Customer Reviews

Grand Fathers: Reminiscences, Poems, Recipes, and Photos of the Keepers of Our Traditions

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This sensitive, lovely set of reminiscences has at itsfoundation a very important theme. African American men are present inthe lives of their families and have made a difference. Too often stereotypes emphasize that African American men are not around their families and do not take any responsibility for them, and that most African American families are run by females. This book counters such unfounded stereotypes with wonderful recollections of the great influence African American men have had on their families. This influence is very important for readers to recognize, and this book provides readers with understanding that will hopefully contradict negative stereotypes. END

Nikki Giovanni has opened our hearts to the songs, influence, and love of many grandfathers. The stories, poems, and photographs of the beloved grandfathers of others quickly embrace the unconditional love many of us received from our own grandfathers, and stir the desires for that love from those who were denied. This book made me laugh, cry, and remember a grandfather who was so special to me. This outstanding collection spans generations and cultures. It would be a welcome addition to a literature study of grandfathers as it invites readers to recall their own memoirs of these significant people in our lives. As Giovani states in her introduction, "Grandfathers are like the rest of us who are struggling to make sense of this world. They are the tears we shed. They are the stars we wish upon, for it is grandfathers... who let us see what loving relationships should be." Read this book to renew your own memories and appreciation of grandfathers.