A Tree That Grew in Midway: An Autobiography: An Autobiography of Mr. Harold V. Lucas Jr.

Some autobiographies sound like they were somehow written 1000 miles from the action, as if the author is performing an act on a distant stage. Not “A Tree That Grows in Midway”. This is classic first-person storytelling. Whether describing his military service during the Korean War, his work as an educator or his football coaching, this book puts the reader in the middle of the action, rather than telling the story from afar. It’s like the authors gathered readers in the living room for a “chat” over coffee. I felt at home while reading this book.“A Tree That Grows in Midway” is a delightful collection of insights regarding determination, grit, commitment and the honor and pleasure of being called on to apply all the above to work, work and issues of importance in the world around us.I had intended to take my time and read it nice and slowly, but it’s a hard book to put down. The writing style wouldn’t allow that, as it kept inviting me to venture into the next chapter.Full Disclosure: Harold V. Lucas is my cousin. He has played many important roles in my life, including loyal friend, close cousin, “big brother”, disciplinarian, teacher, football aficionado and role model, but this book reveals a side of him that was not always visible over these decades. He’s been through a lot in life and through this book, he and Dr. Robertson (a published expert on Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune) manage to connect the dots and compile these experiences into an enlightening and enjoyable reading experience.I strongly recommend this book to anyone who wants/needs a refreshing break from the boredom of the staid, super-sterilized writing that avoids getting into real issues. This book just tells it like it is, without making readers feel like we’re listening to a lecture. The authors have a real story to share…about a real person trying to convert dreams into reality…. with real people who have real lives, with real families…. not some concocted images on the Six O’Clock News.