Picture a storyteller who weaves America’s past into gripping narratives that pulse with relevance—meet Paul Kendrick! This Chicago-based non-fiction author, public servant, and educator has carved a niche in American historical literature with books like Nine Days and Douglass and Lincoln. With a knack for uncovering overlooked moments, Kendrick’s work bridges history and hope, making the past feel as urgent as today.
From his days in President Obama’s administration to leading Rust Belt Rising, Kendrick’s life is a tapestry of storytelling and social good. Let’s dive into the journey of this writer whose words illuminate the struggles and triumphs of America’s soul.
The Making of Paul Kendrick
Paul Kendrick grew up with a passion for justice and storytelling, sparked by his early years in a nation wrestling with its identity. A graduate of George Washington University, where he earned the Martin Luther King Award for service, Kendrick’s path blended activism and academia. His Master of Public Administration and work in GW’s Office of Government and Community Affairs honed his knack for connecting with communities—skills he’d later pour into his writing and leadership.
Kendrick’s career kicked off in the public sphere, serving in Obama’s White House Presidential Personnel Office, recruiting diverse talent for the administration. This role, coupled with his work on campaigns like Governor J.B. Pritzker’s, shaped his understanding of power, progress, and the people who drive change—themes that echo in his books.
Paul Kendrick’s Unforgettable Stories
Kendrick’s books, co-authored with his father Stephen, are masterclasses in historical storytelling, blending meticulous research with narrative flair. His debut, Douglass and Lincoln, dives into the unlikely alliance between Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two self-made men who reshaped America’s fight against slavery. Praised by Kirkus Reviews as a “wise and sensitive appreciation,” it’s a vivid portrait of their three pivotal meetings and shared struggles.
In Nine Days, Kendrick shifts to 1960, capturing the electrifying moment when Martin Luther King Jr.’s arrest became a turning point in the presidential election. This “masterly and often riveting” account (New York Times Book Review) spotlights the Kennedy campaign’s audacious efforts to free King, revealing unsung heroes like Louis Martin. Kendrick’s third book, Sarah’s Long Walk, explores the free Black community of Boston and their fight for equality, earning accolades as one of 2005’s best nonfiction works by the Christian Science Monitor.
Kendrick’s style is immersive yet accessible, weaving personal stories with political battles. His themes—interracial collaboration, justice, and resilience—resonate with readers eager to understand America’s past and present. Each book feels like a conversation with history, inviting readers to reflect on today’s challenges.
Why Paul Kendrick Matters
Paul Kendrick’s impact stretches beyond the page. As Executive Director of Rust Belt Rising, he trains Midwest leaders to connect with working families, registering thousands of voters in Wisconsin and Michigan. As an adjunct professor at National Louis University, he inspires students to engage with history and civic life. His work in Obama’s administration and community organizing reflects a commitment to equity that infuses his writing.
Kendrick’s books don’t just recount history—they challenge us to act. By spotlighting moments of courage and collaboration, he reminds us that change is possible, even in divided times. His storytelling bridges generations, making him a vital voice in American historical literature.
- Born: Details unavailable, but active in Chicago
- Key Works: Douglass and Lincoln (2008), Nine Days (2021), Sarah’s Long Walk (2004)
- Awards: Kirkus Reviews’ Best of 2008 (Douglass and Lincoln), New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice (Nine Days)
- Fun Fact: Kendrick served in Obama’s White House and worked on J.B. Pritzker’s campaign.
Ready to time-travel through America’s defining moments? Grab Nine Days or Douglass and Lincoln and let Paul Kendrick’s vibrant storytelling sweep you away!