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

[Muna Chizzy]

[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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4 out of 4 stars

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A young fatherless boy lives with his mother and four siblings in a one-room apartment. They can barely fend for themselves as they rely on others for survival. By performing well in school, this youngster aspires to improve his situation. At various points during his education, he receives scholarships and eventually emerges from the ghetto as a renowned scientist and recipient of numerous pharmaceutical honours. This book recounts the author's journey from his humble beginnings to his present position. The several chapters of this book comprise the various stages of his life. Follow the author as he narrates his life's events in this remarkable memoir.

Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream by Dr Frank L Douglas is an absolutely enthralling book. Douglas was born in British Guyana. The author addresses his minister at the beginning of the book. He wants to know why racial lifestyles differ between blacks and whites. Douglas questions if God has favourites, given that white people travel the world as missionaries to share the gospel of salvation despite exhibiting severe racial discrimination. This racial discrimination was felt heavily in America during the turbulent 1960s—the same period in which he travelled to the United States to pursue his academic career. He noticed that the whites respected foreign blacks and despised American blacks. Douglas did not let racism affect the pursuit of his dream. Instead, he committed more to his studies and earned many degrees. The author has now won countless awards for his work in pharmaceutical research.

The book depicts pain, a struggle for survival, and hope. Despite having no father figure in his life and coming from a very disadvantaged family, Douglas has an unbreakable spirit that I find fascinating. The author's strong character prevailed where he might have used his upbringing and environment as excuses to get involved in illegal activities. He never saw his situation as a barrier to success. Instead, the author saw it as a pathway to success. This shows that there is no justification for someone not to succeed. Indeed, success comes from a determination within.

The author's strategy for dealing with rejection or other challenges is what I love most about this book. He tunes out negative remarks and does not let them affect him. He went to Moms and begged her for a loan so he could sustain himself while he travelled to the US for the scholarship he had won. She explained to him why she was unable to lend him the money. That did not bother Douglas in the least. Instead, he assured himself that he would get the money elsewhere. We should all strive to approach life with the same mindset.

I disliked nothing in this book. It is very well-written and edited. The book was error-free, so I rate it four out of four stars. This outstanding memoir depicts the humanity that unites us all in an inspiring, energising, and compassionate way. I recommend this book to all readers, especially those facing one challenge or the other. They will find it very helpful.

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Defining Moments of a Free Man from a Black Stream
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[Francis Aderogbin]

This is a memoir that talks about the struggles of a black boy among the whites. It talks about racism and survival. The author overcomes his situation with grit and determination.

[Nwaka Chukwuemeka]

Dr. Frank L Douglas is a motivator writer, his life experiences will help any reader to pick up the challenges of life without fear. Great review.

[Oluwapelumi Rachael]

A truly inspiring piece! The authors resilience is certainly one that must be emulated by youths today. Beautiful review!

[Oluwapelumi Rachael]

A truly inspiring piece! The authors resilience is certainly one that must be emulated by youths today. Beautiful review!

[Francis Omotayo Aderogbin]

White pap comes from a black pot. That's a scenario painted in this book. I enjoyed reading your review.

[Oyedeji Funmilayo]

I enjoyed your honest review and hope to enjoy the book too. Welldone

[GNerd]

This book seems motivational and emotional. Stories of the rise to stardom is always a fascinating one. Good job.

[Judith Donald]

Wow... I was immersed in the story from your review. Racism and the struggle for survival are some of the issues faced by blacks back in the day. I would love to know how the author overcame his challenges.

[Jane Ogwang]

The author seems to have endured and gone through the fire, and I'd like to know how. Thanks for the recoommendation.

[Vivian Agenms]

Great review, this has to be a really inspiring book the author seems to have passed through a lot, and him coming out successful makes the struggle worth it.

[Precious Oba]

This is a great true life story about first-hand racism. It is quite fascinating how the writer succeeded despite the extremity of his circumstances. I Love the book.

[WriteOn]

At various points during his education, he receives scholarships and eventually emerges from the ghetto as a renowned scientist and recipient of numerous pharmaceutical honours.

Remarkable achievements. His success makes me think of the many people, with huge potential, who never realise it because of the disadvantages they face. The author dealt with many issues, including racism; I'd like to read this inspiring book. I enjoyed your detailed account of the story and the thoroughness of your recommendations. Great review Muna Chizzy. Thank you.

[Azubike Richard]

A genuinely motivating piece! Youths nowadays should definitely model their resilience after the author's. wonderful review

[Ellylion]

Wow, sounds like an exceptional read! I believe the author went a hard but honorable way and shared all these precious recollections with us. I would definitely read it. Thank you for this insightful review!