A review by oxfordcommas91
Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance by Barack Obama

challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective slow-paced

3.5

I listened to this as an audiobook and greatly enjoyed hearing former President Obama narrate the tale of him connecting to his roots and considering the meaning of his family and how they shaped him. This book was a slow burn for me as Obama layered story upon story of his heritage and culture, his upbringing, and how they made him the man he became. 
Compelling and poignant, this book really went deep in his family tree - explaining the lives and deaths of generations of Obamas that came before the 44th President. 
Slow and meandering at times, it wasn’t always clear what the meaning of a specific memory was, but summed up as a whole, this memoir told a comprehensive story about the importance of family to Barack and his early, formative years. It didn’t keep me hooked and felt a bit too long (so could have used for some better editing) but I was glad I read it nonetheless.
It was an easy book to pick up and put down as needed and would recommend to others. I look forward to finally reading the Audacity of Hope. Former President Obama has a delightful way with words, slowly drawing you in without you even knowing it, that is a pleasure and a joy. 

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