Review of The Also-Ran but a Champion

[Judy Burr]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Also-Ran but a Champion" by Alfred Fitzgerald Brathwaite.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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I reviewed The Also Ran: But a Champion by Alfred Fitzgerald Brathwaite. My overall comment on this book is that it is a long story. The author is writing his autobiography. I am fascinated by how people, like this author, recall details of their childhood, events of their lives, school days, and acquaintances' names.


The author described his childhood in 1941 on Carriacou Island, the second-largest island of the Caribbean nation called Grenada. The games they played, the food they ate, their neighbors, and the celebrations were so interesting. He gives the reader an in-depth history of this part of the world, including the English, French, Dutch, and Spanish influences and languages that make this place so amazing. He describes the topography, the vegetation, and the climate. It was customary to build their houses close together, sharing a rear yard for children to play.


His mother became a widow after Alfred was born. She was both a mother and a father to raise her children. There were 11 children in total. Unfortunately, one child passed away at 9 months old due to a disease. They were respectful to their mother. She protected and cared for them for as long as she was able. For a time, she had a shop near their home, in which she sold produce and bakery items. The townspeople regarded her for her wisdom, and she gave good advice. His mother pushed his siblings and him to become professionals in education and other careers. They traveled, worked in different countries and often visited their homeland.


Alfred became a pathologist and made great strides in his career. The book contains a list of his achievements. He made lifelong friendships around the world. His stories about the people he met are interesting. He kept close to both his friends and family. He and his wife enjoyed traveling to visit them from time to time. He told of his family, and friends who moved away and returned to their homeland to retire on these islands. Reading about his love for sports and the camaraderie of his friends was an important part of his story. His love of music and the times he sang and danced were fun to read. His son, Dax, deserves commendation for helping his father compile his story for this book.


Readers will find enjoyment in Alfred's story, and he took pleasure in sharing it. I liked how he appreciated his mother’s strong guidance. His comments about American culture were fun to read. Other than my noted one dislike, there were no others. Despite the presence of four typos, they did not detract from the overall narrative; the editing was quite impressive. I give this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

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The Also-Ran but a Champion
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[Lawrence Stein]

This sounds like an engaging autobiography. It is do great to know that the know remembers all the childhood details. The strength of the author's mother is commendable.

[Nneka Bridget]

It sounds like "The Also Ran: But a Champion" by Alfred Fitzgerald Brathwaite offers a remarkable journey through the life of a resilient and accomplished man. The depth of his memories and the vibrant portrayal of Carriacou Island and its culture must make for a vivid reading experience. Your review highlights how Alfred’s appreciation for his mother’s strength, his career as a pathologist, and his love for sports, music, and friendship create a heartfelt and well-rounded narrative. His son Dax’s contribution also adds a special family touch to the book. Thank you for the recommendation—this autobiography sounds both insightful and inspiring!

[Judy Burr]

Thank you for your kind comments.