*Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for supplying a copy of this e-book in return for an honest review.*

This is my kind of poetry book. Claude McKay: The Making of a Black Bolshevik by Winston James explores the life and times of an extraordinary man in times that were just as interesting. It also provides a view of a revolutionary life as a net positive despite the fact he later turned away from the movement. The poetry is therefore provided in a clear context to give the reader a greater appreciation of the works than they would get through simply reading poems solely. One downside was the review copy I received was very hard to read due to significant errors that I hope were corrected in the final edition.

I have used Claude McKay poetry in the classes that I teach and this book was such a good complement to my lessons. It is always helpful to discuss authors and know their story.