This book was an eye opener for me. I enjoyed the method the author used to say what he wanted to say. It’s refreshing to read a book where the author doesn’t apologize for his thoughts or feelings. So many times authors apologize for what they say, or say readers misinterpreted the meaning of their statements.
Not D. Watkins! He speaks his mind in a manner that says – yes, I meant what I said!
So many of the words he stated are my sentiments too. I liked how he was able to weave parts of his story into the current events that have touched many of us. There are two passages that resonated with me, and I still reflect on these passages today.
He calls out Black men for allowing other Black men to speak negatively about Black women, and treat us horribly. He points out how time and time again Black women support Black men when they have no one else to depend on. He admonished Black men to take a stand for Black women!
This passage caused me to really think about the Pledge of Allegiance and what it means to me as a Black women, and I realized it’s not for me. Just as the writer realized it wasn’t for him. Now, I can no longer stand and take that pledge. I have not experienced liberty and justice for all.
If you want to read a thought provoking book that makes you question the importance of Black American lives, pick up “The Beast Side.” If you want to read the reality of living and dying while Black in America, read “The Beast Side.”
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