Shift Happens

April 1, 2024
In this exhaustive work, Mann (The Degenerates) offers an absorbing look at labor in the U.S., focusing on essential workers and the gig economy. Chapters divided into eras based on changing political and labor practices begin with Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) and his violent tactics to secure resources in 1942, and conclude with the implications of Covid-19. The impact of major historical moments, including the Great Depression and the civil rights movement, is engagingly explored alongside clear definitions of economic theories and principles. Mann furthermore emphasizes the exploitation of racial and gender inequalities by highlighting the ways in which white privilege and government policies ensured the success of figures such as Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, and John D. Rockefeller. Flippant phrasing (“God was super busy killing and maiming railroad men”) is sometimes jarring, and more recent periods are less thoroughly examined than their predecessors. Still, the narrative’s laser focus on organizing heroes and essential employees, and the power of unions and striking workers to enact change, results in powerful storytelling. Mann’s use of quoted documents and speeches, as well as a comprehensive bibliography, reflects extensive research. Ages 13–up. Agent: Michael Bourret, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret.

April 15, 2024
Grades 8-12 Mann's comprehensive look at labor history brings to light the struggles of the U.S. working class in a cheeky, engaging way. With a brief account of colonialism in North America, readers dive into U.S. history and gain a new perspective on why the idea of the "American Dream" ultimately suppressed rather than uplifted the working class, who suffered, struggled, and fought hard, sometimes fatally, for workers' rights. Unlike the vision of societal progress depicted in U.S. history books, Mann reveals that it wasn't an easy, smooth experience that benefited and united the population: rather, many historical turning points were characterized by discrimination, racism, sexism, inequality, and violence toward BIPOC people, women, disabled individuals, and other marginalized communities. Mann traces this history to our current moment, showcasing how Americans, especially those in marginalized communities, have been affected by the rapid growth of democracy and capitalism. Unabashedly not a textbook, Mann's introduction to the history of labor is full of sharp, galvanizing points that will keep readers engaged and help them look critically at some of our entrenched systems.

COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

April 15, 2024
A chronicle of the area comprising the present-day U.S. beginning in 1492 and told through the history of the labor movement. Starting with Christopher Columbus--who "fanboyed [Marco] Polo hard" and set out in search of Asia--and moving forward to the union strikes of 2023, Mann explores the often oppressive, abusive, and bloody history of labor conditions and the merciless rise of capitalism with wit, snark, and comprehensive context. Taking a linear approach and covering colonization, slavery, industrialization, two waves of Red Scares, economic depressions, and neoliberalism, the text shows how difficult the fight for workers' rights has been and how capitalism has depended on oppression. Highlighting incidents that aren't often taught in schools (such as the Thibodaux Massacre of 1887 in Louisiana and the 1914 Ludlow Massacre in Colorado), Mann explains how government agencies were often employed to restrain and even kill workers who were fighting for their rights and how narratives of union corruption have been utilized to breed distrust. Readers learn that white male workers benefited most often from any progress made in assuring better working conditions and pay. The short, engaging chapters keep the narrative moving along at a quick clip, and the conversational tone makes this a compelling reading that celebrates the ways unions have saved lives. Riveting, enlightening, infuriating, and timely: compulsory reading. (source notes, bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 13-18)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Starred review from May 1, 2024

Gr 9 Up-Contemporary, conversational, and sometimes profane, this work recounts a captivating exploration of the journey of American workers, seamlessly weaving together humor, historical anecdotes, and perceptive analysis. From Marco Polo to the recent pandemic's impact on the workforce, it offers a comprehensive overview of labor struggles, triumphs, and the enduring fight for social justice. The author delves into the evolution of labor unions from ancient guilds, revealing the relentless efforts of the wealthy and privileged to exploit and suppress the working class. With vivid details and well-researched content, the narrative exposes the collusion between government and big business to undermine labor movements, perpetuate inequality, and endorse injustices against marginalized communities. Little-known labor leaders are recounted, and their hardships and tenacity are applauded. Throughout the book, capitalism, socialism, and communism are portrayed with nuance, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses in shaping the labor landscape. Students interested in history, economics, and social justice will find this a compelling read. Its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking insights make it accessible to a wide audience. While acknowledging the fluidity of the contemporary labor landscape, Mann offers timeless lessons and inspires readers to critically examine power dynamics in society. The inclusion of an index and extensive bibliography enhances the book's value as a research tool. VERDICT Its edgy title may attract attention, but it's the compelling narrative and enlightening content that will keep readers engaged from cover to cover. A recommended read for high school students and educators alike.-Lynne Stover

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.