lucky me review, and a host of recommendations
Thank you, friends, for all of the birthday love last week. I felt the love; my heart was and continues to be warmed up. Now, let's get into this week's newsletter.
“My first stroke of luck was being born into a life that forced me to be focused and prepared. Lucky was learning how to recognize friendship, loyalty, love, and justice, and how to cultivate those values in life and business.”
-Rich Paul
In recent years, I have grown to love non-fiction books, specifically memoirs. I enjoy learning about people from diverse backgrounds, comparing my experiences to the author, and gaining valuable lessons I can apply to my life. Most books that have stuck with me throughout the years have been memoirs, and I am adding another to my list: “Lucky Me: A Memoir of Changing the Odds” by Rich Paul. I read this book in print and audio format last week and have not been able to stop talking about the book.
When asked what inspired him to write the book, Rich told GQ:
“This is something I always wanted to do because I think the true give-back is education and knowledge and sharing life experiences. In the world we live in today, people only see the highlights. And the highlights aren’t what necessarily makes someone. It’s their resilience, it’s their perseverance, it’s their continuous ability to get up when falling.”
First thing first, this book is not a book about Lebron James like people keep alluding to or asking me. While Lebron is mentioned occasionally (really at the end of the book aside from the Forward), it’s really a book about Rich’s upbringing and how the people, his environment, and a few extracurricular activities (gambling) helped shape him, his hustle, drive, and tenacity.
I enjoyed learning about his early life and how he navigated the realities of his life: having a mother who was in and out of his life due to drugs and a father who was there and a pillar to his community. Many of the lessons that Rich’s father taught him are still values that he exhibits in his career today.
Without going into so many details, one of the things I enjoyed about this book was how it was written. At times, this humble ego is written throughout the book, and I loved it. I also enjoyed learning about the characters in his life. The way Rich describes them is so vivid that you can almost visualize them. Also, if you have an option, you should listen to this book instead of reading it. While I enjoyed reading it in print, Rich narrates the book and reads so fast that it made me giggle.
I would give this book five stars. *GOLD STAR FOR RICH* (if you get this reference *friendship* forever).
The music of Lucky Me
Another thing I really loved about the book is the musical element. The book’s title was inspired by Rich’s favorite Jay Z song from Jay’s classic album, My Lifetime, Vol. 1. When you read this book, you will see that the title is more than just Rich’s favorite song—it’s also a testament to his life.
“It’s my favorite Jay-Z song—the words gave me perspective and clarity. And then when you speak about “lucky me,” just those two words—I was lucky as it pertains to not dying before I was 21 or having my freedom taken away. I was able to experience different things, which a lot of my friends didn't. Right? And then in addition to that, I was able to be successful. But at the same time, it also came with a sacrifice.” (GQ)
Throughout the book, Rich made mentions to different artists, which both provided a timestamp for me but also made his stories drive home a little further. And since you already know I’m an extra person, I created a playlist based on songs that either Rich mentioned throughout the book or songs that remind me of the book.
That’s that on that. Now, let’s get into this week’s recommendations.
+ A few things to read:
A great profile on Jesmyn Ward for the New York Times.
Can’t wait to start reading the new Britney Spears book.
Also, the ultimate Britney Spears Karaoke ranking.
Never thought about this, but interesting article on Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.
As a Bay Area gal, I thought this was an interesting read: What Happened to San Francisco?
Also, on San Francisco, London Breed’s cynical swing to the right.
+ A few things to listen to:
I love the new Alex Isley and Terrace Martin album, I Left My Heart in Ladera.
This new Yebba featuring Sweata (and the version without) is a vibe.
Nicole Avant is on a tour for her new book, “Think You’ll Be Happy,” and she did two beautiful podcasts that you should listen to: Jay Shetty’s On Purpose Podcast, and Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins’ Trials and Triumphs podcast.
+ A few things to watch:
The TV adaptation of “Black Cake” by Charmaine Wilkerson is beautiful. The series premieres November 1st on Hulu, and if you’re a B&N member, you can sign up to watch the first two episodes; honestly, it is beautiful. I never finished the book, but plan to now. The cinematography and story are beautiful.
I’m not a City Girl, but I was highly entertained by this Breakfast Club interview with the pair.
That’s it for this week.