Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Bible of Black Prosperity: Reclaiming Lost Black Wealth by Woody R. Clermont examines the historical and systemic reasons behind the racial wealth gap in America. The book provides a thorough analysis of the economic, social, and legal systems that have influenced Black prosperity and offers a detailed plan for rebuilding wealth in Black communities. Clermont starts by exploring the historical roots of economic inequality, tracing the legacy of slavery, segregation, and discriminatory policies that have systematically kept Black Americans from building wealth. Through stories of thriving Black neighborhoods like Greenwood, Hayti, and Bronzeville, the author showcases the ingenuity and self-reliance that once defined these communities, stressing the importance of circulation and reinvestment within them.

Woody R. Clermont doesn’t just focus on the past; he offers solutions, including innovative ideas such as a Black Stock Exchange, reparative fiscal tools, and community wealth vehicles. These proposals are based on data and historical examples, showing how targeted investments and cooperative models can change the economic landscape. The focus on intergenerational wealth, education, and housing as drivers of equity highlights the importance of structural design in achieving lasting prosperity. The author also introduces the concept of psychological infrastructure, arguing that restoring confidence, trust, and cultural pride is as critical as financial repair. He proposes metrics to measure mindset recovery, such as risk tolerance, local reinvestment, and cultural confidence indices, which add a unique dimension to the discussion of economic justice. The Bible of Black Prosperity combines historical analysis with forward-thinking strategies, offering a vision of an economy that prioritizes inclusion, ownership, and shared prosperity. Clermont's work is a significant contribution to the ongoing dialogue about economic equity and justice.