Built from the Fire: The Epic Story of Tulsa’s Greenwood District, America’s Black Wall Street

In his vibrant debut, journalist Lukerson chronicles Tulsa’s Greenwood District, the nexus of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Lukerson delves into the district’s history, from the neighborhood’s acme in the early 20th century through its nadir, as unthinkable violence was wrought upon its residents. The author relates the area’s nascent recovery, detailing efforts at urban renewal, including building the ONEOK baseball field and completing Interstate 244, which runs directly through the district. Most important, he communicates the brighter future envisioned by descendants of the massacre’s victims. He highlights the multigenerational histories of several leading business families thriving in the booming Greenwood economy at the time of the massacre, drawing upon oral histories of survivors, newspaper accounts, and historical records. Actor and narrator JD Jackson offers an even, sober performance, allowing the narrative to speak for itself. His voice is soothing even when relaying the horrific events of May 31–June 1, 1921, and the innumerable injustices in the 100 years since.