A review by lani_neumann
Fearless and Free: A Memoir by Josephine Baker

adventurous hopeful informative inspiring reflective

4.5

I always knew Josephine Baker was an icon but now I really know why! 

This book is an incredible time capsule back to the days that made Josephine Baker a star.  Told in her own words to a journalist over a 20+ year span - the reader is there with her for all the struggles and triumphs. From deep childhood poverty growing up in St Louis to no pay dancing gigs to broadway success, Parisian success, international success, World War 2 and returning home to despicable racism. 

Josephine is so charming and funny and insightful and real ... it is clear her unstoppable drive came from the deepest desire to be the truest form of herself at any time.  How she did it reads almost like fiction because it really would be incredible if she hadn't lived it. 

HIGHLY RECOMMEND.