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A Personal Odyssey

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About this listen

 Here is the gritty, powerful story of Thomas Sowell's life-long education in the school of hard knocks, a journey that took him from Harlem to the Marines, the Ivy League, and a career as a controversial writer, teacher, and economist in government and private industry. It is also the story of the dramatically changing times in which this personal odyssey took place.

The vignettes of the people and places that made impressions on Sowell at various stages of his life range from the poor and powerless to the mighty and the wealthy, from a home for homeless boys to the White House. More than an account of Sowell's life, this is also the story of the people who gave him their help, their support, and their loyalty, as well as those who demonized him and knifed him in the back. It is a study not just of one life, but also of life itself, with all its exhilaration, pain, constant striving, and deserved success.

©2000 Thomas Sowell (P)2001 Blackstone Audio Inc. Cultural & Regional Educators Politicians Politics & Activism Professionals & Academics

Critic reviews

"Offered a job simply because he was a black man, he turned it down and said why. Despite this righteousness, he has retained a sense of humor....Sowell admits to having had plenty of enemies, but enough friends to save him. This memoir should multiply the latter. Jeff Riggenbach...renders the narrative vividly." ( AudioFile)
All stars
Most relevant
Too many unnecessary gaps in the speech. Probably owing to its being turned from cassettes to this format.
Still a good biography.

Good Overall

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If there was ever anyone to give coming generations a spark, I cannot think of anyone better than Thomas Sowell doing so.

After reading many of his books it was quite enjoyable to learn about his life.

Enables you to see what and from where that string his remarkable character springs from.

Highly recommended read.

A spark

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A must read for any fan of Thomas Sowell. Engaging, revealing, and informative. 5 stars.

Excellent

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America’s greatest critical thinker and race relations expert, a true polymath. From incredibly tough and poor upbringing to the end, his independence and free thinking principles shine through .

A true American hero.

Inspirational and life affirming- true grit

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I'm making my way through all of Dr Sowell's work and I've been blown away. I'll always appreciate how he opened my eyes.

I'll always be grateful to Dr Sowell.

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