Aiden Wakefield

Growing Up Black in Rural Mississippi

By Chalmers Archer

 Book Review by Aiden Wakefield

Growing Up Black in Rural Mississippi is Chalmers Archer’s personal story about what it was like growing up Black in the segregated South. He talks about the struggles that he and his family faced, like racism, poverty, and the constant threat of violence. But at the same time, he also shows the strength of his community and the values that helped him push through the toughest times.

  Archer focused on was family. His parents and grandparents played a huge role in teaching him the importance of hard work, education, and standing strong despite the challenges he faced. Even though life was unfair and full of obstacles, the family always encouraged him to keep going.

 School was another major part of his story. Education wasn’t easy for Black kids at the time, but Archer was determined to learn. Eventually, he joined the military, which provided him with an opportunity to escape the harsh realities of the South and gain a different perspective on the world.

 This book isn’t just about the bad stuff that Archer had to endure—it’s also about hope, culture, and survival. Archer gives an honest look at what life was really like for Black families in the South, and his story is a reminder of how strong people can be, regardless of the circumstances--especially when the odds are stacked against them.

  I enjoyed this book because it provided a genuine and personal glimpse of what it was like to grow up Black in the segregated South. The author doesn’t just talk about the struggles; he brings you into his world, making you feel the pain, fear, and frustration of living under racism, as well as the love, strength, and hope that kept him going. From reading the book, you can picture everything, from the dusty roads of Mississippi to the close-knit communities that supported each other through tough times. It’s emotional, eye-opening, and very inspiring.