American Paradox: Young Black Men

By Renford Reese

Over a half-century since Ralph Ellison wrote the classic book Invisible Man, black men have been trying to become visible. In various ways, black men have sought to get the attention of the world. An intense quest to become seen, heard, and felt has manifested itself in rebellious and counterproductive behavior. Whether it is the baggy pants, the bandana, the braids in the hair, the earring, or the tattoo, black men have desperately striven for visibility. Perpetual gang warfare and an overemphasis on living a glamorous lifestyle have derailed many young black men from achieving success in the U.S. Author Renford Reese examines how young African American males have unwittingly accepted one model of black masculinity. The acceptance of this "tough guy" model is having detrimental consequences on an entire generation of young black men. The book's thesis is supported by a survey the author conducted of 756 African American males from the ages of 13-19 in Los Angeles and Atlanta. This survey attempts to gauge the attitudes, perceptions, and basic knowledge of young African American men regarding black public figures. One component of this survey is a Realness Scale that the author constructed. Along with this survey, interviews were conducted with various young black males to find out why they, or many of their peers, have embraced the gangsta-thug persona. The results of the survey and interviews are fascinating. Although the primary focus of this book is on the young black male's acceptance of the gangsta-thug image and his enthusiastic embrace of society's stereotypes, this book also looks at the unkindness of the system. One would be naive to dismiss the historical impact of discriminatory policies and the systemic perpetuation of stereotypes in U.S. society. Hence, this book examines the internal and external influences on the current black male identity. American Paradox and Reese's vists to prisons in California have already begun to pay off. In the Summer 2004 issue of Cal Poly Pomona & the Community, writer Jennifer Parsons talks about Reese's efforts, mentioning that Reese keeps a note in his briefcase from a 31-year-old prisoner serving time for manslaughter. According to her article, the prisoner writes, "I used to love being looked up to for all the wrong reasons. Now, though, I'm on a whole new script. My goal is to turn my misfortunes into a fortune. I want to help inner city kids avoid situations such as my own." He goes on to say, "I look forward to your visit. There is so much in that book that I would like to speak with you on." "...Reese raises serious questions regarding the state of life among African American youth that cannot be ignored. The book, an excellent source for discussion of issues in the black community and race relations in the US, will surely be controversial. Summing up: Highly recommended." -- CHOICE Magazine, October 2004 "American Paradox: Young Black Men . . . is an eye-opening read that brings to focus some the contemporary social issues that black and white America are reluctant to discuss. I would highly recommend it for courses in sociology, political science, and black studies." -- Journal of Urban Affairs, November 2006

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0890895686
• ISBN13: 9780890895689
• Release Date: January 2004
• Publisher: Carolina Academic Press
• Length: 232 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.8" x 0.8" x 5.8"

Customer Reviews

Amazing professor, author, speaker, thinker, and motivator.

I am a former student at Cal Poly, and have had the opportunity to take not just one, but two of Dr. Reese's classes, and I can attest that this man is nothing short of incredible. He is intelligent, articulate, and charismatic, and he truly cared about every single one of his students. I can say with absolute certainty that he has been the most influential person in my life besides my parents. His book is equally amazing, and is a must read for everyone, regardless of race, color, or background. I am not a young black man, but I can still appreciate the concepts of his teachings. If you were not lucky enough to have had Dr. Reese speak to you in person, his words still carry strongly in this book. I am a better person today, and I can honestly credit that, at least in part, to what I have been taught by this man. For that, Dr. Reese, I thank you.

Inmate Quotes from California State Prison System

I feel it's cool to see someone like 'ol boy (Dr. Reese) put the real out there like that. (Evil - robberies) His book shows just how far we've gotten off track when it comes to defining what's real and what's fake. (Quake - manslaughter) They need to pass that book around the school campus and the rest of these prisons. (G-Rider - various crimes) He put the real out there but it's gonna take more than a book to save all these wannabe tough-ass niggas. (T-Macc - murder) Although that author didn't come from the grind that I came from, I still feel where he's coming from. (Young Dub - manslaughter)

The Truth

This is a book that should not be passed up by anyone. Renford Reese presents a phenomenal analysis of popular culture and the role(s) of Black men that is at times painfully truthful. He presents the problems, the reasons behind the problems, and real solutions to the problems. His methodical approach uses scientifically sound facts that are often shocking, but undeniable. I used several passages from the book as critical thinking exercises for incoming college students and each of them felt that Renford Reese "hit the nail on the head." I cannot recommend this text enough.

Just Can Not Put It Down

American Paradox is a powerful and moving book, covering an overwhelming amount of research on young black men, race relations, and popular culture. This book can have a positive impact on every African American male who reads it--inspiring them to rise to their full potential. I have read that there are prison inmates reading this life-changing book. I enjoyed reading Reese's engaging, insightful, and refreshing commentary on the plight of young black men. Using original data he integrates various charts and graphs to support his arguments. The book is not driven by ideology but out of the author's commitment to painting a candid picture of the causes and consequences of the behavior of black male youth. This inspirational book will definitely appeal to a diverse audience.

An excellent book by a great man.

Dr. Reese is a professor at the college I attend (Cal Poly Pomona) and his book is amazing. I urge anybody, young black men, to pick up this book and spend a couple of hours reading it. It is very informative and should be read by anybody who ever thinks about being a "gangsta-thug." Dr. Reese takes all sides of the debate and eventually this book will help you form your own opinion and conclusion about young black men. The book is an easy read, nothing fancy. Around 200 pages of top quality educational material grace this paperback. Not only is Dr. Reese a good writer, he is an outstanding teacher. Buy this book!