A review by maralyons
Officer Clemmons: A Memoir by François Clemmons

5.0

I really loved reading the biography, ‘Officer Clemmons.’ Dr. François Clemmons has lead an amazing life and his magnanimous personality really comes through in his writing. I listened to the audiobook, which was an absolute treat. He has such a wonderful speaking and singing voice. I could feel his heartbreak and elation at different points. Clemmons is most known for portraying Officer Clemmons, but that was only one part of his career in music. I felt lucky to hear his life story and the path that his life took. Clemmons was a sensitive, extroverted child that came from very humble beginnings and suffered abuse at the hands of his stepfather and often indifference from his mother. Through his hard work and finding and embracing supportive influences outside his family, he was able to change the trajectory of his life and pursue college and a musical career. One of his biggest struggles was contending with his sexuality. He struggled as a closeted gay man in the late 1960s and beyond. It was heartbreaking to hear how he secretly suffered for so many years. I enjoyed hearing about his friendship with Fred Rogers and it’s clear he was a huge influence on his life. I was left wanting more. It seemed like there were more stories he could tell and I would love to listen to them. Dr. François Clemmons seems like such an earnest, kind, and affable man.

Thank you NetGalley and Catapult for providing this ARC.