Book Review - HBCU Made: A Celebration of the Black College Experience, Edited by Ayesha Rascoe

HBCU Made: A Celebration of the Black College Experience

HBCU Made: A Celebration of the Black College Experience, Edited by Ayesha Rascoe

First and foremost, gratitude to NetGalley, Ayesha Rascoe, and Algonquin Books for providing me with an advanced copy.

Based on this excellent collection of essays, I would retitle this book, HBCU Made: "A Celebration of Legacy and Excellence, The Black College Experience." Edited by Ayesha Rascoe, the host of NPR's Weekend Edition Sunday, HBCU Made captures the transformative power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through essays from a diverse set of contributors. This anthology stands out as a one-of-a-kind collection, offering moving and candid accounts of the HBCU experience. 

Why It Matters:

HBCUs have long been sanctuaries of opportunity and cultural pride for Black students, often serving as the only viable path to higher education amidst systemic barriers. These institutions are foundational to America’s educational landscape, nurturing leaders, fostering talent, and shaping the Black middle class.

What Resonates:

The contributors—luminaries like Oprah Winfrey, Stacey Abrams, and Branford Marsalis—share vivid, deeply personal stories of how HBCUs shaped their lives. The essays highlight the resilience, pride, and excellence cultivated at these schools, dismantling outdated stereotypes. HBCUs, as one contributor puts it, “love you to success,” creating a nurturing environment where students feel truly seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.

A Unique and Essential Read:

HBCU Made is the only anthology of its kind, a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of HBCUs. Its essays don’t just celebrate the academic achievements but the community, growth, and empowerment these institutions provide. This book should be required reading for any prospective college student—especially those considering an HBCU.

Key Takeaway:

This collection is both a celebration and a call to preserve the vital role of HBCUs in American society. It’s a must-read for anyone invested in equity, education, and the transformative power of community.

A Personal Reflection:

I did not have the opportunity to attend an HBCU, but reading HBCU Made opened my eyes to the profound and unique experiences these institutions offer. Had I had access to a book like this during my own decision-making process—or the insight shared by the brilliant contributors—I would have given strong consideration to attending an HBCU. As a firm believer in the power of education to unlock doors to success, this anthology resonated deeply with me.

Rating: 5/5

Charles Francis, 12/30/2024


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