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Between the World and Me is a personal and literary exploration of America's racial history. Written as a series of letters to his 15-year-old son, Samori, Ta-Nehisi Coates reflects on his own experiences growing up in Baltimore, his education at Howard University, and his career as a journalist. The book delves into the realities of being Black in America, including the historical and ongoing impacts of slavery, segregation, police brutality, and mass incarceration. Coates shares personal anecdotes and historical insights to prepare his son for the challenges he will face as a Black man in America, while also offering a broader critique of American society and its treatment of Black bodies. The book is a powerful and emotional exploration of identity, history, and the struggle for racial justice.

Jason Riley's "The Affirmative Action Myth" presents a critical examination of affirmative action policies in the United States. Riley argues that these policies, implemented with the goal of promoting racial equality, have instead created unintended negative consequences. He contends that affirmative action has primarily benefited upper-class Black Americans while leaving behind those in lower socioeconomic brackets. The book uses historical data and economic analysis to support its claims, suggesting that progress for Black Americans was more significant before the widespread adoption of affirmative action. Riley proposes a shift towards colorblind policies, emphasizing individual merit and opportunity over race-based preferences. Ultimately, the book challenges readers to reconsider the effectiveness and long-term impact of affirmative action on racial equality.