A Fool's Errand

Creating the National Museum of African American History and Culture in the Age of Bush, Obama, and Trump

By: Lonnie G. Bunch III

Narrated by: JD Jackson

In its first four months of operation, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture surpassed one million visits and quickly became a cherished, vital monument to the African American experience. And yet this accomplishment was never assured. In A Fool's Errand, founding director Lonnie Bunch tells his story of bringing his clear vision and leadership to realize this shared dream of many generations of Americans.

Outlining the challenges of site choice, architect selection, building design, and the compilation of an unparalleled collection of African American artifacts, Bunch also delves into his personal struggles - especially the stress of a high-profile undertaking - and the triumph of establishing such an institution without mentors or guidebooks to light the way. His memoir underscores his determination to create a museum that treats the Black experience as an essential component of every American's identity.

This inside account of how Bunch planned, managed, and executed the museum's mission informs and inspires not only listeners working in museums, cultural institutions, and activist groups, but also those in the nonprofit and business worlds who wish to understand how to succeed - and do it spectacularly - in the face of major political, structural, and financial challenges.

©2019 Lonnie G. Bunch III and Smithsonian Institution (P)2020 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

Master Class for those in GLAM professions

This is a master class in the step-by-step journey of turning an inspired vision into a magnificent and enduring reality. It made me proud and motivated.

A must read

Not just a recounting of an incredible journey to achieve the impossible, it is a template for everyone wanting to be a leader. Lonnie Bunch is honest, vulnerable and at times absolutely heroic. His team of superstars must never be forgotten for what they gave to America.

Rich storytelling of very interesting highlights

This is an amazing account of Lonnie Bunch’s more than a decade long journey to build an institution beyond the description that the word ‘monumental’ can convey.
As a builder of a much, much smaller (at present) institution Kamit Preparatory Institute, I am more than inspired!!
Through this account, I know that my staff and I will earn the Gifts outlined in the epilogue.
Thanks, Mr. Bunch, and thanks to your, and our, ancient and modern ancestors who guided you in this journey. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

Excellent on Every Level

Wow! What an experience; Lonnie Bunch is an excellent writer. I am so impressed with A Fool’s Errand that I actually bought the book so that I could read along with the nation.
Thank You

Enhanced Visit

I was eager to read the book after visiting the museum recently. I found the story enlightening and a great added bonus to my experience.