I have been reading this one as my lunch book for a couple months and I finally finished it so now I can share my thoughts. This one was called Black, White and Gray All Over by Frederick Douglass Reynolds.
Synopsis: From shootouts and robberies to riding in cars with pimps and prostitutes, Frederick Reynolds’ early manhood experiences in Detroit, Michigan in the 1960s foretold a future on the wrong side of the prison bars. Frederick grew up a creative and sensitive child but found himself lured down the same path as many Black youth in that era. No one would have guessed he would have a future as a cop in one of the most dangerous cities in America in the 1980s—Compton, California. From recruit to detective, Frederick experienced a successful career marked by commendations and awards. The traumatic and highly demanding nature of the work, however, took its toll on both his family and personal life—something Frederick was able to conquer but only after years of distress and regret.
This book was an insightful look into the life of a black police officer and what they deal with on the day to day basis. Frederick had to deal with racism in the workplace and persevere to eventually become a detective in the department.
The book follows him through his life and the many accomplishments he receives as well as the hard times that he endures during his time as a police officer. It was pretty much dealing with life and death every single day and working on a lot of gang related murder cases. I would have a hard time doing this and will say that it takes a lot to be able to handle that much every day.
The book did mention a lot of names throughout all the encounters and I did find it confusing at times because I couldn’t keep track of everyone and who they were. But this was a non-fiction book so these were all real people that the author encountered and I can imagine they tried not to miss anyone.
It was a very eye opening book and an interesting read.
Book Rating: 3/5
You can buy this book on Amazon and find it on Goodreads.
Disclaimer: This book was sent to me by the author in paperback format to read and give an honest review.
Thank you to our Patreon Supporters:
- Chris Connors (https://thisandthatbooksca.wordpress.com)
- Jane Peveto
- B.A Bellec (babellec.com)
- Philip Ginn
- Ev Hecklinger
- Mel – @crazyforbooksandcoffee
- Kirsty – @kaybethbookish
- Donna H
- Susan Still
Get your name/blog added to our blog posts and Youtube videos by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon
It’s time to ring in the new year by showing off what I will be starting the year reading! I have a new setup for my TBR structure and I am excited to share it with you. Let me know in the comments below what books you will be starting off the year with!
Check out the video below:
