jjares reviewed on 1/6/2024 + 3289 more book reviews

This is a compact yet extensive overview of Aretha Franklin's life. I'd always wondered why Aretha tolerated the "love 'em and leave 'em" attitude of her partners until I learned that Aretha's father was a successful preacher and philanderer. So, she learned it at home. Her mother, who left the home because she could not tolerate his affairs, should have been more of a role model for her daughter. Surprising.

I was thunderstruck by how quickly Aretha got a record contract. Yes, she was talented, but she needed a lot of luck to get a contract that quickly. Aretha had as much grief as glory, as this story illustrates. I was disappointed with all the cliches this author used as segues to the new chapters, such as "still had a few more surprises in store" and "once again on top of her game."

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