Synopses & Reviews
More than 75 essays many freshly composed by Mumia with the
cartridge of a ball-point pen, the only implement he is allowed in his death-row cell embody the calm and powerful words of humanity spoken by a man on Death Row. Abu-Jamal writes on many different topics, including the ironies that abound within the U.S. prison system and the consequences of those ironies, and his own case. Mumia's composure, humor, and connection to the living world around him represents an irrefutable victory over the "corrections" system that has for two decades sought to isolate and silence him.
The title, All Things Censored, refers to Mumia's hiring as an on-air columnist by National Public Radio's "All Things Considered," and subsequent banning from that venue under pressure from law and order groups. The CD, a compilation of Mumia's best recorded readings to date including previously unreleased recordings also includes comments from other writers, luminaries, and activists, including Alice Walker, Cornel West, Assata Shakur, Martin Sheen, John Edgar Wideman, and others.
Review
"Whatever one thinks of Abu-Jamal's guilt or innocence, his attack on capital punishment as a discriminatory, racist practice is compelling." Publishers Weekly
Review
"When Abu-Jamal is censored, everyone's civil rights are threatened. Let freedom ring; let Abu-Jamal speak." Booklist
Synopsis
These 50 writings by jailed journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal include pieces on censorship, justice, and the meaning of constitutional rights in America. Also included is a one-hour CD of the author's readings for "All Things Considered". Photos & illustrations.
About the Author
Mumia Abu-Jamal is an award-winning journalist and author of two best-selling books, Live From Death Row and Death Blossoms, which address prison life from a critical and spiritual perspective. In 1981 he was elected president of the Association of Black Journalists (Philadelphia chapter). His 1982 murder trial and subsequent conviction has raised considerable controversy and criticism for alleged constitutional violations and other improprieties. In spite of his almost two-decade long imprisonment on Death Row, Abu-Jamal has fought for his freedom and for his profession. He holds a BA from Goddard College and an MA from California State University, Dominguez Hills. His books have sold more than 100,000 copies and have been translated into seven languages.