Review of Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream

Andrada Madalina · Post by **Andrada Madalina** » 22 Jun 2022, 09:26

[Following is a volunteer review of "Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream" by Dr Frank L Douglas.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream by Dr. Frank L. Douglas is a memoir about social acceptance and scientific and personal pride. It illustrates the author's journey in the United States of America and the culture shocks he experienced there. Also, this non-fiction book presents various themes such as discrimination, hard work, and leadership.

Briefly, Dr. Frank L. Douglas focuses on the challenges he faced throughout his life. He presents a recollection of the memories from his childhood in British Guiana, his academic background, and his experience in the healthcare industry. Also, the memoir illustrates the differences between the British and American education systems in the second half of the 20th century but also the racism's consequences on a personal basis.

I liked how the author illustrated the issues regarding racism in society. I was shocked by the hate level for black people in America, the tyranny in the office meetings, and the lack of business ethics. I was impressed by his resignation letter due to the institution's inability to resolve discriminatory situations. I despised the lack of care from MTI in James Sherby's case just because a minority faculty member was involved. Also, I liked the comic situations like the cheesecake offered by several nurses or the incorrect use of some German phrases in the board meetings.

There is no aspect I disliked about this book, but I would have liked to read more about Frank's fiancee, Lynnet, and his two children he just vaguely mentioned. I empathized with Frank and understood his anger about the discrimination felt in college and at church. I liked his shocking answers to the people around him because of the awkward questions about his precarious situation as a student. I loved that he always stuck to his principles and had pride regardless of the circumstances. I appreciated his courage to continue his hard work despite losing opportunities due to his ethnicity. For instance, I understand his humiliation when he had to repeat a semester even though he hadn't failed. I found his situation very unjust and despised his teachers' prejudices against the minority students.

I rate this memoir 4 out of 4 stars because I was impressed by Frank's journey, his awards, and his inner struggles with the ethnic barriers both in the academic environment and the pharmaceutical industry. I liked how the author approached the topic regarding the discrimination of minorities in different social backgrounds and that he wrote his personal statement. I loved his frank answers to his teachers and co-workers and his heated arguments with them. Also, this book was professionally edited. I only discovered a few punctuation errors while reading it.

I would recommend this book to people who want to read an inspiring story of a scientist with big ideas and excellent academic results who faced issues related to his ethnicity and chose a different spiritual path. It is perfect for those who like chemistry and biological engineering but not for those who dislike autobiographies. Also, Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream is suitable for teens and adults because of its minor profanity and non-erotic content.

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Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
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