 1, 2019
How can one not love and feel so much sympathy and pain for the parents of Trayvon Martin? What a beautiful and poignant tribute. Keep fighting Tracy and Sybrina! We need folk like you to keep reminding us that race is still very much, a problem in our country. Thank you, thank you.
June 8, 2017
coming
September 24, 2017
Biography #19 of my Library Biography challenge.
Sybrina Fulton & Tracey Martin tell their side of the murder of their son, Trayvon Martin. They take the reader through the story of the days leading up to the murder, the murder, the seeking of justice, the trial, the verdict. The book flip flops between Sybrina's narrative & Tracey's. The problem with that is we often hear the same parts of the story multiple times - even quotations are repeated. Some of parts drag on and sometimes it becomes boring, which is such a shame for such an important narrative. This also took me longer to read the book because my interest in sections faded.
Martin & Fulton's story of their death of their son is a necessary one to read - due to the particulars of the case - racial profiling (whether you believe race was an issue or not, Trayvon was undoubtedly profiled due to his hoodie), the question if self defense was even plausible, and the logistics of the trial itself. I get the feeling that Fulton & Martin do not feel that the prosecutors in the case did enough to negate the images the defense painted of their son. Trayvon seemed like a typical teenager, who hit a rough patch in his life, but was not known as aggressive. He is attacked on his way back from the corner store. Really, what do people think he should have done under the circumstances of being stalked by someone you don't know, when you've done nothing? While I am not surprised that the justice system failed, I do blame the police for not taking necessary evidence just because this was a murder - i.e. not taking pictures of Zimmerman, if he was attacked, where was all the physical evidence, the background checks, drug/alcohol analysis. They jumped too soon to say that the "Stand your Ground" law stood in this case. I would also think that protocols would still stand to follow even though the possibility of self-defense - and really who makes that call? The police alone? Should it not have gone to a jury regardless, just because it was a murder?
Although I appreciated the book, I do think some necessary editing was needed, the book would have been so much more powerful.
Also, I guess I'm not really sure this should even be considered a biography - I've read other books written by parents of slain children a- most memorable - Goneboy by Gregory Gibson, A Mother's Reckoning by Sue Klebold, The Meaning of Matthew by Judy Shepard - all of which were not considered Biographies but were along the same lines of Trayvon Martin's death (well, save Sue Klebold, but I put her in here for the simple fact that she is telling her family story).
Sybrina Fulton & Tracey Martin tell their side of the murder of their son, Trayvon Martin. They take the reader through the story of the days leading up to the murder, the murder, the seeking of justice, the trial, the verdict. The book flip flops between Sybrina's narrative & Tracey's. The problem with that is we often hear the same parts of the story multiple times - even quotations are repeated. Some of parts drag on and sometimes it becomes boring, which is such a shame for such an important narrative. This also took me longer to read the book because my interest in sections faded.
Martin & Fulton's story of their death of their son is a necessary one to read - due to the particulars of the case - racial profiling (whether you believe race was an issue or not, Trayvon was undoubtedly profiled due to his hoodie), the question if self defense was even plausible, and the logistics of the trial itself. I get the feeling that Fulton & Martin do not feel that the prosecutors in the case did enough to negate the images the defense painted of their son. Trayvon seemed like a typical teenager, who hit a rough patch in his life, but was not known as aggressive. He is attacked on his way back from the corner store. Really, what do people think he should have done under the circumstances of being stalked by someone you don't know, when you've done nothing? While I am not surprised that the justice system failed, I do blame the police for not taking necessary evidence just because this was a murder - i.e. not taking pictures of Zimmerman, if he was attacked, where was all the physical evidence, the background checks, drug/alcohol analysis. They jumped too soon to say that the "Stand your Ground" law stood in this case. I would also think that protocols would still stand to follow even though the possibility of self-defense - and really who makes that call? The police alone? Should it not have gone to a jury regardless, just because it was a murder?
Although I appreciated the book, I do think some necessary editing was needed, the book would have been so much more powerful.
Also, I guess I'm not really sure this should even be considered a biography - I've read other books written by parents of slain children a- most memorable - Goneboy by Gregory Gibson, A Mother's Reckoning by Sue Klebold, The Meaning of Matthew by Judy Shepard - all of which were not considered Biographies but were along the same lines of Trayvon Martin's death (well, save Sue Klebold, but I put her in here for the simple fact that she is telling her family story).
March 28, 2017
Never having lost a child, I can't begin to understand what it would be like to share this experience with the Trayvon's parents. I can only empathize and give them kudos for standing up for their son and telling the story. This story is so tragic, and unjust that it is hard to even begin to write a review. The author did a good job of retelling the 2 years of frustratingly tragic, unjust events. Where the book lost me and and earned only a 3 star review in my opinion was that it was too long. Several statements were repeated over and over. I thought I'd scream if I read one more time that a 17 year old was gunned down with only a box of skittles in his pocket while the killer went home to sleep in his own bed. Okay, WE GET IT! I think the parents were so caught up and used to dealing with the media that the single book reading audience was overlooked. In media some people catch the news and some don't, therefore you have to be redundant and keep reiterating your point, in case someone missed the earlier broadcast. In a book, you have a dedicated single audience and this just frustrates the reader and drags out the book. The story was interesting with lots of informative information. I was enlightened and stunned by the facts presented. Read it for yourself and let me know what you think!
May 21, 2017
I was living in Boston when I first heard about what happened to Trayvon Martin as the case was starting. I watched it most days and was completely horrified by the details of the case. When a not guilty verdict was delivered I was completely shocked. As an outsider it seemed to me that the American justice is completely broken. What broke my heart most in this book is that Trayvon's mother Sybrina expected that verdict and held no hope for justice through the legal system. This incredible woman along with Trayvon's father Tracy are making their own justice for their son. Rest in power, Trayvon. You taught me a lot about racial injustice and introduced me to the black lives matter movement.
April 12, 2017
This is a story of parents' grief, activism, and the states' racist judicial system. Chapters alternate between Tracy and Sybrina, going step by step through the most devastating days/weeks/years of their lives. It reads like a "behind-the-scenes" special, where you know the episode well, but are now learning the personal bits that gives everything new meaning. Readers should be enraged and heart-broken over new details.
February 8, 2018
This review was originally posted on Rachel Reading. For 100+ more like this, check it out.
If anyone ever asks me what the hardest book I've ever read was, it would be this one. I read this right after finishing "The Hate U Give", and man. That was hard. It was hard to go from the fictional to the actual real, and to read a love letter from two parents to their son who was taken from us far too young. Trayvon would have turned 23 this year, and my heart just shatters.
This book follows Trayvon's short life, as told by his parents, and the aftermath of his death. Tracy and Sybrina discuss the injustices that were given to them right off the bat from the police (like demanding a drug test on Trayvon's body but not even testing his murderer). The proof that his murderer did actively seek him out, the heartbreaking recollection that Tracy shares where he said he always told Trayvon to run if he was in a situation like the one he was in. We find out why Trayvon was where he was, he was visiting his father, and we listen to these parents process this terrible loss and tragedy.
The most beautiful thing I think about this story is that to me, it felt like bearing a loss of a close friend, our goal is to listen. So often in memoirs I feel like we want to learn, and while that's prevalent here, it's less about us, and more about them. About understanding what these parents went through, and with brutal and sharp honesty, we hear from Sybrina and Tracy as they seem to process. I wrote a full blog post response to this book which you can find here, which is more of an immediate reaction to my sadness about this book.
Everyone, and I mean everyone, should read this book. It will be hard, and that's okay. It should be hard to hear about the murder of a young boy.
If anyone ever asks me what the hardest book I've ever read was, it would be this one. I read this right after finishing "The Hate U Give", and man. That was hard. It was hard to go from the fictional to the actual real, and to read a love letter from two parents to their son who was taken from us far too young. Trayvon would have turned 23 this year, and my heart just shatters.
This book follows Trayvon's short life, as told by his parents, and the aftermath of his death. Tracy and Sybrina discuss the injustices that were given to them right off the bat from the police (like demanding a drug test on Trayvon's body but not even testing his murderer). The proof that his murderer did actively seek him out, the heartbreaking recollection that Tracy shares where he said he always told Trayvon to run if he was in a situation like the one he was in. We find out why Trayvon was where he was, he was visiting his father, and we listen to these parents process this terrible loss and tragedy.
The most beautiful thing I think about this story is that to me, it felt like bearing a loss of a close friend, our goal is to listen. So often in memoirs I feel like we want to learn, and while that's prevalent here, it's less about us, and more about them. About understanding what these parents went through, and with brutal and sharp honesty, we hear from Sybrina and Tracy as they seem to process. I wrote a full blog post response to this book which you can find here, which is more of an immediate reaction to my sadness about this book.
Everyone, and I mean everyone, should read this book. It will be hard, and that's okay. It should be hard to hear about the murder of a young boy.
July 4, 2017
I had started reading this book as a NetGalley ARC and set it aside because I thought the parents were trying too hard to present their son as a saint. I did not feel Trayvon's life needed sanctification, his death was unjustified regardless of his past.
I purchased a copy of the book after reading The Hate U Give. Ironic that a fictionalized account would lead me back to this nonfiction, but the author of that book highlighted how the media and law enforcement agencies dig through the victims' background to paint a scarier picture.
I am glad I read it. I am still in shock that the killer was set free, but reading about how the prosecutors did not push hard enough it is easy to see why. The killer is a vile man whose actions after the murder make is obvious he is repulsive. Nonetheless, the death of Trayvon Martin in rife with injustice and miscarriages of justice.
Trayvon's parents want his son's legacy to live on and I know he will. I #SayHisName in my classroom, along with other victims of #WalkingWhileBlack and #DrivingWhileBlack . If you want to expand your knowledge of his life, death, and the birth of a movement; read this book and keep him alive in your thoughts, words, and actions.
I purchased a copy of the book after reading The Hate U Give. Ironic that a fictionalized account would lead me back to this nonfiction, but the author of that book highlighted how the media and law enforcement agencies dig through the victims' background to paint a scarier picture.
I am glad I read it. I am still in shock that the killer was set free, but reading about how the prosecutors did not push hard enough it is easy to see why. The killer is a vile man whose actions after the murder make is obvious he is repulsive. Nonetheless, the death of Trayvon Martin in rife with injustice and miscarriages of justice.
Trayvon's parents want his son's legacy to live on and I know he will. I #SayHisName in my classroom, along with other victims of #WalkingWhileBlack and #DrivingWhileBlack . If you want to expand your knowledge of his life, death, and the birth of a movement; read this book and keep him alive in your thoughts, words, and actions.
June 20, 2017
I want to beg every person I know to read this book. Even if you think you know the facts of the Trayvon Martin case, you don't know all of them because our media and our justice system failed this family. A child - A CHILD - murdered. This book will break your heart.
I started this in audio format and would recommend the audio over the print version. The alternating chapters are narrated by the parents. Hearing their emotions spill out when telling their stories takes this book to another level. It will make you weep.
When listening, I often wondered how they went on, having their child murdered. One quote from the mother stood out to me and I'll paraphrase here. Difficult times don't give you strength, they test the strength you already had.
This book goes into my all time favorites and I give it one million stars. An important read.
I started this in audio format and would recommend the audio over the print version. The alternating chapters are narrated by the parents. Hearing their emotions spill out when telling their stories takes this book to another level. It will make you weep.
When listening, I often wondered how they went on, having their child murdered. One quote from the mother stood out to me and I'll paraphrase here. Difficult times don't give you strength, they test the strength you already had.
This book goes into my all time favorites and I give it one million stars. An important read.
June 26, 2017
Don't usually write reviews but the recent verdict on Philando Castile inspired me to try to make sense of events like these and promote works like these to others. It's difficult to rate the tragic retelling of the murder of a teenager, especially when written by his parents. I would definitely recommend it though. While there are a few glaring editing errors that I spotted, as well as a certain dryness at times, the book at its core is rawly emotional and gripping. No matter your thoughts on the case and similar ones, I believe there is a new perspective for everyone.
March 8, 2017
Interesting read, especially right after reading 'The Blood of Emmett Till'. I hate to complain about a book written by the grieving parents, but it probably could have used a little more original content and less quoting from speeches and proceedings. All in all a good read though of a terrible story.
October 31, 2017
Reading this story, written by his parents, in their own words, with their first person recollections of events, from when they first heard the news through the trial itself, you can't help but acutely feel the injustice of this all over again. It is a heartbreaking read, and I keep putting it down because it pulls no punches, it walks you through what they said and heard as they accepted this horrible event and tried to move forward through it. But even as I put it down, because it was just too hard to read after yet another shooting or unnecessary death, I also kept going back to it and felt encouraged remembering where this movement really began, how important it is, and why some seem determined to re-label groups like Black Lives Matter as “terrorist” groups or football players taking the knee as “anti-American” for their own partisan reasons while ignoring the real reason for protest.
March 26, 2018
This was really hard to read. Trayvon Martin’s case was mishandled from the start. Stand Your Ground is abused as a vile defense for murder. Trayvon’s name and legacy are powerful and needed in the current era of American racial justice, but it came at such a high price. I have no words for the pain and suffering of his parents, Sybrina and Tracy, and his brother and family and friends. To not only lose their child, but watch the murderer’s defense put their son on trial, and then get away with murder. Awful. The work the parents are doing now, in honor of their son, is so important. And so Trayvon must rest in power because without justice, there cannot be peace.
(And when I heard 5/6 jurors were white women—it’s the post-trump era—we know what that means!)
(And when I heard 5/6 jurors were white women—it’s the post-trump era—we know what that means!)
July 24, 2017
My heart aches and I've never cried more from reading a book but this story reveals there are still many good people in this world who are fighting the good fight, despite what seems to be a very broken system. I still cannot seem to grasp the verdict of Trayvon's case and many others similar - it's quite clear we have much work to do as a society (especially with topics such as gun control/violence & racial profiling). We need to be asking ourselves what we can do within our power to stop tragedies like this from occurring (and surprisingly the answer is lots). Rest in power Trayvon Martin. My heart is heavy.
September 11, 2024
Heavy, hard read but very important. No parent should lose their child to such senseless death. As a society we must figure out how to stop this from continually happening.
March 4, 2019
A devastating memoir by parents who are incredibly strong. I have no other words at the moment.
April 3, 2017
This should be required reading.
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