Essence Enterprises

MAY

Frederick Douglass Reynolds- Black, White, and Gray All Over: A Black Man's Odyssey in Life and Law Enforcement

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Synopsis

From shootouts and robberies to riding in cars with pimps and prostitutes, Frederick Reynolds' early manhood experiences in Detroit, Michigan in the 1960s foretold a future on the wrong side of the prison bars. Frederick grew up a creative and sensitive child but found himself lured down the same path as many Black youth in that era. No one would have guessed he would have a future as a cop in one of the most dangerous cities in America in the 1980s---Compton, California. From recruit to detective, Frederick experienced a successful career marked by commendations and awards. The traumatic and highly demanding nature of the work, however, took its toll on both his family and personal life---something Frederick was able to conquer but only after years of distress and regret.

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Book Review:

5 Stars

A powerful read

An amazingly powerful memoir from Retired LA county Sheriff’s homicide investigator. First, he grew up in Detroit, and it was almost clear that his path would not lead to being a police officer, especially since he was also black. Then, unexpectedly, he found himself as a recruit, a police officer, and detective that created this successful career. Being a police officer in LA county in California, is not the easiest job, since, in the 1980s where most of his career spanned, Compton was one of the most dangerous cities. This book was written very well. I am really glad that he decided to pick up a pen and write his memoirs, the history of his career, and the true crimes that took a toll on him, both professionally and personally. I also applaud this man's story, and I believe that more people should read this book. See the stories, hear the history of a black cop, and yes, it's not just black or blue, it can be both. This is a must read. It shouldn't be about race, but it is, and it's important to make that note here. I am so honored to read his story. It shouldn't be about black, white, blue, brown or whatever, but about right and wrong. Justice and injustice. It's a raw and intense read, and I enjoyed every word of it. It gives you a new perspective on a life you can't relate to unless you've done it yourself. Black, White, and Gray All Over: A Black Man's Odyssey in Life and Law Enforcement is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more titles by this author.