The Black Presidency

Barack Obama and the Politics of Race in America

By: Michael Eric Dyson

Narrated by: Michael Eric Dyson

Length: 9 hrs and 58 mins

Publisher's Summary

A provocative, lively deep dive into the meaning of America's first Black president and first Black presidency, from "one of the most graceful and lucid intellectuals writing on race and politics today" (Vanity Fair). 

©2016 Michael Eric Dyson, c/o McKinnon McIntyre (P)2016 Recorded Books

Unbalanced, narrow and personal

I’m a general fan of M.E.D. however this book could have been entitled “I have an axe to grind against Obama and here’s why”. For all of M.E.D.’s theoretical splendor and verbal gymnastics, he fails to truly appreciate the practical, political and strategic approach 44 took after his election and re-election. Although being President for all America, Dyson short changes what he accomplished for Black America - either directly or indirectly - during his term. If you pay attention to everything Sessions & 45 are trying to undo, you will start to appreciate everything 44 & Holder accomplished. Additionally there is way too much emphasis placed on Obama’s biracial genetics as a explanation for his motivations or positioning. Your title is “ The Black Presidency” not “The Bi-racial Presidency”. Although a factor, it was highlighted way too much. Of course Obama, as a black man, is given license to speak more directly and candidly to and about his culture. To suggest since his mother was white, he should feel empowered to speak as candidly to white America is in a word, naive. Obama was astute enough to know his Presidency was a beta that would stretch beyond his time at 1600. His approach was not philosophical. His approach was not theoretical. It was strategic, practical and given his election and re-election, successful. He had what others in academia or the speaking circuit did not have had - responsibility and accountability. Basically he had to get “stuff” done, just not talk about it. I did not find this to be a book about “The Black Presidency”. My opinion, it’s more of an opinion piece with some selective facts and quotes sprinkled in as opposed to a balanced and objective account, good and/or bad, of Obama’s 8 years. Honestly it came across more personal, again like an axe to grind. You were candid in your book, hopefully you can appreciate the same candor in this review. Respectfully submitted.

Very good book!

It was very informative and kept me interested in finishing. Good narration of the book.

The real first black President

The author highlights how even as President Mr Obama like all of us struggle with what it means to be an American of black ancestry. Will we ever get over our shameful past?

Only the Heart can truly appreciate profound Truth!

Not only ami proud to be Black, but just as proud to be American after hear such a profoundly heart given experience on the Presidency of Barak Hussein Obama. Thank you Michael Eric Dyson for this memorable experience of to date The Greatest President of these United States of America. I got emotional even after the third time as well as on the occasion of the Eulogy for The Pastor. God continue to Bless you, President Obama and his family and God Bless these United States of America!

Awesome

was able to view the President more as a great leader and person. The writer was prolific in showing the good and the bad or a positive aspects and less positive aspects of the presidency

Absolutely Love author Michael Eric Dyson

Informative and entertaining. Love the fact that the author Michael Eric Dyson is also the reader. Great read!!!!! 📕

Repetitive AF

Not enough meat on them there bones. Dyson comes across more as a cheerleader than an objective author.

Excellent read!

This book covers the 8vyears of President Obama from the eyes of many in the African American community. Understanding that he could have spoken up more about race and pushed for more legislation to assist communities of color but also realizing his roadblocks in that process and his struggle to find his black voice at times. Well done MED!

Surprising

This book was both sympathetic and critical of President Barack Hussein Obama. The criticism is what took me by surprise. I agree with the author on some points. I enjoyed the book.

A very enlightening book.

I look forward to listening to this book again. There is so much to ponder. Dr. Dyson is a good storyteller.