Reach by Laila Ali

Synopsis: Celebrity Testimony.

Writing Style: Genuine. Straightforward.

Pacing: FAST.

Personal Highlights: Not sure what exactly motivated me to pick up this memoir but the impulse had to be instinctive because I liked it. Written in rounds Laila’s testimonies are like her jabs; quick, to the point and easy on the eyes. Right away I connected to the opening.

Interestingly enough, Laila was in her early twenties when she first put these experiences on paper, though the edition I read was published 2017, almost 20 years later. This is noteworthy because it explained some of the narratives, such as her relationship with her mom, and sister, and father (Muhammad Ali), and extended family…step-siblings and such…along with quite raw thoughts and advice on intimate situations (sex). Reading between the lines there are occasional shifts in thought, one of the most notable being the growth in her relationship with her mother. I Loved it! Just beautiful. Also engaging was reading about Miss Mary and Alice… and the Jacqui fight. Overall, the storytelling is passionate, touching and vivid. Nicely done. Highly recommended. Read soft copy 2017/2002 copyright.