62 pages • 2 hours read
Kevin BoyleArc of Justice
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2004A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle tells the story of Dr. Ossian Sweet, an African-American physician who faces murder charges after defending his home in an all-white Detroit neighborhood from a violent mob in 1925. Moving from the South during the Great Migration, Sweet settles in Detroit's Black Bottom before buying a house on Garland Avenue, where, anticipating an attack, he enlists friends and family to help protect his property, leading to a violent confrontation and subsequent trial. This book contains sensitive topics including racial violence and historical oppression.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle is widely acclaimed for its compelling narrative and thorough historical research, vividly portraying racial tensions in 1920s America. Praise centers around its engaging storytelling and emotional depth. Some critics note a dense prose style that may challenge casual readers, but overall, it's celebrated for its rich, impactful recounting of history.
Who Should Read Arc of Justice?
A reader who enjoys Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle is likely passionate about American history, particularly civil rights and racial justice. This audience appreciates meticulously researched historical narratives with robust character development. Fans of The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson and The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson may find it compelling.