I have admired Condolezza Rice for many years. I was always impressed by her grace and intelligence in one of the toughest jobs in government – the National Security Advisor. When I heard she had written a memoir, I have to admit I dismissed it at first. Everyone in politics seems to be writing a “tell all” book that guarantees the inside dirt on Washington. Fame for the cost of trashing friends, coworkers and allies. I was had always hoped she would not stoop to that depth. I finally took up the courage to listen to this book when I saw that she read it herself. I think this is the best book I have enjoyed this year. Perhaps it should be required reading.
Ms. Rice grew up in Birmingham, Alabama at the height of the Civil Rights era. She experienced the hate and prejudice first hand. This memoir of her parents showed how she was able to rise and become the woman she is today. I started thinking this was a book about Ms. Rice. I was mistaken. This is a tribute to her parents, Angelena and John Rice. This is the story of raising a family in the racially divided South prior to and during desegregation.
I won’t go into the stories she presents. You need to experience them for yourself. They are engaging, gripping and ordinary. These were plain folk, raising their daughter the best way they knew. It is a story of sacrifice for children not often heard today. Yet, I believe it is a tribute to all the parents who do an extraordinary job of raising their children without fanfare, while the dysfunctional families get their own reality TV show. The Rice’s were the kind of family next door who are there for a cup of sugar or a listening ear. Their greatest tribute is the phenomenal success of their daughter.
I grew up just after desegregation and in nearly all-white Idaho. I didn’t experience racial discrimination. My parents taught me not to judge anyone by their skin color. I had no concept of what it was like for blacks in the South. I found myself crying in shame and pain while reading her descriptions of life in Birmingham. I appreciate the education she gave me without instilling hate or anger herself.
I understand she is writing an additional memoir of her time in politics. This book ends with the death of her parents, just as she is accepting the NSA job for the Bush White House. I wanted to know more of her thoughts on this time and can hardly wait. I hope she stays true to her style and provides another great read. Truly a wonderful lady, thanks to her extraordinary, ordinary parents. This is how every family should be.
