Review: 04/28/24
I finished this book today for english class. We had to choose a memoir and I chose this one, primarily because I have a goal on reading every book on a US president, and what better to choose than a book written by one himself?
I was impressed with this book. It takes you on a journey from Obama's childhood in Hawaii and Indonesia, to his teenage years, Occidental College, and Columbia University. He then moves to Chicago where he works as a community organizer for the black communities. He hopes to get these young black kids - especially boys - lives back on track. He is accepted into Harvard Law School, but before he goes, he travels to Kenya to meet his extended family on his father's side (he only met him once before he died). The book ends with him being married to Michelle and talking about how going to Kenya brought his worlds together at last.
I enjoyed the storytelling of this book. It was an easy read and engaging, especailly the Kenya section. I enjoyed learning about the traditions of the Luo people's through a few of his grandmothers stories. The truth about his father, the dreams he had and abandoned. How the British control of Kenya changed his grandfather's life. The distinct similarities of the outskirts of Nairobi and the South Side of Chicago.
I have gained a new respect for Obama. I was just a kid when he was president, so I don't know much of the impact his presidency has had, but I enjoyed reading this personal side of him that not many people care to know about. I recommend this book for everyone because I think you can learn a lot from Obama's struggle to connect with his family and find his place in a world that seemingly doesn't want him as much as others.
Rating:★★★★☆ (4.7/5)