Life Is So Good

Rating:
Summary: Inspiring.
Review: Similar to a Studs Terkel, only this whole book is by a 101-year-old African-American man, who learned to read at 98 (the book is co-authored and polished by Richard Glaubman, but it's Dawson's voice). Dawson's simple optimism is inspiring, especially in our cynical day and age. Demonstrates that whether a person's situation is good or bad depends more on his attitude than his actual environment. It's also inspiring to hear from someone who lived to see so much change. So often we ignore the voices of the elderly when it's those voices that have the most wisdom to offer.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent
Review: This is simply a wonderful book to read.

This is the story of George Dawson, a 101 year old man who was the grandson of slaves and who started learning to read when he was 98 years old.

I found the book to be very well written and I felt like I was right there alongside the characters during their colorful experiences.

The book also presents a philosophy for living that is very simple and yet very foreign in this day and age. The basic premise is that "Life is good, just the way it is". Just accept things as they are, no use complaining.

The book also contains some interesting insights into America throughout the 1900's especially concerning slavery, racism and the depression.

As a footnote, sadly George passed away in July of 2001.


Rating:
Summary: The most interesting book Iv'e ever read!
Review: This book is excellent. One reviewer said the book was good but not riveting. This is true, but it is not meant to be riveting. It is a book that humbles you, makes you think, makes you appreciate life and appreciate the lives of others. After reading this book I could better understand my 71-year-old mother's life experiences. She left home at 14 to work but never talked about how she felt about having to do this. This book helped open up a dialogue with her about that experience. This may be like talking to your grandparents (as a previous reviewer stated) but should be read in addition to the talk you have with your grandparents.