Written between Wright's Native Son (1940) and Black Boy (1945) -- and published now in its entirety for the first time -- The Man Who Lived Underground is the eerily contemporary story of Fred Daniels, a Black man framed by police for a double murder he did not commit. Forced to confess, Daniels escapes into the city's sewer system on a journey into the dark heart of American culture.  Wright's companion essay, “Memories of My Grandmother,” follows Daniels' story. 

Wright considered this his finest work, but its candid portrayal of police brutality made it untouchable until now. The book is available at local bookstores; on Amazon; and on the website of its publisher, the Library of America, which discounts first purchases 10 percent at www.loa.org. Two lending copies also will be available at the Beth Israel library.  A donation of up to $10 is suggested, to help defray costs.

Register below!