Open My Eyes, Open My Soul

I read this incredible anthology in a day, and was moved beyond words -- especially for some of the book's masterful poetry. Two days later (on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day), I saw his daughter, Yolanda, appear on CBS' The Early Show. She was quite eloquent and gracious, and read her favorite poem from the book: "A Walk In The Clouds" by Steven Manchester. It was my favorite, too! If you haven't heard it, you definitely need to go out and buy the book!

Of all of the compilations and anthologies on the market, this one rates as one of the best. As I read each story, I felt as though I had grasped the threads of humanity and woven them together, into a tight fabric of tolerance, peace, love, and commonality. It's hard to change the world, but I think this book will leave a lasting impression.

I met Ms. King at a booksigning in Queens this week to hear her read a selection from her 1st book and was in an awe of her poise and generosity. She was gracious and attentive and answered everyone's questions peacefully, eloquently and intelligently. I bought her book and started to read it almost immediately. It's the kind of book you can pick up and read out of order. Some stories made me smile and others made me want to cry. By the end of the night, I had gotten through half of the book. The selections are short, powerful and moving. We should celebrate our differences and honor each individual. This book makes a perfect gift for anyone who enjoys short, inspirational stories, packed with punch. Dr. King would be very proud of his daughter.

This book puts together a great collection of works that raise differeing issues of humanity, commonality, and the bringing together through, coincidently, commonality of humanity! Great inspiring works, some that create a tear, some that entertain as a success story, while others remind us of the triumphs we can all have and experience through lack of differentiation. These works are not only great stories from famous and public figures, but also from unknown and private people of the world. I greatly enjoyed the book and recommend it to anyone, I am awaiting the sequil!

Turn to any page and you will be inspired and touched by a wonderful story. This book makes you want to just go out and embrace all of humanity. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will definitely feel the need to appreciate and respect all people for simply who they are. This is one of those "Feel Good" books that you will want to read over and over again.