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andyreadsfantasy's review
4.0
I listened to the audiobook.
First let me say that the political incorrectness of this title is obviously meant to get attention. This is just the story of his life...nothing controversial about it. This book was recommended to me by a leadership reading list. And I’m glad it was...so I hope the title doesn’t stop you from picking it up.
I enjoyed the story of his life. There’s a lot of good lessons there.
I have two negative points that made it 4 stars instead of 5. First, some of the stories are not necessary. At times it feels like he is name dropping or just mentioning a story because he thought it was fun, not because it added to the value of the book. Second, even though he owns his mistakes, it still feels like he downplays a lot of very negative behavior. You can’t talk about cheating on someone in a braggadocios manner, and then say that it was bad in the next sentence. Doing so downplays the hurt that bad behavior causes and seems to show a lack of empathy.
First let me say that the political incorrectness of this title is obviously meant to get attention. This is just the story of his life...nothing controversial about it. This book was recommended to me by a leadership reading list. And I’m glad it was...so I hope the title doesn’t stop you from picking it up.
I enjoyed the story of his life. There’s a lot of good lessons there.
I have two negative points that made it 4 stars instead of 5. First, some of the stories are not necessary. At times it feels like he is name dropping or just mentioning a story because he thought it was fun, not because it added to the value of the book. Second, even though he owns his mistakes, it still feels like he downplays a lot of very negative behavior. You can’t talk about cheating on someone in a braggadocios manner, and then say that it was bad in the next sentence. Doing so downplays the hurt that bad behavior causes and seems to show a lack of empathy.
lovemeknots's review
3.0
I got a free audible trial and figured I would give this book a shot. It's narrated by Charlamagne and for me that was a plus. I listen to him on the Breakfast Club and enjoy his perspective on a lot of topics. I like how the book was a little about his personal life but also jewels about how to be successful in life and how to open yourself up to a different outlook.
gritshelme's review
4.0
A compulsively readable and incredibly inspiring book. I originally picked this up to discover Charlamagne's message behind the attention-grabbing title Black Privilege, and I would recommend that everyone do the same.
djdorsey's review
5.0
Definitely a great book!! It is a good reference book to go back and reflect on. Staying true to yourself even with adversities? This is the book that tells you failing forward you will prevail. I’m saving this book for my children when they get older. Disclaimer: Adult subject matter.
mshigherlearning's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
malcaveli's review
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
4.25
This book was very entertaining and insightful. I really enjoyed the story of Charlamagne’s upbringing and southern roots. The book was very inspirational, and written in a way that felt natural and i could hear his voice as i reading. I would definitely recommend this book and i would give it another read.
shakehreereads's review
5.0
A MUST READ!!! I listened to the audiobook which was fun, and I will be adding this book to my library. Charlamagne is very encouraging and insightful. So glad I read this book!
fishwitch's review
5.0
This book is not only an inspiration for young black men, but to everyone who takes the time to read his powerful message.
porshamcbee's review
5.0
First, I must say that I did NOT like Charlamagne prior to reading this book. I always felt that he was rude, obnoxious, and arrogant. However, this book definitely humanized him in my eyes. I wouldn’t say I am his biggest fan (there still may be times where he rubs me the wrong way) but I genuinely respect him. The response to the title of the book was one of pure disgust because it suggests that black people have privilege similar to white people. But by Charlamagne’s definition “black privilege” is the spiritual connection that black people seem to have to the Divine, a connection that allows us to thrive and survive in the presence of obstacles. We have God’s privilege. We should all wake up in the morning and think “It’s a privilege to be black. We are destined to be great”. The book is half memoir, and half self help. This was an enjoyable read due to the life lessons shared and hilarious commentary.