The Undiscovered Paul Robeson by Paul Robeson, Jr.

Synopsis: Biography of Paul Robeson written by his son.

Writing Style: Eloquent. Stately.

Pacing: Pleasing.

Personal Highlights: What a remarkable account of Paul Robeson’s life and work. Wow!

I so adored the writing. Nothing over dramatized, stretched or preachy. From the start Paul Jr. (Paul’s son), makes clear his purpose. He wants readers to have a comprehensive understanding of a notable figure so few, myself maybe namely, really knew.

In only a little over 300 pages Paul’s life is narrated from childhood to his return to the U.S.; a four-decade digest that includes one decade lived abroad (primarily in London and Russia). This is a tremendous feat, (undertaking this writing project that being)... given the time period and the fact that Paul grew up an All-around athlete, one of the earliest (if not earliest) young black males to play organized sports at the collegiate level. So loved how Paul handled himself on football fields dealing with bigots, and so titillated by his being dubbed "Robeson of Rutgers", as he also graduated from Rutgers to move on to obtain a law degree while dipping into the arts, hanging out in the vibrant Harlem scene meeting many greats, to end up moving abroad where he spoke more than 20 languages, fluently. Man, I could on and on about this book ...because this wasn’t all. Before all this, there was matter of how Paul lost his mother, and the deep relationship he shared with his father…and siblings, and extended family while giving a historical digest of what life was like during the ‘Roaring 20’s’.  

In strict straight storytelling fashion so much is contained in this tome. Race relations, inner-race relations, International relations, his personal relationships, thoughts, philosophies, teachings, lessons… this biography is an absolute must to experience. I even got a good chuckle. Essie, Paul’s wife, was something else. Had to respect her, (in sets). Again, WoW!!! Paul Jr. really respected his father, and parents and family and readers for that matter, so demonstrated in his superb narration. One of the best books I’ve ever read. Time well spent. Highly recommended. Read advanced ‘uncorrected’ proof (sold on Amazon), copyright 2001 edition.