Coming of Age in Mississippi

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This unforgettable memoir recounts the life of a woman deeply involved in the civil rights movement, offering a harrowing glimpse into black life in the rural South and affirming the power of individual action to instigate change. Born to tenant farmers in Mississippi, Anne Moody faced the harsh realities of the pre-civil rights era, marked by the shocking news of Emmet Till’s lynching just before she entered high school. This event ignited her passion for justice and freedom. A straight-A student, she achieved her dream of attending college through a basketball scholarship and joined the NAACP in her junior year. Through her involvement with the NAACP, CORE, and SNCC, she witnessed the demonstrations, sit-ins, and violent reprisals that defined the civil rights struggle. This deeply personal narrative also serves as a historical portrait of a pivotal moment in the nation's journey. It allows readers to experience history through the eyes of a dedicated foot soldier in the movement. The memoir has received acclaim for its raw honesty and emotional depth, highlighting the urgent need for change and the resilience of those who fought for it.