Heather Ann Thompson's Blood in the Water combines meticulous research with compelling narrative. Critics praise its depth, scholarly rigor, and emotional impact. However, some find its extensive detail overwhelming. Overall, it's celebrated as a powerful, essential account of the Attica Prison uprising.

Readers captivated by Blood in the Water by Heather Ann Thompson are likely interested in historical accounts, criminal justice issues, and civil rights. Fans of The New Jim Crow and The Warmth of Other Suns will find this in-depth examination of the Attica prison uprising and its aftermath compelling and enlightening.

Blood in the Water by Heather Ann Thompson explores the 1971 uprising at Attica prison, its violent retaking by state forces, and the subsequent legal and political repercussions. The book delves into the causes of the revolt, including overcrowding and inhumane conditions, the state's brutal response, and the ongoing struggle for justice by inmates and hostages' families against a backdrop of cover-ups and prosecutions. The book contains detailed discussions of violence, torture, and state brutality.

Informative / Dark / Challenging / Unnerving / Melancholic

- Blood in the Water by Heather Ann Thompson won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for History, offering a deep dive into the ramifications and aftermath of the 1971 Attica Prison uprising.
- Heather Ann Thompson spent over a decade researching and writing Blood in the Water, utilizing previously unreleased documents and firsthand interviews with key figures and witnesses.
- The book not only explores the Attica uprising itself but also examines the broader themes of justice, incarceration, and civil rights, earning critical acclaim for its detailed narrative and thorough research.

Heather Ann Thompson

Adult

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Nonfiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Blood in the Water and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Blood in the Water Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Tinderbox”

Introduction-Part 1

Blood in the Water Introduction-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Power and Politics Unleashed”

Part 2 Blood in the Water Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Sound Before the Fury”

Part 3 Blood in the Water Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Retribution and Reprisals Unimagined”

Part 4 Blood in the Water Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Reckonings and Reactions”

Part 5 Blood in the Water Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Inquiries and Diversions”

Part 6 Blood in the Water Part 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Justice on Trial”

Part 7 Blood in the Water Part 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8: “Blowing the Whistle”

Part 8 Blood in the Water Part 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 9: “David and Goliath”

Part 9 Blood in the Water Part 9 Summary & Analysis

Part 10: “A Final Fight”

Part 10-Epilogue

Blood in the Water Part 10-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

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Themes

Blood in the Water Themes

Index of Terms

Blood in the Water Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Blood in the Water Essay Topics

Blood in the Water

Before You Read

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