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The Essential Dick Gregory by Dick Gregory
informative
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
I picked this up because I realized I don't know much about Dick Gregory... I knew he was a comedian and an activist but that's it. I own a copy of his book Nigger, but I haven't ever read it. So when I saw The Essential Dick Gregory available on Libby I immediately checked it out!
This book is a grouping of Gregory's writings, speeches, and interviews. It begins with reflections of his childhood and then progresses to his young adult and adult life. I think a fascinating aspect is how he began life being an athlete. He was a cross country runner and had ran in college. The preforming came later. As his rise to fame came within his hard and diligent work being a comedian he then slowly became an activist. But in early interviews he wasn't categorizing himself as such. He was just standing up for what he knew was right. Still using humor to speak to people in large quantities he began speaking at colleges and having discussions with people about being aware with what was happening in the USA as well as the world. He worked with greats like Malcom X and Martin Luther King Jr. He was jailed numerous times, but he kept fighting. No matter how his life morphed into what can be called unexpected he knew what was right and used his voice and platform to keep it in front of people.
It was inspiring to hear him talk about being the first big Black comedians. How he worked to preform in clubs and keep his material relevant. In one interview he said that all comedians should read newspapers everyday that way they know what to talk to the people about. I paused for a moment because it made me think how today people often scoff when a comedian "brings politics into things". But that has always been the case! Comedians have always been there to comment on what is going on in the world, it hasn't always been "I hate my wife" jokes.
Anyway, Dick Gregory's life morphed again when he began taking his health into consideration. He went vegetarian for a while but was still smoking 4 packs a day and drinking a lot. He soon learned about fasting, juicing, and being vegan. This transformed his life and others as he began teaching importance of fasting and also using fasting as a form of protest. He would fast for 100+ days!! He sold vitamin products that were kelp based (and maybe still sold today I'm not sure).
His writing was extremely impactful and there's so much I learned about the Civil Rights Movement throughout this book. I'm so glad that I saw this and picked it up. Though I read it on my Kindle I was highlighting a ton and having many moments of reflection. The biggest being whenever he spoke about how the government promotes hate, and government agencies that are out killing people who speak out., the other atrocities that are happening in the world and how we need to stand up and take action against what is right. To be reading this in 2024 and thinking of how the US vetoed the ceasefire in Gaza, how the people of Congo are being tortured as they mine for Tesla and other huge tech companies who pay them nothing and don't care for their lives, I just think of all the violence that is happening around the world...the list continues and continues and its a shame that a lot of what he was speaking about in his book are things that are still happening.
I think this is an important read and one that can inspire and fuel a person. I know I feel fueled to make sure I am standing up for what is right and doing all that I can to use the power and stage that I have to do something good.
This book is a grouping of Gregory's writings, speeches, and interviews. It begins with reflections of his childhood and then progresses to his young adult and adult life. I think a fascinating aspect is how he began life being an athlete. He was a cross country runner and had ran in college. The preforming came later. As his rise to fame came within his hard and diligent work being a comedian he then slowly became an activist. But in early interviews he wasn't categorizing himself as such. He was just standing up for what he knew was right. Still using humor to speak to people in large quantities he began speaking at colleges and having discussions with people about being aware with what was happening in the USA as well as the world. He worked with greats like Malcom X and Martin Luther King Jr. He was jailed numerous times, but he kept fighting. No matter how his life morphed into what can be called unexpected he knew what was right and used his voice and platform to keep it in front of people.
It was inspiring to hear him talk about being the first big Black comedians. How he worked to preform in clubs and keep his material relevant. In one interview he said that all comedians should read newspapers everyday that way they know what to talk to the people about. I paused for a moment because it made me think how today people often scoff when a comedian "brings politics into things". But that has always been the case! Comedians have always been there to comment on what is going on in the world, it hasn't always been "I hate my wife" jokes.
Anyway, Dick Gregory's life morphed again when he began taking his health into consideration. He went vegetarian for a while but was still smoking 4 packs a day and drinking a lot. He soon learned about fasting, juicing, and being vegan. This transformed his life and others as he began teaching importance of fasting and also using fasting as a form of protest. He would fast for 100+ days!! He sold vitamin products that were kelp based (and maybe still sold today I'm not sure).
His writing was extremely impactful and there's so much I learned about the Civil Rights Movement throughout this book. I'm so glad that I saw this and picked it up. Though I read it on my Kindle I was highlighting a ton and having many moments of reflection. The biggest being whenever he spoke about how the government promotes hate, and government agencies that are out killing people who speak out., the other atrocities that are happening in the world and how we need to stand up and take action against what is right. To be reading this in 2024 and thinking of how the US vetoed the ceasefire in Gaza, how the people of Congo are being tortured as they mine for Tesla and other huge tech companies who pay them nothing and don't care for their lives, I just think of all the violence that is happening around the world...the list continues and continues and its a shame that a lot of what he was speaking about in his book are things that are still happening.
I think this is an important read and one that can inspire and fuel a person. I know I feel fueled to make sure I am standing up for what is right and doing all that I can to use the power and stage that I have to do something good.
Strong Female Protagonist. Book One by Brennan Lee Mulligan
3.75
As a fan of Brennan Lee Mulligan of course I had to eventually read his graphic novel! Lol
I think the best part of this graphic novel was the little side comments that were at the bottom of the pages (yes every page). They would be things like "what's that guys problem??" or pointing out a small detail in the artwork. It added a cool layer of humor even when things were getting serious.
I really enjoyed this take on a super hero story and found a lot of similarities with how children in media are treated. Mega Girl aka Allison Green, was born with a superpower (along with other kids across the world). Upon meeting the other kids with superpowers they ban together (due to the government) and fight crime! Until she has had enough and removes her mask and reveals her real identity. Now she's just trying to be a 'normal' person, go to college, have friends etc.
I drew the similarity to how children are treated in media because I know there has been a surge of child actors we grew up watching writing books, starting podcasts, or speaking out in other ways about how they were pressured and treated as child actors. Constantly in the light and around adults exposing them to things they didn't need to be. As well as the intense surge of 'family bloggers' or baby accounts across social media. These kids are being put in front of an insane amount of people watching them grow up it feels dangerous and I often wonder what life will be like for these kids when they are teenagers and young adults.
Anyway, back to Mega Girl...
I think this story really expressed her struggle with finding what doing the right thing is. Everyone has their own idea of what that is and she struggles with knowing which one to listen to or follow. Or even what ideas of her own make sense to her. The young adult struggle of "how do i do life??" is strongly present and relatable even if I don't have super strength lol.
As of writing this I have picked up Vol 2. and I'm looking forward to the other topics Brennan explores throughout.
I think the best part of this graphic novel was the little side comments that were at the bottom of the pages (yes every page). They would be things like "what's that guys problem??" or pointing out a small detail in the artwork. It added a cool layer of humor even when things were getting serious.
I really enjoyed this take on a super hero story and found a lot of similarities with how children in media are treated. Mega Girl aka Allison Green, was born with a superpower (along with other kids across the world). Upon meeting the other kids with superpowers they ban together (due to the government) and fight crime! Until she has had enough and removes her mask and reveals her real identity. Now she's just trying to be a 'normal' person, go to college, have friends etc.
I drew the similarity to how children are treated in media because I know there has been a surge of child actors we grew up watching writing books, starting podcasts, or speaking out in other ways about how they were pressured and treated as child actors. Constantly in the light and around adults exposing them to things they didn't need to be. As well as the intense surge of 'family bloggers' or baby accounts across social media. These kids are being put in front of an insane amount of people watching them grow up it feels dangerous and I often wonder what life will be like for these kids when they are teenagers and young adults.
Anyway, back to Mega Girl...
I think this story really expressed her struggle with finding what doing the right thing is. Everyone has their own idea of what that is and she struggles with knowing which one to listen to or follow. Or even what ideas of her own make sense to her. The young adult struggle of "how do i do life??" is strongly present and relatable even if I don't have super strength lol.
As of writing this I have picked up Vol 2. and I'm looking forward to the other topics Brennan explores throughout.
How Long 'til Black Future Month? by N.K. Jemisin
4.5
This collection of speculative fiction from N.K. Jemisin is thrillingly imaginative and dreamy.
One thing about Jemisin's writing that I love so much is that she is gonna make you think! She's gonna paint this new world and get you curious and excited, then she's gonna pose a question or throw in a line that makes you go "wait a min!". It stops you in your tracks because suddenly you feel like a mirror is pointed at you in the book. I love it! There's so many times I have highlighted and underlined a single sentence or just a word because it struck me right in the heart. Often times these moments are about race, gender, creative expression, or spirituality.
I was excited to read the beginning workings of stories that then became well known novels. I really loved the story that then became The City We Became. I enjoyed the multiple stories that were centered around New York. The stories felt so tender and special. I found it beautiful that she dedicates so much of her writing to the city. I wonder what it's like to be her walking through the city and imagining different worlds and creatures that are within it!
I do have to mention that there was one story that I just could not get my brain to focus on. When I read I see vivid images in my mind, it's like a movie playing and something about one of the stories kept my mind from seeing clearly what was happening. I found myself having a hard time focusing. So I must admit I skimmed the rest of the story because I was having such a hard time following. I do plan on trying to read that one at a later date though because maybe it just wasn't the time for me to read it.
If you are a fan of Jemisin or are just getting into picking up her books I think this is a great place to start! A little bit of everything is in this collection and its glorious! I'm happy I got to read this during Black History Month!
One thing about Jemisin's writing that I love so much is that she is gonna make you think! She's gonna paint this new world and get you curious and excited, then she's gonna pose a question or throw in a line that makes you go "wait a min!". It stops you in your tracks because suddenly you feel like a mirror is pointed at you in the book. I love it! There's so many times I have highlighted and underlined a single sentence or just a word because it struck me right in the heart. Often times these moments are about race, gender, creative expression, or spirituality.
I was excited to read the beginning workings of stories that then became well known novels. I really loved the story that then became The City We Became. I enjoyed the multiple stories that were centered around New York. The stories felt so tender and special. I found it beautiful that she dedicates so much of her writing to the city. I wonder what it's like to be her walking through the city and imagining different worlds and creatures that are within it!
I do have to mention that there was one story that I just could not get my brain to focus on. When I read I see vivid images in my mind, it's like a movie playing and something about one of the stories kept my mind from seeing clearly what was happening. I found myself having a hard time focusing. So I must admit I skimmed the rest of the story because I was having such a hard time following. I do plan on trying to read that one at a later date though because maybe it just wasn't the time for me to read it.
If you are a fan of Jemisin or are just getting into picking up her books I think this is a great place to start! A little bit of everything is in this collection and its glorious! I'm happy I got to read this during Black History Month!
Poemhood: Our Black Revival: History, Folklore & the Black Experience: A Young Adult Poetry Anthology by Amber McBride, Erica Martin, Taylor Byas
fast-paced
4.75
This poetry collection was fantastic to read! The poems spanned across many years with poetry from Taylor Byas (I Done Clicked My Heels Three Times), Audre Lorde, and James Baldwin to name a few.
An aspect of this poetry collection that I think was so smart and inclusive for young readers and anyone getting into poetry was at the end of each poem there was a small section that would talk about what the poem means. I loved this as I am just getting into reading poetry and sometimes if poems are really vague I question if I'm "having the right thoughts" (which I realize kind of defeats the purpose of poetry, its meant to speak to you in different ways and that is just fine).
I think this collection is a great way to learn about different authors whether they are authors from the past or new emerging voices.
All around this was fantastic! Highly recommend!
An aspect of this poetry collection that I think was so smart and inclusive for young readers and anyone getting into poetry was at the end of each poem there was a small section that would talk about what the poem means. I loved this as I am just getting into reading poetry and sometimes if poems are really vague I question if I'm "having the right thoughts" (which I realize kind of defeats the purpose of poetry, its meant to speak to you in different ways and that is just fine).
I think this collection is a great way to learn about different authors whether they are authors from the past or new emerging voices.
All around this was fantastic! Highly recommend!
Big Papa and the Time Machine by Daniel Bernstrom
5.0
This was so sweet! And the Authors Note was also very sweet as the author describe the inspiration of the story stemming from his own relationship with his Papa.
The way Big Papa shows his grandson aspects of his life was very sweet and touching. I always find it interesting when you reach the age where you realize the adults around you are people other than just mom, dad, grandparent, auntie, guardian...etc. They all have lives and many stories to share and teach. Sometimes they share lots and lots, sometimes they share little.
This story heavily highlighted bravery and courage, specifically with African-American people. Since this story begins with the grandson not wanting to go to school I thought it was historically important that the author showed a time when Big Papa was a kid (called Little Papa in this moment) as he was trying to "go to school". A man comes up behind him and rips up the paper telling him he ain't ever gonna go to school and working in the fields is all he is good for. Grandson asks if Big Papa ever went to school, which he responds no. and then he asks if being scared ever goes away, and Papa responds with no. This whole part displayed the strength of connection and the importance of honesty between adults and children. The bravery and courage Big Papa had displayed through his life was admirable.
The way Big Papa shows his grandson aspects of his life was very sweet and touching. I always find it interesting when you reach the age where you realize the adults around you are people other than just mom, dad, grandparent, auntie, guardian...etc. They all have lives and many stories to share and teach. Sometimes they share lots and lots, sometimes they share little.
This story heavily highlighted bravery and courage, specifically with African-American people. Since this story begins with the grandson not wanting to go to school I thought it was historically important that the author showed a time when Big Papa was a kid (called Little Papa in this moment) as he was trying to "go to school". A man comes up behind him and rips up the paper telling him he ain't ever gonna go to school and working in the fields is all he is good for. Grandson asks if Big Papa ever went to school, which he responds no. and then he asks if being scared ever goes away, and Papa responds with no. This whole part displayed the strength of connection and the importance of honesty between adults and children. The bravery and courage Big Papa had displayed through his life was admirable.
Marina: A Story about Plastic and the Planet by Jesse Byrd
4.5
If I had this book when I was little I 100% would have made yet another presentation to my family on why global warming is throwing me into a panic.
When I was little and first learned about global warming I was freaked the fuck out. I remember laying in my bed awake all night trying to talk to God and angels to take the global warming away.
I think this story showcases how small actions can make a big difference. I also like how it encouraged having a discussion with parents or adults in a child's life about what they can do to eliminate excessive waste.
I liked how the illustrations showed all where Marina's plastic wrap had traveled and all the sea life it effected.
When I was little and first learned about global warming I was freaked the fuck out. I remember laying in my bed awake all night trying to talk to God and angels to take the global warming away.
I think this story showcases how small actions can make a big difference. I also like how it encouraged having a discussion with parents or adults in a child's life about what they can do to eliminate excessive waste.
I liked how the illustrations showed all where Marina's plastic wrap had traveled and all the sea life it effected.