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

[Sbitan Mohammad]

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

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5 out of 5 stars

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Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream by Dr. Frank L. Douglas is an autobiography traversing the author's early life growing up in British-colonized Guiana, now Guyana. Frank grew up in a poor family with barely enough to feed the family and none for even school or leisure. He attended Queen's College on a scholarship, where he experienced discrimination and was looked down on due to his social status. 
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After high school, he took up a teaching job where he taught Latin and geometry, and it was during this period that he got a scholarship to study engineering at Lehigh University on the East Coast, USA, as he had wanted. On reaching America, Frank observes that a lot is done differently and that racial discrimination against people of color is pronounced. As time passes, he meets people who judge him based on color and his actions; however, he focuses on building his career and making a name for himself despite the odds. The extent of his success and other challenges he encounters are left for the readers to unravel.
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Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream is one of the most emotionally inspiring memoirs I've encountered this year. The story opens with the author on a plane heading to America, where he will begin his university studies. Still, he remembers his early life in a flashback for the audience to follow and understand. I enjoyed the author's devotion to his religion, which shaped his character and some of his decisions even when faced with complex life challenges. The book is written from the third-person perspective and contains a lot of valuable lessons. Themes of hard work, family, leadership, and cultural diversity are explored. 
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I had no dislikes for this book; it is a beautifully written piece written to inform, inspire, and entertain the audience. Some of the author's experiences were funny, and considering the book's length, these moments of humor helped me through. I discovered no errors during my reading; the book is exceptionally well-edited. Due to the positives I have highlighted above, this book receives a whopping 5 out of 5 stars. I believe this book is suitable for audiences who enjoy non-fiction and those who have experienced discrimination and trial.

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Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
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