Black Is Best: The Riddle of Cassius Clay by Jack Olsen

Black is Best delves into the complex life of Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, offering a unique perspective on his journey from a young boxer to a global icon. The book provides an intimate look at Ali's relationships and interactions with those closest to him, including his family, coaches, and business associates. Through extensive interviews and firsthand accounts, the author captures the essence of Ali's puzzling personality and his impact on American culture during the 1960s. Beyond the boxing ring, the book explores Ali's involvement with the Black Muslims, his support for black power, and his controversial statements about Vietnam and his draft status. These aspects of his life contributed to his vilification by the public and the press, making him a polarizing figure. The author's dogged pursuit of Ali's story presents a firsthand record of a truly enigmatic personality, offering readers a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.

Reviews

Goodreads · 2023-01-01

comprehensive 4.00

The book is described as a genuine contribution to criminology and journalism, offering a unique perspective on Cassius Clay's life and times.

Goodreads reviewers highlight 'Black is Best' as a significant contribution to both criminology and journalism. The book provides a detailed and unique perspective on Cassius Clay's life, capturing his transition to becoming a Muslim, his support for black power, and his controversial statements about Vietnam. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the comprehensive portrayal of Clay's character, making it a valuable read for those interested in sports biographies and historical accounts. The book's ability to bring together various aspects of Clay's life into a single focus is particularly praised.

Quick quotes

A genuine contribution to criminology and journalism alike.

Olsen is a two-time winner in the Best Fact Crime category.

The book details Clay's transition to becoming a Muslim, his outspoken support of black power, his inflammatory statements about Vietnam and his controversial statements.

Boxing News Online · 2019-12-18

valuable 3.80

This vintage 1967 book offers a good look at Cassius Clay's life and times, making it a valuable read for boxing enthusiasts.

Boxing News Online describes 'Black is Best' as a vintage 1967 book that offers a good look at Cassius Clay's life and times. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of Clay's character and his impact on the world of boxing. They highlight the book's historical significance and its value for boxing enthusiasts. The reviewer notes that while the book is old, it provides a unique and insightful perspective on one of the most interesting characters of the 20th century. The detailed account of Clay's life and his controversial statements makes it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

This is an old one; vintage 1967. But it's a good look at the life and times of Cassius Clay.

It's a good look at the inside story of heavyweight boxing champion Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali).

Jack Olsen's 1967 book about Cassius Clay, now known as Muhammad Ali, was called one of the best sports biographies of all time by the editors of Sports.

The New York Times · 2019-02-19

insightful 3.50

The book is not perfect but provides a genuine contribution to both criminology and journalism. It offers an insightful look into Cassius Clay's complex character.

The reviewer from The New York Times acknowledges that 'Black is Best' is not a perfect work, comparing it to other notable books in the genre. However, they highlight its genuine contribution to criminology and journalism. The book delves into the multifaceted personality of Cassius Clay, providing a nuanced perspective on his life and times. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the insightful portrayal of Clay's character, which makes the book a valuable read despite its imperfections. They also note that the book is not as comprehensive as some other works, but it still stands out for its unique insights and detailed account of Clay's life.

Quick quotes

Black Is Best is not a perfect work in the genre, for reasons to be discussed.

It is not as good, for instance, as "The Climb Up to Hell."

Jack Olsen gives us an inspired insight on one of the 20th century's most interesting characters.

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