Official Review: From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of t...

gemna117 · Post by **gemna117** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:20

Reading the sample of this book reminded me so much about racism and sexism. They aren't as bad today but do still somewhat exist.

aacodreanu · Post by **aacodreanu** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:23

kislany gives an ample review of From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream by Janice S. Ellis.
A rather extended summary (which I was told was a no no and got me a serious penalty in one of my reviews). I suppose kislany's summary could benefit from a little shrinkage.
I agree that "the 30-page treaty about Walter Lippmann’s life work" is "too much of a good thing" so to say. As in other cases, I believe that inserting information that does not contribute to the purpose of a communicative event within the respective genre is a distraction, and it dilutes the reader's attention and focus.
I would have liked to hear more of the reviewer's opinion of the book, but, all in all, a good, informative review.

jpond · Post by **jpond** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:34

I greatly look forward to reading this. Having grown up in the south in the 80's I was very aware of the discrimination toward black people still then. Your thorough and enlightening review of Ms. Ellis' story has me eager to read this very soon. The atrocities she faced and her resilient will to succeed through them all is inspiring. Very well written review!

Lindsey Klaus · Post by **Lindsey Klaus** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:37

It definitely sounds like an inspirational tale that's still relevant today (albeit in different ways). I love the author's strength and perseverance. We like to pretend anyone can escape the stifling grasp of classism, racism, sexism, misogyny, and colorism if they try hard enough, but the truth of the matter is that it's exceedingly difficult and rare to do so no matter how hard you work. Most people give up because they fail to see the point of even trying. That's why it's so extraordinary to see someone fight like hell and succeed. It's rare, uplifting, and compels us all to keep trying to rise above the boxes people have put us inside and to destroy hurtful perceptions. Beautiful story. I love also that it explores colorism, as I think a lot of people don't realize there are many nuances of racism - like colorism, which is pervasive even in today's world. It's a cultural stigma that I hope future generations put an end to.

I'll have to pick this book up. It sounds like a wonderful tale of perseverance, strength, love, and the fight against stigma.

AntonelaMaria · Post by **AntonelaMaria** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:40

This sounds like an emotional book. I don't shy away from reads like these and it seems I would love it. There is something so hopeful in reading autobiographies with such a strong woman in it and an underdog winning. You did an amazing job with this review very elaborated.

Sakeenah Maigari · Post by **Sakeenah Maigari** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:48

Indeed! After rain comes sunshine.
Janice went through a lot but at the end it all became history.

Benway02 · Post by **Benway02** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:50

Sound like a very interesting book to read, i can't wait to start it, after i am finished reading it, i will specially select who i recommend it to with my friends and family members.

Sumbule1 · Post by **Sumbule1** » 17 Jul 2019, 13:53

It is heartbreaking to read about what the author went through, but inspiring to see how the author rose above and became successful. Congrats on the book of the day!

Noilaus · Post by **Noilaus** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:07

Determined to make a difference in life, regardless of sexism and racism challenges. Janice proved herself to be an undefeated warrior, for her dreams. Thanks for this good review.

Prisallen · Post by **Prisallen** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:09

I admire Ms. Ellis for overcoming her adversities and becoming as successful as she did. She is a role model for women and people of all color everywhere. Thank you for a wonderful review!

Post by **Kajori Sheryl Paul** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:11

An autobiography of a black woman who grew up in the South during the 50s and 60s seems interesting.

Thank you for the great review.

Abandoned_Account · Post by **Abandoned_Account** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:13

Normally I tend to dislike historical pieces or autobiographies, but this book has captured my attention. There's a lot one can learn from someone who has lived such a hard and driven life. I have a lot of respect and admiration for the author, and applaud her on everything she's accomplished.

Thank you for reading and writing your review.

Shadiid · Post by **Shadiid** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:15

Life must have been very difficult for black people back then. I am just glad that things are no longer the same. I think this book can be counted as a historical reference.

Laura Ungureanu · Post by **Laura Ungureanu** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:16

This autobiography presents the author's journey from her family's farm to business success. It was particularly difficult for a black woman to achieve something in a period when people of color were persecuted for no apparent reason.

Sussu · Post by **Sussu** » 17 Jul 2019, 14:20

We need more of those stories. They show us how people can be resilient and I hope this book can make us feel ashamed of discriminating against people for whatever reason. This book sounds exhilarating.