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The Measure of a Man
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The Measure of a Man
Author: Sidney Poitier

Book Information
Publisher: Harper San Francisco
Book Type: Paperback
Rating:

ISBN-13: 9780061357909 - ISBN-10: 0061357901
Publication Date: 1/2007
Pages: 255

Book Description:
Sidney Poitier wrote THE MEASURE OF A MAN: A SPIRITUAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY because he "felt called to write about certain values, such as integrity and commitment, faith and forgiveness, about the virtues of simplicity, about the difference between 'amusing ourselves to death' and finding meaningful pleasures -- even joy." Yet Poitier's book does not speak from on high; its tone is conversational and endearingly self-critical. He begins the first chapter by recounting an evening spent channel-surfing and wondering, as most of us do at one time or another, "What am I doing with my time?"

The spiritual reflections in THE MEASURE OF A MAN are nonsectarian; Poitier's faith is clearly influenced by his experience in Christian churches, but he is not, strictly, Christian. Though idiosyncratic, his faith is disciplined and rigorous, informed by leaders as diverse as Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. Poitier's love -- for himself, his family, and the world -- infuses his recollections of his early life on Cat Island in the Bahamas and his memories of his stage and film career (including his Oscar-winning role in LILIES OF THE FIELD).

Poitier has been rich and poor; he has been popular and despised; and his extremely varied experiences have made him a wise man, as he demonstrates with statements like this one: "What we do is stay within the context of what's practical, what's real, what dreams can be fashioned into reality, what values can send us to bed comfortably and make us courageous enough to face our end with character."

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Top Member Book Reviews

Tracy S. (Bernelli) wrote on 10/11/2007...

4 member(s) found this review helpful.

Sidney begins the book by stating that he wanted to write not really about HIS life but about LIFE.

He goes on to describe his life growing up and through adulthood. He delves into his theories on life, spirituality, what makes the measure of a man, his parents ...and has he lived up to being the man he wants to be.

I thought it was captivating and interesting!

Deidre G. (Reader-girl) - Anchorage, AK wrote on 7/15/2007...

4 member(s) found this review helpful.

Interesting especially on his early years. Not the most well written, but I did make it through. Wish we knew a little more about him and a little less than what he thought.

Rhea P. (BeachWaves) wrote on 12/20/2008...

2 member(s) found this review helpful.

What a remarkable man to have risen above the simple upbringing. His sense of dignity was evident throughout the book.

Karen A. (Kayloa) wrote on 11/11/2007...

2 member(s) found this review helpful.

I have so much respect for Sidney Poitier. It was interesting learning more about him, and to gain from the wisdom he's acquired over the years. He has a lot of wisdom...

Elaine O. wrote on 9/24/2007...

2 member(s) found this review helpful.

I was disappointed. Boring to read and not enough insight into the man himself. I LOVE Sidney Poitier movies and would have liked to have "gotten to know him" better.

Kimber C. (kimbers) wrote on 8/24/2007...

2 member(s) found this review helpful.

Love this book! What a fascinating life he has led.

BARBARA D. (TINKER) wrote on 6/22/2007...

2 member(s) found this review helpful.

IT WAS OKAY,I GUESS I EXPECTED ALITTLE MORE.

Zoe L. wrote on 3/27/2007...

2 member(s) found this review helpful.

Couldn't make it through this one... maybe you can!

Charlene P. (ATraveler) - Apo, AE wrote on 8/22/2009...

1 member(s) found this review helpful.

Interesting style. Titled with 'a spiritual autobiography' I expected more religious reflections. It was more of a moral perspective than religious. I was impressed how he handled telling about the racism he faced without ranting or filling the pages with bitterness. I knew nothing of his background but have admired him as an actor. This autobiography really shows a full lifetime and a journey that not many could have made.

Lynda C. (Readnmachine) wrote on 6/15/2008...

1 member(s) found this review helpful.

"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.


Please Rate these Book Reviews

Jennifer G. (IdahoJen) wrote on 11/13/2009...


A great book; not your typical memoir. Sidney Poitier takes you through his spiritual growth, starting from his childhood. This book will make you rethink how you raise your kids and how you spend your time. He cuts away all the frivolous stuff we think is so "necessary" today and brings us back to something more basic, more authentic. A great read for anyone!

(Armyof2) wrote on 6/15/2009...


Tells the life of Mr Poitier from a baby. Good reading for a Sunday afternoon.

Sherri D. wrote on 11/17/2008...


An enjoyable read..thoughtful and positive

Linda F. (lindylouhoo) wrote on 11/6/2008...


Very insightful. Mr. Poitier is a wise man and he shares said wisdom in this book.

Monica R. wrote on 10/4/2007...


Excellent book

Gil W. (gil) wrote on 8/7/2007...


see my review on my blog at www.gilwilson.com

Pauline W. wrote on 3/11/2007...


Sidney Poitier...great.

Patricia M. (Patty) wrote on 2/21/2007...


Excellent book


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