Dr. Rice was only the second woman and the first black woman ever to serve as Secretary of State. A diplomat, political scientist, and distinguished concert pianist her accomplishments are fascinating. You can clearly see that her parents played a major role in her success. In her memoir you learn how her parents succeeded in insulating her from racism. You will learn how they managed to raise a very successful child. Despite crippling circumstances and insurmountable odds she broke through the glass ceiling. 

You learn that her minister father, who was also an educator, guided her towards sports and politics. She developed a passion for both. Her mother was also an educator and guided her toward the piano and the arts. She used the lessons that she learned from her parents and became Provost at Stanford University, the university’s second in charge. She would later become Secretary of State and National Security Advisor. 

She writes openly about the lost of her parents and how she handled their passing. This story has never been told. You would be intrigued by it. I serve on the Alabama Educational Television Commission with one of the persons that she talks openly about in her memoir, Dr. Danetta Thornton-Owens. I was watching the Today Show on Tuesday when I saw Dr. Danetta Thornton-Owens appearing with Dr. Condoleezza Rice as she promoted her new book. Dr. Thornton taught Dr. Rice French when she was eight years old. I am looking forward to meeting Dr. Rice one day and getting my copy of her wonderful book signed. 

You and your family will enjoy this book. 

Greg Griffin is a free lance writer. You can read his previous articles by visiting his web page at www.greggriffin.com

 In the words of my dad, “You must honor the chair whether it is sitting, walking or lying down.”