He Talk Like a White Boy by Joseph C. Phillips

Synopsis: The values and reflections of a Hollywood Actor.  

Writing Style: Warm. Indulgent. Personal Journalistic Narratives.    

Pacing: Moderately Fast.

Personal Highlights: Another personality I didn't know until I knew. The title peaked my interest; and opening drew me in. It's amazing how our early experiences often frames the rest of our life. The L7's observations ...reflecting heavily on morals, character, ethics and such, despite the flurries of 'convenient' conclusions, were easy to wine and dine. The very reason most of us are, is because at least one ancestor crossed a moral boundary. Spots that caught my immediate attention (in relation to the overall premise)… Rosalind's career 'supposedly' suffering. The aspiring 'but not quite ready' tap dancer. And mention of Paul Robeson's affiliation with the communist party. These amorphous morale stoppage points were examples of what created a desire to delve deeper into other points referenced.

In general, I got the gist, none more so than the sentiment attributed to Esther Rolle picking at racism like scab, "so it would never heal." I understood his problem with hip-hop...falling out the chair laughing about him nearly breaking his neck during his music experiment. And YES!! So true. 'Soon as you heard "Reasons"...it was like BAM! On like 'Candy Rain'! I as well adored his perspectives on finding marriage fulfilling, again tickled by his observations on women and power. Raising children, same thing. Loved his relationship with his sons..."...letting his boys wander where they might..." haha. 'Mom is raising boys, Dad was raising men.' Powerful stuff. Likewise found his conservative insights (for the most part) absorbing. "When excellence is demanded. Excellence is delivered." At times however, particularly in the 'Idealism' Chapter, things read a bit wordy and nebulous, perhaps what tripped him up on those speaking engagements? But hands down...or UP...I loved, Loved, LOVED his experiences visiting the Motherland!!! OMGoodness, I so appreciated that expose. "Proved less of a homecoming than an affirmation of his Americanness."

Overall, a remarkably masculine empowering read dressed by very warm humorous writing. There is just so much in here it was hard to put the book down. Reads like it was written the other day, when I read the soft copy 2006 copyright edition. Highly recommended!!!