The Black Male Handbook: A Blueprint for Life

by Kevin Powell

Book Overview

Author and activist Kevin Powell and contributors Lasana Omar Hotep, Jeff Johnson, Byron Hurt, Dr. William Jelani Cobb, Ryan Mack, Kendrick B. Nathaniel, and Dr. Andre L. Brown deliver an essential collection of essays for Black men at all stages of their lives on surviving and thriving in an unjust world.The Black Male Handbook answers a collective hunger for new direction, fresh solutions to old problems, and a different kind of conversation--man-to-man...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1416592245
• ISBN13: 9781416592242
• Release Date: September 2008
• Publisher: Atria Books
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.4" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Purchased for my growing black male son

Let me start by saying that any material that helps in the development of the black male is something I am drawn to. There are many obstacles so a blueprint for my black male child can only aid in his growth. Also, he loves Hill Harper and has read his previous book, 'Letters to a Young Brother' so he was excited to read this book. He LOVED it! Throughout each chapter he would asked questions, shared thoughts and state affirmations. He learned a lot. Therefore, I do highly recommend this book to all. Enjoy!

Finally, Some Solutions are Proposed

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

"Great Advice For Black Males To Help Themselves."

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 Hinds Author of "What's In Your Water?"