When reading Brathwaite's extensive memoir, it becomes clear that he has lived a full and eventful life. Broken into four parts, Brathwaite's narrative explores the trajectory of the author's storied lifetime between childhood and retirement, beginning with his foundations on the island of Carriacou where he grew up. Carriacou is a part of Grenada, located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. Raised by a no-nonsense, domineering mother, Brathwaite portrays a fondness for his upbringing, interweaving his family history with that of island culture and the complex imperialistic past of Europe and the West Indies.

While the first portion of the book focuses significantly on his earliest days, the second half highlights the meaningful moments amid relationships, racism, and political turmoil that truly shaped Brathwaite and his worldview. Here, he delves into the fascinating specifics of his influential and esteemed international medical career in pathology as well as his teaching and work with prestigious medical organizations.

It isn't easy to encapsulate a life's work into one memoir succinctly, and the amount of details within the narrative does slow the pacing at times. However, Brathwaite breaks up his story with moments of joy and humor as well as the inclusion of maps, black and white photographs, and even a hand-drawn blueprint of his childhood home. These are nice touches that help bring one right into the author's world. By the end of the book, readers are treated to several of Brathwaite's affecting poems, leaving them wanting more from this talented poet. Overall, this is a celebration of an accomplished man and doctor who enthusiastically shares his story with the world. Lovers of memoirs will not be disappointed with this one.

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