BOOK BRIEF

The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States

Walter Johnson
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The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020

Book Brief

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Walter Johnson

The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

St. Louis, Missouri • 19th-21st centuries

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States by Walter Johnson examines the historical impact of St. Louis on American history, highlighting its role in racial and economic violence. The book explores themes of power, imperialism, and injustice throughout the city's development and influence on the nation.

Informative

Dark

Unnerving

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

2,408 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Broken Heart of America by Walter Johnson provides a compelling, incisive look at St. Louis as a microcosm of U.S. racial and economic history. Critics praise its thorough research and vivid narrative. Some, however, argue the book's focus is narrow and occasionally overwhelming. Overall, it is an illuminating, albeit challenging, read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Broken Heart of America: St. Louis and the Violent History of the United States?

Readers interested in U.S. history, social justice, and racial dynamics might enjoy The Broken Heart of America. Similar audiences might appreciate Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Michelle Alexander's The New Jim Crow for their critical perspectives on American society.

4.5

2,408 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

St. Louis, Missouri • 19th-21st centuries

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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