Quite randomly this book was floating around our Unit, and someone asked me if I’d like to read it, so that’s how I got the book! Obviously had heard a lot about it throughout the recent election, so was curious to see what it said myself.
The book itself has two parallel tracks to it. The first, as one might imagine, is about a child growing up low income, in the “boonies”, absent parents due to drugs and mental issues, with the grandparents stepping in. It goes on from there with colorful stories and memories. Suffice it to say the “typical” issues we all hear about and see portrayed in movies, TV,and books. Unlike many folks, in this case, JD is somehow able to survive it, not give in to bad influences or to his situation, finally enlisting in the military which was a game changer for him. After an honorable discharge, Ohio State University on the GI bill and Yale Law School. Clearly he eventually had some good fortune, as he explains, but also the key characteristics necessary to get out of his socio-economic situation and then thrive and excel. The book does a nice job walking the reader through this incredible 30 year journey.
The second parallel track is really about JD’s observations and learnings about mental illness, education, spirituality, government policies for the poor or people similar to his family, hometown, and income level. I found some of his observations quite insightful and compatible with my views, and really what has become the basis for several of his political and policy views.
In terms of my current incarceration, I got some helpful insights as to some of the inmates here, and how similar circumstances have impacted them in an opposite way than JD, or a more “traditional ” way. This book will be useful once I’m out of prison in my undertaking and assisting ” A Better Tomorrow” and how we can better serve inmates seeking to have a successful re entry process and journey!BJ