This book actually touched my heart and inspired me to increase the equity in my “dash”! Excellent --

Just a Season Review
Rating: Five (5) Stars

Not since The Color Purple have I read a book that evoked such emotions. John T. Wills possesses the ability to transport the reader directly into the life and struggles of his main characters story. Having grown up in the north during this same time frame, I was educated in a way that did not afford me the benefit of truly understanding the significance of the historical events taught from a stand alone perspective. The events of slavery, sharecropping, the civil rights movement and the many assassinations of those that challenged the status quo, allowed my eyes to be opened in a way that changes my perception of what being black in America truly means.

The lessons taught by the main characters grandfather are lessons that can benefit all, especially African American men. The reader will be constantly astonished by his fortitude and courage, evidenced by the most powerful lesson shared –“I raised you to be a man. You don’t know what you might have to do, but when the time comes – just do it” And he did with the utmost grace, compassion and fortitude.

I would like to see this book added to history curriculums as mandatory reading so that our youth can have a true understanding of how they’ve come to be where they are. The gift of this knowledge will surely inspire them to reach for the stars and feel confident that they are capable of overcoming any adversity.

I laughed, rejoiced and cried following this man’s journey. After all was said and done, this book begs the question: What would the people that know you say about your “dash”? Surely John T. Wills' “dash” will be one that his granddaddy and his son would be immensely proud of. This book actually touched my heart and inspired me to increase the equity in my “dash”! Excellent --

Reviewer: Tonja Covington