The Beautiful Struggle by Ta-Nehisi Coates
By Priscilla Johnson • Jun 23rd, 2008 • Category: Book Review •
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Ta-Nehisi Coates introduces readers to a new and intriguing coming-of-age story, The Beautiful Struggle: A Father, Two Sons and An Unlikely Road to Manhood that takes place in Baltimore during the height of the Hip-Hop and Drug era. Paul Coates was a Vietnam Veteran who returned to the chaotic streets of Baltimore and became a leader in the city’s Black Panther Party. Armed with determination, Paul Coates was a disciplinarian that strived for success and knowledge. Ta-Nehisi discusses his father’s emphasis on knowledge and understanding your history in order to succeed. Ta-Nehisi admits to struggling in school as he attempted to find his way; yet he maintained the teachings of his father. He also discusses the path chosen by an older brother that teetered on self-destruction and then recovery.
Paul Coates’ story is very refreshing. It is not the story of a former Black Panther but of a father’s determination to raise his sons. Armed with knowledge, consciousness, common sense and self-worth, Ta-Nehisi Coates tells of his failures and triumphs into man-hood that were guided by his father and aided by his mother and teachers. Though his father was strict, you could feel the love in all of his actions. Ta-Nehisi Coates’ writing style is simplistic and engaging. Each page encourages you to continue to the next. Everyone that reads it will appreciate this story but it is especially recommended for young men and those raising young men.
Reviewed by: Priscilla C. Johnson
APOOO BookClub
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Priscilla Johnson is a single mom of a 12 year-old and guardian of two teen-age nephews, lives in Baltimore Maryland. Working full time as an Equal Opportunity Investigator, she enjoys spending her free time traveling to bookstores within the area to meet her favorite authors at book signings or helping to plan book events. Priscilla was given the nickname “BookManiac” by a co-worker who continues to laugh at her weekly delivery of books in the mail. She has been reviewing books for APOOO, A Place Of Our Own, for a little over eight months and she enjoys every minute. Besides reading, Priscilla enjoys walking, crocheting, or simply sitting on her balcony listening to the Creator.
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