If you are looking for a biography of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, look elsewhere, for this is more the memoir of a place. I do not use the words “memoir” and “place” carelessly, as King so expertly writes the facts (primary sources, direct quotes) and the cast of characters that what emerges is a unique snapshot; one that works as a case history of a state often overlooked as southern: Florida. 

It is obvious why I needed to read this book. The events in this book took place right outside my door, and I believe it is necessary to recall the pain, blood, and trauma that this land holds. The current governor must know the power of this history, too, or he would not be attempting to outlaw it (google “stop WOKE”). This case calls to mind the more recent lynchings of Trayvon Martin and Amaud Arbery. 

More than a description of court cases, this book is about the white supremacy that needled its way into every system in America. Like water to limestone, it was seeped into the very foundation. King illustrates how white supremacy does not only operate because of cops in the KKK (although that does feature in this history) but also because of union-busting, unfair labor laws, capitalism, etc. He points out the state leaders who can only be convinced to renounce white supremacy when it benefits the economy. Here, King doesn’t make you work, but makes the connections for you, which I appreciate. Although I acknowledge that there are many “side stories” in this book and it jumps around quite a lot, I think it serves the purpose of providing important historical context.  

“Devil in the Grove'' is also a gripping true crime book. The lack of jargon makes it accessible and the writing creates a tense atmosphere that a reader can get lost in. 

In this day and age, this book can serve as a call to action for those in Florida and elsewhere and should be required reading for white people attempting to understand the American South.