To Tell the Truth Freely: The Life of Ida B. Wells

In "To Tell the Truth Freely: The Life of Ida B. Wells," author Mia Bay delves into the indomitable spirit of a woman born into slavery in 1862, who rose to become a formidable figure in the fight for racial justice and gender equality. Ida B. Wells's journey from a childhood in Mississippi to becoming a pioneering journalist and activist in Memphis and later Chicago is brought to life with rich detail and compelling narrative. Rejecting compromises and challenging the moderating influences of her time, Wells's stance as a "dangerous radical" only underscores her critical role in shaping the civil rights movements and her unyielding advocacy against lynching. Published on February 2, 2010, this biography is essential for college students studying social justice, providing not only a historical account of Wells's impactful life but also echoing her relentless pursuit of truth and equality in today's ongoing struggles against racial and gender discrimination. This book challenges readers to reflect on how one individual's unwavering resolve can inspire broad societal change.