This is a really in-depth look into the Shakur family and their impact on racial justice, the Black power movement, and music as a means to draw attention to the plight of urban Black people. I think the audience for this book is very niche, but I enjoyed it as I've learned a good deal about Assata and seeing how she fits into this dynasty was intriguing. I also feel like Tupac's controversial life was handled gracefully.

This groundbreaking history of the radical Shakur dynasty helps to tell the story of a family of freedom fighters. We've all heard of Tupac Shakur, but this book breaks down the stories of those built the political reputation the the Shakur name in the 20th century. An eye-opening read that all Black history lovers should dive into.

This is a very interesting history of a movement and a family, but the material about Tupac felt tacked-on. Not going to lie: I did pick up this book expecting more details about Tupac, due to the way the book is marketed.

The Shakur Family!
Political, prominent and passionate about oppressed people of color.
Wanting justice, and equality for all, Santi E. Holley takes us all the way back to the beginning: Salahudeen, Lumumba, Odinga, Mutulu, Assata, and Afeni. There are many Shakurs, right down to Parish Lesane Crooks, who truly have helped shaped this nation; enter the Black Panthers!
With entrepreneurship, Islam, and Black nationalism, better housing, black educators, and medical treatments were nationally recognized. Along with two other movements shaping our nation: Black Liberation Army, and Republic of New Afrika. They waged a war as they sought fairness in all areas of humanity. If it weren’t for that fateful and tragic day, further advances for a better way and quality of life would have been achieved.
It also highlights the life cycle of Tupac, explains his passion for hip-hop and the lyrics he gave us to teach the young and black.
I appreciate the deeper look into his emotions and his downward spiral, to better understanding understand him as a Shakur and the trials he endured. He is one of THE best hip-hop artists in the 90’s.
Although I don’t condone violence, I understand the measures taken and their rationale.
Honestly, if they had it to do over, I would expect them to fight just the same. And why not, WE are still struggling with equality today!!
Overall, this was a hard hit, heartfelt read AND a reminder that there is still a way to go.
We can come together as a people and a nation to achieve what the Shakurs , Malcom, Martin, and so many others set out to accomplish.
Four stars as I had a bit of a challenge keeping up with the dates and names at times. It was a lot of worthy and pertinent information, just didn’t flow as smooth for me until later in the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Publishers for advanced early access, in turn for my honest review.
#AmerikanFamilyAn

Prior to reading this book, I knew of the Shakur family only very cursorily, through Assanta and Tupac. I was completely enthralled by this family history and the place of family members in the cultural and political landscape of modern America.