Review of Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
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Nyasha Gogoma
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Review of Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
[Following is a volunteer review of "Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream" by Dr Frank L Douglas.]
For many people, Frank Douglas, MD, is a man who needs no introduction, and yet surprisingly, I only discovered his existence after reading his autobiography. In Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream, Dr. Douglas explores his tortuous journey from the shame he endured as a youth to the fame he ultimately enjoyed in adulthood. He explains his name's meaning, how it influenced the title of his memoir, and how this understanding has since shaped his worldview.
Born into a poverty-stricken, single-parent household in early 1940s Guyana, he had very humble beginnings. He often suffered verbal and physical abuse at the hands of cruel or jealous relatives. However, right from his youth, he displayed unrivaled intellectual prowess and strength of character. These qualities would serve him well into adulthood. Frank had a zero-tolerance policy for bullies, yet he always expressed his disapproval politely and logically. He stood up for his rights and those of his marginalized counterparts. Given such exemplary behavior, it is no wonder that he has managed to win such acclaim in his lifetime.
As a medical doctor, I thoroughly enjoyed this autobiography. Dr. Frank Douglas is a truly inspirational individual, and I think he did a remarkable job capturing his essence onto ink and paper. This book inspired and challenged many areas of my life: my career, academics, and character. I began to dream big again. I was enthralled by Dr. Douglas's probity each time he found himself in a difficult situation. His first response was always to submit himself to scrutiny, knowing that he had nothing to hide.
One thing I did not enjoy was the choppy transitions between critical life events. I understand that this is Frank Douglas's autobiography, and therefore the vast majority of the focus is on his life's work. However, I felt robbed because he didn't share certain aspects of his personal or social life, especially when key events occurred, such as his wedding or the birth of his first child. He described all his career achievements while neglecting his non-professional milestones. I got to know Frank Douglas the professional and not so much of Frank Douglas the man. Nonetheless, I respect his decision to keep those aspects of his life from public scrutiny. I found very few grammatical errors; thus, I unequivocally rate the book 4 out of 4 stars.
In my opinion, Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream is a must-read for readers in their teens and older. It will especially appeal to individuals with a strong background in Medicine and the biochemical sciences.
******
Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
For many people, Frank Douglas, MD, is a man who needs no introduction, and yet surprisingly, I only discovered his existence after reading his autobiography. In Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream, Dr. Douglas explores his tortuous journey from the shame he endured as a youth to the fame he ultimately enjoyed in adulthood. He explains his name's meaning, how it influenced the title of his memoir, and how this understanding has since shaped his worldview.
Born into a poverty-stricken, single-parent household in early 1940s Guyana, he had very humble beginnings. He often suffered verbal and physical abuse at the hands of cruel or jealous relatives. However, right from his youth, he displayed unrivaled intellectual prowess and strength of character. These qualities would serve him well into adulthood. Frank had a zero-tolerance policy for bullies, yet he always expressed his disapproval politely and logically. He stood up for his rights and those of his marginalized counterparts. Given such exemplary behavior, it is no wonder that he has managed to win such acclaim in his lifetime.
As a medical doctor, I thoroughly enjoyed this autobiography. Dr. Frank Douglas is a truly inspirational individual, and I think he did a remarkable job capturing his essence onto ink and paper. This book inspired and challenged many areas of my life: my career, academics, and character. I began to dream big again. I was enthralled by Dr. Douglas's probity each time he found himself in a difficult situation. His first response was always to submit himself to scrutiny, knowing that he had nothing to hide.
One thing I did not enjoy was the choppy transitions between critical life events. I understand that this is Frank Douglas's autobiography, and therefore the vast majority of the focus is on his life's work. However, I felt robbed because he didn't share certain aspects of his personal or social life, especially when key events occurred, such as his wedding or the birth of his first child. He described all his career achievements while neglecting his non-professional milestones. I got to know Frank Douglas the professional and not so much of Frank Douglas the man. Nonetheless, I respect his decision to keep those aspects of his life from public scrutiny. I found very few grammatical errors; thus, I unequivocally rate the book 4 out of 4 stars.
In my opinion, Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream is a must-read for readers in their teens and older. It will especially appeal to individuals with a strong background in Medicine and the biochemical sciences.
******
Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Smashwords
Latest Review: Reconfigurement by E. Alan Fleischauer
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rose203
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A fitting book for an amazing man. Great review.
Latest Review: Shitolian by O Persaud
