Rating: 
Summary: LOVE THE MAN; THE STORY LACKS PASSION
Review: I got the feeling that Sidney was holding out on us in this book. He states some of the facts of his life and tells us some of the facts about his family and moves us along as he discovers the world is not always "fair" ~~ He tells us things but I never got the sense that he was really "sharing" his heart; in fact, felt he was protecting throughout. I never felt any passion in the words and turned the pages just to see if maybe the passion was in the next chapter. Mr. Poitier commands my respect for what he has been able to give me with his talents and I will appreciate him always for that. I just want him to know it is okay to share your heart. It is really all we ever have to share with each other and when we hold it back for any reason, the person it is held back from just knows on that level deep inside. Doesn't mean I don't appreciate him.
Rating:
Summary: Only skims the surface
Review: Because of my long-standing admiration of Mr. Poitier on- and off-screen, I purchased this book "review unseen." I wish I hadn't. Mr. Poitier's observations about his life seem superficial, or perhaps his self-admitted lack of education prevents him from articulating his beliefs fully. Therefore, it comes off as another platitudinous New Age call for accepting the spiritual in one own's life, without really sharing the rigorous sef-inquiry this demands.I did find interesting Mr. Poitier's deep attachment to the lessons of his childhood. Although they come from very different climates and backgrounds, Mr. Poitier's and actor Peter O'Toole's autobiographies share the same reverence for being of a certain place, and of being shaped by that place and its values. As compared to the O'Toole books, however, Mr. Poitier shows he was fortunate to have writers to create his words for him when performing.
Rating: 
Summary: A truly inspirational autobiograpy
Review: I saw Sidney Poitier on Oprah last month and was ery impressed with his interview. I went out the next day and I bought his book. I could not put it down. I finished it within a week. I loved every line, every page and mostly, his message. He did a fantastic job describing his life from a very young boy to adulthood. I was impressed with and could relate to his belief system, his self esteem and the power with which he was able to overcome various obstacles in his life. His movies all depict what he stood for, what was important to him (not just to pay the bills). All his movies make a statement about what is important to him in life and in society. He never forgot what his responsibilities were to his family and to society. His adventures as a young boy on Cat Island left me quite nostalgic for my homeland. He was able to depict the influence his parents had in his life even when he was very far away from them. It is very obvious that he truly respects them both, because he uses their rules for living to measure up as a man. As I read this book, I pondered on many issues plaguing our society today. It has done a great deal in helping me stay focussed on my goals and in believing in myself. Thank you, Mr. Poitier. I wish you all the best. This is a really inspirational book (perfect as a Father's Day gift).
Rating:
Summary: Life going fishing, doesn't get better.
Review: Mr. Poitier is one of those humans that inspire awe, not just because of who they are but also because of what they went through to get there. This long journey to the present has seen Mr. Poitier traversing from Cat Island, to Nassau, to Florida, to NYC, and then to Hollywood. Lots of stops on the way, some of them would have made mere mortals despair in agony, but not Mr. Poitier, a man whose dignity is sacred. I see what this man went through and then compare it to what some people complain about nowadays. If only it had been so easy for him. But the interesting thing is that no matter what, the man kept plunging ahead, steadily. This is an excellent book for those of us looking for a source of inspiration and also,as a way to understand the meaning of respect and of forgiving.
Rating:
Summary: Enlightening, But Still Disappointing
Review: I bought this book because I was hoping that Poitier would say something about his life since his last autobiography, "This Life." I was curious about wbat he had experienced since publishing that book about 20 (or close to 20) years ago. I kept reading and reading the same things I read in "This Life" with an added metaphysical twist and the type of inspirational Ophrah talk show-ese that makes books like this bestsellers and grew more and more disappointed. Not that these insights aren't worth writing down, but they barely add up to much more than literary fastfood. As a man who has suffered the slings and arrows and joys of being perceived as black by our society, I could certainly identify with what Poitier says here. But I've heard and felt most of these insights before. This book is worthwhile primarily for those who know nothing about Poitier's life. For the rest of us I think it's best to pass on it.
Rating:
Summary: Ten Stars!
Review: I loved this book! It is magnificent; and I had the pleasure to hear Mr. Poitier read this book on an audio tape. To hear his voice is wonderful, but to hear what he has to say is even more wonderful...listening to him has given me many things to think about.
Rating:
Summary: Sidney Poitier is an American treasure
Review: This book reveals a man of depth,integrity and intelligence. Written in a very personal, conversational style, it is like sitting down with the man himself to talk about Life. Poitier explores our current culture, the importance of family and never forgetting where one comes from, his groundbreaking career (which has been defined by his own principles and morality), racism, and yes, his view of the meaning of life itself. What a moving, beautiful book this is! Perhaps Mr. Poitier should consider a run for President? We certainly need him, and the world would certainly benefit from more people like him. Read this book!
Rating:
Summary: Great Actor - Gifted Author!
Review: I would highly recommend this book to everyone. While I do not always enjoy autobiographies, this book is a great exception. It is not just filled with dates and facts. It reaches inside the man and into his very soul. From his beginning on Cat Island, to today's highly successful life as an actor, Sidney Poitier has had an incredible life. He was blessed early in life with the greatest blessing anyone can have - great parents! This book made me stop and think of all the many blessings in my life, too many of which I take for granted sometimes. I hope that everyone who reads this book, and especially young people, will benefit from his insight and wisdom.
Rating:
Summary: A Class Act
Review: Mr. Poitier could easily be the example in the dictionary for any of the following words/phrases: consummate actor; gentleman; loyal friend; good father; appreciative son. He has set a standard of excellence for himself in every facet of his life. Here is a role model for young men and women to embrace and emulate. You will understand the power of a man's spirit when you read this wonderful autobiography.
Rating:
Summary: Spiritually moving
Review: Measure of a Man by Sidney Poiter was a very up lifting and upbeat book about his life experiences as a youngster and being raisedpoor, but not knowing he was poor. It talks about being raised on Bird Island down in the Carriabean. (I think). The book inspired feelings of wanting to live a more simple lifestyle and getting back to old ways. His life is so inspirational and moving. I like how he only took jobs for movies that felt right to him, no matter how poor or hungry his family was. Only took jobs that were feel good ones to hisn soul.
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