My Grandfather's Son: A Memoir by Clarence Thomas
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Book Reviews of My Grandfather's Son: A Memoir
Book Review: A much-needed glimpse at the life of Justice Thomas
Summary: 5 Stars
Not since his confirmation hearing have we heard directly from Justice Thomas about his life, background and formative experiences. This autobiography is a much-needed retrospective and, in many ways, a refutation of those critics who question his intellect and depth.
Justice Thomas takes us from his humble beginnings in the racist Deep South, raised by a tough love grandfather, to his days as a seminarian, to college and law school, and to government service that ultimately led him to the US Supreme Court.
Most important, he provides his account of the Anita Hill fiasco. I think any objective reader will be hard pressed to read this account and not come away with a sense that what happened to Justice Thomas ranks among one of the most low down, dirty things our elected officials have done to any one individual.
Whether or not one agrees with his judicial philosophy, this autobiography is an important book. It reveals a very thoughtful, complex, almost anguished man in such a way that I think both critics and supporters will be surprised. Regardless of one's point of view, Justice Thomas can and should be viewed as an example to people of all colors that economic disadvantage can be overcome.
Book Review: A Reflection On My Attitudes
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a fascinating and worthwhile book, insightful into the life of an American man very unlike me. As I read his story, I found myself cheering for him, a highly intelligent and competent man who rose from the meanest of circumstances. He unflinching details his weaknesses and his struggles to find hope and a future in the midst of poverty and the continuing racial discrimination that has plagued our nation for far too long.
His experience of the confirmation battle for Associate Justice is worth reading all by itself. How he endured the assault on him by fanatical political forces and their media allies is a testimony to friendship and faith, and to the resolve poured into him by his determined and proud "Daddy."
As I read this part of the book, I took stock of my own attitudes about him and other black males at that time and since, realizing that some of the poison of the unsubstantiated charges used as deadly weapons by his opponents had stuck to me, prejudicing my view of him as a man and as a leader of our country. Ad hominem attacks in the interest of the "greater good" are immoral and reprehensible and have no place in our land.
Book Review: Road To The Court
Summary: 5 Stars
'My Grandfather's Son: A Memoir' by Clarence Thomas is a great story that tells the tale of a black man who overcame many odds to reach the pinnacle of his field by becoming of the few minority members and youngest people to ever join the Supreme Court.
From his humble beginnings in the south to switching to the Republican party in the 80s and working for Ronald Reagan to being nominated by the first President Bush, this is a great read for anyone interested in the Supreme Court, overcoming adversity, and the triumphs that a minority can reach.
Obviously one of the biggest pieces of interest of this book revolves around the Anita Hill fiasco during the conformation hearings back in 1991. Whether you believe Thomas or not (he strongly denies said charges), it's still an interesting look at history and a reminder of how nasty and difficult getting to the Supreme Court can be.
Perfect for all history and political buffs, and a nicely written biography from someone that hasn't been in the news too much in the past 15+ years. Key topics are affirmative action, abortion, and the law in general.
***** RECOMMENDED
Book Review: A Chronicle of the American Dream
Summary: 5 Stars
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is normally so quiet--on the bench and about his public life--that he almost has been perceived as reclusive. Finally, thoroughly, and happily, he has spoken (written) with "My Grandfather's Son: A Memoir."
Thomas chronicles his rise from poverty, his upbringing by his grandfather who taught him lessons of personal responsibility, and his up-and-down road to the Supreme Court. All the while Thomas honestly depicts the barriers he faced and the hurdles he had to overcome.
Of course, Thomas also finally speaks about the Anita Hill charges. With candor about the pain and with substantiating evidence about the facts, his side of the story is finally told.
But the greater message of the book is the story of how Thomas moved beyond suffering and prejudice and bias to live the America dream. It is a story filled with hope and dignity. It is a story worth telling and worth reading.
Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction , Spiritual Friends, and Soul Physicians.
Book Review: read the story of the most dangerous black man in america
Summary: 5 Stars
This man is the most dangerous black man in America. Why, because he refuses to give power to those people who would tell him how to think and act as a black man. He refuses to buy into the group identity most liberals would expect of him. Presenting his story of why he refuses to give into group politics, Thomas provides all readers with a very important lesson. That lesson is to be true to yourself and your values, regardless of the slings and arrows turned against you. In the process, he treats to a refreshing perspective from a modern politician. It simply is a nice treat to see someone who is willing to live by his own personal views. Its also been real difficult for this man to accomplish this goal. In this book, you are treated to the insights of this man as he deals with the barriers thrown before him while he does this. The like impact on you? I don't know, but for me the impact of this autobiography was to inspire great confidence that with work and faith I can accomplish all I am able. Regardless of your background, the Justice's memoir is a real call to move forward to better yourself and develop your own identity. Read this book and enjoy!!!