Nigger Mass Market Paperback – November 15, 1990

This book was originally published in 1964. I bought this book after listening to an interview with Dick Gregory in which the interviewer mentioned Dick Gregory's books by title.To my memory, I thought in an interview Dick Gregory said about Black Lives Matter, to paraphrase, I thought he said "it's BS" and "funded by the Koch brothers".So, why did the publisher think it was necessary to mention Black Lives matter on the back of a book published in 1964? And what evidence is there that Dick Gregory did hunger strikes related to Black Lives Matter?

He went threw a struggle and made it out on top and got lucky by getting a great wife but did he ever pay back all of that money he kept borrowing

A very great and insightful read on the younger Richard Claxton Gregory, from his growing up poor and impoverished in St. Louis, to his prowess as a prep track star, his discovering his penchant for comedy, his stint in the U.S. Army, his making a go for it as a comedian, meeting his wife, Lilian, striking it big as a comedian...to finally finding a further calling as an activist during the Civil Rights Movement. Though the book ends as 1963 gives way to 1964, it is easy to see how and why this book is specifically titled as it is. I also not only learned a lot about this great man...but what also motivated and moved him to excel in the manner in which he did his entire life, which ended last month, sadly, at 85. Yet, though this book wants you to read more...fortunately, there is more to come in the subsequent books he did author...up untilwhat would become his final one, which was released a week ago. I have that one on my Kindle app all set and ready to go. And when I get there, I will write of and on that one as well. But, to get an introduction on one of the foremost personalities and sages this world ever produced, this book is a great place to start.

I appreciated this author’s point of view. It forced me to view another’s race’s perception (this author’s viewpoint) on significant race issues.

This is one of the best books I've ever read! Everyone should read it. It is thought provoking and it is moving on a spiritual level. It is a fascinating autobiography of a man who gained fame as a comedian but found a greater calling as an activist delivered in a touchingly authentic and unaffected voice. I love the fact that it gives such a human and personal account of living with poverty and rascism. The way he describes his struggles as an individual participating in demonstations against segregation help you appreciate how much personal sacrifice went into the civil rights movement, but that isn't even the best part. When he talks about about seeing the picture on the black church that was bombed and seeing that the blast had taken out the eyes of Christ and wondering what a blinded Christ means you have to wonder what it means too. He says he doesn't know what he has become a part of but he knows it is bigger than he is and he can't stop it. His speech toward the end is also incredibly moving and you know that what he is a part of is bigger than him and even bigger than the monumental things he has experienced, including the civil rights movement. This is a wonderful, deeply affecting book. This review isn't even doing it justice. PLEASE READ IT!

I thought the book was a history lesson for both people of color and Caucasian people. Excepting the things you can't change and changing the ones you can. Great read!

I have

Another great testament of how hard work and determination bring good results. Gregory's story is still inspiring, even after more than 40 years. Prior to reading his book, if I had to use a few words to describe what he was about, I could only think of "the Dick Gregory diet" and ex-comedian. Although I had heard that he was involved in the Civil Rights movement, I didn't realize the extent of his involvement, nor his impact. I have a new level of respect for him. I also noticed that in the latter years-from 1960 to 1964 when the book was written, his activism took center stage and his comedy was barely mentioned.Many poignant moments are in the book, of course. For instance, during a rally, a white man spat in his face, and due to the non-violent nature of the rally, he simply allowed the spit to drain into his mouth as he responded with sarcastic but peaceful words to the offender. I cannot ever afford to forget what others went through for me to enjoy the advances in equality today.The style of writing is also effective. It flows smoothly, and I was able to read the book within a three day period. No portion of the book dragged on with unnecessary details, in my opinion. The 209 pages were well used.

the book was recommended by I think Jay-z who found it sharp and funny. Having read this book it really is a warts and all account of what it was like to be black and poor in the land of the free. At least Dick made a name for himself in America (I'd say he's virtually unknown here.I know I haven't heard of him before) which is why he has a book out This book is still humourously written even though a lot of the subject matter is quite dark (no pun intended). It's so good that it makes me want to check out Mr Gregory's comedy. Although I wold like to spread the word about this book to my friends it's still a controversial title that I can't bring myself to say it. Pity. It deserves an even wider audience.

This is a brilliant autobiograpghy and a must read book especially in current times where America seems just as racist as it ever was. Dick Gregory has a very good way with words and his commentary on the plight of the african america is both thoughtful and thought provoking in equal measure. I was shoked, angered and entertained throughout this book. Thank you Dick Gregory

What an amazing story! I truly feel like I have a deeper understanding of how times were back then and what it took to create change. What an American hero!

He is important as a civil rights spokesman, but he is also clever and witty and inspiring. He is one of my heroes. It's a fine piece of history, and he is a rare treat.

Was waiting for this to be reprinted for 10 years and glad I did! My son aged 17 is now reading it and it's blowing his mind