Mr. Lewis has written an engaging history of Du Bois’s invigorating and long life … Mr. Lewis examines a tremendous amount of information, but never overwhelms the reader. He carefully analyzes the historical, sociological, literary and journalistic works of Du Bois, including the often self-contradictory autobiographical volumes, without confusing the reader. Likewise, he reveals the political, economic and social development of the nation in a way that illuminates Du Bois’s life and the history of his era … Mr. Lewis is a deft and sensitive guide through all this. He so vividly evokes the environments that shaped Du Bois that one almost participates in the life … I hope that this most critical book will not merely invigorate discussions of Du Bois within the academy, but that it will lend a hand to revitalize discussions of his life throughout our society.
