How do you review a book that is both meant to educate us on how white supremacy and the patriarchy can oppress and benefit people based on varying levels of privilege and tells of someone's personal experiences and hardships within these systems? I don't know! I'm sure I can't do it justice. It feels weird to even try to rate a book that's in part or whole a memoir. But Joseph writes about his life in a way that's powerful and beautiful and sad. He gives insight into the many ways people can be privileged in one way and oppressed in another. He even includes some poetry (at least, that's what it seemed like to me; I'll admit I don't read much). As I read, I highlighted so many strong, important passages. I appreciate the way Joseph lays out how he's been harmed and how he's benefitted, because I think it can be challenging for many of us to see that two things can be true. I'm rambling here and probably not adding any real value. But there's a lot of work to be done and I think this book could be a benefit in helping some people see what work needs doing and how it can be done. If you're interested in learning to unpack your privilege and help dismantle the systems of the patriarchy and white supremacy that harm us all (yes, even men) then definitely give this a read. ( )

One of my sons gave me this book for Father's Day this year. I spent some time mulling over the essays, in prose and poetry, because Mr. Joseph is complex and profound. If you don't like to hear about white supremacy and patriarchy and the damage it has done, this is the book you should read; I am a 72 year old white cishet male and Mr. Joseph's words touched me deeply. His essay on when he learned to fight brought back old memories of violence inflicted on me and violence I inflicted on others before I turned to the way of nonviolence. ( )