The Measure of a Man A Spiritual Autobiography, Sidney Poitier. (Hardcover 006135791X)

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The Measure of a Man A Spiritual Autobiography
Author: Sidney Poitier

"I have no wish to play the pontificating fool, pretending that I've suddenly come up with the answers to all life's questions. Quite that contrary, I began this book as an exploration, an exercise in self-questing. In other words, I wanted to find out, as I looked back at a long and complicated life, with many twists and turns, how well I've do... more »ne at measuring up to the values I myself have set." ? Sidney Poitier

In this luminous memoir, a true American icon looks back on his celebrated life and career. His body of work is arguably the most morally significant in cinematic history, and the power and influence of that work are indicative of the character of the man behind the many storied roles. Sidney Poitier here explores these elements of character and personal values to take his own measure ? as a man, as a husband and a father, and as an actor.

Poitier credits his parents and his childhood on tiny Cat Island in the Bahamas for equipping him with the unflinching sense of right and wrong and of self-worth that he has never surrendered and that have dramatically shaped his world. "In the kind of place where I grew up," recalls Poitier, "what's coming at you is the sound of the sea and the smell of the wind and momma's voice and the voice of your dad and the craziness of your brothers and sisters...and that's it." Without television, radio, and material distractions to obscure what matters most, he could enjoy the simple things, endure the long commitments, and find true meaning in his life.

Poitier was uncompromising as he pursued a personal and public life that would honor his upbringing and the invaluable legacy of his parents. Just a few years after his introduction to indoor plumbing and the automobile, Poitier broke racial barrier after racial barrier to launch a pioneering acting career. Committed to the notion that what one does for a living articulates to who one is, Poitier played only forceful and affecting characters who said something positive, useful, and lasting about the human condition.

Here is Poitier's own introspective look at what has informed his performances and his life. Poitier explores the nature of sacrifice and commitment, price and humility, rage and forgiveness, and paying the price for artistic integrity. What emerges is a picture of a man in the face of limits ? his own and the world's. A triumph of the spirit, The Measure of a Man captures the essential Poitier.

ISBN-13: 9780061357916
ISBN-10: 006135791X
Publication Date: 2/1/2007
Pages: 255
Rating:

Currently 2.8/5 Stars.

2.8 stars, based on 9 ratings

Publisher: HarperSanFrancisco
Book Type: Hardcover
Other Versions: Paperback
Members Wishing: 0
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Top Member Book Reviews

Patricia C. (PattyJC) reviewed The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography on 4/22/2007 + 23 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

Story of a simple, humble man that achieved great things in his chosen field. Even thought the public may have a certain image of him, he considers himself a flawed person that continues to learn lessons throughout his life, with his biggest goal to be as successful in life as his parents.

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Lynda C. (Readnmachine) reviewed The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography on 8/6/2011 + 1439 more book reviews

"Spiritual autobiography" of actor Sidney Poitier, hits the high spots of his life and career but mostly philosophizes on the forces that formed and drive him.

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Sara M. (rockmom66) reviewed The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography on 1/2/2008 + 47 more book reviews

I bought this book years ago when it was first released. I'm a big Sidney Poitier fan. So many auto-bios are "full of themselves". This is almost a "how to live you life the right way" book, without telling you how to live your life. You just want to follow his example. I simply adore SP.

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Elaine R. (readingrat) reviewed The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography on 3/31/2007 + 74 more book reviews

Interesting life experiences

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J.K. K. (JK) reviewed The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography on 3/11/2007 + 139 more book reviews

Mr. Poitier discusses his life and his beliefs. I wish he had included more photos.

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