I'm not sure what to think of this book. On the one hand, I share some of Coates' views on structural racism in America, how it can be grinding and sometimes, seemingly relentless. There are some views that white people especially need to hear, even if it makes them uncomfortable. That being said, this book left me with me feeling hopeless because it has no hope. Coates seems so cynical, even when he is writing about the joys of life. Also, as others have noted, this book read mostly as a stream of consciousness, which, at times made it incoherent. I don't regret reading this book but I don't think it is the must read that so many in the media have made it to be.