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Book summary and reviews of Supreme Discomfort by Kevin Merida, Michael Fletcher

Supreme Discomfort by Kevin Merida, Michael Fletcher

Supreme Discomfort

The Divided Soul of Clarence Thomas

by Kevin Merida, Michael Fletcher

  • Critics' Consensus:
  • Published:
  • Apr 2007
    432 pages
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About this book

Book Summary

Supreme Discomfort tracks the personal odyssey of perhaps the least understood man in Washington, from his poor childhood in Pin Point and Savannah, Georgia, to his educational experiences in a Catholic seminary and Holy Cross, to his law school years at Yale during the black power era, to his rise within the Republican political establishment. It offers a window into a man who straddles two different worlds and is uneasy in both—and whose divided personality and conservative political philosophy will deeply influence American life for years to come.

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Reviews

Media Reviews

"The authors' attempts to link his convictions to his psyche—they make much of his alleged resentment of light-skinned black professional elites—don't always click, but Thomas still emerges as a fascinating and emblematic figure." - PW.

"This is a thoroughly absorbing look at a conflicted man whose views will impact American law and race relations for generations." - Booklist.

"An unflinching look at success and race in America. " - Kirkus.

"All in all, this is a thoughtful and evenhanded treatment; recommended for all libraries." - Library Journal.

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