In a nation where the mythology of freedom is so doggedly written in the minds and hearts of its citizens, an unusual gift and talent is required to see beyond the slogans of sublime intentions or constant political artifice. And to further have the courage to staple that vision or idea to the public bulletin boards, where it is sure to provoke harsh criticism from the many who will not be free enough in their minds and thoughts to begin to understand, is honorable.

Lock Step and Dance speaks to the contemporary context of bondage. It shows us the prisons we see and do not see by illuminating the inmates, the wardens, and the governors, and why they are and do what they do. In it we see the struggle for language and representation and the struggle for ownership of one's person.

The book ferries us aptly across a number of cultural enclaves, while explaining the author's position; however, even with the obvious affinity and knowledge shown for areas of Hip Hop, I would like to have seen the issues explored further still through her foray into this significant cultural explosion.

Lockstep and Dance, by examining the modern imprisonment of African American men, and the literal and the unseen "prison writ large," points to the way to make the reality of freedom closer to the cherished mythology. By examining the historical inhumanities of America, it opens us to greater possibilities of humanity. If we have the courage to read with open minds as the author has the courage to write, we may find a deeper meaning in a 21st century obligation to define ourselves as a species that improves upon our transgressions rather than a species that continues to live them out.

I think the book is right on the mark.

The other review posted so far for this work resorts to ad hominem attacks on Tucker and does readers the disservice of a review so distasteful, they might accidentally hold the critic's words against this text.

Dr. Tucker's insights into such interesting topics as advertising and athletics required extensive research--and her approach is thoughtful and intelligent. Her work will likely strike a cord with anyone interested in the fields of popular culture or African American studies. I sincerely hope that Tucker turns her academic lens toward African American women; such a work would further the strides that _Lockstep and Dance_ makes as it explores what black and white mean in visual and verbal representations in the U.S.