Kevin PowellThe Black Male Handbook: A Blueprint for Life

Kevin Powell's book, The Black Male Handbook is a collection of essays that provide insight and instruction on how black males can transform their lives from mediocrity and turmoil to success and peace of mind.I like the fact that the book covers areas such as spirituality, health, finances, mental health, political awarness and relationships. Presenting the information in the form of essays made it an effective and user friendly book.There were many concepts and recommendations that resonated with me. First, I liked the fact that the first essay talked about establishing a spiritual foundation because that's the key to transforming your life in all other areas. Loved the following quote in the book,"Spirituality is the manifestation of this divine connection in one's daily life."Unfortunately too many people don't practice what they preach and I love the fact that this book is focused on changing nonproductive behaviors into life-enhancing ones.Secondly, I was glad to see that the book discussed redefining black man hood where black men are encouraged to ask for help and to express their feelings. Contrary to popular opinion, getting help is strength, not weakness. More black males need to recognize that.Further, I was impressed that the contributing authors were men enough to talk about their past mistakes and use them as opportunities to grow.Kevin Powell's essay was particularly moving. I admire his courage to discuss his story of domestic violence and how he was able to learn from it and to become a better man.Lastly, I am glad that the book embraces the philosophy of 'each one teach one' and also embraces the attitude of collectively moving forward as a Black Community and being accountable to each other.This handbook serves as a great guide to helping black men from all walks of life realize their inherent greatness and to walk the Earth as the Kings that they are.John HindsAuthor of "What's In Your Water?"

I bought this for my bf because he at a crossing point in his life and I hoped it would be some good words of wisdom toGuide his endeavors. It is overall a good book but it references Obama as an upstanding example of a figure in the black community. It's great and all that we have a black president, but I disagree 100% that he is a great role model. He is ruining our country and is every great example of how NOT to lead. But aside from that and the fact that the book seemed to be written for "dumb" and oblivious black males (some things were written as if people reading this book would be new to the USA or something), the overall plot was good. It gives someVery good insight to the fact that no one, especially black males should be usingThe excuses of their ancestory and history as a reason to be held back in today's society. And there is no excuse to not do and be well in today's world. If you want something you will have to workFor it.

This title is a MUST READ for any of us parentless out here. Great addition to personal library. Develop yourself into powerful adult thinker. Empowered to appropriatly respond to Life challanges and obligations!

In this age of "It's all about me", it's great to read a body of work that communicates the cost of "overcoming" for people of color in America. In pursuit of the American dream, something got lost along the way and Kevin Powell has the audacity to "call it out." What got lost was dignity and respect by and for both males and females. What really disappeared was a sense of "community" - that unspoken commradery of being from the same place in the same time, of sharing a season with neighbors, relatives and friends. What got lost was a sense of belonging. This compilation of essays by different men of color from different perspectives and backgrounds speaks to the urgency of the problem. More importantly, practical solutions are offered that have a probability of success. I applaud Mr. Powell for the effort and the desire to be an ambassador of "what should be" and not "what has been".Linda Alexander

A handbook for young and Mature Black MenI have read and then re-read this book, I did like the fact that the ideas were presented with quotes for the bible. One idea tha black men must start embracing our woman and stop fighting with them. And as black men we have to stop fighting each other. During this Black history month and every month after that we have have to stop fighting each other This country hasn't had a decent conversation on race.This is where we come in, Using books like these we can initiate conversations with our sons and nephews and mentoring projects. I highly recomend this book to any black man who's in the proccess of putting thier life in order. At no matter what stage of thier life.

I would recommend this book to all young Black males, who are in schools, incarcerated, in church. Family members and non family.

We have all said at on time or another I wish somebody had told me . . ., well this the information our young men can benifit from that many of us missed out on in our youth. This is an excellent resource. But it remains true no book can teach unless it is opened and read. I highly recommend this work to any and all those who are concerned about elevating the status, thinking and position of Black men in this society and the eyes of a just GOD who expects and encourages us to love and show love.

An amazing read. A must read for all black men; Teachers, Mentors, Brothers (Young and Old), Cousins, any brother that has a responsibility and an opportunity to influence a young man’s mind. I found this book taking me on an introspective journey and make decisions on how my life has been influenced. Moreover, how I wish the rest of my life to be seen by others who follow me. A necessary read for all brothers coming of age.

My 13 year old is reading this book and already quoting from it during our "debates"!!!! Excellent. Would definitely recommend.

Found this book very good in making one reflect on one's life. I will recommand this book to young men

I find the information to be common sense, very well written. Youth want a voice from a youth so this may get them thinking.