March 15, 2016
This first book by Booker, the junior senator from New Jersey and one of the rising stars nationally of the Democratic Party, is highly readable and engaging. Both within his home state and via his social media presence, Booker has become known for his positive, approachable manner, and this work, which blends memoir and politics is written in that voice. He begins by documenting his familial history and follows with how he entered politics; prior to the U.S. Senate, Booker, a Yale Law School graduate, was a city councilman and mayor of Newark, NJ, his adopted hometown. He focuses chapters on the local leaders (e.g., heads of tenants' organizations) who inspired him and shaped his experiences, and consistently credits them for their tireless work in the city. His impassioned call for reforms to the country's criminal justice system, especially with regards to mandatory minimum sentences and the lack of resources for the recently released, is backed up by data and his time living with and advocating for Newark's most vulnerable. Whether readers agree or disagree with the senator's politics, his titular appeal for Americans to recognize their history of interdependence and to work to improve the lives of others is hard to dispute. VERDICT Booker's book will likely interest and inspire not only his constituents but also a range of U.S. readers, especially those concerned with the criminal justice system and the current state of partisan politics. [See Prepub Alert, 7/20/15; "Editors' Fall Picks," LJ 9/1/15, p. 32.]--Amanda Mastrull, Library Journal
Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
August 1, 2015
Yes, Booker here talks about his life as a star student and football player, a Rhodes Scholar and Yale Law graduate, and the mayor of Newark and New Jersey's first African American U.S. senator. But he uses these experiences to address key issues of our times, particularly the criminal justice system, the economy, and the environment. As Booker himself says, "I am excited to have the opportunity to share stories and ideas that I believe are important if we as a nation are to continue to advance together."
Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
April 4, 2016
Booker, a junior U.S. senator from New Jersey, provides a multifaceted exploration of the many moments and people who have left an indelible mark on him and his political career. Booker shows how other people are instrumental in success as a leader, including in his case his father, the community leaders and activists who mentored him over years, and even the people he has lost or let down. With a light rasp, a slight New Jersey lilt, and a history of public speaking, Booker does a spectacular job narrating his audio edition of his book. He keeps a strong and consistent projection throughout the production and knows exactly when to slow down, lighten his tone, and convey more solemn emotions such as regret and sadness. He is especially adept at respectfully invoking the people he writes about in his book. He provides unique voices that liven up the script. A Ballantine hardcover.