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Transparent
In this unique memoir, Primetime CNN anchor Don Lemon takes readers behind the scenes of journalism, detailing his own struggle to become one of the most prominent African American men in television news—and inside some of the biggest stories of our times.
Never one to stop at the surface of the story, Lemon digs deep, exposing his own history with wealth and lack, with family secrets and painful revelations--and explains how those painful early experiences shaped his ambitions and gave him the tools of empathy and fearlessness that he brings to his work. Then Lemon turns the same searing honesty on the news industry itself, taking the reader behind the scenes of September 11, 2001, the DC Snipers, the epidemic of AIDS in Africa, Hurricane Katrina, the election of Barack Obama, and the death of Michael Jackson among other events.
With his clear and compelling storytelling and the rich detail of an Emmy-winning journalist, Lemon reveals his own painful journey from a little boy who dreamed of broadcasting in segregated Baton Rouge in the early 70s, to his current perch at CNN in a fascinating and compelling look at the world of television news and his own experiences reporting in it.
Never one to stop at the surface of the story, Lemon digs deep, exposing his own history with wealth and lack, with family secrets and painful revelations--and explains how those painful early experiences shaped his ambitions and gave him the tools of empathy and fearlessness that he brings to his work. Then Lemon turns the same searing honesty on the news industry itself, taking the reader behind the scenes of September 11, 2001, the DC Snipers, the epidemic of AIDS in Africa, Hurricane Katrina, the election of Barack Obama, and the death of Michael Jackson among other events.
With his clear and compelling storytelling and the rich detail of an Emmy-winning journalist, Lemon reveals his own painful journey from a little boy who dreamed of broadcasting in segregated Baton Rouge in the early 70s, to his current perch at CNN in a fascinating and compelling look at the world of television news and his own experiences reporting in it.
- GenresNonfictionRaceMemoirLGBT
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2011
21 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 18, 2017
I was a little disappointed by the superficiality of this memoir. It's like Don did a news report on himself and focused on just the facts of his life. I was hoping to hear more about his personal feelings and there was some but not a lot of that type of disclosure. He really doesn't give much away. And yes, I have to agree with the critics who say he toots his horn a bit and comes off a little cocky sometimes. I didn't mind, I can see how confident and cocky would be "go to" posturing for someone in his position. I was hoping to see a little more of his heart revealed in this.
My favorite parts of this memoir are the stories he shares about growing up and his relationship with his father. I wished there had been more of that, even just more about his relationships with his sisters and his mother. I did like reading about his experience growing up black in the American south and his thoughts on race. I was hoping he would be more forthcoming about his experiences as a gay black man. Maybe next time.
My favorite parts of this memoir are the stories he shares about growing up and his relationship with his father. I wished there had been more of that, even just more about his relationships with his sisters and his mother. I did like reading about his experience growing up black in the American south and his thoughts on race. I was hoping he would be more forthcoming about his experiences as a gay black man. Maybe next time.
February 19, 2019
If you watch CNN you are aware of who Don Lemon is. In this book he tells about his childhood, his molestation by a neighbor boy, and how, as a black man, he has had to work twice as hard to get half as far as others. He only spends a few pages talking about coming out as a gay man. Most of the book is about his career. I'm not sure why the book is called Transparent, as I found he was very secretive about his personal life, but then again, when I did a google search, there isn't much there either. Written in 2011, it would be interesting to see an updated version or a new book that talks about the last few years of politics, as he was just starting at CNN when he wrote the book. As Lemon was the victim of one of our presidents personal attacks, it would be interesting to see his take on this.
May 5, 2017
I love this book because it was about a upcoming Journalist who face Racism and discrimination in Louisiana. He went through a lot to get to where he is now. I admire someone who is brave enough to share his story. Kudos to the Anchor/Journalist. I hope one day I have that same determination that he has to report news and interview people.
October 22, 2011
Lemon's writing is forgettable, uninspiring and written rather superficially. I gave two stars because, well, I like the author and wish him well.
June 29, 2011
Concise, and well written memoir. I enjoyed this quick read. A bit of chest pounding, but a good personal story of sucess.
May 27, 2012
I'm lovin this book, so ''transparent''!
November 23, 2018
This was published some years ago, but I would think the author still has many of the same attitudes and opinions, judging by some of the things he says on his show. Aspects of the book were enlightening. I had a strong idea that a black boy growing up in Louisiana at the time Mr. Lemon did would have experienced the racism he did. He explains it very clearly.
Mr. Lemon also explains his experience of colorism. It certainly makes sense that he ran into that in Louisiana, but it's a pervasive concept in many places in the world. The African-American analysts, reporters and guests he has on his show don't seem to show that to him or each other. Most share a common understanding of institutional racism and have experienced racism at a personal level.
Mr. Lemon outlines the journalistic training he received, by way of schooling and by on-the-job experience and being mentored. All seemed helpful. He explains how he can be very clear and focused, and how he is highly motivated.
He defends himself against accusations that he's arrogant. I think the accusations were exaggerated, but perhaps he's a touch arrogant. Still, he's managed to accomplish a lot. He says he's especially motivated to achieve highly when he runs into people with low expectations for him.
Though some parts of the book were not surprising, there were other parts where he explains events and experiences I didn't expect, and how various events and experiences had affected him. Certainly recommended if you're interested in learning more about the author.
Mr. Lemon also explains his experience of colorism. It certainly makes sense that he ran into that in Louisiana, but it's a pervasive concept in many places in the world. The African-American analysts, reporters and guests he has on his show don't seem to show that to him or each other. Most share a common understanding of institutional racism and have experienced racism at a personal level.
Mr. Lemon outlines the journalistic training he received, by way of schooling and by on-the-job experience and being mentored. All seemed helpful. He explains how he can be very clear and focused, and how he is highly motivated.
He defends himself against accusations that he's arrogant. I think the accusations were exaggerated, but perhaps he's a touch arrogant. Still, he's managed to accomplish a lot. He says he's especially motivated to achieve highly when he runs into people with low expectations for him.
Though some parts of the book were not surprising, there were other parts where he explains events and experiences I didn't expect, and how various events and experiences had affected him. Certainly recommended if you're interested in learning more about the author.
October 7, 2011
African American CNN News Journalist, Don Lemon writes an inspiring and poised account of his life growing up in Louisiana and the trials and tribulations he endured as a gay black man in the south. He talks about being sexually molested at a young age and carrying that secret on his heart. He talks about the love of his mother, grandmother, and sisters + his relationship with his father. He talks about attending a predominantly black catholic school then transferring to a multi-ethnic public high school. I felt a common bond when he spoke about his college experience at LSU where a professor told him he would never be a journalist. I had a professor in college who was to horrendous to describe. She had no business teaching. I went on to finish my degree like Don Lemon despite the lack of encouragement and negative attitude and presence of such an awful professor whose responsibility it is to foster a creative learning environment and not judge and tear down students. My cynical feelings about Higher Education aside, Don Lemon went on to become a successful news anchor, his childhood dream. He talks candidly about this phenomenon of the "black box." Aside from a few editing errors throughout the book, this was a humble memoir and a quick read.
October 12, 2024
This book is a must-read for any person struggling with meeting the expectations of the African-American community. Journalist Don Lemon discusses his ambiguous life growing up in the Baton Rouge Area, and the secrets behind his winning personality.
He confronts: painful memories, racist sentiments, and minority stereotypes. Lemon writes about self-acceptance as he details his rise to fame. He discusses his affection for truth and the bravery that comes with advocating unpopular opinions. Lemon shares how his penchant for calculated risks engendered an appreciation for media and ultimately, humanity.
Lemon also shares how confronting racism helped him raise hard questions about his familial roots. To any brave reader who feels isolated within his or her own community, this is your story.
Lemon explains how special people throughout his career taught him to see the word "NO" as a gateway toward greater ambition. Lemon should be praised for noting how frequently black Americans believe that in order to be black one should perform X, Y, or Z. He defiantly states that the right to be African-American is never based on tastes, associations, or education.
He confronts: painful memories, racist sentiments, and minority stereotypes. Lemon writes about self-acceptance as he details his rise to fame. He discusses his affection for truth and the bravery that comes with advocating unpopular opinions. Lemon shares how his penchant for calculated risks engendered an appreciation for media and ultimately, humanity.
Lemon also shares how confronting racism helped him raise hard questions about his familial roots. To any brave reader who feels isolated within his or her own community, this is your story.
Lemon explains how special people throughout his career taught him to see the word "NO" as a gateway toward greater ambition. Lemon should be praised for noting how frequently black Americans believe that in order to be black one should perform X, Y, or Z. He defiantly states that the right to be African-American is never based on tastes, associations, or education.
July 30, 2019
Don Lemon takes us on a journey of his childhood and throughout his early adult life and career. He tells a gripping story of the challenges he faced in the south which was hostile to his interracial heritage. It's inspiring to see how he overcame so many obstacles and would make his way to establishing a name for himself. After leaving LSU, working in Chicago, working in NYC, living in Harlem, he has done just that.
This story comes a little too early, though. It ends like it's short a few more words. I would have liked to see more story that underscores his current experiences within the last ten years. Because he has created such a name for himself, this autobiography should have waited many years to be written. While his back story is influential and encouraging, his present story is just as important. I feel Don Lemon has more to tell about his current life and current career that would really make the title a lot more fitting to his narrative.
This story comes a little too early, though. It ends like it's short a few more words. I would have liked to see more story that underscores his current experiences within the last ten years. Because he has created such a name for himself, this autobiography should have waited many years to be written. While his back story is influential and encouraging, his present story is just as important. I feel Don Lemon has more to tell about his current life and current career that would really make the title a lot more fitting to his narrative.
March 28, 2015
Empowering
I find Don Lemon very authentic which is appealing and very refreshing to me. While reading his book I found I had many things in common which made it easy to relate to his experiences and struggles. This man is definitely someone to be admired not only because of his handsome good looks but because he has taken it upon himself to rise above racism, bigotry, trauma, and the dreaded "black box" of stereotypes and preconceived notions about African American professionals through hardwork and never conforming to the word NO. I'm even a greater fan now after reading this book which I recommend to anyone not exclusively for those interested in journalism. He has so much to offer as a person, and successful professional which can serve as inspiration, and empowerment for others particularly those in minority groups or struggling to overcome trauma.
I find Don Lemon very authentic which is appealing and very refreshing to me. While reading his book I found I had many things in common which made it easy to relate to his experiences and struggles. This man is definitely someone to be admired not only because of his handsome good looks but because he has taken it upon himself to rise above racism, bigotry, trauma, and the dreaded "black box" of stereotypes and preconceived notions about African American professionals through hardwork and never conforming to the word NO. I'm even a greater fan now after reading this book which I recommend to anyone not exclusively for those interested in journalism. He has so much to offer as a person, and successful professional which can serve as inspiration, and empowerment for others particularly those in minority groups or struggling to overcome trauma.
February 6, 2016
Fabulous
Transparent is insightful, well written and organized, beautifully balanced and opens the mind while touching the heart & soul of the reader. Thank You, Don Lemon, for offering us a wide open window into your world of challenge, success, discovery, joy, pain, transformation, black, white & all the grey in between. You are an inspiration and your journey is a powerful one. It is an honor to know your life story; I always respected you as a journalist and appreciated your honesty and ease with which it was delivered, but knowing the road that took you all the way to the national stage brings my appreciation for you & your work to a whole new level. I'd recommend this book to anyone.
Transparent is insightful, well written and organized, beautifully balanced and opens the mind while touching the heart & soul of the reader. Thank You, Don Lemon, for offering us a wide open window into your world of challenge, success, discovery, joy, pain, transformation, black, white & all the grey in between. You are an inspiration and your journey is a powerful one. It is an honor to know your life story; I always respected you as a journalist and appreciated your honesty and ease with which it was delivered, but knowing the road that took you all the way to the national stage brings my appreciation for you & your work to a whole new level. I'd recommend this book to anyone.
February 23, 2018
A very engaging and truly transparent book about the life of a very interesting and talented journalist.
A very engaging and truly transparent book about the life of a very interesting and talented journalist. Don Lemon writes with honest candor and eloquence about his journey through life as a young boy growing up in Louisiana to a struggling college student trying to find his niche in life. He continues on in his journey as he figures out important lessons in life that direct him through his career choices and ultimately where he finds his ultimate home. This is an enjoyable and relaxing read and gives insight into the life of a major international news network journalist.
A very engaging and truly transparent book about the life of a very interesting and talented journalist. Don Lemon writes with honest candor and eloquence about his journey through life as a young boy growing up in Louisiana to a struggling college student trying to find his niche in life. He continues on in his journey as he figures out important lessons in life that direct him through his career choices and ultimately where he finds his ultimate home. This is an enjoyable and relaxing read and gives insight into the life of a major international news network journalist.
September 5, 2011
Don Lemon shares highlights of his family and career that are reminiscent of a man who may one day, when he’s settled in his grazing graceful days, might really enlighten us with a deeper reflection of his experiences. Being a journalist, and after reading Transparent, I already see he has a head start.
Want to read
May 16, 2011A CNN anchor comes out of the closet in his new memoir ... but it's not who you'd think.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/16/bus...
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http://jezebel.com/pride/5802114
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/16/bus...
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http://jezebel.com/pride/5802114
September 7, 2011
Honestly, I picked up this book, not because I know who Don Lemon is, but because it was on a book display at one of our libraries. An honest, unvarnished account of his life thus far. A very likeable guy - will definitely follow him now!
November 3, 2016
Great read!
Don Lemon's autobiography is filled with honesty and transparency. I really enjoyed reading this book very much. It is very well written and Mr. Lemon shares his life journey with grace, humility, and strength of character.
Don Lemon's autobiography is filled with honesty and transparency. I really enjoyed reading this book very much. It is very well written and Mr. Lemon shares his life journey with grace, humility, and strength of character.
September 1, 2018
Compelling
I love watching Don on CNN and when I saw that he wrote a book, I was interested to learn more about him. He did not disappoint. A down to earth account of his journey, challenges and achievements! Excellent!
I love watching Don on CNN and when I saw that he wrote a book, I was interested to learn more about him. He did not disappoint. A down to earth account of his journey, challenges and achievements! Excellent!
May 27, 2014
A little bit repetitive, but overall a nice memoir by the CNN anchor.
July 11, 2011
This book was amazing. I bought it on my Nook at 12am and read it from beginning to end into the wee hours of the morning. I just couldn't put it down! Amazing.
April 2, 2012
Sort of scatter-brained, kind of like he just wrote exactly what he was thinking. Makes me feel like I know someone famous, though.
September 11, 2011
inished with Transparent, by Don Lemon: Inspiring, optimistic, & honest. He is one brave, and awesome journalist who went through great lengths to get to where he is today. I admire him so much!
June 26, 2012
It was good to see the path that Don Lemon traveled. I loved his candor and recollections. Thank you Don for sharing your story.
September 16, 2012
candid memoir
April 23, 2013
If you aspire to be a journalist then this would be the book for you.
January 23, 2018
Enjoyed this book. Quick read. Finished it in one day. He seems like someone to have a great conversation with!
May 3, 2020
I really enjoyed reading Don's book. I love personal memoir books and he has several inspirational examples of how he succeeded in following his dreams in life.
October 2, 2025
I liked Don Lemon around the time he wrote this book. Then I began to not like him so much. When CNN canned him, I shed no tears. However, he has resurrected his career as a YouTuber & podcast host & I really changed my opinion. That’s the real Don Lemon. This book is mostly about the stages of his career up until that point. I learned a lot about Don in this book but was disappointed by how little he revealed of his personal life. It might just be that at the time he wrote it, that he had no personal life because of his constant drive & passion for his work. Still I was left wishing there had been more since he “came out” as gay via this book, which was a big risk for him at the time. I admired him for that. Unfortunately, besides stating that early on in the book & briefly relating how he was sexually abused by a teenager several years older, he had little to say about how this affected him, especially since he claims to have known he was gay from a very early age.
September 21, 2011
This was a quick read. Interesting life but I expected more.
January 2, 2023
What a story to share (cost of silence). Nice to meet you Don.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews