Book Description

The now-classic memoir that shocked, outraged, and ultimately changed the way America looked at the civil rights movement and the black experience.

By turns shocking and lyrical, unblinking and raw, the searingly honest memoirs of Eldridge Cleaver are a testament to his unique place in American history.Cleaver writes in Soul on Ice, "I'm perfectly aware that I'm in prison, that I'm a Negro, that I've been a rapist, and that I have a Higher Uneducation." What Cleaver shows us, on the pages of this now classic autobiography, is how much he was a man. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Stands the test of time
I've spent the last thirty-two years being reminded of the brutal honesty and truth of much of this classical work on race, sex, and poverty by Eldridge Cleaver. I was honestly shocked by some of the sexual/racial ideas it contains the first time I read it in 1968, and decided to try it again to see if my present understanding of and assumptions about America now render this work moot- or affirm it.

Not surprisingly, as much as I'd like to confirm or refute this work, the jury still won't come in and remains out. You should read this book if you've thought deeply about the "why" of our race problem in America, our prison problem in America, or the psychology of gender. You really owe this one to your real-world educational and intellectual development, whether you agree with it, or like it, or not. It will challenge, frustrate, and in the end, inspire you to look deeper. Great achievement; makes you wonder what extraordinary things never surfaced from inside this man's mind.

A must-read from the 20th century.

Not to be confused with Leave it to Beaver
Even though this was one of the most important and popular books of the 1960s, it is not discussed that much now, some thirty-five years after its initial publication. "Soul on Ice" is as much an allegorical masterpiece as it is a real description of black male (whom he refers to as Supermasculine Menials) attitudes towards prison-life, white racism (and white women in particular, who are here referred to as Ogres and the Ultrafeminines) and the Nation of Islam (Cleaver writes compellingly about his disassociation with the Nation, citing their racism--"The onus of teaching racial supremacy and hate, which is the white man's burden, is pretty hard to bear"). Cleaver's at-times amazing writing gives this book a peculiar power, and given this, it is easy to understand why the book was so popular in the late 1960s. For several reasons, though, it is easy to see why this book doesn't get as much attention as, say, James Baldwin's "The Fire Next Time" [1963]. The chapter on Baldwin in "Soul on Ice," entitled "Notes on a Native Son" (a reference to one of Baldwin's early essays) is exceedingly homophobic, and other sections fairly hateful towards women (even though, in this regard, Cleaver is at times aware of his own misogyny--especially in his blushingly honest letters to one-time attorney Beverly Axelrod) and exceedingly macho. Many contemporary readers might not have the patience for this (especially given Baldwin's elevated status in the world of literature). Also, this book has lost some of its bite over the years because of excellent books written by participants in the Black Power Movement and the Black Panther Party. "Soul on Ice"--especially when compared with George Jackson's "Soledad Brother" (1971), Huey P. Newton's "Revolutionary Suicide" (1973), Amiri Baraka (1984) and Angela Y. Davis' (1974) autobiographies, and Elaine Brown's "A Taste of Power" (1992)--lacks the political vision, accuracy and believability of these other books, but it should also be credited for setting some of the standards by which these books would later have to judge themselves against, especially in regard to prison life (though Jackson's "Soledad Brother" is much more powerful in this regard). Nevertheless, "Soul on Ice" is a compelling read, and I agree with a statement that Ishmael Reed makes in the introduction that this book IS the 60s. If this memoir were a western, we could smell the sawdust on the floor.

Justification for the Unjustifiable
I have seldom read anything as offensive as Cleaver's attempt to pass off rape as a "revolutionary" act. By his own admission he is a serial rapist,and if he'd served time for all of them would never even have been out of jail in the sixties in the first place! While the other content of this book isn't totally worthless, I found that Cleaver came off as a typical criminal, filled with reasons why SOMEBODY ELSE was responsible for everything he did wrong. The first step to self respect is to accept responsibility for one's actions, Cleaver has not done that, nor does he give the slightest indication that he ever will. If you want to read an autobiography of a panther read Huey Newton's, because with Newton, instead of self pity, there was substance and intelligence behind the anger.

a challenging piece of work
This autobiography upsetted alot of people, generally people who could not identify with what it was to be a young African American man post-civil rights. Cleaver reveals this to us, exposing even his own faults, the psychological enslavement of African America, and the reality of how it plays out in society. Despite those that believe that this book pertains only to this era are obviously blind to the fact that many of the same issues then exist today. What makes it worse is that many people are unaware of it now, the gimmicks of media and political correctness have only mastered camouflaging it. When I read this book, I cried, not just for my people during that era, but for my own children who will grow up in the same environment but not know it until it is too late.

"Dont Believe the Hype!"- Public Enemy, 1987 AD.

Throw your fist up!
Some people just can't accept the truth. Eldridge Cleaver tries to show the reality of blacks but the people who criticize it are the whites cant get a grip on reality. Ridicule is the burden on genious ... Read more

Book Description

Acclaimed for his writing on Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as his passionate defense of black youth culture, Michael Eric Dyson is known as the "hip-hop intellectual." With his Blackboard best seller Holler If You Hear Me, Dyson has reached his widest audience to date, bringing to life the hopes and dreams of slain hip-hop artist Tupac Shakur. Viewed by many as a "black James Dean," Tupac has attained cult status since his death six years ago, partly due to the posthumous release of several albums, three movies, and a collection of poetry. But Tupac lives on primarily because of the devotion of his loyal followers. Dyson helps us to understand why a twenty-five-year-old rapper, activist, poet, actor, and alleged sex offender looms even larger in death than he did in life. With his trademark skills of critical thinking and storytelling, Dyson examines the significance of Tupac Shakur for black youth, assessing the ways in which different elements of Shakur's persona--thug, confused prophet, fatherless child--are both vital and destructive. Deeply personal and sharply analytical at the same time, Dyson's book offers a wholly original way of looking at Tupac Shakur that will thrill those who already love the artist and enlighten those who want to understand him. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

the voice we will miss
This is an amazing weaving of the life of Tupac Shakur that many readers will find hard to put down. Though not a biographical work about Tupac, I could feel his life oozing from each page. Dr. Michael Eric Dyson's account of this "James Dean" tragic figure in black face, invites readers to look behind the social mask of hip-hop and touch the reality of being young, gifted and black in a world which often silences their voices.

What we refused to hear from Tupac while alive, Dyson amplifies in "Holler If You Hear Me." I was surprised at Tupac's self-taught scholarship and intelligence. He was a rebel with a cause. Like most of Dyson's works, he objectively tells all sides of the stories. The time taken with the numerous interviewees in the book, proves that Dyson did not rush through this text and considered the voices of people who knew Tupac well, to best tell us what Tupac could not. Dyson takes off Tupac's social mask to show the poet, the social critic, the feminist, and the god-obsessed hip-hopper.

I believe that readers will think twice, no three times, about giving narrow descriptions of urban youth after reading this book. Dyson wonderfully shows us the social construction of the "thug life."

The Other Side of Tupac
I decided to read this book after seeing Michael Eric Dyson on BET Tonight w/ Suge Knight and had to see what this book was all about. I guess Suge's igonrance and Dyson's comments were what made me have to go out and buy this book. Suge accused Dyson of writing the book to simply make money and that he did not know Tupac well enough to write a book about his life. Dyson's response was that he wrote the book so that other could see the Tupac and that only close friends knew and to say that this book should be read in public schools. No Dyson may not have known Tupac personally but the people he talked to for this book did and there is so much more to Tupac that what the media portrayed or how they portrayed him I should say. There is so much more meaning behind the words he wrote and rapped about. Tupac really did not recieve all the credit he was due.
I hope that Suge read the book althought I am sure he will still won't be able to understand what Dyson is trying to say.

I have Mixed feelings about this book
I not really sure what I think about this book. Being a big fan of Tupac, I'm interested to read any book about him because I like to see how different people view his feelings and his words. But this book really confused me. The whole time I was reading it i was wondering where it was going. It seemed to jump to a totally different subject TOO OFTEN.

If you want read a book about Tupac that will help you learn more about him and what he did. This book isnt for you. This book is really Dyson's insight on how Tupac related to other genre's and problems in the world.

I wouldnt recommend this book to many people, I dont know who I would recommend it to, to be honest. If you are a big 2pac fan, then there probably isnt anything in here that you dont know.

Half the book wanders off in other directions such as the authors view on the "n" word. Personally, If I wanted to read about that then I would read a book about it.

I'm getting mad writing this review so Im just gonna quit. THIS BOOK ISNT ANYTHING SPECIAL, IT GOT ON MY NERVES MORE THAN I ENJOYED IT!!!!

Tupac Will Never Die!!
I really enjoyed reading this book. I am 2Pac's #1 fan. I try to read everything that I can to learn more about 2Pac's life. His words are so real. His life has been amazing. I find him so interesting. I own every album that he has ever made. I think his music is so passionate and a lot of people can relate to his lifestyle. It saddens me that he only had a short time to live. He has made a great impact on many people's lives. And I believe that he will continue to do so for years to come. He's such a talented artist and I respect him so much. This book has many quotes from all the people that knew him. They give their input on his views and his lifestyle-mostly all positive. It makes people understand why he lived the way he lived. I recommend anybody who loves 2Pac to read this book.

more than just a view at Tupac, a view at a whole culture
This book offer more than just a look at this undeniably great Poet called Tupac, it also looks at the HipHop-culture describing why so many black people uses the "N-WORD" and goes all the way back to slavery to explain this, also the "B-Word" and others reasons in hiphop gets explained (which could be great if for example Right-Wing people like Bill O'Reilly would read this, becouse he is always attacking rappers on his show the factor)...

It's a good book and Michael Eric Dyson is a good writer , u can actually picture Tray-Dee from The Eastsidaz sitting at the dinner-table crying in an interview he did about Tupac in the book.

4 Stars: Quality Stuff ... Read more

Book Description

I believe it is time for America to meet the men of the 761st, common men who grew to become heroes, black men who fought for a country that often hated them, stalwart men who overcame social injustice to become men of colorblind valor. This first-of-its-kind book will…help them take their place as member of the greatest generation.
—Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

With these brief, moving words, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sets forth the feelings and the goals that inspired him to recount the courageous story of the 761st in Brothers in Arms. Jabbar first learned the story from his high school mentor and friend, Leonard “Smitty” Smith, a veteran of the Battalion. Working with acclaimed writer Anthony Walton, they interviewed the seventy surviving members of the battalion as well as battalion members' descendants to weave together a page-turning narrative based on their memories and stories, from basic training through the horrors of the battlefield, to their post-war experiences in a racially divided America. By the end of the war, the 761st—which Patton initially spurned, claiming Blacks weren't quick enough to maneuver tanks in battlefield situations—liberated some thirty towns and villages, as well as a concentration camp.

Known as “The Black Panthers,” the 761st Battalion was the first all-black tank battalion to see combat in the war. While most American units fought on the front for one to two weeks before being rotated back, the courageous men of the 761st served for more than 183 consecutive days, fighting under Patton's Third Army at the Battle of the Bulge, helping to turn back the German offensive and cut off German supply lines. They were in the vanguard of the American troops that liberated the concentration camp at Mauthausen—an effort that eventually won them recognition from the State of Israel. All this was accomplished despite a casualty rate that approached 50 percent and an extreme shortage of replacement personnel and equipment.

The unconscionable racism that shadowed these intrepid fighters during the war (black combat units were sometimes referred to as “Mrs. Roosevelt’s Niggers” because of her efforts to persuade the military to allow them to serve in combat) and the prejudices they faced when they returned home is never far from the surface of Brothers in Arms. What shines through most of all, however, are the bonds that united them as soldiers and brothers, the bravery they exhibited on the battlefield, and the quiet dignity and patriotism that defined their lives.

Reviews (6)

Not quite there on either goal!
After finishing this book I found myself a bit disappointed. It seemed that the authors were trying to accomplish two goals; To chronicle the battle history of a distinguished unit in WWII and to tell the tale of the personal struggles of the men who made up the unit and fought for their country dispite the racism and bigotry of the times. Unfortunatly the book fell short on both goals.
As has been previously mentioned; How can you tell a tale of war and heroism without a single map or diagram. Details descriptions of tactial situations are fine, but a picture, (diagram, map) is worth a thousand words. And the same is true to recount the strategic situation as well!
As for the other goal, I got the feeling that at least half the story was missing. I want to hear what happened as these brave and honorable men returned to "Normal" life in their own country and had to fight for respect and acceptance all over again. But that story simply isn't here.
It is still a great story, and a book that should be read, especially by young men looking for guidance and role models. (white as well as black!) but I just get the feeling that it could have been much more.....

Tribute long overdue
If I were to name the five most important books I'd read on WWII this one would have to be near the top. The only criticism has already been mentioned, it would be great to have theater maps that would help you get a feel for the areas in which the 761st operated. Still what comes through most forcefully for me is the courage and humanity of these soldiers. It's hard to accept that their story has taken so long to tell and that so many are no longer here to accept our thank yous.

Great Men, Very Good Book
"Brothers in Arms" the under-appreciated story of the 761 Tank Battalion, an African American armored unit attached to Patton's Third Army in World War II. In this volume, the authors assemble the unit's story from the enlisted man's perspective, an approach not attempted in earlier, more obscure histories. We therefore get the story of Leonard Smith and his friends William McBurney and Preston McNeil. Equally important to the unit's history are "Pop" Gates, the non-com who shaped teenage boys into top-notch soldiers; "Iron Man" William Crecy, whose fearless heroism spanned both World War II and Korea; and even Lt. Jackie Robinson, whose stateside brush with Jim Crow justice cost him combat experience, but allowed him to make his mark on history in other ways.

This is the sad truth of a segregated army, run by frequently indifferent white officers, with troops conducting their training in the outright hostile environs of Louisiana, Texas, and Kentucky. Men of the 761 endure the U.S. Army's last-class accommodations and treatment across the ocean to Europe, in the staging areas of England, and right up to the front line, where expediency forces them to join up with distrustful white units. Horrific combat during the winter of 1944-45 takes its toll not only in lives but also in attitudes. Proving themselves to be superlative as a fighting unit, the 761 Tank Battalion contributes to victory in Europe while paving the way for eventual desegregation of the U.S. armed forces.

What I like about this book is the thoughtful research that gives multiple dimensions to this story. The Jim Crow aspects, while well-told, are only a part of the narrative. You get an overview of the stages through which street kids are developed into troops, one camp at a time. The Sherman tank (the principle weapon of the 761) is described from the crew's standpoint. So too are battlefield artillery tactics and the role of terrain in maneuvering against an emplaced enemy. Attention is given to the lulls and pitch of battle. Passages describe foraging for food and trying to sleep in cold, steel vehicles during one of the coldest European winters of the century. A wonderful selection of photographs captures both stateside and European travels of 761. I was particularly touched by the photo of Sgt. Harvey Woodard, looking exhausted but resolute in the turret of his Sherman, apparently only hours away from his death.

What disappoints me is a lack of maps to give the reader some appreciation of the places and distances involved. Also, there is a sudden shift in narrative about two thirds of the way through. Up to that point, the reader rides along at the tank crews' perspective, particularly that of Leonard Smith. The reader is treated to the sights, sounds, fears, and humor that sustains these young men. But after the pivotal battle at Tillet, the tone shifts. The text from that point forward to the war's conclusion reads more like unit histories, where we no longer accompany the fighting men, but read the impersonal unit-level histories. Only at the very end do our heroes return, where the authors devote a paragraph to each describing their post-war lives.

"Brothers in Arms" adds to the "two fronts" battle legacy of African Americans in World War II U.S. military service who took on Jim Crow and the axis powers at the same time. I would suggest that the authors ignored a "third front," on which black officers and non-coms fought. This would be their struggle with the cynical, disaffected men in their own ranks who scoffed at black superiors as "Uncle Toms" for cooperating with "the Man." You can't tell me there weren't a few of these types in the ranks. The success of the black captains, lieutenants, and sergeants would take on even larger proportions if this truth were also told.

It is also interesting to note that an abridged version of Leonard Smith's story is included in "We Were There: Voices of African American Veterans," by Latty and Tarver. A comparison of the two volumes shows some inconsistency in the details. But the major themes remain in sync. This is not to take anything away from Leonard Smith (a hero in my book), who is finally, finally getting the recognition he is due. It is satisfying to see history made complete by filling in stories that were left untold for whatever reason. The authors are to be commended for that.

must read
i am not usually a fan of history books, but i could not put this book down. mr walton and abdul jabbar do an incredible job getting inside the head of the 761st battalion and bring us their struggle for fighting opportunities, supplies and ultimately respect. my only complaint is that the many battle sequences were hard to intepret for someone who is not a buff of history. a set of maps of timeline of the war could have been helpful.

A great book
I am a former Armor officer and was eagerly awaiting this book. The author has written a well balanced account of life as a black tanker during World War II. He goes into detail showing the differences in their training compared to white soldiers and the racism they encountered. For all the humiliation they suffered in the USA, they didn't let it get them down and soldiered on when called to fight. The battle accounts are detailed and the focus is in the soldiers and not the equipment. The only "flaw" in the book is it does not have any maps. It was kind of hard following the route of the 761st as they fought through Europe. Some of the towns I have heard of and others I didnt have a clue. Maps would have helped. But overall this book is an easy read and easy to understand and a well written account of the 761st Tank Battalion. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Words more important than packager
You can get lost in the fact that this is a collection of quotes by Oprah and not thoughts written by Oprah exclusively for this book.
Or you could be smart and glean wisdom from what she has to say.
How she grew up, what she learned from her errors, what she thinks of money and herself in relationship to it, the mental preparation to receive the abundance that she has and how she stays centered.

What I think thsi book is valuable for is insight, and perhaps personal inspiration for how to manage one's self in certain situations. The goal is not to become Oprah, it is to become the best YOU possible.

You take or you leave it, but you integrate it into the lessons and challenges of your own life. The same with John D. Rockefeller, Bill Gates, Jenny Jones (hahhahahaha----kidding).

A chronology of quotations
While this is a very interesting and well researched book on Oprah, keep in mind that it is an unauthorized biography. This book is basically a chronology of Oprah's life, and Adler does a decent job of stringing her quotes into a coherent history. A nice bonus is the section of short quotes on a wide variety of subjects. If you love Oprah, you'll probably love this book!

An unauthorized book of Oprah Winfrey quotes.
Bill Adler has taken past interviews, articles, and speeches of Oprah Winfrey and complied _his list_ of her best quotations. It's an unauthorized book - meaning Oprah didn't write it nor was she involved in the production. Some quotations show the source of information with a date and some don't -- which makes it a bit disappointing not to have the history or context pertaining to the quote. If you have an extensive Oprah collection, you'll want this book just to say you have everything, otherwise there are many other good Oprah biographies available. ... Read more

Book Description

"A GREAT AMERICAN SUCCESS STORY . . . AN ENDEARING AND WELL-WRITTEN BOOK."
--The New York Times Book Review
Colin Powell is the embodiment of the American dream. He was born in Harlem to immigrant parents from Jamaica. He knew the rough life of the streets. He overcame a barely average start at school. Then he joined the Army. The rest is history--Vietnam, the Pentagon, Panama, Desert Storm--but a history that until now has been known only on the surface. Here, for the first time, Colin Powell himself tells us how it happened, in a memoir distinguished by a heartfelt love of country and family, warm good humor, and a soldier's directness.
MY AMERICAN JOURNEY is the powerful story of a life well lived and well told. It is also a view from the mountaintop of the political landscape of America. At a time when Americans feel disenchanted with their leaders, General Powell's passionate views on family, personal responsibility, and, in his own words, "the greatness of America and the opportunities it offers" inspire hope and present a blueprint for the future. An utterly absorbing account, it is history with a vision.
"The stirring, only-in-America story of one determined man's journey from the South Bronx to directing the mightiest of military forces . . . Fascinating."--The Washington Post Book World
"Eloquent."
--Los Angeles Times Book Review
"PROFOUND AND MOVING . . . . Must reading for anyone who wants to reaffirm his faith in the promise of America."
--Jack Kemp
The Wall Street Journal
"A book that is much like its subject--articulate, confident, impressive, but unpretentious and witty. . . . Whether you are a political junkie, a military buff, or just interested in a good story, MY AMERICAN JOURNEY is a book well worth reading."
--San Diego Union Tribune
"Colin Powell's candid, introspective autobiography is a joy for all with an appetite for well-written political and social commentary."
--The Detroit News
... Read more

Reviews (64)

Great American, Yes; Great Book, No
RE: AUDIO TAPE VERSION READ BY POWELL. I am a Colin Powell admirer but a definitive biography would better be told by a skilled independent writer, and after more "chapters" in his life are complete. Powell may indeed be a man of few faults but we can't be sure of that from his own words. I disagree however with reviewers who postulate that Powell has puffed-up his own accomplishments, on the contrary he's excessively modest. Rising to the highest position in the most powerful military in world history (and now to US Sec. of State) without benefit of a West Point education & connections describes a truly extraordinary individual. And far from savaging his detractors and the many incompetants he must have encountered along the way, Powell offers only a few token, and generally mild, criticisms. This book displays insight into Powell's background, development and beliefs but sidesteps tough questions of who screwed up and when. In that sense it is highly Politic - burns no bridges - and gives one hope that Powell may yet consider an Eisenhower-like leap to the highest civilian office.

One of the most Educational Books I have ever Read
An American success story if there ever was one. Colin Powell vividly depicts his extraordinary life and career that could only take place in the setting of America. This autobiography wheels you through life in the poor neighborhoods in the Bronx to Washington Power broker. Colin Powell takes you though his life through his eyes, and into history, in some ways while reading it, I felt as though it was Forrest Gump on steroids, but the story is true.
Anyone interested in the policymaking process should read this book, as Powell describes his role as well as the role of other American leaders in making some of the most crucial decisions, the reader is swept into the pressures and challenges faced with America's leaders on a daily basis. The book delivers an account into the lives of Dick Cheney, George Bush, Ronald Reagan, and others, allowing you to take a more personal look at American leadership. It is so easy to criticize from the outside looking in, but usually criticism as well as praise, is done by the uninformed.
One aspect I found particularly educational was how Powell provided a small glimpse to me (A young white male) of an educated man, a commissioned officer of the United States Army, refused service in restaurants, and discriminated in others ways. It is a credit to Powell, how he rose above narrow-minded bigotry and focused on the positive; resisting the temptation of "victimization" to become one of the most powerful and respected men in the country. I recommend this book to anyone, black, white, Latino, male, female, liberal, or conservative.

Inspirational
Back in the early 90's, I didn't understand America's love affair with Colin Powell. It was only after he was named Secretary of State by George Bush that I read My American Journey, originally published in 1995. While the book obviously doesn't provide much insight into Powell's sudden about-face in early 2003 on whether to invade Iraq, it does provide a great deal of background and context to allow Americans to understand that Powell probably felt he exhausted his options and had no choice but to support Bush's policy or to resign. It also makes plain Powell's disdain for Dick Cheney. Clearly, Powell did not expect to be working again so closely with Cheney when he published My American Journey.

Powell's lessons are inspirational. There is a reason that Colin Powell is one of the most admired leaders in America, and his autobiography makes clear that he cares about his troops and his employees. Strange, then, that he would have forced his Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs to "retire" in 2002 rather than stand up to the pressure he must have been under from the press and other government colleagues, including, perhaps, his boss, in the wake of numerous visa scandals. That she was one of the most respected and successful Foreign Service Officers shows that even such bigger-than-life heroes as Powell are only human after all.

My American Journey includes some of Powell's setbacks as well as his achievements. His vignette about a poor efficiency report he received at a crucial stage in his career helped me deal with a similar run-in with my boss. I practically quoted Powell to my boss, but was a bit more active than Powell has himself come across. (Powell essentially resigned himself to finding a new job.) In the end, Powell's first rule prevailed: "It ain't as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning."

An Inspiration for All People!!!
Upon reading "My American Journey," I felt an enourmous sense of pride for the United States of America. Secretary Powell is an example of what people can be become through hard work and determination. In his autobiagraphy, Powell allows the reader to become aware of the challenges this country has endured and how he has over come obsticles that have been placed throughout his life.
Powell lets the reader become aware of where he stands on various important issues that have been part of both United States international and domestic policy. Even if one does not agree with him politically, we can all gain from his sense of respect and devotion to ones country. This is a must read for any one interested in the life of a great American hero.

A Hero For All Seasons
It seems everywhere you go these days, there is Secretary of State Colin Powell, "America's Promise." This book shows why. Secretary Powell's character shines through and will continue to do so despite his detractors, who are truly attacking President George W. Bush (who is distantly related) as well as anything the ultra-agenda-driven media, with their WMD (Words of Mind Destruction) 24-hour anti-Bush shark attack.

Secretary Powell's lessons on life, his devotion to his wife Alma, his service to his country and his fond recollections of being "Luther and Arie's Son" create a portrait of a multifaceted man who planted the seed, via Jamie Sepulveda-Bailey, of "The Valley's Promise," a remarkable youth organization in Palm Springs, Secretary Powell's family, including his cousin Sir Rupert A.L. Perrin, author of his own inspiring story, ORDINARY MIRACLES: My Incredible Spiritual, Artistic and Scientific Journey, are undoubtedly as remarkable as he is. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (35)

Great!
Intended to convince northerners -- particularly women -- of the rankness of Slavery, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl presents a powerful autobiography and convincing writing that reads like a gripping novel but is organized and argued like an essay.

Incidents follows the "true story" (its authenticity is doubted in some places) of Linda [Jacobs uses a pseudonym] who is born into the shackles of slavery and yearns for freedom. She lives with a depraved slave master who dehumanizes her, and a mistress who mistreats her. As the novel progresses, Linda becomes increasingly starved of freedom and resolves to escape, but Linda finds that even escaping presents its problems.

But Incidents is more than just a gripping narration of one woman's crusade for freedom, and is rather an organized attack on Slavery, intended to convince even the most apathetic of northerners. And in this too, Incidents succeeds. The writing is clear, and Jacobs' use of rhetorical strategy to preserve integrity is astonishing.

Well written, convincing, entertaining, Incidents is an amazing book.

This Story Must Be Told Often!
Incidents in the Life Of A Slave Girl is a harrowing, personal experience of a AA female born and raised during the tumultuous, infamous and tragic era of slavery in America's history. Harriett Jacobs, aka Linda Brent, tells in her own voice-one that is explicit and easy to understand-the story of a young woman born into the brutal, horrendous slavery era who later escapes to freedom in the North. Incidents is emotional and the feelings are raw as you experience the tale of a slave who desired freedom so badly that she hid for SEVEN YEARS in a narrow, cramped quarter without much freedom of movement. The story is riveting and moving and shows what an individual is able to accomplish in spite of sex, race and slavery. Incidents is a story of bravery in light of insurmountable circumstances and ones belief that they can succeed in spite of unmeasurable difficulties.

Incidents is an excellent reading selection for a bookgroup and a book that I highly recommend to everyone. Remember the story and share the story so that history doesn't repeat itself.

So many things said already...
I have read a lot of the past reviews and I consider this story as part of the American narrative that can't be dismissed. Yes, it sounds unbelivable when we look at the lives that we lead today but this was reality to so many people in the past. It takes the life of a black woman living in slavery and presents in interesting story that reads a lot like fiction. It is so easy to foget that it was real. Traditionaly women have been left out of history, especially black women, slave women... This is an unseen element of history that has to start being seen. I don't think that I could recomend a better book to read.

a bit unbelievable
But..... a fairly easy read with a simplistic viewpoint.

A priceless legacy...
Born in 1813, "Linda Brent" (as Harriet Jacobs renames herself) lived to play the role of nurse - as a free woman - during the Civil War. The long journey that took her there began on the day she realized, as a six-year-old who had just become motherless, that she was a slave.

The first mistress she served treated little Linda kindly. When the girl was 12 years old, and her mistress died, Linda and her family hoped the will might leave her free. Instead, it bequeathed her to the dead mistress's 5-year-old niece. This placed Linda under the control of Dr. Flint, her new little mistress's father, and his selfish, cruel wife. The slaves of the Flint household were always hungry, often beaten; and, if female and attractive, quite likely to bear Dr. Flint's offspring.

Linda Brent refused to submit to her master's advances. Instead she bore two children to another white man, in hopes her lover might buy and free her - which couldn't happen unless Dr. Flint, on behalf of his daughter, proved willing to sell. But Dr. Flint was anything else but willing to part with his uncooperative property. So began a long battle of wits and wills, one that for Linda had the highest stakes imaginable.

This well documented true story of a woman's life as property had trouble finding a publisher in its own era. Even today it's not easy reading. Unflinchingly honest even when she's recounting her own errors and weaknesses, Harriet Jacobs leaves the world a priceless legacy in these memoirs of her battle for freedom.

--Reviewed by Nina M. Osier, author of ROUGH RIDER ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (7)

Not just for those invloved in a gang
After reading Reymundo Sanchez's first book "My Bloody Life", i wanted to know more. I was excited when i heard there was a second autobiography! This was a great book, and needless to say, i finished it two days! Yes, there is excitement from the beginning to the end, but this isnt a book only for those involved in a gang or associated with that lifestyle. Reymundo reminds us ALL that with hardwork and determination, you too can succeed. Enjoy.

AMOR DE REY TO A TRUE KING
the book titled once a king always a king chronicles my homeboy reymundo sanchez's aftermath after a ruthless killing in humboldt park following his violation out of the Latin Kings. Being a King myself i feel that the nation at the time of king lil locos violation, took a turn for the worst when everyone lost their thirst and love for the manifesto, Big things like self respect, death before dishonor, and drug abuse became very hypocritically viewed by older brothers in the nation, thus setting the entire youth of the up and comming nation ablaze,King lil loco pointed this out when he was incarcerated in this book when he sat with an older king who was taken by Locos drive and desires. Its a goddamn shame that the only kings around who actually know whats going on are locked up. So thats why as a hard working latino who is serving his country in the middle east in a war that nobody back home appreciates, I take pride in everything that i do. I mean hell if i had to go back to my roots...and bring my roots into my life that i am living today, Id have every one of my latin brothers and sisters out here with me throwing up king love and respecting each other, But refering back to loco's new profession in corporate america, people are just as cutthroat in this profession as they are in Gangs. Call me stuck in my old ways or whatever the hell you wish. But i am a king who was brought into the nation by those who believed in restoring the nation back into the respectful organization that everyone used to love and adore. I believe one day i will rise and conquer from this crap im out here doing for my country, and continue to prosper back in my old neighborhood and become a mentor for the kids comming up in the streets i grew up in. Im all about getting the kids involved with school, sports, and being active in thier society....Proactive i mean. I hit alot of bumps on my road to becoming the respect worthy individual i am today. But reading this book showed me that anything is possible for anybody who has the heart to fight....for those who are tired of struggling....for those who can take no more and wish to fight for themselves....Im saying that the world is infinate for those who possess inner motivation. weather this be pain and sorrow combined with heartlessness, you can channel this all into something positive if you live for a brighter day. And on that note i would just love to say to my brother reymundo sanchez: Thank you for living for a brighter day, its because of you that i now think in a brighter way. Amor de rey my brother. and even though your older and have your family and something to live for, Its because of stories like yours that make it possible for me to spread the word of a better nation of latinos in my community, I plan on taking my streets back in a possitive way when i get home. I thank you for your strengths and also your confrontations of your weaknesses-"the mark of a real man" To all those reading this review if you are from a background similar reymundo's as well as my own. then i suggest you read this book. Weather you be in the lifestyle, or on the outside looking in.Lil Loco's story is extremly compelling and inspiring...one love everybody, and to all my kings educated in the old ways reading this...Amor de rey....and remember....The true meanings of the manifesto are lost, not forgotton...1
~king5150~ \^/\^/360 worldwide

outstanding
i never read a book i always got to page 1 and put it down but once i seen my older brother reading and so into the book i started to read it. When i was reading it i felt like i was there it was so cool i hope some day the people in the streets read this book to see how much he has been throgh and how much you could go throgh if you join a gang. i have learn alot reading this book. I'm not going to mess up like he did.i'll give this book 10 stars **********

All the King's Horses and All the King's Men...
"I just want to know why me, why...me!" Reymundo Sanchez wails during an explosive argument with his estranged sister about how, as a child, he suffered years of abuse at the hands of their mother. That question, which occurs about two-thirds of the way through this sorrowful memoir, haunts every page of this book, and indeed seems to have been the theme of much of Mr. Sanchez's scarred, young life.

Born in 1963 to a 16-year-old mother and a 74-year-old father in the hilltop village of Cayey, Puerto Rico, Sanchez (a nom de guerre) survived being raped and beaten by his 18-year-old cousin at age five. After his father died, his mother quickly remarried, decamped Puerto Rico, and moved the family to Chicago. There, Sanchez suffered another wave of physical and psychological torment from his mother and stepfather (and, subsequently, a third father figure named "Pedro") while his sisters seemed to escape much, if not all, of the mistreatment. At 13, Sanchez found himself alone on the mean streets of Chicago, after his mother cast him out of the family home.

By the mid-1970s, the Latin Kings had established themselves as a highly organized megagang in Chicago, and their mantra "Amor de Rey" ("King Love") seemed to hold the promise of a better, if not love-filled existence for Sanchez, who quickly joined. To his dismay, though, he found only further violence and ruinous relationships in his newly adopted "family." Still, as a gang member, there were other castaways with whom he could relate, and although he hated what was required of him to maintain his membership, at least he felt a sense of belonging.

Eventually, even the brotherhood of the Kings proved to be an illusion, and for the next ten blood-splattered years, Sanchez existed at the fringes of society on the unkindness of strangers and on a steady diet of alcohol, cocaine, and loveless sex. In the name of the Latin Kings, he also returned to society much of the brutality that had been inflicted upon him, by participating in the usual gang fare of beatings, shootings, and other acts of violence and revenge.

Most of these events are chronicled in Sanchez's first book, My Bloody Life: The Making of a Latin King (Chicago Review Press, 2000), a savage record of a young immigrant's cold life on the streets, whose hopeful finale had Sanchez quitting the Latin Kings and thinking ahead to college.

In this tortured sequel, Sanchez lets us know that that is not how things turned out.

Like Michael Corleone in The Godfather, Part III, Sanchez proved no match for the lure of la familia, and was pulled back into the thick of the Latin Kings" lucrative drug trade, despite numerous attempts to stay out. He acknowledges that trying to give up gang life "is like trying to quit an addiction."

After he was arrested and convicted on a drug trafficking charge, the young gangbanger spent two years in a state prison, which, he says, turned out to be his salvation. Sanchez reports that it was a turning point in his life, and freely admits that, paradoxically, it was his membership in the Latin Kings that afforded him that singular opportunity. He used his time inside to educate himself, to write, and to begin reflecting on all that happened in his life -- this time from an adult perspective, and in relative seclusion.

In a series of emotional hemorrhages, Sanchez resurrects his tangled past, in particular, several ill-starred sexual relationships he had with women he mistook for people who cared, in part, one would imagine, out of a desperate need to relieve his own immense suffering, to feel loved, and to feel, finally, a sense of belonging to someone, anyone. Only in a coda tacked on at the end of the book does he reveal perhaps the real source of his impulsive behavior, and it's as eye-opening as it is troubling.

While the first half of Once a King focuses on Sanchez's misdeeds as a "restored" member of the Latin Kings, the second half centers around his life-redeeming but ultimately ill-fated relationship with a discontented feminist named Marilyn. Marilyn seems to be the first person in Sanchez's life who challenges his intellect, and whom he can trust with the knowledge of his horrific past. It is therefore devastating to Sanchez when she uses his past against him in a heated and ultimately violent exchange that alters their relationship forever. As Sanchez recalls: "The one and only person I had ever opened up to about that experience with my cousin had just used my own words to destroy me."

But destroy him it didn't. In a final chapter titled "Here and Now," Sanchez seems to have achieved another level of self-awareness and acceptance, even if he still seems disquieted about the past. Although his family's lifelong indifference toward him still haunts him, he has come to terms with it.

As a sequel to My Bloody Life, Once a King is best understood in the context of the earlier book. Like its predecessor, it is a somber, intense pathography, but offers a somewhat deeper insight into its author's tender psyche.

Sanchez's narrative style is effortless and evocative; its power lies in the naked honesty with which he chronicles his ultimate deliverance from the past. There are times when it seems he is revealing too much about himself; at other times, it's hard not to want to reach through the page, extract him from the situation he's in, and give him a life-affirming hug. Though the prose has its flaws ("Hearing the name made me mentally reminisce about the old days") and occasional cliches ("I had been robbed of my childhood and young adulthood"), Sanchez hits his mark so often, and with such resonance and candor, that it is easy to forgive him the occasional miss. --Jeff Evans, author of Undoing Time: American Prisoners in Their Own Words

Incredibly Real
I enjoy reading, in fact their is nothing that I enjoy more then curling up with a good book. I finished Part I, and when I realized their was a part II I ran to the bookstore and picked it up, this book is amazing, very easy to read, keeps you captivated from the moment you start to reading it, very exciting, and you only wish you can locate his mother and find out why she did the things she did. I am a native of Chicago and very familiar with all of the streets, and even Bellas Pizza, you only wish you could have been around to give the author the love he needed growing up. An excellent book, I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

Eight-time Grammy Award®-winner CeCe Winans has broken new ground as a superstar of gospel: her celebrated career includes Platinum and Gold albums, collaborations with Whitney Houston, and forays into television and the Broadway stage. She's also a loving wife and mother, whose commitment to family and faith in God's grace have helped her keep her spiritual balance every day. Now CeCe Winans recalls a life full of blessings in this warm and intimate memoir.

On a Positive Note is CeCe's inspiring story of the road she took from a church-centered, musical home in the projects of Detroit, where she was one of ten children, to the glamorous but dizzying heights of international fame and award-winning success. She portrays how a bashful little girl blossomed into a young woman ready to take the brave step of leaving home, along with her brother BeBe, to work as a background singer on Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker's television program. She offers the courageous testimony of a rising recording star, confronted with new opportunities, people, and experiences, who must rely on the values she was taught as a child to guide her through life-changing decisions. She tells the wonderful story of meeting the man who became her husband, soul mate, and best friend. And finally, CeCe Winans shares a moving and candid account of her lifelong attempt, through times of tears and laughter, to sing of God's glory and live with His love in her heart.

With the Grammy®, Dove™, Stellar™, and NAACP Image Awards™ she has earned -- both on her own and in partnership with BeBe -- and with such career highlights as sharing the stage with her friend Whitney Houston before a worldwide television audience, CeCe's life certainly has its fairy-tale aspects. But CeCe is also a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend who uses all the talent and energy she is blessed with to be the best she can be in all her roles. CeCe's reflections offer a reassuring sense of companionship to women facing their own challenges, doubts, and hopes -- and an inspiration to keep the fires of faith burning bright.

... Read more

Reviews (21)

A Very Personal Experience
I am constantly amazed at the magnitude of CeCe Winans musical and spiritual capabilities and I am pleased to say that her gifts do not end there. On A Positive Note is a beautiful piece. In it, there is a very natural and earthy quality that reaches the reader to relate the story CeCe seeks to tell. The flow of the book is very smooth; transitions are made nicely from one subject to the next as she relates her story. I cannot stress enough how the personal the experience of reading this book feels and how natural the language reads. CeCe has done it again. God is consistently working through her in a mighty way.

Faithfulness Brings Blessings
I read this book and I was so blessed by it.Throughout it, Cece constantly discusses the fact the she was taught to give up the world for God.This blessed me because it is evident in the way that God has blessed her music ministry that if we give up the world for God that he will do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could ask or think in our lives.It was awesome to read about how God just kept blessing her life because the posture of heart was correct towards him.It was great to read a story about saved artist who had just been taught to live holy and to see the rewards of doing it.I was blessed and truly encouraged through this book.

Excellent and very well written
While reading "On a Positive Note" by CeCe Winans, I was taken back into a time when I myself was growing up, how her childhood memories was very similar to my own.I also grew up in a large family, and reading her book brought back so many memories of my past.Despite all the tribulations and triumphs of her life, she managed to hold on to her spiritual belief, letting it guide her through her every decision in life."On A Positive Note" has inspired me, lifted me to a higher level of praising the Lord and reminded me to always put God before each decision throughout my life.This book was quite a page turner that filled my heart with laughter, joy, tears, praise, sadness and forgiveness.I was moved to pray for Ronald myself as she astoundingly shared his testimony.My thirteen year old daughter is now reading this wonderful book and I will reccommend it to everyone I know.

http://pages.ivillage.com/cassie23/

Inspirational Book
This book, "On A Positive Note", was truly an inspiration.I didn't want to put the book down.Ms. Winans biography was written so that you felt that you were right there in that moment of time.Again,GREAT BIOGRAPHY!

Inspirational Book
This book was truly an inspiration.I didn't want to put the book down.Ms. Winans biography was written so that you felt that you were right there in that moment of time.Again,GREAT BIOGRAPHY! ... Read more

Book Description

Millions have seen him on his nationwide TV show, dispensing justice in his own charismatic style. But Judge Greg Mathis’s own rise to success has been a trial by fire. In this truly candid memoir, his harrowing life on both sides of the law is revealed for the first time.

It starts in Detroit—but far from the court where Greg would one day preside. Raised in the hell of the Herman Garden Projects, he grows to become a “bad-ass, cool-dressing, do-anything gangsta.” His father gone, his mother juggling two jobs, he falls in with the Errol Flynns—“funkified English gentlemen” in three-piece suits and Borsalino hats, urban Robin Hoods who are truly stylish as they steal from everyone and give to themselves.

Considered bright but incorrigible, Greg is sent to stay in his middle-class cousin’s mixed neighborhood, where he enlists the local white youth in wrongdoing. Even jail can’t keep him from going bad again once he gets out. Then a threat to his beloved mother causes a shaken Greg to make a promise in a prayer to God: save my mother and I will straighten up.

To his and everyone else’s surprise, he keeps his side of the bargain. Inspired by The Autobiography of Malcolm X, working at McDonald’s by day and attending classes by night, Greg pulls himself through high school and college and then law school, using in positive ways the innate intelligence that made him a master at crime. Soon he becomes the youngest judge in Michigan history, a District Court judge and, at last, undaunted by the odds and propelled by his personal story, a sought-after and highly paid TV star.

In its blunt, bold, and sometimes hair-raising honesty, Inner City Miracle is both a cautionary and an inspiring story, one sure to stun all those who come to Judge Mathis’s TV courtroom every day. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

i like judge mathis
I THINK JUDGE IS A POSITIVE PERSON ,AND HIS STORY SPEAKS FOR IT SELF, IT IS UPTO YOU TO MAKE A DIFFERENT IN YOUR LIFE. YOU CAN DO IF YOU WANT IT BAD ENOUGH. AND I FEEL IT IS ALL WANT YOU WANT OUT OF LIFE. WITH PRAY, AND WITH GOOD PEOPLE BEHIND YOU WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENT. AND IT GOES TO SHOW AND THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT JUDGE MATHIS DIDWITH GODS HELP. BECAUSE HE HAD TO HAVE GOD IN HIS LIFE IN OTHER TO GET AS FAR AS HE GOTTEN. I LOVE THE MAN, HE MAKES MY DAY. AND MAY GOD CON'T TO BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY. AND FROM WHAT I HAVE READ SO FAR I LOVE THE BOOK. HE IS A ROLL MODEL I WOULD REALLY LIKE TO MEET HIM . ONE DAY
AND I LOVE HIS SHOW KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.BECAUSE HE IS A COMDEIAN ALSO HE COULD BE ONE

Inner City Debacle
Judge Mathis is an ass! His book was even worse than his show, which I didn't think was possible. He's a disgrace to his profession, and I hope nobody takes any of the advice in this work of fiction. This guy is either a liar or a hypocrite....pick one. Hey "The Honorable" Greg......get your own house together before you lecture others, you jackass.

Inspiration for People from All Walks of Life
The courage Greg Mathis exhibited in turning his life around is phenomenal! This book not only serves as inspiration for inner-city young people but anyone who has taken a wrong turn in life. This wrong turn could be criminal in nature or it could be a mistake in choosing a mate or career. Whatever the mistake or wrong turn, Greg Mathis' life proves you can "turn it around." I know Greg on a personal basis and met him through my friendship with his aunt Eva and her son, Walter. I can truly say Greg is a compassionate and down to earth man who freely shares his blessings with family and friends.

Miracles Do Happen In The Innercity
I was originally drawn to this book about Greg Mathis because while in an airport traveling from Chicago back to LA, I happened to catch his tv show. I was impressed by his style in the courtroom so when I heard that he had written a book about his story, I thought let me pick it up. I had no idea about his background so at first I was physically afraid of this young Greg Mathis in which his book went on to described. I continued to read because I kept thinking when is the miracle going to happen. I was not sure that he would ever become anything more than what he was at the time, a thug and a criminal. Finally, more than half way through the book, the miracle happened and I found myself rooting for the young man, Greg Mathis. In short, his story touched my heart in a different way. Although I'm an african american women and grew up in Chicago during the 1960s and 1970s. The life that Judge Mathis described in his book was foreign to me. But I was so impressed with his determination, preseverance, hard work and his ability to never give up. While I don't have a lot of street smarts I found myself thinking perhaps I had been more judgmental in my past about the young boys who grew up in the project because I totally saw the change in Judge Mathis in this book. I'm glad that I read it and have been sharing with others that it is definitely a must read for all ages. The bottom line is anybody can be anything they want to be if they work at it and become discipline. Kudos to Judge Mathis and other african american males who have decided to allow the miracle to happen in their lives.

You can succeed despite the odds
The person who we see on television, and recognize as a no nonsense type of character, Judge Greg Mathis has lead an interesting life. If you watch his program, her very often alludes to his childhood but to get a deeper understanding, you have to read Inner City Miracle. Sure he's brash, but he's real. The youngest of 4 children, Greg was an oxymoron- a contradiction between what his mother wanted him to be and what he wanted to be. A student who excelled in class work, but arguably was the meanest bully in school. Teachers struggled with him' great grades but a horrible attitude. His idols were gangsters, pimps, drug dealers- the malcontents of society who always had money and loved to flash it. Growing up poor, naturally the lure of money was enticing. His older brothers weren't role models for they too aspired to greatness with little regard to the law. Greg and his siblings were lucky that they didn't meet their maker at a young age. His mother was the family backbone. She ruled with tough love, often kicking out her older sons until they could prove they were worthy of returning to the fold. Back to contradictions, he always strived to please her. His good grades, his weekly attendance in church services, his participation in church activities, his innate need to care for his mother made his other side so unbelievable. Mother wanted all of her children to succeed but there came a point when she even had to call the police on Greg. This was the turning point in a troubled young man's life.

As Judge Mathis has publicly said on many occasions, the system that sentences so many youth to prison is the same system that helped him become the person that he is today. Defining change came when he was incarcerated and had visiting time with his mother. She told him that she was dying and that he needed to do something else with his life. He began from that point forward, a lifestyle that would make his mother proud. The judge sentenced him to get a GED and get a job or he would be back in jail. He did just that. He didn't stop there, he went on to college, he worked in city government, he managed election campaigns for Jesse Jackson, he married, he went to law school, and sued for the right to practice law in spite of his criminal background. His mother saw none of this but he believes that she's with him and still motivating him today.

Inner City Miracle is an inspirational story, one that should be read by all of the seemingly hopeless youths of today. This should be required reading for those in juvenile detention. There is hope, in spite of present circumstances if you feel motivated. Judge Greg Mathis, and countless others, are proof. Out of ashes can rise a phoenix. Just because things look a certain way doesn't automatically define the future. ... Read more

Book Description

In this remarkable book, 103-year-old George Dawson, a slave's grandson who learned to read at age 98, reflects on his life and offers valuable lessons in living as well as a fresh, firsthand view of America during the twentieth century. Richard Glaubman captures Dawson's irresistible voice and view of the world, offering insights into humanity, history, hardships, and happiness. From segregation and civil rights, to the wars, presidents, and defining moments in history, George Dawson's description and assessment of the last century inspires readers with the message that-through it all-has sustained him: "Life is so good. I do believe it's getting better." ... Read more

Reviews (69)

A Book For Students and Teachers of All ages
George Dawson is a remarkable man. He was the son of a slave and grew up in Texas. At the age of four he began working the family farm. At twelve he was sent out as a hired hand to help earn money for his family. He left home at twenty-one and traveled the country by rail. He worked hard all his life and encountered many hardships but there is no bitterness in this book as there is in so many memoirs today. This book is like a mini lesson in American history from a black respective. I loved this book because it showed so much perserverance and determination. George Dawson never was able to go to school as a child because he always had to work but at the age of 98 he learned to read! At 103 he was working on his G.E.D. He died in June of 2001. I read part of his story to my first grade class this year and they were fascinated. It shows how it is never too late to learn. This is the best book I have read all year.

An inspiring, true story
This book is about the life of George Dawson, a remarkable 101-year-old man who is the grandson of slaves. Born in 1898, he tells of what life was like in Texas before integration. He turned away racial hatred by his gentle manner and kept his dignity during the most trying circumstances. He did manual labor from the time he was 4 until he was 90, and at age 98 he began to look for new challenges and so decided to go to Adult Education classes and learn to read. When he was growing up, he was always working,and as the oldest son he was depended upon to contribute financially to his family. His younger brothers and sisters went to school, but he never had a chance until someone knocked on his door and offered him the chance to learn to read. His quiet dignity shines through the pages as his story is told to co-author, Richard Glaubman. Glaubman is an elementary school teacher from Washington who became fascinated with a newspaper article he read about Dawson in a Seattle paper. The two became good friends over the course of the writing of this book and it is told in a narrative style of two friends chatting about the past. Some of the most interesting stories involve Dawson's early years and the times in his 20's when he traveled around the country just to satisfy his wanderlust. This is a wonderful book and in the course of reading it I felt as if I'd gotten to know a very special person

104 and still going¿
Imagine being the grandson of slaves, learning how to read at the age of 98 and living through one whole century. A rare life like this is proudly owned by one very lucky man named George Dawson. A writer named Richard Glaubman and George wrote a book together called "Life is so Good". This book takes you on an amazing adventure through this man's life. He lived all the way back to the awful times of segregation between blacks and whites, and the Depression at the beginning of the 20th century. Fast forward the date all the way to the 21st century, he is still as healthy and active as ever at the age of 104. One of the things I enjoyed the most about Mr. Dawson's book was that he would always do his very best and never gave up even when things were really tough.

The most interesting book Iv'e ever read!
When my teacher said that we were going to read a book outloud I thought oh no another baby book! but when I heard the first chapter I couldn't wait to read the rest it was so exciting and to know that this really happened it was like taking a trip to a virtual tour through history! Maybe it isn't the best book ever. Maybe the fact that my PE teacher is the author inched me to think it was great I love it! When I heard that Gorege Dawson was coming to our school I was thrilled I even got to shake Goerge Dawsons hand! This book is probably the best book I've ever read! It's true.

After 5 years, I still think about this book
I read this book about 5 years ago and have never forgotten it. I wanted my grandson to read it, but I couldn't remember the title and was so glad after trying many searches to find it. This is one of those quiet books. I found it very engaging and soulful when I read it, but I have only come to understand recently how much it affected me. I still think about it often. This is a sign of a great book. ... Read more

Reviews (50)

HAVING OUR SAY BOOK REVIEW
HAVING OUR SAY by Sarah L. Delany and Elizabeth Delany with AmyHill Hearth is a great book that describes an american black familythat lived in the l9 and 20 centuries.It is about the problems they found, their fights, their life.Finally this book shows us the history at racism between black and white people in those centuries.Also this book brings to us an important history of american culture. This book talks about two sisters, sadie and Bessie who lived in Raleigh, North Corolina,on the campus of St. Augustine's college with their parents. I liked to read this book and I recommend it to everybody who wants to know about American Black History. END

American History at its best
Having Our Say is a remarkable book written by Sadie and Bessie Delany that details their lives over a hundred year period.

Bessie and Sadie grew up in a large family on the campus of Saint Augustine's school in Raleigh, North Carolina during the 90s. They led sheltered lives; Sadie was quiet and well mannered whereas Bessie was very quick to anger and opinionated. They were also very intelligent women who were taught early on to aim high. In a time when most people did not go to school beyond high school, Bessie and Sadie received college degrees. Bessie became the second black woman to practice dentistry in New York.
Sadie became the first black home economics teacher in a New York high school. The Delany sisters spoke their minds, and what they give the reader is a story of pure American history.

This autobiography is filled with stories about racism and how it affected their lives. Sadie and Bessie lived together for over a hundred years. Although the sisters are deceased, their story and words of wisdom live on in the hearts and minds of readers.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in American History. This book is the best history book I've read and the pictures in the book make the story come alive.

Reviewed by Dorothy Cooperwood

An Amazing Story, it touched my heart!
All I can say is wow! This book was truly an inspiration for me. I learned a piece of my history that I don't often get to hear about from the point of view of people who actually lived it. These women went out there and made a positive contribution to the world and stayed true and honorable to themselves at a time when being black in America was a crime. To know that amid all the turmoil and opression it didn't stop them from getting their degrees and becomming prominant and just plain old good American citizens. My heart is proud...The Delany sisters are truly the ultimate representation of Black America. I suggest anyone interested in American, Women, and Black history (which all coincides anyway)to pick up this book and read it. You'll find pride and strengh in these sister's story.

Not dull if your old
Having Our Say is basically a recollection by two sisters, Sadie and Bessie Delaney (aged 102 and 104) of their lives. They began their tale way back with their great grandfather and great grandmother who were slaves and progress onward with their family history from there. Their lives seem to be full of great adventures and accomplishments as they recall them back to you, for example Bessie becoming the second black woman licensed to practice dentistry in New York. Many historical events are chronicled through this moving historical record such as the Golden Age of Harlem and the Post Reconstructive South. The sisters go through many things such as Sadie almost getting lynched but they never allow them to bring them down. Even at age 102 and 104, which is the age they began to write the book they are still full of joy and encouragement for life.

The one thing I liked about the book was learning about some of our nation's lesser-known history from a different perspective. Since, it's a true story a lot of historical events were mentioned and I found out how it really was for black people during their younger years. One particular event that sticks out is when Sadie gets dared to drink from the whites only fountain and does it, though her father catches her. Its hard to believe that America was really like that in the past. This book was really a learning experience and I found out about things I wouldn't have otherwise.

The thing I disliked this book was its lack of action. It sometimes got very boring because it seemed to be relaying things no one cared about. Points in the book were often focused on to long until it lost your attention. For example, five pages would be used to describe the detail of some very minor thing. I wouldn't recommend it to people who love a book with mystery or suspense because this book has none. Its almost like your going to know what happens before it does.

Well worth a read
The short length and simple format belie the wisdom and inspiration contained in this book. Vignettes from the lives of two remarkable sisters, 102 and 104 years old, span the end of slavery and follow the continuum of American and black history to the present. Their lives, stories, and attitudes are admirable and this is a book well worth reading. ... Read more

Book Description

The inspiring, true story of a top soldier who survived Jim Crow only to land in astruggle for survival beside his racist white captain after they were downed inVietnam

Raised in the segregated South, Ezell Ware was determined to excel beyond the linesdrawn by white power brokers. He became the top recruit in his Marine training class;having grown up without running water, electricity, or sufficient food, he wasn’t dauntedby military life. He eventually earned a chance to join the Army’s helicopter pilotprogram, realizing his dream of flying. It was a role that would change his life, and thelife of an unlikely partner in valor at the height of the Vietnam War.

Downed by enemy fire while on a mission over thick jungles, Ware and his badly injuredcaptain endured a three-week descent into hell, with one canteen and little defense againstcountless deadly forces. But when his captain revealed his membership in the Ku KluxKlan, their situation took a turn that surprised them both—and put Ezell on the road tobecoming a general.

A unique memoir of heroism and humanity, By Duty Bound captures a crucialchapter in American history through the eyes of one of its most remarkable witnesses. ... Read more