I had only recently learned of Claude McKay and his poetry and his Involvement with the Harlem Renaissance. This book is very well researched and gave in-depth insight into his political awakening (growing up in Jamaica and then studying in the States). We get to see his life in context of what was happening at that time as well as the racism that not only influenced his art but also his politics. A nice addition to learning more about this really interesting man.

Thank you to Netgalley and Columbia University Press for an ARC and I voluntarily left this review.

*Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for supplying a copy of this e-book in return for an honest review.*

This is my kind of poetry book. Claude McKay: The Making of a Black Bolshevik by Winston James explores the life and times of an extraordinary man in times that were just as interesting. It also provides a view of a revolutionary life as a net positive despite the fact he later turned away from the movement. The poetry is therefore provided in a clear context to give the reader a greater appreciation of the works than they would get through simply reading poems solely. One downside was the review copy I received was very hard to read due to significant errors that I hope were corrected in the final edition.

I have used Claude McKay poetry in the classes that I teach and this book was such a good complement to my lessons. It is always helpful to discuss authors and know their story.