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Life Is So Good Kindle Edition

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,035 ratings

One man’s extraordinary journey through the twentieth century and how he learned to read at age 98
 
“Things will be all right. People need to hear that. Life is good, just as it is. There isn’t anything I would change about my life.”—George Dawson
 
In this remarkable book, George Dawson, a slave’s grandson who learned to read at age 98 and lived to the age of 103, reflects on his life and shares valuable lessons in living, as well as a fresh, firsthand view of America during the entire sweep of the twentieth century. Richard Glaubman captures Dawson’s irresistible voice and view of the world, offering insights into humanity, history, hardships, and happiness. From segregation and civil rights, to the wars and the presidents, to defining moments in history, George Dawson’s description and assessment of the last century inspires readers with the message that has sustained him through it all: “Life is so good. I do believe it’s getting better.”
 
WINNER OF THE CHRISTOPHER AWARD
 
“A remarkable autobiography . . . . the feel-good story of the year.”—
The Christian Science Monitor
 
“A testament to the power of perseverance.”—
USA Today
 
Life Is So Good is about character, soul and spirit. . . . The pride in standing his ground is matched—maybe even exceeded—by the accomplishment of [George Dawson’s] hard-won education.”—The Washington Post
 
“Eloquent . . . engrossing . . . an astonishing and unforgettable memoir.”—
Publishers Weekly
 
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Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

A 101-year-old retired laborer who enrolled in a literacy class near his Dallas, Tex., home at the age of 98, George Dawson now reads and writes on a third-grade level. From Dawson's eloquent words, co-writer Glaubman, a Seattle elementary school teacher, has fashioned two engrossing stories. First is the inspiring saga of how someone who was the grandson of a slave managed to navigate the brutally segregated small Texas town of Marshall, where Dawson was born, without losing his integrity or enjoyment of life. Although he worked from an early age and was never able to attend school, Dawson credits his strong family, especially his father, for giving him the skills to survive. His father told him to work hard, to do no wrong and always to avoid trouble with white people--advice that was brutally underscored the day he and his father witnessed a white mob lynching a black neighbor. The other theme running through these recollections is the institutionalized racism of the American South. Hardened to the entrenched discrimination that excluded him from good jobs and "white" restaurants and rest rooms, Dawson protested just once, when a woman for whom he was doing yard work expected him to eat with her dogs. Despite the harsh conditions of his life, he considers himself fortunate to have enjoyed food, housing, friends and family (he has outlived four wives and fathered seven children). This is an astonishing and unforgettable memoir. Agent, Harriet Wasserman. (Feb.)
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

Dawson, a black manual laborer who learned to read at age 98, has written a memoir that stands apart from other end-of-the-century texts and from the history generally recorded in textbooks--but is essential to an accurate understanding of this century. The product of a collaboration between Dawson and high school history teacher Glaubman, the book juxtaposes significant events of the century with Dawson's personal experiences. Although he endured hardship, Dawson's positive philosophy sustained him to a ripe old age. Written in a simple, conversational style, this volume will be valuable for general readers and in college classes. A welcome addition to any academic or public library.
---Theresa McDevitt, Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B000Q9II90
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Random House; Reprint edition (May 9, 2000)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 9, 2000
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2.4 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 274 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,035 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
1,035 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the story inspiring and humbling. They describe the book as an easy, fascinating read that should be required reading in high school. The author speaks honestly about his life and portrays actual life during those times. Readers appreciate the authenticity, beauty, and realness of the story. They mention it's great for all ages and never too late to learn and have faith. The main character is memorable and a great example for all of us.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

128 customers mention "Inspirational story"128 positive0 negative

Customers find the story inspiring and humbling. They appreciate the author's honest approach to life and his positive attitude. Readers describe the book as an insightful read with powerful witticisms. It is described as a wonderful true-life story that shows courage and hope.

"...Dawson and Richard Glaubman "One man's extraordinary journey though the twentieth century and how he learned to read at age 98." Worth..." Read more

"...Some of George's wisdom is expressed in simple yet powerful witticisms: -For me its like fishing...." Read more

"...His account is a fabulous reminder of what is truly important in life and how very blessed (and frequently spoiled) we are when compared to those..." Read more

"I love true stories, this book was very interesting as to what and how the fella grew up and the challenges he faced during his lifetime." Read more

20 customers mention "Humility"20 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's humility and positive attitude. They find it uplifting and encouraging, with an example of gratitude despite challenges. The author is described as warm and endearing, helping readers feel kindness towards others.

"...man, returns to Texas to raise a family, demonstrates perseverance, gratitude, wisdom of elders, importance of reading and lifelong learning...." Read more

"...Yet, he remained positive, hopeful, kind. No reason to ban this book." Read more

"...George and his co-author captured the essence of an extremely humble, determined, focused individual who stayed true to who he was, how he wanted to..." Read more

"...His upbringing was exemplary: strong work ethic, respect for all, though he was especially coached to be respectful to whites, employers, etc...." Read more

14 customers mention "Readability"14 positive0 negative

Customers find the book easy to read and engaging. They say it's beautifully written and should be required reading in high school. The chapters are short enough to read before bed. Readers appreciate the simple yet complicated life journey depicted in the book.

"Very different read. A interesting story told by a very determined person. Riddled with hardship, it never seem to have an effect on him...." Read more

"I liked this book. The simplicity yet complicated manuvering through the life of one amazing individual. I cant even..." Read more

"HIGHLY recommend this book! It is a quick and easy read, but very thought-provoking...." Read more

"...This book should be required reading in high school as it depicts the life of a man who learned to read at a very old age. Anthing is Possible !!" Read more

9 customers mention "Authenticity"9 positive0 negative

Customers find the book authentic. They say it's a genuine account of a real person's life, with a good portrayal of actual life during those times. The book makes readers want to be better people.

"...that not everyone carries those beliefs, is stunningly real and honest...." Read more

"This is a memoir of truth and honesty, and the power of rising early, fishing, work and staying away from "trouble"." Read more

"...Couldn’t put it down at times. Facts through the eyes of a freed man." Read more

"...He brings perspective on what really matters in life - honesty, staying busy, not worrying, not holding grudges, being grateful and family." Read more

9 customers mention "Beauty"9 positive0 negative

Customers find the book honest and inspiring. They describe it as a realistic look into a life and times different from their own.

"...as his revelation that not everyone carries those beliefs, is stunningly real and honest...." Read more

"...A real look into a life and times so different from mine. I love to read about "everyday" people." Read more

"Such a real and inspirational story. To know and listen to another's story is to learn. Thank you _..." Read more

"...A beautiful, precious soul ... wish I could have met him and talked with him at length." Read more

5 customers mention "Age range"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book suitable for all ages. They appreciate the message that learning never stops, and that it's never too late to learn and have faith.

"...gratitude, wisdom of elders, importance of reading and lifelong learning...." Read more

"...in high school as it depicts the life of a man who learned to read at a very old age. Anthing is Possible !!" Read more

"Very nice story enjoyed the book. Never too old to learn." Read more

"This book is great for all ages. My 8 year and 14 year old have read it along with me. Great book for the entire family." Read more

5 customers mention "Character development"5 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book. They find the main character memorable, a great example, and say the book gets inside his life.

"The main character in this book was very memorable. A man who spends his whole life working and regretting that he cannot read is very inspiring...." Read more

"Exceptional book about an exceptional individual that had so much of the character that we are missing today...." Read more

"...This book has given me hope. What a good man and great example George is for all of us." Read more

"...The book was so well written and he was such and admirable man. What an inspiration!" Read more

5 customers mention "Ease of use"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book easy to read and engaging. They appreciate its simplicity and wisdom from a humble author. The book encourages setting new goals and achieving them.

"This is such a wonderful escape from today's world. Simpler times (not all great) and the incredible wisdom of a very intelligent man who didn't get..." Read more

"For 103 years the subject of this simple, humble and more importantly humbling book led this All-American life. Learn from it what you will." Read more

"HIGHLY recommend this book! It is a quick and easy read, but very thought-provoking...." Read more

"...The world need more George Dawson. Mr. Dawson was so easy going and humble." Read more

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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on September 22, 2015
    Life is So Good by George Dawson and Richard Glaubman "One man's extraordinary journey though the twentieth century and how he learned to read at age 98." Worth buying for school, friends, or relatives. Winner of the Christopher Award -- books that "affirm the highest values of the human spirit."

    Discovered this in Barnes & Noble while looking for a book that would meet a dual credit history teacher's requirements for content (and mine for length, dialog, action, readability). This went WAY beyond my criteria because of the inspirational story and moral examples. LOVED it for so many reasons. A few...100 years of history told through the common man's pov, who happens to be black, sees first hand how people judge (and kill) based on skin color alone, relays life in a small Texas town growing up, travels the country as a young man, returns to Texas to raise a family, demonstrates perseverance, gratitude, wisdom of elders, importance of reading and lifelong learning. Bought extra copies for school, the original story and the sequel for self.

    My only complaint...reader's guide question #12 in the back. "As they rode home in their wagon after seeing a lynching, George Dawson's father told his angry and outraged 10 year old son, "You have no right to judge another human being. Don't you ever forget." Ninety years later, George Dawson recounted, "I didn't know it then, but his words set the direction my life would take even till this day." Do you agree with George Dawson's father that it is never okay to judge someone? Do you think there are times when anger is a better response than acceptance?"

    Imo, there should have been a question similar to..."What's the difference between judging the actions of a person as harmful and unwise, and judging the person as a whole?" (Hate the sin, not the sinner. Judge not, least ye be judged. We are walk in different shoes on the earth school journey...that kinda thing. ;-) How about this one, "Do you think there are people who know how to accept all human beings where they are, yet stand firm against their unwise choices...without the need of fear based anger?" Or for more mature readers "Anger is the protective emotion we feel when we believe our needs are not being met. Is it possible to react out of faith and love instead of fear in any situation?" (I.e., How does one become a saint? Not that I'm planning on getting there in this lifetime ;-)...but removing fear and reacting out of faith is my eventual state of being.)
    21 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2018
    This is the story of George Dawson: a figure seemingly destined to be poor, angry and uneducated but who leads a life rich in experiences, personal connections and wisdom. People who are somewhat familiar with the book will think its merely about an illiterate 98 year old who decides to go back to school. Once you get to know the main character, you realize that anecdote is merely an obvious extrapolation for a man who spent his whole life working hard, incrementally bettering himself. As the author recounts, "I had come to record a life of hardship and was not prepared to hear of gratitude."

    Some of George's wisdom is expressed in simple yet powerful witticisms:

    -For me its like fishing. Some folks, they go fishing and they keep reeling in, changing bait, and trying again an again. Me, I cast out and then I stick with it.
    -Do you see that cup as half full or half empty? I see it as being enough. So its just fine.
    -People forget that a picture aint made from just one color. Life aint all good or all bad. Its full of everything.
    -Even when it’s a three-two count, don’t back down. Go with the fastball

    And some of George's timeless advice:

    -I want for people not to worry so much. Life aint going to be perfect, but things will work out.
    -A man is supposed to work and take pride in what he does no matter what the work is.
    -Those people have been marching for you and now you cant let them down.
    -That boy looked at me but didn’t, couldn’t believe a word I said, and I shut up because he didn’t even see me. He saw an old black man, a gardener… I stopped talking and he didn’t learn nothing about his grandma's loom. He wasn’t read to learn.
    27 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2010
    This wonderful man lived to over 100+ years old, and very thankfully he garnered the attention of a younger man (the co-author) who had heard that he had just learned to read at the age of 98. He sat him down and got him to ponder important times in American & World history over the past century, hoping to hear a first-hand account of what it was like to be alive at the time. While the title might suggest that this is a book about literacy, it's really not.

    When Mr. Dawson begins the book it is nothing like I had expected, and probably not what the author thought he would hear, either. Instead of listening to a man describe well-known historical events, he lets us in on the relatively unknown lives that were happening behind the scenes. He had little or no idea what was going on in the world because he couldn't read, certainly did not own a radio or TV and frankly was just doing what he had to do to survive.

    The life lessons that were very hard-won by Mr. Dawson are the kind of basic values that have been lost to many. His account is a fabulous reminder of what is truly important in life and how very blessed (and frequently spoiled) we are when compared to those who came before us.

    The book traces his life from childhood to adulthood to his senior years with many fascinating tales. Some are heartbreaking, some uplifting, some frightening...but all of them result in vivid life lessons that we should all be sure to hear. His life as a black man faced with a lifetime of prejudice, as well as his revelation that not everyone carries those beliefs, is stunningly real and honest.

    I would highly recommend that all young people (actually, anyone of any age) read this so as to more completely understand the advances in lifestyle, race relations and progress in general over the 20th century. It's an inspirational and informative tale that Mr. Dawson shares and I would hope that his story lives on through many more generations.
    9 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2024
    I love true stories, this book was very interesting as to what and how the fella grew up and the challenges he faced during his lifetime.

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Linda Lutz
    5.0 out of 5 stars This is a good true story
    Reviewed in Canada on November 20, 2022
    I liked that the true story was intertwined with history as this gentleman worked so hard and finally did learn to read.
  • Alan
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great read
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 11, 2018
    Emotional from the get go, I can't recommend this book enough. Some of the English is a little odd at times but then it is American and written by somebody that learnt to read and write at 98 years of age so I can forgive that. A must read for the 'entitled' generation of today.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Jasmine
    5.0 out of 5 stars This is a great book
    Reviewed in Australia on July 12, 2021
    This is one of my favourite biographies about a man who was illiterate until he learned to read and write in his 90’s.
    That’s pretty amazing but not the most memorable aspect of this book. The man himself and the story of his life is extraordinary an inspiration. I hope a lot of people get to read this wonderful book
  • wolf
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book ... great lesson
    Reviewed in Germany on April 11, 2013
    It's not money that makes life so good ... it's your attitude
    ...... ....... ....... ....... ....... ...... ........ .........
  • Omar Soriente
    5.0 out of 5 stars Storia dalla forte capacita' ispirativa
    Reviewed in Italy on January 6, 2013
    La vita di George Dawson e' un'autentica storia di esperienze che attraversano tutto il novecento fino ad arrivare all'inizio degli anni duemila. Un uomo di colore vissuto e cresciuto con forti valori morali e con convinzioni che si sono poi evolute con il passare di un secolo, sofferenze e soddisfazioni, partenze e ritorni, scoperte affascinanti e situazioni diverse e diversificate. Questa storia e', a mio avviso, uno di quei racconti veritieri che hanno, riga dopo riga, una notevole energia positiva volta ad ispirare il lettore. Per chi pensa che il tempo non sia un ostacolo per la propria evoluzione e miglioramento potra' trovare, nella storia di George, una conferma circa questo modo di pensare. Si e' sempre in tempo a fare quello che si desidera veramente. Chi invece pensa che arrivati ad una certa eta' sia quasi un'obbligo rinunciare ai propri sogni puo' capire quanto lo scorrere degli anni non sia in realta' un sintomo di invecchiamento, se lo stato d'animo rimane quello di un ragazzo di vent'anni, ma solo un'opportunita' di accrescere la propria conoscenza e saggezza. Il racconto delle esperienze di un uomo, che gia' a quattro anni si trovava nei campi di cotone per aiutare i suoi genitori a sbarcare il lunario, ci fanno rivivere alcuni importanti avvenimenti accaduti negli Stati Uniti sotto un altro punto di vista. Non voglio svelare troppi dettagli per non rovinare la sorpresa al lettore ma posso solo dirvi che un uomo di colore agli inizi del novecento, e primo genito, non aveva la possibilita' di andare a scuola ed imparare a leggere e scrivere, ma George Dawson ha imparato tutto cio' ad un'eta' che scoprirete durante la lettura. Rimmarrete sbalorditi per ogni esperienza vissuta, per ogni frase e parola riportata nel racconto e, cosa piu' importante, scoprirete che la semplicita' e' la chiave di una vita felice. Come dice George “la vita e' cosi' bella ed ogni giorno che passa diventa migliore”. Lettura consigliatissima per le emozioni che travolgono il lettore pagina dopo pagina, per la scorrevolezza del testo, per la scoperta di avvenimenti successi durante i primi anni del novecento e per la forza ed energia positiva che rimane dopo la lettura di ogni capitolo fino all'apoteosi del finale meraviglioso. Spero ci possa essere presto anche la versione in italiano perche' essa e' una storia che tutti dovrebbero leggere. Buona lettura.

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