James L. Swanson's Chasing King’s Killer is praised for its gripping narrative and thorough research, making history accessible and engaging for young readers. Critics laud its comprehensive examination of the events leading up to and following Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. However, some feel the book could benefit from a more nuanced exploration of racial issues.

A reader who would enjoy Chasing King's Killer by James L. Swanson is likely a history and true crime enthusiast, particularly interested in the civil rights movement and the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Those who appreciated Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer or Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Reilly may find this book equally compelling.

Chasing King's Killer by James L. Swanson traces the journey of Martin Luther King Jr. from his rise in the civil rights movement to his tragic assassination by James Earl Ray, detailing Ray’s troubled background, his escape from prison, and subsequent manhunt. Swanson explores the convergence of these two historical figures, highlighting the twists of fate and lasting impact of King's legacy on the United States.

Informative / Dark / Suspenseful / Mysterious / Emotional

- Chasing King's Killer by James L. Swanson delves into the detailed events surrounding the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., through a thrilling narrative style that feels like a suspense novel.
- The author, James L. Swanson, is known for his meticulous research and ability to bring historical events to life, as seen in his previous acclaimed work Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer.
- Swanson's book provides not just a pursuit of the assassin but also paints a vivid portrait of the era's social and political upheaval, giving readers context around this pivotal moment in American history.

**Martin Luther King, Jr.**  
An influential leader of the civil rights movement known for his commitment to nonviolent protest and equality, facing significant opposition and violence during his struggle for justice.

**James Earl Ray**  
The convicted assassin of Martin Luther King, Jr., known for his criminal background and escape from prison, whose motives for the crime remain unclear.

**John F. Kennedy**  
The 35th president of the United States, known for his complex relationship with the civil rights movement and for assisting King during a notable arrest.

**Lyndon B. Johnson**  
The U.S. president succeeding Kennedy, recognized for signing the Civil Rights Act and his initial support of King's efforts before their relationship soured over the Vietnam War.

**Ralph Abernathy**  
A close friend and collaborator of King in the civil rights movement, who took up leadership roles after King’s assassination.

**Coretta Scott King**  
Martin Luther King, Jr.'s wife and supporter, who continued his work in the civil rights movement and preserved his legacy after his death.

**Malcolm X**  
A civil rights leader known for advocating more aggressive tactics compared to King’s nonviolent approach, illustrating varied strategies within the movement.

**J. Edgar Hoover**  
The FBI director who was a staunch critic of King, overseeing extensive surveillance and later in charge of the investigation into King’s murder.

**Robert F. Kennedy**  
The U.S. attorney general who authorized wiretapping of King, his assassination followed closely after King’s, adding to the national turmoil of the era.

**Izola Ware Curry**  
The woman who attempted to assassinate King in 1958, later deemed mentally disturbed and confined to a mental institution.

James L. Swanson

Biography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Chasing King's Killer 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.

Chasing King's Killer Summary and Study Guide

Background

Chasing King's Killer Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Introduction to Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Civil Rights Movement”

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 4

Chasing King's Killer Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-10

Chasing King's Killer Part 1, Chapters 5-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “A Collision Course”

Part 2, Chapters 11-12

Chasing King's Killer Part 2, Chapters 11-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Assassination”

Part 3, Chapters 13-17

Chasing King's Killer Part 3, Chapters 13-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Manhunt!”

Part 4, Chapters 18-22

Chasing King's Killer Part 4, Chapters 18-22 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapter 23-Epilogue

Chasing King's Killer Part 4, Chapter 23-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Chasing King's Killer Key Figures

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Themes

Chasing King's Killer Themes

Index of Terms

Chasing King's Killer Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

Chasing King's Killer Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Chasing King's Killer Essay Topics

Chasing King's Killer: The Hunt for Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Assassin

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read Chasing King's Killer?

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