The Man Nobody Killed

by Elon Green
The Man Nobody Killed cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Investigative Journalism
Technical
  • ID: 4703
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781250898234
  • Publisher: Celadon Books
  • Published: 2025-03-11
  • Reviews: 3

The Man Nobody Killed delves into the life and untimely death of Michael Stewart, a young Black artist and model whose fatal encounter with police in 1983 became a symbol of systemic injustice. The book explores how Stewart's case galvanized artists, activists, and communities, sparking movements and artistic expressions that demanded accountability and justice. Elon Green, the Edgar Award-winning author, provides a comprehensive narrative that not only recounts the events surrounding Stewart's death but also examines the broader cultural and historical context. This poignant story serves as a stark reminder of the recurring issues of police brutality and the failures of the justice system, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s New York City.

Reviews
Kirkus Reviews · 2025-10-21
chilling 4.00

The book is a smart and thorough investigation that doubles as a perceptive portrait of 1980s New York. It is both chilling and deeply investigative.

The reviewer commends the book for its comprehensive investigation and its ability to paint a vivid picture of the era. They note that the book is not just a retelling of a tragic event but also a critique of the societal issues that allowed it to happen. The reviewer appreciates the author's meticulous research and the way the book sheds light on a case that has been overlooked. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the discourse on police violence and its impact on communities.

Quick quotes

    This smart, no-stone-unturned investigation into the horrific encounter between police and a young man of color doubles as a perceptive portrait of 1980s New York.

    The book is both chilling and deeply investigative, shedding light on a case long buried by history.

    Green's work is a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation about police violence and its impact on communities.

The New York Times · Elon Green · 2025-05-07
heartbreaking 4.50

The book is a heartbreaking echo of the present, filled with emotional resonance and cultural impact. It masterfully unravels a tragic case buried by history.

The reviewer highlights the book's emotional depth and its relevance to contemporary issues. They appreciate how the author weaves together the personal and the political, creating a narrative that resonates deeply. The book is praised for its investigative rigor and the way it brings to light a story that has been overlooked for too long. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to evoke strong emotional responses, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    Elon Green's telling of the life and death of the artist Michael Stewart is filled with heartbreaking echoes of the present.

    Green masterfully unravels the case, shedding light on a tragedy long buried by history.

    The book is a chilling and deeply investigative work that captures the cultural impact of Stewart's life and death.

Reality Blurred · 2025-03-06
engaging 4.50

The book is perfectly paced and engaging, with a level of research that pulls the reader into the story. It is a must-read for those interested in true crime and social justice.

The reviewer praises the book for its engaging narrative and the depth of its research. They note that the book is not just a retelling of a tragic event but also an exploration of the broader social and cultural issues at play. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to balance the personal and the political, creating a narrative that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the true crime genre and a must-read for those interested in social justice.

Quick quotes

    THE MAN NOBODY KILLED is perfectly paced and super engaging, I was hooked from the start.

    I appreciated the level of research— court documents, interviews, and archival materials— that brought the story to life.

    The book is a must-read for those interested in true crime and social justice, offering a deep dive into a case that has been overlooked for too long.

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