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Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

by J. Anthony Lukas
$28.90
Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families
Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

Intense examination of Boston's racial busing crisis.

If you're drawn to exploring the complex interactions of race, politics, and education in America's history, "Common Ground" could resonate with you. J. Anthony Lukas meticulously intertwines the lives of three Boston families across the divides of class and color during the tumultuous 1970s. It's not just an award-winning non-fiction narrative; it's a deep dive into a decisive era that still echoes in today's societal challenges.

  • Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction (1986)
  • National Book Award for Nonfiction (1985)
  • National Book Critics Circle Award for General Nonfiction (1985)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

Common Ground: A Turbulent Decade in the Lives of Three American Families

by J. Anthony Lukas
$28.90
ISBN: 9780394411507
Authors: J. Anthony Lukas
Publisher: Knopf
Date of Publication: 1985-08-12
Format: Hardcover
Related Collections: Sociology, Politics, Biographies & Memoirs, History
Related Topics: Education, Politics, Social Justice, History, Race, Sociology, American History, Biography, History, Journalism, Biography, Politics, American History, Politics, Social Justice
Goodreads rating: 4.32
(rated by 2690 readers)

Description

Probes the school integration crisis that shattered Boston during the decade 1968-1978 through portraits of three families—black, Irish, and Yankee.
Condition guide

Book Condition Guide

Books in Like New Condition

This book may contain very minor cosmetic defects, but it is in pristine condition. There should be no yellowing, no foxing, no water damage, and no annotations of any kind on the cover and the pages. For paperbacks, there should not be any crease marks on the spine. This book is good as new — lucky you!

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

Books in Very Good Condition

This book has been used, but it is still in a clean condition. There should be no foxing or annotations of any kind on the inner pages, but a sparse amount may be present on the cover, title pages, or outside edges of the book. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be light crease marks on the spine.

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

Books in Good Condition

We do our best to ensure the quality of our books, but there is no escaping the wear and tear that comes with time. Slight foxing and some annotations may be present on the pages and the cover. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be several crease marks on the spine.

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

Books in Well Read Condition

This is a well-read book, which means that the previous owner probably really enjoyed it! The cover and pages may include moderate foxing and annotations, but the text is not obscured and still readable. Moderate cosmetic defects and minor water damage may be present on the edges of the book. For paperbacks, there may be multiple crease marks on the spine.

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

 

Find out more about our process here.

 

Intense examination of Boston's racial busing crisis.

If you're drawn to exploring the complex interactions of race, politics, and education in America's history, "Common Ground" could resonate with you. J. Anthony Lukas meticulously intertwines the lives of three Boston families across the divides of class and color during the tumultuous 1970s. It's not just an award-winning non-fiction narrative; it's a deep dive into a decisive era that still echoes in today's societal challenges.

  • Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction (1986)
  • National Book Award for Nonfiction (1985)
  • National Book Critics Circle Award for General Nonfiction (1985)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

Sociology Books

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A Private Sphere : Democracy in a Digital Age - Thryft
Zizi Papacharissi | Polity

A Private Sphere : Democracy in a Digital Age

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

89% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

Recommendation: A must-read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of digital technologies on democracy and citizenship. Papacharissi's book provides a nuanced and critical analysis of the promises and limitations of the digital age for democratization. She challenges readers to rethink our understanding of the public and private spheres and the role of citizens in shaping contemporary democracies. A valuable contribution to media studies, political science, and critical theory.
Move: The Forces Uprooting Us and Shaping Humanity's Destiny
Parag Khanna | Scribner

Move: The Forces Uprooting Us and Shaping Humanity's Destiny

$20.90

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$20.90

49% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

"Move" is a compelling read for anyone curious about the intersection of history, geography, and the socio-political forces driving human migration. Parag Khanna offers an insightful analysis on how past global events have influenced current trends, guiding you through a thought-provoking journey into humanity's future. If you're fascinated by how societies evolve and the role of migration in shaping our world, this book will provide a rich, data-driven perspective.
Storytelling on Steroids : 10 stories that hijacked the pop culture conversation - Thryft
John Weich | Laurence King Publishing

Storytelling on Steroids : 10 stories that hijacked the pop culture conversation

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

88% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Storytelling on Steroids" is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of pop culture through stories. Weich explores how stories can connect and engage on a massive scale, using examples like Batman and TED Talks to illustrate his points. He also notes how social media has elevated the importance of storytelling, making it more personal than ever. This book is perfect for marketers, creatives, and anyone curious about how stories impact our culture.
Big Data: A Revolution That Will Transform How We Live, Work, and Think
Viktor Mayer-Schönberger, Kenneth Cukier  | Hachette

Big Data: A Revolution That Will Transform How We Live, Work, and Think

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're someone who's fascinated by the intersection of technology, economy, and society, then "Big Data" could be a thrilling read for you. It's not just about bits and bytes; it's a deep dive into how the gathering and analysis of vast data sets is reshaping the world we live in. You'll come away from this book with a new understanding of the emerging data-driven landscape, and it might even spark some ideas about how you can harness this revolution in your own life or career. Plus, it addresses the critical ethical considerations, framing the conversation for a responsible future with data.
Freakonomics
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin

Freakonomics

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

71% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

If you enjoy having your mind playfully challenged with unexpected perspectives on everyday phenomena, "Freakonomics" might just be the intellectual rollercoaster you're looking for. It's not your typical economics book; it delves into the hidden side of things you thought you knew. Steven Levitt invites you on a journey through intriguing questions, revealing that at times, what you thought was cause and effect might just be a blend of coincidence and incentive.
What the Dog Saw: And Other Adventures
Malcolm Gladwell | Back Bay Books

What the Dog Saw: And Other Adventures

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90

71% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the quirks and conundrums of daily life, "What the Dog Saw" is your kind of read. Gladwell has a knack for uncovering the extraordinary in the mundane, turning a curious gaze on everything from ketchup to canine psychology. It's not just trivial facts; it's about discovering the hidden threads that weave our world together. This book will coax your mind into viewing ordinary things through a lens of wonder and contemplation.
Establishment
New
Owen Jones | Penguin

Establishment

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$10.90

48% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Establishment" might just be the wake-up call you're looking for. Owen Jones tackles the UK's undemocratic power structures with the precision of a historian and the outrage of a citizen who cares deeply. It’s not just an exposé; it’s a compelling narrative that connects the dots between politics, media, and finance, turning complex mechanisms into a story that resonates with anyone concerned about the state of democracy. If you're ready to look behind the curtain of modern British power, this book will grip you.
Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions
Dan Ariely | Harper

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

66% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"Predictably Irrational" is a captivating exploration into the counterintuitive corners of human decision-making. Dan Ariely provides a unique blend of insightful experiments and engaging examples, making this book a fascinating journey into understanding why we often trip over our own mental wiring when making choices. It's a read that not only illuminates the quirks of the human mind but also empowers us to make more deliberate and beneficial decisions in our daily lives.
Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal - Thryft
Eric Schlosser | Harper Perennial

Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

83% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

"Fast Food Nation" is more than just an eye-opener; it's a deep dive into a cultural phenomenon that shapes how millions live. If you've ever enjoyed the convenience of a quick meal but sensed an underlying issue with the industry, Eric Schlosser's rigorous investigation and engaging storytelling will confirm your suspicions and then some. It's the kind of book that doesn't just inform you; it transforms the way you view every bite.
Social and Cultural Anthropology: A Very Short Introduction
John Monaghan, Peter Just  | Oxford University Press

Social and Cultural Anthropology: A Very Short Introduction

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$10.90

In stock: Very Good

This book takes anthropology off the high shelf and places it right in your hands. With Just and Monaghan, you'll dive into what makes us distinctly human and how our cultures shape us, all while getting glimpses of real fieldwork. Whether you're a student or just curious about the complexities of human societies, this book distills vast concepts into digestible insights that will broaden your perspective on what it means to be part of this global village.

Sociology Books

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Politics Books

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Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Industry on Earth
Rachel Maddow | Crown

Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Industry on Earth

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$16.90 $9.90 41% off

In stock: Like New

Maddow's "Blowout" offers a daring and insightful tour of the murky intersections between global politics and the oil industry. Her sharp wit pierces through the complex narrative, unearthing the impact of fossil fuels on corruption, democracy, and global unrest. If you're eager to understand how these forces shape our world, Maddow serves as an incisive guide, ready to challenge your perceptions about the oil that fuels our lives literally and figuratively.
Please Just F* Off It's Our Turn Now: Challenging the Baby Boomers - Thryft
Ryan Heath | Pluto Press Australia

Please Just F* Off It's Our Turn Now: Challenging the Baby Boomers

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 2.71

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

In stock: Very Good

If you're feeling like your voice isn't heard in a sea of established norms, Ryan Heath's book could resonate with you. It's a bit of a battle cry for younger generations, sprinkled with wit that makes it a lively read, and it invites you to think critically about generational dynamics at play. Whether you're a Baby Boomer, Gen X, or a Millennial, it's a conversation starter that will either rile you up or validate your experiences.
The Price of Inequality
New
Joseph E. Stiglitz | W. W. Norton & Company

The Price of Inequality

$22.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$22.90

In stock: Like New

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If You Want Something Done: Leadership Lessons from Bold Women
Nikki R. Haley | St. Martin's Press

If You Want Something Done: Leadership Lessons from Bold Women

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.87

$10.90

44% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

Nikki Haley's book could resonate with you if you're seeking a surge of empowerment, especially through the lens of female leadership. It's more than just an analysis; it's full of personal anecdotes and stories that salute the strength and determination of women who've made an impact. Reading it might just kindle that fire within you to lead and achieve with boldness and confidence.
Hard Choices
Hillary Rodham Clinton | Simon & Schuster

Hard Choices

$16.90 $11.20 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$16.90 $11.20 34% off

79% off est. retail

In stock: Like New, Very Good, Well Read

If you’re intrigued by the intricate workings of global politics and diplomacy, "Hard Choices" might be an engaging read for you. Hillary Clinton gives a personal yet detailed account of her time as Secretary of State, making complex international issues accessible. Her candid reflections on high-stakes decisions offer a unique glimpse into the life of a top-level diplomat and could deepen your understanding of recent historical events.
Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela | Hatchette Book Group

Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

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Modi@20: Dreams Meet Delivery
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BlueKraft Digital Foundation, Sudha Murty, Sadhguru  | Rupa Publication

Modi@20: Dreams Meet Delivery

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$27.90

58% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're keen on understanding the significant political shifts in India, "Modi@20" might be an insightful read. It doesn't just chronicle Modi's tenure but also provides a comprehensive view of his political strategies and governance style. The contributors are subject matter experts who delve into the nuances of Modi's impact on India, making it a substantive resource for anyone interested in contemporary Indian politics.
Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Leadership in War and Peace
Leon Panetta, Jim Newton  | Penguin Press

Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Leadership in War and Peace

$20.90 $14.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$20.90 $14.90 29% off

73% off est. retail

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Double X Economy

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$13.90

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LASKAS Jeanne Marie | Bloomsbury Circus

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$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.45

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

80% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

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Politics Books

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