On the Other Side of Freedom

“By turns lyrical reflection and practical handbook, On the Other Side of Freedom reveals the mind and motivations of a young man who has risen to the fore of millennial activism through study, discipline, and conviction. His belief in a world that can be made better, one act at a time, powers his narratives and opens up a view on the costs, consequences, and rewards of leading a movement.”
—Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

“Hope and insight and empathy spring from every page of On the Other Side of Freedom. DeRay McKesson cools our fears of the struggle, ever guiding us on how to struggle. He stares down the faces of bigotry and unfreedom and cynicism and doesn’t flinch in writing out our marching orders toward freedom.”
—Ibram X. Kendi, National Book Award-winning author Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America 

“A poetic, passionate, and deeply personal book.”
—The Washington Post

“DeRay McKesson offers a theology of hope that can be understood and embraced even by people who are not religious. . . . I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand why this movement resonates so deeply with so many, especially if you disagree with it.”
—Michel Martin, host, NPR Weekend All Things Considered

“Mckesson and a core group of other activists have built the most formidable American protest movement of the 21st century to date.”
—The New York Times

“An inspiring reminder that hope is vital to any political change, and it’s the driving force for any successful attempt at social justice.”
—Esquire (Best Nonfiction Books of 2018)

“Riveting and affecting . . . written with astounding poetry, vulnerability, and flair. Mckesson is a gifted, pointed storyteller.”
—The Village Voice

“In this thoughtful collection of essays, activist and podcaster Mckesson reflects on what he’s learned from protest, family upheaval, racial inequality, homophobia, community organizing, abuse, and love. . . . A welcoming, accessible, and inspiring entrance point to social justice work.”
—Publishers Weekly (Most Anticipated Books of Fall 2018)

“Mckesson breaks down the physical and emotional labor of activism and the continued importance of telling truth to power . . . each theme as potent and nuanced as the next. An excellent selection for socially conscious readers, young activists, and researchers interested in the cross-section between activism and social media.”
—Library Journal (starred review) 

“A compelling account of technology-powered protest.”
—Kirkus Reviews