Brave Biographical Reads
BBRs read 8
Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup| Read in 2024
The harrowing true story written by the man it happened to. The story is one of the most heartbreaking and worst of American history. It shows the break down of most of societal structures that were in place to keep these very things from happening. It also shows the extent to which the problem of slavery and racism was going in America. It was becoming more than an economic, serviced, and political issue. Stories like this mixed with the Dred Scott case exacerbated the problem and got to the heart of the issue in America. This is one of those books that every American should read to get a glimpse of this dark period in history. While this is not the whole history, it is an important look at an important time, which is worth a look.
The Truths We Hold by Kamala Harris | Read in 2024
Should this book really be in Brave Biographical Reads as a primarily conservative leaning, religious virtual book club? Sure. It is still a biography (memoir) and she has done some interesting work that anyone can learn from. Any time a book is written by the person it is about, there is sure to be anecdotes that portray that person only in a certain light. As Harris meanders through her life, she uses every story to highlight a cause to which she has strong feelings for and has attempted to do things in some way or another. To be sure she focuses more on the stories to gain sympathy than actual solutions. You would think California would be utopia by now having her and her com-padres running it for so long how they want to. Yet they still complain about the issues they create. The worst part is that she literally starts the book talking about Trumps 2016 election night. She's had it out for him for awhile. Then went on about the Russia hoax. Instead of talking about actual bad policies Trump has she just said, they could be bad. Then to top it all off: we can't talk about elections unless they are free and fair yet she has over half a chapter talking about how she has proven elections can be hacked and stolen.
Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance | Read in 2024
While this book is about his life growing up for the most part, it also holds some interesting views and points to be made. That is one of the things that makes this book interesting and a recommended read. Additionally, his rise in politics is rapid and will probably be around for a long time so it will be nice to know where he came from and what he says early. One thing he said his grandmother said as a child was that "Not all rich people were bad but all bad people were rich." This is an interesting observation. It lends to the idea that money just exacerbates whatever things you do. It doesn't make your life better or you a better person. A final quote that he says is the current message of the right that is killing society is, "it's not your fault that you're a loser, it's the government's fault." This over blame on the government seems to be a large problem in society today and is a great point to make.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass | Read in 2023
Frederick Douglas is perhaps the most inspiring story of American history. At every turn his perseverance, intelligence, and patience served him to become a hero for many. He shows many the meaning of civil disobedience. Not making excuses for anything, he used every opportunity that came his way and looked for the best possible outcome. Teaching himself to read and write at the opposition of the behest of his owners, proved to be his line to freedom. He had chances to run away but weighed his options and realized his chances of getting caught were greater. He was strategic in almost every move which served him well throughout his life. This is a much read for the history, the heroics, and the common sense approach he took to many things.
My Lucky Life in and out of Show Business by Dick Van Dyke | Read in 2023
One of the greatest comedians of all time and star that every child knew from the classic movies. If you get the audiobook version that he reads himself, it will remind you of your grandpa telling you his life story. He focused most of his career on family friendly entertainment. He tried to expand his repertoire at the end of his TV show however, it did not go over well. He also had some rough patches in his life as well that didn't help. However, he stayed the course and resumed making family entertainment and stayed active late into his life. He even had another show that he starred in with his son that ran longer than his original. Still alive as of the time of this he is still agile and funny bringing joy to many.
Canada by Mike Myers | Read in 2023
A somewhat misleading title. Mike Myers is not the only person in or from Canada. Technically he was from England first. However, the book is obviously about his love for Canada through the story of his life. It is as funny as you would think it would be. It tells great stories of his life, family, and career. It is not completely about his time in Canada. It is also about his time at SNL and beyond. However, he is still referencing Canada during that time as well. It is definitely a quaint book. Not a must read, but if you like Canada or Mike Myers it would be. It is enjoyable and informative. What more can you ask for from a biography about a comedian.
Alex Trebek The Answer is... by Alex Trebek | Read in 2023
If you like TV, trivia, game shows, or wholesome people, you will love this book about and by Trebek. It is filled with great stories both funny and heartwarming. He led an amazing life and did a lot of things. Even when he could have been very pretentious about his celebrity he was not. He remained a steady, hardworking, loyal person to the end. Of course, any autobiography probably sheds the light as positive as possible. This can be kept in mind when reading this book. However, even a quick google search can show that he lived his life rather privately and managed to stay away from scandals that so often plague people in the public eye.
Churchill by Paul Johnson | Read in 2023
One of the first books read on here. This was a fantastic pick! Highly recommend for anyone who loves history or biographies. Churchill's life is obviously extraordinary and dealt with highs and lows from WWII and then losing the election. His ability to span the isle when it came to politics helped along with his great orator skills. He is probably best known for his speeches and quotes, many of which are still said today. His leadership through WWII was probably one of the greatest in human history and what got England and the world through the War.
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