Focusing on the intersection of race, property, and ethics, Lovalerie King analyzes the portrayal of African Americans as thieves within the context of American law and culture. By examining over thirty literary works, including key autobiographies and novels, she reveals how stereotypes are shaped by historical and legal frameworks from slavery to Jim Crow. King employs critical race theory to discuss themes of economic inequality and the ethics of passing, ultimately demonstrating how African American literature intricately navigates the complexities of race and property ownership.
