A review by britakate
Cuz: The Life and Times of Michael A. by Danielle S. Allen

Allen's memoir about her cousin Michael tells a far too familiar story - as she writes again and again, he is "one of so many millions gone." I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for her to turn the analytical gaze of her academic training to the life of a dear family member. The ethicist's perspective is illuminating, but in the end, her personal connection to the story - to the *person* - shines stronger. I was particularly struck by the first section, in which the narrative alternates between Michael's release from prison and his murder. It's an intentionally jarring contrast that illustrates the injustice of his experience in the criminal "justice" system as well as anything.