A review by thoughtsfromapage
Black Bottom Saints by Alice Randall

4.0

This literary gem pays homage to Detroit’s iconic neighborhood, Black Bottom, and the individuals who contributed to its prominence and reputation as a hub for fashion, jazz, sports and politics from the 1920s through the mid-20th century. At the end of his life, Joseph “Ziggy” Johnson, former gossip columnist and emcee at one of the area’s fabled night clubs, narrates this creative and stunning tale recounting the story of his life, the community, and the 52 “saints” that helped shape Black Bottom. From well-known names like Joe Louis to locals lost to history, Johnson relates the lives of these storied men and women while pairing a cocktail recipe that he feels evokes the character of each saint. With glittering prose and a unique voice, Randall highlights an important time period in this country’s history.

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