Black Klansman: A Memoir

Jessica’s Epilogue #5: Black Klansman: A Memoir by Ron Stallworth

Ron Stallworth’s, Black Klansman, wrote his personal memoir on how became Colorado Spring’s first black detective. Then, remarkably, in 1978, him and his partner, Chuck, infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan where he became friends with the KKK’s ‘Grand Wizard’ himself, David Duke. Within his undercover investigation Stallworth tirelessly worked to impede KKK operations by sabotaging gathers, cross-burnings and even exposed white supremacist members serving in the military.

I was interested in this book because I am a Colorado Native and have been intrigued to read non-fiction books set in Colorado. The story line skims the surface of the dark history of the KKK, I did not really gain any additional insight to what I have already learned about that time in American History.

 How Stallworth pulled off this investigation is beyond me. He had to set aside ignorance, whether by fellow police officers or KKK members themselves. He approached his tasks seriously but with a little humor at times, I especially liked the humor he had when it came to talking ‘black’ while on the phone posing as white person and when he met David Duke himself, in person.

There seems to be mixed reviews online as to whether the author should have used a ghost writer. Yes, I would agree that at times the writing and pacing could have been better and, sure, there is room for improvement However, I approached reading this book with knowing what this book was, which was a first person, recount and memoir of an interestingly, unique, undercover operation of a former police officer. I picked this book up on Libby and listened to the audio version of the story which was narrated by Ron Stallworth himself. I believe this positively enhanced by reading experience. Had I just read the book, I may not have enjoyed it as much?

Quick Thoughts:

• Writing style: Simple, investigative.
• Characters: Ron Stallworth is authentically himself.
• Plot structure: Nostalgically engaging just because the setting is in Colorado.
• Pacing and tone: Quick listen, author narration enhanced my reading experience with the audiobook.

If you like reading memories, especially involving true crime, police, or undercover investigations, definitely check this book out. To me, because of the unique story taking place in my home state, I would also recommend this to those from Colorado or a resident in the city of Colorado Springs, you will connect more to the story and setting of the investigation.

It is my understanding that in 2018, this memoir became a book-movie adaptation titled, BlacKkKlansman. I am sure if you did not want to read the memoir, the movie highlights the main points of his investigation. Ron Stallworth has also published other books as well: The Gangs of Zion: A Black Cop’s Crusade in Morman Country, Gangsta Code: The Sociological Implications of Gangster Rap Music, and Hip-Hop Culture and Bringing the Noise: Gangster- Reality Rap Music and the Dynamics of Black Social Revolution. I will be skipping out on his other books.

Overall, I am giving this story, three out of five stars.