The Other Side of the River (Cassette)

Rating:
Summary: Another side of the news
Review: This report focuses on a murder in Benton Harbor, Michigan and the differing accounts of its events. It begins with the facts, but goes on to explore how perspectives of the event differ on opposite sides of the river that cuts through the area. Because one side of the river houses a generally white community while the other side consists mostly of African-Americans, the dissent is a starting point for discussing race in America. While the message is very serious, Kotlowitz does build his story through a compelling narrative format.

Rating:
Summary: Another side of the news
Review: This report focuses on a murder in Benton Harbor, Michigan and the differing accounts of its events. It begins with the facts, but goes on to explore how perspectives of the event differ on opposite sides of the river that cuts through the area. Because one side of the river houses a generally white community while the other side consists mostly of African-Americans, the dissent is a starting point for discussing race in America. While the message is very serious, Kotlowitz does build his story through a compelling narrative format.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent with one reservation.
Review: This was an excellent book about a microcosm of American race relations. My wife has a friend in the Benton Harbor area; that is what got me to read it. It spelled out how difficult a time Jim Reeves had investigating the death of Eric McGinnis because of the local climate. I gave it a 9 instead of a 10 only because of the following quote on page 111. "Her silver-dollar-size glasses and buttoned-at-the-neck blouse made her look prissy, like a budding librarian. Mr. Kotlowitz should realize that after decrying stereotypes in much of the book, he used one about librarians. That was my major complaint. Otherwise, I could not put it down.

Rating:
Summary: A sad story about two once beautiful cities
Review: We lived in the twin city area (St. Joseph) for 2 years. Being from liberal upstate New York, I was shocked to see the other side of the river. We were told to avoid the mall in the evening and not to drive through the Main strip of Benton Harbor alone, day or night. I don't believe it is segregation by people on either side, I believe it is just the way it has been for a long time. We didn't sense a feeling of hatred on either side, just a totally different way of life. The geographic location of these two cities is absolutely beautiful and to see one in such sad shape is disturbing. I believe the people in each community need to put their heads together and decide how to bring Benton Harbor back to the once beautiful tourist city it used to be. The loss of a child is unfathomable, regardless of the circumstances. It is a shame that a tragedy like this occurred and the blame comes down to a race and location issue!

Rating:
Summary: okay but flawed
Review: well-written and easy to read, but degenerates into just a series of anecdotes. Why? The author has no moral compass and not only admits it, but celebrates it as a liberal virtue. "Truth depends on what race you are" he expressly says. This is not only an infinitely sad statement, but also explains why this book has no center and is all frosting and no cake. Enjoy it skeptically.

Rating:
Summary: Racism is still alive
Review: Whenever you get the feeling that perhaps Africa-Americans and other minorities are getting their fair shake in life please feel free to read this book. This book allows the reader to understand how race plays a role in deciding how people live their lives. Alex is able to provide vivid detail that makes you realize that we are far from a color-blind society. Read this book and you will understand why the African_American community does not trust law enforcement and the judicial system. There is only one drawback to this book, it is filled with great detail. While the detail is much appreciated it does make for a slow read. However, once you finish you will appreciate the read