Grease Monkey: Races, Racers, and Racism, Collide Head-On

by Steven G. Percifield, Herschel W. Gulley

Fascinated by the automobiles that are beginning to dot the roads of the early twentieth century, twelve-year-old Indiana farm boy Herschel Gulley is thrust into the "head-of-household" role when his young, but ailing father passes. Herschel would always remember his father's parting "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." Responsible for the well-being of his pregnant mother, two younger brothers, and two younger sisters, he takes on the responsibilities of running the family's subsistence-size farm. All the while he develops the mechanical and driving skills that eventually make him a nationally-recognized dirt-track driver and take him and his best friend, mechanic, and partner, Johnny Gleason-a black man-to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. But to achieve their mutual goal of running (and maybe even winning) at the 500, they must circumnavigate the racial barriers that prevent blacks-or a white man with a black partner-from participating. These obstacles seem insurmountable in a state where the governor and half the general assembly are said to be members of the Ku Klux Klan.

288 pages, Hardcover

First published January 11, 2011

Reviews

[Pam Fullem · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a "First Reads" book I received to read. To be honest, at first I was wondering if I would be able to understand this book, since I am mechanically challenged! However, I was pleasantly surprised. This book gives a back story of how the character of Johnny-a descendant of slaves, came to be in Indiana, where he met Herschel, a fellow "gear head" from a farm in Indiana. This book has real events and a few real people in it that help to give this book a non-fiction feel. This story is about the early days of auto racing, when politicians were openly members of the Klu Klux Klan, and blacks were not allowed the same rights. Indeed, their very friendship was frowned upon. This is a story about true, loyal friendship in the face of blatant discrimination. Beyond this story, I found the information about the early days racing interesting. I always like a novel that also sheds light on a world I previously knew nothing about. I liked the easy flow of the writing. I look forward to sharing this book with my soon to be auto mechanic son.

[Greg Percifield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll be honest, I haven't read a book in a long time. I've been busy, and have not had motivation to get all the way through a book. However, this is one of the books that I picked up, and looked forward to reading what was next so much, that I could not put it down.

It was indeed a "good read", and the fact that it was based on true events satisfied my interest in history on an emotional level that I can't reach from watching the History Channel. The book was extremely detailed with the way it reflected the people and times of generations that came before my own. Mixed with action, humor, historical events, and human drama, I not only recommend it to all, but I'm sure I'll read it again.

[Robert Davis · Rating 2 out of 5]

An easy read. Although not intentionally written for school age kids, it is suitable for ages 10+

I am sorry to say that this book is so boring that I shelved it. After 6 months, I returned to complete it. Unfortunately, the writing is so insipid that what should be exciting is lackluster. For example, a world war one battle by invading German infantry and an aerial dogfight is simply dull and without energy. The writing style is too elementary and basic.

In short, I did not enjoy this book.

[George Ashmore · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a southerner, I seek out the reality of the old south and traditional race relations. I enjoyed the book & recomend it. I only wish it had been on a wider scale with more of what was going on around the characters but it was basically two mens stories about growing together. A lot of heart & soul. Fair disclosure, I won this book from GoodReads.

[Jenny T. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a free book from the Goodreads First Reads giveaways.
This book told a story based on the story of Herschel B. Gulley who befriended Johnny Gleason. Together they almost joined the 1928 Indianapolis 500, but got turned away due to racism. I especially enjoyed the description of dirt track racing - reminded me of several weekends I spent at the racetracks in Nebraska.