Jun 05, 2008 07:02 AM
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Barack Obama has just made history by being the first African American to secure the democratic nomination; this book however is not about politics. This is about the series of events in his life that lead him to the life and career of public service.
It starts off relatively interesting. He’s living in Harlem, New York pursuing his Bachelors degree at Columbia University when he gets the news of his father’s death.
He tells the story of his father, a African student from Kenya visiting America with the hope and the dream of changing the world. He described many racist situations his father was confronted with and how he emerged triumphant. The book then focuses on his white mother and grandparents and how they reacted to the union of their daughter’s decision to marry a man she barely in addition to baring his seed, especially during a time when America was segregated.
Shortly after, Obama’s father went back home to Kenya leaving his son and wife to face the world alone. Obama does an amazing job describing his position (a half black/white child being raised by whites in America.) Thus his unique journey begins and from sleeping in an alley in NYC through attending Harvard University it inspires.
He finds religion, love, and finally self definition in place that had no explanation for him.
This is a full read that is guaranteed to inspire thoughts, feelings and future discussion.
Enjoy!!!!
