Pulse of Perseverance: Three Black Doctors on Their Journey to Success

by Joseph Semien Jr., Pierre Johnson, Maxime Madhere

Pulse of Perseverance is the honest, deeply personal tale of three young black men's refusal to succumb to failure and how, together, they overcame daunting odds to take their place among the just five percent of U.S. doctors who are black. Through writing as passionate as it is relatable, the authors provide an unflinching look at the barriers black Americans face as they try to move out of the place society has designated for them. This book is a searing indictment of our still separate and unequal education system, one that ensures the road to becoming a doctor, or a lawyer or professor, will be much harder for black children than it will be for white. Yet, at its core, Pulse of Perseverance is an inspirational story of what can be accomplished with dedication, the support of people with similar goals, and the investment from institutions dedicated to black success. This book is the North Star for every black child who sees something greater for himself than the world would have him believe.

Genres: Medicine

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2018

About the author

Joseph W. Semien Jr., M.D. (St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine, Grand Cayman Islands; M.S., Tulane University School of Public Health, 2003; B.S., Xavier University of Louisiana), is a Board Certified Obstetrician-Gynecologist with the Lake Charles (Louisiana) Memorial Health System.

Reviews

[Ahmed Hasan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great.


Great book.
Inspirational.
I lived in similar circumstances.
I believe this book will inspire many.
I recommend it for young people.

[Choe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ordered the book hoping that maybe THIS book (in the long line of literature and lectures) might inspire my 14 year old to excel in school vs doing just enough to get by though he displays that he is fully capable of excelling in academics and athletics. After reading about the authors on Black Enterprise, I decided I wanted both of us to read it together. When I got off of work, I sat down to flip through a few pages to see what was in store for us and LITERALLY finished the book 3 hours later. This is a must read book for everyone ESPECIALLY for our young black boys! It is VERY inspirational! I am requiring my 14 year old to read it and will highly encourage my book averse spouse to read it also. The story of these three black brothers are like a light placed on a hill. Black excellence MUST be seen for the sake of our children. I need my teen to see that it is possible WITH God and IF you give 100%. Black men that excel against the odds are not seen frequently enough. Seeing excellence within our family isn't enough (yet) because struggle was before him and every lecture given on the rise of his parents can not be fully appreciated by seeing our lifestyle (as is probably the case with every child). Seeing these 3 black doctors work hard at their goals and overcome failure should be a great source of inspiration for my teenager. Thank you for writing this and telling your story. It is just as important as all historical non-fiction literature about the culture of our people. We always need voices of success today for the future of our black boys.

[Sayo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe this a great book for anybody doing pre-med or if you love success stories. I read this book to help motivate me during this challenging pre-med journey. It's good for anybody considering becoming a doctor that grew up disadvantaged because of their socioeconomic background. If i'm being honest that's the reason I picked it up. I saw another minority like me pursuing something that's rarely accomplished. I do mean rare. ( Only 5% of doctors are black).

In addition. They made me feel normal about academic struggles and I appreciated that immensely. For example, if I recall correctly at least 2 guys had to take a gap year because they weren't good at taking standardized test, they had to study rigorously to pass the MCAT. It was something I could relate to, because I hate standardized test and I simply suck at them. Some advisors might tell you to just give up, but what's life without a challenge. Things like bad scores shouldn't necessarily reflect why you shouldn't pursue a career in medicine. All in all it was a good read, and a quick read if you stay dedicated to it.

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every black child, teenager, adult should read this book

I could not put this book down. You cannot judge a person by their childhood, perseverance, tenacity, belief in one’s self and mainly God is paramount. Failure is Not an option

[Nicolas Hurtado · Rating 4 out of 5]

An inspiration of a book to any premedical student that is from a low-income background. After reading their stories, they taught about the importance of resilience and never giving up. I am applying this to my own career to medical school and to become the doctor I dream to be!

[Penny Zang · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really inspiring book! I am thinking about how I can use this book in my classes.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Should be required reading and discussion for young kids..adults too for that matter.

[David Carl Mack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Important

This is an absolutely excellent read. Talk about motivating. This goes to the top of my list of books to read.

[Richie J Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very inspiring! Highly recommended for all who have a goal in life and need motivation during those times when they need to persevere.

[Jullene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. I enjoyed it

[Lizzy OLoughlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really great read looking for anyone to see and understand how different backgrounds can affect how children learn in our academic system. I highly recommend for anyone who works with kids/teens in anyway. The story of these three men is eye opening and inspiring. I hope they continue to instill their passion and love for the field of medicine into many children, especially children of color.

[Cynthia Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a way to start my new year 2022 learning about the experiences of these 3 doctors who have clearly beat all the odds stacked against them. I wish these men much success as they continue their journeys individually and collectively. You all are truly an inspiration!! God 🤎Bless

[Jocelyn Burton-Cockrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written; especially how it depicts the city life of three young black men; the pitfalls and racism they experience and how they hold on to their dreams and strive for success.