Gospel Choirs: Psalms of Survival in an Alien Land Called Home

Once again Derrick Bell artfully weaves fiction in to the fabric of what are essentially life lessons on race in America. As an avid Bell fan I was familiar with his storytelling style and was not disappointed by this latest entry. The test for me with any book is whether there are quotes or sections which stand independent in my mind and can be easily identified with or transplanted to other settings. As I find so often with Mr. Bell's books, there are several intances where this is true. As indicated by the book's title, here he uses frequent references to gospel passages and with much success. Given the role that gospel music has played in African-American history, I am surprised that its use as a metaphorical agent, isn't employed more often. I highly recommend this book to the Derrick Bell fan and newcomer alike. And to the newcomers I say run don't walk to pick up his earlier works in this series - "And We are not Saved" and "Faces at the Bottom of the Well". Its well worth the trip.