"Both fresh and refreshing, Zorach's book on the Black Arts Movement (BAM) in Chicago engages from the very first paragraph and fires on all cylinders—looking at the subject not only from inside the BAM but also in terms of how it challenged traditional art history. . . . Highly recommended. All readers." — K. P. Buick, Choice
"Using interviews, archival collections, poetry by Gwendolyn Brooks, historic census data, and other documentation, Zorach provides a detailed story of the artists, residents, and educators who worked together to transform Chicago communities struggling with the spatial constraints of systematic racism. . . . This would serve well as a resource on the Black Arts Movement in Chicago, community mural history, and African American art history. It is highly recommended for all libraries." — Stacy R. Williams, ARLIS/NA Reviews
“Rebecca Zorach has written a breathtaking book. The confluence of the cultural and political production generated through the Black Arts Movement in Chicago is often overshadowed by the artistic largesse of the American coasts. No longer. Zorach brings to life the gorgeous dialectic of the street and the artist forged in the crucible of Black Chicago. Deeply researched, politically sophisticated, and beautifully narrated, Zorach makes a surprising and inspiring contribution that will deepen our understanding of the creative expression that emerges from Black life, community, and politics.” — Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, author of From #BlackLivesMatter to Black Liberation
“Rebecca Zorach offers a rich and detailed story of how artists, gang members, educators, curators, and Black Nationalists worked together to transform a Chicago community through creativity and affirmation—important models for today.” — Kymberly N. Pinder, author of Painting the Gospel: Black Public Art and Religion in Chicago