With a perceptive introduction by historian Cobb... this version of the report, co-edited by historian Guariglia, is indeed essential for what it presents and why its findings still matter... this version of the report might point the way toward a national resolution, if the United States summons the will and wherewithal to make change.--Randall M. Miller "Library Journal"
New Yorker staff writer Cobb (The Substance of Hope) presents an astutely abridged and incisively contextualized version of the 1968 Kerner Commission Report . . . Cobb's concise introduction delves into the origins of the commission and highlights key findings . . . The report itself is startlingly blunt . . . and remarkably prescient . . . In the appendix, Cobb briskly and persuasively tackles 'frequently asked question' . . . The result is an essential resource for understanding what Cobb calls the 'chronic national predicament' of racial unrest.-- "Publishers Weekly"
This version of the landmark report features a superb introduction by Cobb and a closing section of frequently asked questions--e.g., 'How come nothing has been done about these problems?' The book contains plenty of fodder for crucial national conversations and many excellent ideas for much-needed reforms that could be put into place now. A welcome new version of a publication that is no less important now than it was in 1967.--Kirkus Reviews, starred review