Pulling the Chariot of the Sun: A Memoir of a Kidnapping

Pulling the Chariot of the Sun is a powerful memoir that explores what it means to be Black in America, offering insight into the larger story of a people stolen from their homes and dominated by white supremacy. It illuminates how we can be made whole again through a search for the truth and the joyful pursuit of what we love.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: Canongate Books

VULTURE'S BEST MEMOIR OF THE YEAR 2023


A NEW STATESMAN'S BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR 2023


When Shane McCrae was just eighteen months old, he faced a traumatic experience that would shape his life. He was taken away from his parents and placed in a suburban Texas home, separated from his Black father. To conceal his father's identity from him, his maternal grandparents resorted to deceit, stealing him and manipulating him throughout his childhood. Believing they were acting in his best interests, they exerted control over him, stifling any manifestations of his Blackness. Shane's grandmother, despite her affection for him, harbored deep-seated prejudices against individuals who resembled him. On the other hand, his grandfather took it upon himself to police any perceived signs of Blackness exhibited by Shane. In their household, Blackness was consistently viewed as the most negative aspect of Shane's identity.


Pulling the Chariot of the Sun


is a powerful and revealing memoir that delves into the experiences of being Black in America.


Written with exceptional skill and emotional depth, this memoir provides a profound insight into the broader narrative of a people forcibly displaced from their homes, dominated by the forces of white supremacy, and subjected to false narratives about their history. It sheds light on the path toward healing and wholeness, urging us to embark on a relentless quest for truth and to embrace the joyful pursuit of our passions.


Through Shane's poignant storytelling, we witness the profound impact of racism and discrimination on his life and the lives of those around him. We see the ways in which his grandparents' manipulation and control shaped his beliefs and behaviors, perpetuating the cycle of oppression. However, Pulling the Chariot of the Sun is also a testament to resilience and the power of self-discovery. Shane's journey of self-reflection and healing is a testament to the human spirit's enduring strength.


As he confronts the painful truth of his past, Shane begins to unravel the layers of falsehoods and reclaim his identity. He explores his African heritage, reconnecting with his roots and embracing the rich cultural traditions that have been suppressed. He also confronts the legacy of his grandparents' actions, seeking to understand their motivations and find ways to heal the wounds they caused.


Through his memoir, Shane offers a profound reflection on the complexities of race and identity in America. He challenges us to confront our own biases and prejudices, to seek understanding and empathy, and to work towards a more inclusive and just society. Pulling the Chariot of the Sun is a powerful and transformative book that will leave a lasting impact on anyone who reads it.


In conclusion, Pulling the Chariot of the Sun is a must-read memoir that offers a profound exploration of the experiences of being Black in America. Written with exceptional skill and emotional depth, this book provides a valuable insight into the broader narrative of a people forcibly displaced and dominated by white supremacy. Through Shane's courageous journey of self-discovery, we witness the power of resilience and the pursuit of truth. This memoir challenges us to confront our own biases and prejudices, to seek understanding and empathy, and to work towards a more inclusive and just society. It is a testament to the human spirit's enduring strength and a call to action for all who seek to create a better world.

Weight: 374g
Dimension: 222 x 145 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838854195
Edition number: Main