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All Blood Runs Red: The Legendary Life of Eugene Bullard-Boxer, Pilot, Soldier, Spy
Winner of the Gold Medal for Memoir/Biography from the Military Writers Society of America
A New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice
“A whale of a tale, told clearly and quickly. I read the entire book in almost one sitting.”—Thomas E. Ricks, New York Times Book Review
The incredible story of the first African American military pilot, who went on to become a Paris nightclub impresario, a spy in the French Resistance and an American civil rights pioneer
Eugene Bullard lived one of the most fascinating lives of the twentieth century. The son of a former slave and an indigenous Creek woman, Bullard fled home at the age of eleven to escape the racial hostility of his Georgia community. When his journey led him to Europe, he garnered worldwide fame as a boxer, and later as the first African American fighter pilot in history.
After the war, Bullard returned to Paris a celebrated hero. But little did he know that the dramatic, globe-spanning arc of his life had just begun.
All Blood Runs Red is the inspiring untold story of an American hero, a thought-provoking chronicle of the twentieth century and a portrait of a man who came from nothing and by his own courage, determination, gumption, intelligence and luck forged a legendary life.
A New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice
“A whale of a tale, told clearly and quickly. I read the entire book in almost one sitting.”—Thomas E. Ricks, New York Times Book Review
The incredible story of the first African American military pilot, who went on to become a Paris nightclub impresario, a spy in the French Resistance and an American civil rights pioneer
Eugene Bullard lived one of the most fascinating lives of the twentieth century. The son of a former slave and an indigenous Creek woman, Bullard fled home at the age of eleven to escape the racial hostility of his Georgia community. When his journey led him to Europe, he garnered worldwide fame as a boxer, and later as the first African American fighter pilot in history.
After the war, Bullard returned to Paris a celebrated hero. But little did he know that the dramatic, globe-spanning arc of his life had just begun.
All Blood Runs Red is the inspiring untold story of an American hero, a thought-provoking chronicle of the twentieth century and a portrait of a man who came from nothing and by his own courage, determination, gumption, intelligence and luck forged a legendary life.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published November 5, 2019
277 people are currently reading
5215 people want to read
About the author
Tom Clavin
44 books512 followersTom Clavin is the author/coauthor of eleven books. His most recent is That Old Black Magic: Louis Prima, Keely Smith, and the Golden Age of Las Vegas.
His articles have appeared in Cosmopolitan, Family Circle, Men's Journal, Parade, Reader's Digest, and others.
He was a contributing reporter for the New York Times for fifteen years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews
January 7, 2020
I purchased the hardcover copy of All Blood Runs Red: The Legendary Life of Eugene Bullard-Boxer, Pilot, Soldier, Spy a couple months ago for my library. As with many books I purchase, I had no desire to read it myself (this is a good thing or I'd be adding 100+ titles a month to my already-too-long TBR list, and that's not to mention all the books I add that I don't purchase for the library!). Boxing and military careers aren't high on my list of interests and I thought this would be a boring book for me.
However, for the last few weeks, all of my library e-holds becoming available have been fiction. Now, I love a good story and I've had a terrific run of novels but my brain needs some substance too and it was positively screaming to be fed some facts. Something real, not made up. As none of the nonfiction books on my TBR list were available, off I headed to Overdrive to see what new nonfiction e-books my library had recently purchased and weren't already checked out. Scrolling through the most popular, I was becoming discouraged: Cookbooks, nope. Diet books? Unh-unh. Self-help books? Hell no!
It was with some relief that I scrolled down to this one. Even though I didn't think it would be the best of choices for me, it was still something I could feed my brain so the hangry screams of "Feed me I'm starving" would cease. Something scientific would have been preferable but at this point, I wasn't being picky. Just give me something nonfiction that wasn't about food or telling me how I could be oh so happy 100% of the time if I would just X, Y, and Z!
Holy crapola was this book interesting!!! How mistaken I was to think it would just be some mundane account of a guy who was a boxer and then flew military planes in World War I (turns out he did in WWII as well). Eugene Bullard was one amazing man who lived one amazing life. Wow!
Though not much is known of his early years, we learn how he ran away from home as a kid and made his way, eventually, to France. Born in the Jim Crow era in Georgia to a former slave and a Native American, Eugene wanted to escape the oppression and racism of the South. His father claimed that in France all men were treated equal and so that's where he went.
This book is about Mr. Bullard's incredible life and the numerous feats he accomplished. While still a teen, he stowed away on a ship to Europe where he became a boxer. This career aided him in his endeavors to reach France. There he began work in a night club and eventually co-owned a famous one of his own. People like Josephine Baker, "Bricktop", Cole Porter, Hemingway, the Fitzgeralds, Picasso, Man Ray, Charlie Chaplin, Sinatra, the Astaires, and many others frequented Le Grand Duc.
When war broke out, Bullard signed up to fight for France and became the first African American military pilot in history. Disgustingly, had he been in America, he would have been denied this opportunity because he was black. Eugene Bullard won many awards for his bravery and military feats and when WWII rose on the horizon, he again signed up to fight for France.
In between all this, Mr. Bullard married and had three children, played in a jazz band, and ran his club. Langston Hughes, upon arriving in France at the age of 22, was a dishwasher and waiter at Le Grand Duc, before publishing some of his poems and moving back to the US. Mr. Bullard was a friend to all, though had a short fuse when it came to racism, standing up for himself any time he encountered it. Thankfully things weren't as bad in Paris as they were in the US and Mr. Bullard was mostly treated as an equal to whites. He mainly had to deal with racism when white Americans would visit France, making it known how they hated to see Black people on an equal footing as whites. It's no wonder he had no desire to move back to the States. As noted in the book, "most Americans were quite content with black musicians entertaining them on stage and in the clubs, but they were not fine with African Americans walking off the stage, mingling with the patrons, sitting down to dine with them or, heaven forbid, dating or fraternizing with them."
After France fell to the Nazis, Eugene was forced to return to the US where he became a civil rights activist. He also played backup drums for Louis Armstrong and toured with him in Europe because he was trilingual and could help with booking accommodations. There were so many intriguing events in Mr. Bullard's life, so many marvelous accomplishments! I now am surprised that I thought this book would be on the boring side. It is anything but boring.
I particularly enjoyed when the author included excerpts from Mr. Bullard's unpublished autobiography, though it sometimes differed from official accounts.
At times the writing was rough and the book could have been better edited. It's a 4.5 star rating because of that but as I usually round up, I'll give it 5. I'm so glad I didn't have any other NF to read and gave this one a try! Eugene Bullard deserves to have his story known and I think a movie about his life would be captivating. If you're looking for a book for Black History Month (February), this would be an excellent choice!
However, for the last few weeks, all of my library e-holds becoming available have been fiction. Now, I love a good story and I've had a terrific run of novels but my brain needs some substance too and it was positively screaming to be fed some facts. Something real, not made up. As none of the nonfiction books on my TBR list were available, off I headed to Overdrive to see what new nonfiction e-books my library had recently purchased and weren't already checked out. Scrolling through the most popular, I was becoming discouraged: Cookbooks, nope. Diet books? Unh-unh. Self-help books? Hell no!
It was with some relief that I scrolled down to this one. Even though I didn't think it would be the best of choices for me, it was still something I could feed my brain so the hangry screams of "Feed me I'm starving" would cease. Something scientific would have been preferable but at this point, I wasn't being picky. Just give me something nonfiction that wasn't about food or telling me how I could be oh so happy 100% of the time if I would just X, Y, and Z!
Holy crapola was this book interesting!!! How mistaken I was to think it would just be some mundane account of a guy who was a boxer and then flew military planes in World War I (turns out he did in WWII as well). Eugene Bullard was one amazing man who lived one amazing life. Wow!
Though not much is known of his early years, we learn how he ran away from home as a kid and made his way, eventually, to France. Born in the Jim Crow era in Georgia to a former slave and a Native American, Eugene wanted to escape the oppression and racism of the South. His father claimed that in France all men were treated equal and so that's where he went.
This book is about Mr. Bullard's incredible life and the numerous feats he accomplished. While still a teen, he stowed away on a ship to Europe where he became a boxer. This career aided him in his endeavors to reach France. There he began work in a night club and eventually co-owned a famous one of his own. People like Josephine Baker, "Bricktop", Cole Porter, Hemingway, the Fitzgeralds, Picasso, Man Ray, Charlie Chaplin, Sinatra, the Astaires, and many others frequented Le Grand Duc.
When war broke out, Bullard signed up to fight for France and became the first African American military pilot in history. Disgustingly, had he been in America, he would have been denied this opportunity because he was black. Eugene Bullard won many awards for his bravery and military feats and when WWII rose on the horizon, he again signed up to fight for France.
In between all this, Mr. Bullard married and had three children, played in a jazz band, and ran his club. Langston Hughes, upon arriving in France at the age of 22, was a dishwasher and waiter at Le Grand Duc, before publishing some of his poems and moving back to the US. Mr. Bullard was a friend to all, though had a short fuse when it came to racism, standing up for himself any time he encountered it. Thankfully things weren't as bad in Paris as they were in the US and Mr. Bullard was mostly treated as an equal to whites. He mainly had to deal with racism when white Americans would visit France, making it known how they hated to see Black people on an equal footing as whites. It's no wonder he had no desire to move back to the States. As noted in the book, "most Americans were quite content with black musicians entertaining them on stage and in the clubs, but they were not fine with African Americans walking off the stage, mingling with the patrons, sitting down to dine with them or, heaven forbid, dating or fraternizing with them."
After France fell to the Nazis, Eugene was forced to return to the US where he became a civil rights activist. He also played backup drums for Louis Armstrong and toured with him in Europe because he was trilingual and could help with booking accommodations. There were so many intriguing events in Mr. Bullard's life, so many marvelous accomplishments! I now am surprised that I thought this book would be on the boring side. It is anything but boring.
I particularly enjoyed when the author included excerpts from Mr. Bullard's unpublished autobiography, though it sometimes differed from official accounts.
At times the writing was rough and the book could have been better edited. It's a 4.5 star rating because of that but as I usually round up, I'll give it 5. I'm so glad I didn't have any other NF to read and gave this one a try! Eugene Bullard deserves to have his story known and I think a movie about his life would be captivating. If you're looking for a book for Black History Month (February), this would be an excellent choice!
April 7, 2021
Eugene Bullard had an incredibly eventful life. Born in Georgia in 1895, he was one of 10 children of a Haitian American father and Creek mother. He grew up believing that France was a place where he would find equality and left home at the age of 12 to pursue his dream. He became the first African American fighter pilot and his plane was adorned with paintings of red, pierced hearts and the words “all blood that flows is red”. His list of endeavors is quite extensive including, boxer, musician, service in both world wars, spy for the French Resistance and nightclub owner. He was awarded numerous medals including the Croix de Guerre and knew Ernest Hemingway, Cole Porter, Fred Astaire, Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes, Picasso and many others.
While I found the story of Bullard’s life very interesting, there was a little too much speculation in the book about his thoughts, conversations, actions and motivations. He wrote an unpublished autobiography, and perhaps that was the source of some of this, but since I listened to the audiobook I have no idea if any of the sources for the book were footnoted. The author admits that some of the autobiography was fanciful, but he states that the basic facts of Bullard’s exploits were confirmed in each case by at least 2 sources and his war record was certainly real. Whatever the case, I’m glad that he is getting some deserved recognition in the US and this book would make a great movie.
While I found the story of Bullard’s life very interesting, there was a little too much speculation in the book about his thoughts, conversations, actions and motivations. He wrote an unpublished autobiography, and perhaps that was the source of some of this, but since I listened to the audiobook I have no idea if any of the sources for the book were footnoted. The author admits that some of the autobiography was fanciful, but he states that the basic facts of Bullard’s exploits were confirmed in each case by at least 2 sources and his war record was certainly real. Whatever the case, I’m glad that he is getting some deserved recognition in the US and this book would make a great movie.
September 10, 2023
Such a remarkable man.
March 24, 2021
Life has been so busy as of late, but in the moments I was able to read, I devoured this book.
Eugene Bullard was born in 1895 in Columbus, Georgia, a time when racism dictated the life of every black American.
Bullard was the seventh of ten children born to William (Big Ox) and Josephine Bullard. Standing at 6'5", Big Ox was the son of a slave of Haitian ancestry and Josephine, a full-blooded Creek Indian.
Losing three siblings in their infancy and his mother by the time he was nearly seven made life even harder for Eugene and his family.
While raising up the remainder of his children, Big Ox would often speak to his children about the very clear divide between the white and black people, instructing them on how to behave if put into a situation. He often spoke to his children about a faraway place called France, where a black man could walk down the street with his head held high and be seen as an equal to any other man. This magical story compelled Eugene to strike out on his own, even at the tender age of ten, then again at eleven, each time being tracked down and returned home by his father.
Big Ox himself would have to endure a terrible amount of racism in the form of name calling, harassment and sabotaging at his workplace and by none other than his white foreman. It was too much for Big Ox one day when he really wasn't given much of a choice but to defend himself, easily injuring his much smaller counterpart. For Eugene, seeing his father race into the house, bloodied and injured and instructing the children to hide in the bedroom while he loaded his shotgun and kept watch for the lynch men who were coming for him created a mental scar that would push Eugene to leave home again, this time at age 12 and a little more prepared.
It's almost unimaginable in today's age to think of a twelve year old boy making his way traveling through the southern states, alone; trying to find his way to the ocean because he believed that just across that ocean was the life he yearned for, but he did just that. A boy with a second grade education and nearly no money or resources did just that. And the adventures he had along the way were something else. Eugene was so clever, an opportunist if you will and would seize any moment where he saw he could gain something, whether it be a meal, a place to stay or money he could make to keep moving forward.
Eugene does make it to France where he creates the most fantastic life for himself:
He becomes a trained boxer, touring on the same ticket with such greats as Jack Johnson, even traveling to Egypt for a few bouts and having an Egyptian prince greet him after the last fight.
He fights for France in both the Great Wars. First joining up with the 3rd Marching Regiment and witnessing The Great Christmas Truce of 1914, then very notably becoming the first African American fighter pilot for the Lafayette Escadrille. Bullard had the SPAD he flew painted with a bleeding red heart, pierced with a dagger on each side of the fuselage with the french words, Tout Le Sange Qui Coule Est Rouge (All Blood That Flows is Red) stenciled just above the heart.
Bullard becomes a member of Parisian High Society in the Jazz Age where he is friends with the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Cole Porter, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, Langston Hughes, James Joyce, Josephine Baker and more. Hemingway even added Bullard into his 1926 novel, The Sun Also Rises. ( Oh to be a part of this time in history. You know the question of where would you travel back in time to? Well, this would definitely be one of my places!)
He becomes a WW II spy by eavesdropping on conversations the German soldiers would have while serving them in the local jazz clubs. Never would a German soldier expect that a black man would be able to speak, French, English and German, so the conversations flowed freely while Gene would serve up drinks.
In all this, Bullard finds love, has children and just keeps moving to new heights, never letting up or backing down. If you think I've told you too much of the story, don't be fooled. The history of events packed into this life Eugene Bullard led is just so full and fabulous. How has this not been turned into a major motion picture?!
5 solid stars for this incredible book!
Eugene Bullard was born in 1895 in Columbus, Georgia, a time when racism dictated the life of every black American.
Bullard was the seventh of ten children born to William (Big Ox) and Josephine Bullard. Standing at 6'5", Big Ox was the son of a slave of Haitian ancestry and Josephine, a full-blooded Creek Indian.
Losing three siblings in their infancy and his mother by the time he was nearly seven made life even harder for Eugene and his family.
While raising up the remainder of his children, Big Ox would often speak to his children about the very clear divide between the white and black people, instructing them on how to behave if put into a situation. He often spoke to his children about a faraway place called France, where a black man could walk down the street with his head held high and be seen as an equal to any other man. This magical story compelled Eugene to strike out on his own, even at the tender age of ten, then again at eleven, each time being tracked down and returned home by his father.
Big Ox himself would have to endure a terrible amount of racism in the form of name calling, harassment and sabotaging at his workplace and by none other than his white foreman. It was too much for Big Ox one day when he really wasn't given much of a choice but to defend himself, easily injuring his much smaller counterpart. For Eugene, seeing his father race into the house, bloodied and injured and instructing the children to hide in the bedroom while he loaded his shotgun and kept watch for the lynch men who were coming for him created a mental scar that would push Eugene to leave home again, this time at age 12 and a little more prepared.
It's almost unimaginable in today's age to think of a twelve year old boy making his way traveling through the southern states, alone; trying to find his way to the ocean because he believed that just across that ocean was the life he yearned for, but he did just that. A boy with a second grade education and nearly no money or resources did just that. And the adventures he had along the way were something else. Eugene was so clever, an opportunist if you will and would seize any moment where he saw he could gain something, whether it be a meal, a place to stay or money he could make to keep moving forward.
Eugene does make it to France where he creates the most fantastic life for himself:
He becomes a trained boxer, touring on the same ticket with such greats as Jack Johnson, even traveling to Egypt for a few bouts and having an Egyptian prince greet him after the last fight.
He fights for France in both the Great Wars. First joining up with the 3rd Marching Regiment and witnessing The Great Christmas Truce of 1914, then very notably becoming the first African American fighter pilot for the Lafayette Escadrille. Bullard had the SPAD he flew painted with a bleeding red heart, pierced with a dagger on each side of the fuselage with the french words, Tout Le Sange Qui Coule Est Rouge (All Blood That Flows is Red) stenciled just above the heart.
Bullard becomes a member of Parisian High Society in the Jazz Age where he is friends with the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Cole Porter, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, Langston Hughes, James Joyce, Josephine Baker and more. Hemingway even added Bullard into his 1926 novel, The Sun Also Rises. ( Oh to be a part of this time in history. You know the question of where would you travel back in time to? Well, this would definitely be one of my places!)
He becomes a WW II spy by eavesdropping on conversations the German soldiers would have while serving them in the local jazz clubs. Never would a German soldier expect that a black man would be able to speak, French, English and German, so the conversations flowed freely while Gene would serve up drinks.
In all this, Bullard finds love, has children and just keeps moving to new heights, never letting up or backing down. If you think I've told you too much of the story, don't be fooled. The history of events packed into this life Eugene Bullard led is just so full and fabulous. How has this not been turned into a major motion picture?!
5 solid stars for this incredible book!
October 25, 2019
What an incredible story and what an incredible human being. It's one of those times I finished reading and wondered why I've never heard about him before. But there are so many reasons, many of which are listed in the book. All Blood Runs Red was originally supposed to be an autobiography, but unfortunately Gene passed away and poop it was never published. So in keeping with honoring him, Phil kept the original title. And I love it.
I'm always fascinated by some people's ability to persevere. And in the case of Gene Bullard, persevere is a massive understatement overcoming incredible odds. Running away from his home in Columbus, Georgia at the age of eleven and not looking back, he built a life for himself and made it all the way to the City of Lights. (ELEVEN! Could you imagine a child these days successfully running away at ELEVEN?!) Thankfully the early 1900s in Paris France was a far more liberal and welcoming city to people of all races and cultures (unlike Gene's hometown). Becoming a successful boxer, fighting in World War I. Becoming the first African American fighter pilot. A club owner and part-time musician (playing the drums). Then becoming part of the resistance during World War II and eventually fighting in World War II. After too many injuries it was time to finally come back to his home country. Did I mention how he also raised and protected 2 daughters as a single father? I don't want to give too much away but needless to say after 65 years Gene finally received some of the recognition he deserved, and even more so after his passing. After reading the book, you'll know he deserves far more recognition than he got.
A highly recommended read for anyone who loves a real life hero story.
I'm always fascinated by some people's ability to persevere. And in the case of Gene Bullard, persevere is a massive understatement overcoming incredible odds. Running away from his home in Columbus, Georgia at the age of eleven and not looking back, he built a life for himself and made it all the way to the City of Lights. (ELEVEN! Could you imagine a child these days successfully running away at ELEVEN?!) Thankfully the early 1900s in Paris France was a far more liberal and welcoming city to people of all races and cultures (unlike Gene's hometown). Becoming a successful boxer, fighting in World War I. Becoming the first African American fighter pilot. A club owner and part-time musician (playing the drums). Then becoming part of the resistance during World War II and eventually fighting in World War II. After too many injuries it was time to finally come back to his home country. Did I mention how he also raised and protected 2 daughters as a single father? I don't want to give too much away but needless to say after 65 years Gene finally received some of the recognition he deserved, and even more so after his passing. After reading the book, you'll know he deserves far more recognition than he got.
A highly recommended read for anyone who loves a real life hero story.
February 3, 2020
Outstanding story of these formidable men! Stories like these is what they should be teaching high school students not the other crap!
September 13, 2021
All Blood Runs Red: The Legendary Life of Eugene Bullard-Boxer, Pilot, Soldier, Spy
by Phil Keith
Wow, this guy's life is so fanciful, it's like a movie! He runs away at the age of 12 from the south in the USA and heads for France! He heard there is less racism there. By gosh, he makes it and what a story to get there but that is just the tip of the ice burg! He becomes a decorated war hero in two wars in two countries! What an amazing man! Just amazing!
What would have made the book better would be photos.
by Phil Keith
Wow, this guy's life is so fanciful, it's like a movie! He runs away at the age of 12 from the south in the USA and heads for France! He heard there is less racism there. By gosh, he makes it and what a story to get there but that is just the tip of the ice burg! He becomes a decorated war hero in two wars in two countries! What an amazing man! Just amazing!
What would have made the book better would be photos.
March 22, 2021
Five stars for Eugene Bullard, less for the book itself.
Bullard's life in itself is fascinating -- American runaway who ended up in France after a stint boxing in Scotland/England, became a pilot in WWI and fought again in WWII, ran jazz bars in Paris and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Hemingway, Langston Hughes, Josephine Baker etc., ended up back in Manhattan after WWII injuries and had to start over, got involved in civil rights activism, became an elevator operator, finally got his "15 minutes" of overdue recognition before his death. And through all of it, he was constantly pushing back against racial discrimination.
The book in itself was boring; the writing was choppy, there were a lot of speculations on the details of his life, and at times there were just laundry lists of other historical people who crossed paths with Bullard.
Bullard's life in itself is fascinating -- American runaway who ended up in France after a stint boxing in Scotland/England, became a pilot in WWI and fought again in WWII, ran jazz bars in Paris and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Hemingway, Langston Hughes, Josephine Baker etc., ended up back in Manhattan after WWII injuries and had to start over, got involved in civil rights activism, became an elevator operator, finally got his "15 minutes" of overdue recognition before his death. And through all of it, he was constantly pushing back against racial discrimination.
The book in itself was boring; the writing was choppy, there were a lot of speculations on the details of his life, and at times there were just laundry lists of other historical people who crossed paths with Bullard.
February 5, 2020
The first African-American fighter pilot: Eugene “Gene” Bullard. At 12, he ran away from Columbus, Ga., to escape the vicious racism of the early-20th-century South for France, the country revered by his formerly enslaved father. He crossed the Atlantic straight into minor fame as a boxer in Liverpool and Paris, and experienced partial freedom from the scorn and hatred of whites. In WWI, he joined the French Foreign Legion, fighting for his adopted homeland as a pilot. After a brief interwar interlude as a nightclub band drummer, manager, and owner—rubbing shoulders with the likes of Louis Armstrong, Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes, and Pablo Picasso, and spying on Germans for the French—he volunteered again with the French military when WWII broke out. After being injured as the Germans advanced into France, military and consular personnel advised him to flee the country to avoid being executed by the Nazis. He settled in New York City with his teenage daughters and became variously a longshoreman, a traveling salesman of French perfumes, and an elevator operator at Rockefeller Center. Keith vividly describes Bullard’s experiences—including his medal-worthy military exploits, the luck that allowed him to cheat death repeatedly, and the bizarre parallels between his life and the movie Casablanca.
May 13, 2021
So next time some politician says America is not a racist country have him or her read this book. France was the Promised Land for African Americans; a place where they were treated equally and with dignity and respect. What a life Eugene Bullard led! Soldier, boxer, pilot, bar owner/manager, spy. One of the first black military pilots who is an unknown in America because he couldn’t have done it here. A remarkable man.
May 25, 2021
Lost interest two thirds of the way through. Read a fascinating synopsis of this book, which made me seek it out. Finally I realized that I enjoyed the synopsis ten times better than the book itself. Too bad.
September 28, 2019
I received an uncorrected proof through Goodreads First Reads and am very grateful for the opportunity.
This is a very interesting and pulling biography, and I was fascinated with Bullard's complex story during the whole journey - from his early adventures with gypsies to that fateful conversation on the elevator.
I think my only main issue with the book was that, while it is several hundred pages, it still seems a little brief. There's still plenty of detail, but at times I felt there could have been more. Plus, there were a few things that were left out. For instance, I never got a strong impression on exactly why Bullard enlisted for World War I, and the final chapter never stated the ultimate fate of Connell's biography of him.
That said, I can understand the difficulties in gathering in-depth information on individuals, especially when much of his history has been unrecorded. All-in-all, this is a great biography that helps bring Bullard's colorful history to life. I was astounded at all the things he was involved in, and it is wonderful that he is getting a chance in the limelight.
This is a very interesting and pulling biography, and I was fascinated with Bullard's complex story during the whole journey - from his early adventures with gypsies to that fateful conversation on the elevator.
I think my only main issue with the book was that, while it is several hundred pages, it still seems a little brief. There's still plenty of detail, but at times I felt there could have been more. Plus, there were a few things that were left out. For instance, I never got a strong impression on exactly why Bullard enlisted for World War I, and the final chapter never stated the ultimate fate of Connell's biography of him.
That said, I can understand the difficulties in gathering in-depth information on individuals, especially when much of his history has been unrecorded. All-in-all, this is a great biography that helps bring Bullard's colorful history to life. I was astounded at all the things he was involved in, and it is wonderful that he is getting a chance in the limelight.
April 10, 2021
This is a breakneck-speed biography of a relatively unknown American hero. Gene Bullard led a breakneck-speed life, leaving the bigotry and dead-end life of the segregated South, and beginning a life abroad that was improbably rich, exciting, and inspiring. The writer's style is engaging and the work is well-researched. This one man's successes and triumphs, as a soldier, pilot, cabaret owner, and hero continually demonstrated to me the sickness that is segregation and racism. Despite the separate and unequal education available to him, and his lack of any formal education, this man made a magnificent life for himself. One can only wonder how many million African-American lives were wasted, stunted, and corrupted by this country's written and unwritten racial codes. That hateful code prevented any reporting of Bullard's many achievements abroad, denied him the gratitude and praise from his own countrymen, and resulted in the shameful way he was treated after his return to the United States after World War II. This book is a splendid education for all of us.
December 5, 2019
Incredible story of an incredible life.
November 4, 2022
All Blood Runs Red is undoubtedly my favorite book of the year. This book reads like a fantastic memoir. It had excitement, passion, honor, loyalty, history, and value. Eugene left home at age 12. He built the lives of four people and three careers into his one life. Eugene Bullard knew how to live.
Eugene lets nothing holds him back. Not even the loving arms of his father. Eugene and his nine siblings lived during segregation, Jim Crow, and lynchings which continued into the late 1960s. His father feared doing anything to cause harm to his family. Yet he was disrespected, cheated, beaten, and abused. After a horrendous incident and the KKK terrorized them Eugene was determination to get out of Georgia.
Eugene finally breaks free and goes on the adventure of a lifetime. He rides trains, becomes an equestrian and a jockey. Then he steals away on ships and travels to many countries where he learns to fly, joins the French foreign legion, masters four languages, and earns medals,
Eugene had a genuine, outgoing, and endearing spirit. He was loved and embraced by many along his journey. He met gypsies, Immigrants, sailors, writers, princess, celebrities, and other dignitaries. Eugene was resolved to obtain more than what his "station" would allow.
As I read this book, I was drawn into the manuscript. The stories flowed and combined so well that I didn't hear anything else around me. I read it in two days, and I had the most best reading experience. If I had read this book as a youth, it would've inspired me to travel and stretch my wings.
Not only does the author convey Eugene Ballard's story, but he delivers meaningful vignettes of famous writers, dancers, musicians, and anyone noteworthy in the 1920s and the Harlem renaissance.
Eugene’s dignity, skills, character, and charismatic personality are the things legends are build on. In fact much of the Casa Blanca movie could've been based on his club and escapades as a spy. He was assailed and mistreated, yet he accomplished everything people said he couldn't. I think this is the story that Oprah needs to produce next.
So if there's someone that you want to inspire, share the world with, or encourage, This is the book to put into their hands. I suggest this book for pre-teens and older. I discussed this with many family members, and yes, this book is that amazing. If you don't read anything else this year, read All Blood Runs Red. by Phil Keith. This is one of the top 10 books ever written.
Eugene lets nothing holds him back. Not even the loving arms of his father. Eugene and his nine siblings lived during segregation, Jim Crow, and lynchings which continued into the late 1960s. His father feared doing anything to cause harm to his family. Yet he was disrespected, cheated, beaten, and abused. After a horrendous incident and the KKK terrorized them Eugene was determination to get out of Georgia.
Eugene finally breaks free and goes on the adventure of a lifetime. He rides trains, becomes an equestrian and a jockey. Then he steals away on ships and travels to many countries where he learns to fly, joins the French foreign legion, masters four languages, and earns medals,
Eugene had a genuine, outgoing, and endearing spirit. He was loved and embraced by many along his journey. He met gypsies, Immigrants, sailors, writers, princess, celebrities, and other dignitaries. Eugene was resolved to obtain more than what his "station" would allow.
As I read this book, I was drawn into the manuscript. The stories flowed and combined so well that I didn't hear anything else around me. I read it in two days, and I had the most best reading experience. If I had read this book as a youth, it would've inspired me to travel and stretch my wings.
Not only does the author convey Eugene Ballard's story, but he delivers meaningful vignettes of famous writers, dancers, musicians, and anyone noteworthy in the 1920s and the Harlem renaissance.
Eugene’s dignity, skills, character, and charismatic personality are the things legends are build on. In fact much of the Casa Blanca movie could've been based on his club and escapades as a spy. He was assailed and mistreated, yet he accomplished everything people said he couldn't. I think this is the story that Oprah needs to produce next.
So if there's someone that you want to inspire, share the world with, or encourage, This is the book to put into their hands. I suggest this book for pre-teens and older. I discussed this with many family members, and yes, this book is that amazing. If you don't read anything else this year, read All Blood Runs Red. by Phil Keith. This is one of the top 10 books ever written.
June 26, 2025
Legendary life indeed.
March 22, 2022
How has this man's life story not been turned into a movie? An absolutely remarkable tale.
October 23, 2019
Eugene Bullard was a boxer, pilot, club impresario, and spy in the early to mid-twentieth century. With a life story ripe for a biopic, racism has long kept his story in the shadows. Bullard was the first African American fighter pilot, flying in World War I for France. A decorated war veteran, Bullard owned and managed a Parisian nightclub between the world wars, welcoming greats of the Jazz Age to his stage and as his guests. As the shadow of the Third Reich loomed, Bullard spied for France, garnering more honors. The latter years of his life were lived out in relative obscurity in the United States.
So why hasn’t the story of Bullard made it big yet? Obviously, the systemic racism of the United States is the dominant reason. Another reason, likely with the same root cause, is the lack of source information. The authors are honest about this, and provide examples of times when Bullard’s own retelling of his story directly contradicts the remaining evidence, such as his report that his wife died after five years of marriage, when death records show that she outlived Bullard by a number of years.
I occasionally found the book challenging because it was highly episodic and frequently took extended detours into the biographies of other individuals. The volume of detours, particularly in the first third to half of the book, often buried Bullard’s story. Those asides sometimes took the book from a biography towards a microhistory, addressing professional boxing at the beginning of the twentieth century and the Paris club scene in the 1920s and 1930s.
Final verdict: An interesting story, but it suffers a bit in the telling. Recommend for those with a strong interest in biographies of little-known historical figures, with the understanding that source information is limited, so details may be more sparse than in biographies of more widely known individuals.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this work from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
So why hasn’t the story of Bullard made it big yet? Obviously, the systemic racism of the United States is the dominant reason. Another reason, likely with the same root cause, is the lack of source information. The authors are honest about this, and provide examples of times when Bullard’s own retelling of his story directly contradicts the remaining evidence, such as his report that his wife died after five years of marriage, when death records show that she outlived Bullard by a number of years.
I occasionally found the book challenging because it was highly episodic and frequently took extended detours into the biographies of other individuals. The volume of detours, particularly in the first third to half of the book, often buried Bullard’s story. Those asides sometimes took the book from a biography towards a microhistory, addressing professional boxing at the beginning of the twentieth century and the Paris club scene in the 1920s and 1930s.
Final verdict: An interesting story, but it suffers a bit in the telling. Recommend for those with a strong interest in biographies of little-known historical figures, with the understanding that source information is limited, so details may be more sparse than in biographies of more widely known individuals.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this work from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
August 19, 2019
I had never even heard of Eugene Bullard before I read this book. His bravery and determination is truly inspiring, especially in the face of the many hardships he faced. It's amazing to consider that one person's life could take so many drastic turns, from poverty and prejudice in the American South to the itinerant life of a sailor, boxer, soldier, pilot, and even a spy. Moreover, his story sheds light on the African-American experience during this important time. So often our Black History Month curricula skip from the Emancipation Proclamation to Rosa Parks, with hardly a mention of those difficult decades in between. Eugene Bullard's spirit of self-determination in these difficult times is inspiring today.
The biography may be a bit long and slow-paced for assigning to K-12 students, but excerpts would be a great addition to history and social studies lesson plans.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC of this book!
The biography may be a bit long and slow-paced for assigning to K-12 students, but excerpts would be a great addition to history and social studies lesson plans.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC of this book!
August 30, 2019
Perfect for readers interested in American History, especially topics that have previously not received much or any attention. Written for the layman, this book was very interesting. I found myself captivated by the life story of Eugene Bullard, a person that was never mentioned in any history classes that I took.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an advanced reading copy.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an advanced reading copy.
November 15, 2019
I’m so thankful for the work of researchers who have done the due diligence of honoring people like Eugene Bullard. One of the more entertaining and moving books I’ve read this year. Makes me equally proud and ashamed of our country.
April 22, 2025
The subtitle of this book, "The Legendary Life of Eugene Bullard, Boxer, Pilot, Soldier, Spy" is aptly named "Legendary" for a man who was born in 1895, the son of a former slave, (William Bullard) and a Creek Indian Woman, (Josephine), one of 10 children, three who died in infancy, broken down and poor in Columbus, Georgia. Eugene ran away from home and from a loving father, as an 11 year old, determined to escape the racism of his hometown, and find a place-in a way his own nirvana-where he hoped that he could live and work in a place where racism didn't exist. For him that was Paris, France. His story as an 11 year old literally running away from home and making his way to the lower eastern seaboard, then finally as a stowaway on a ship bound for Aberdeen, Scotland, was rife with incredible stories of a tumultuous but adventurous journey. He did make it to Paris, clearly, and you must read the book now! What stood out to me was the stark reminder of the power behind encouragement, and how sometimes unbeknownst to us, the smallest contributions we are able to make in the lives of someone who is less fortunate or struggling, can be multiplied in ways we can never imagine. On his easterly route, Eugene encountered a number of African Americans as well as White Americans who helped him with a dollar or a job, a bed and a meal, an extended stay or an overnight stay, as he sojourned along to his ultimate destination. The same happened as he reached the European continent. And these gracious hand ups that he was afforded along the way, are not meant to detract, in any way, from the man's absolute, unrelenting, self initiative, perseverance, and hard work attitude. All of which is an understatement. That brings me to the second point that stood out to me in all caps, and that is the stark reminder that perseverance, determination, and a fiery passion inside of us to do the right thing and to make good out of junk, will get us farther in life, then getting stuck in our circumstances, or allowing others to have the last word on our journey. The only person who should have that ability is God, our creator. On that note, the author acknowledged that Eugene had no religious affiliation, the closest being Catholicism. Even so, he admits he blamed God when his infant son died of double pneumonia at 6 months old. It's funny how all of us are so quick and able to profess that we can't (or won't) believe in a good God, as if we have no capacity to do so, and the more self reliant life makes us (as in Eugene's case), the more likely this is going to happen. Yet as soon as something bad happens, our capacity to believe in a "bad" or angry God is full up. All of a sudden we believe in God. As soon as we need someone to blame for the bad circumstances that befell us. I loved at the end of the book, at the end of his life, Eugene said to his beloved two daughters that he felt lucky to have lived and literally survived as long as he had (he beat death as a poverty stricken child, boxer, pilot, soldier and spy on multiple occasions). He went on to tell his daughters, "God is my friend. He has always been my friend. The sooner I die, the sooner the suffering will be over." Yes get the tissue box ready. Y'all know how much I love reading about those men and women whose valiant efforts in both the great war and WWII have been part and parcel to my (our) ability to live free lives. And when that person is someone like Eugene Bullard, who suffered so greatly at the dirty rotten hand of racism, who escaped poverty, it is even more astounding and strikes again that familiar chord of "I cannot believe this man did all he did" inside of me. Because why? Because Eugene Bullard had every reason to just pitch his tent in the place where society had cast him, feel sorry for himself, let life happen TO him, and just be miserable. Yet, he did not. I admire him more than I can express. I am sorry he missed out on family life with his family back in Georgia. I am sorry Eugene-that it took your native state so long to recognize the incredible accomplishments of their native son -in not one, BUT TWO world wars. So much more to be said. But I wanted to highlight the lessons I took away from it, not the least of which is the lesson about my own faith in God. And when it is tested, where do I stand? And will the trials of my life make me a better person or a worse one? Will those trials spur me on to help others, whether that is an individual in need of help, or helping my country? What will I do? Thank you Eugene Bullard for the inspiration. I know what I am shootin' for.
February 26, 2020
I was introduced to Eugene Bullard back in 2018 when I read Charles Glass's Americans in Paris: Life and Death Under Nazi Occupation. I knew then & there, I had to learn more about this extraordinary man. At the time, the only book I could find was Eugene Bullard: World's First Black Fighter Pilot. To say Mr Greenly's book was a disappointment was an understatement. In fact, in my review I said, "If only someone would write a riveting biography worthy of the man Eugene Bullard was." Thankfully, the book gods were listening. ALL BLOOD RUNS RED is the biography that I was waiting for. Now, if only Ava DuVernay, Barry Jenkins, or Jordan Peele would take this on & turn Eugene Bullard's life into a movie. For Eugene Bullard is a truly remarkable man, who's story is larger than life, & someone who should never be forgotten.
July 9, 2020
I won this from Goodreads as well, I entered to win it because I had never heard of him. It's terrible that the story of the first African American fighter pilot isn't wider known, he was a fascinating person. The differences in racial attitudes between France and America before WWI were stark, sadly the attitudes of the two nations regarding race seemed to have moved closer together since then and not in as positive direction as one would hope.
One of the most striking things that I noticed is that the rhetoric of law enforcement and racists, and the cover up strategies, hasn't really changed since the early 1900's.
One of the most striking things that I noticed is that the rhetoric of law enforcement and racists, and the cover up strategies, hasn't really changed since the early 1900's.
March 25, 2021
I heard the story of Eugene Bullard as an abridged version, but I wanted more. Who wouldn't? This forgotten icon's life was the stuff of legends. Around every turn of Eugene Bullard's life was an obstacle, and at every turn, he leaped over the obstacle with ease.
This book is a classic tale of beating the odds, fraternity, and fame. There was no question in my mind to give it five stars. The author writes in a way that is both gripping and succinct. It's easy to get an idea of Eugene Bullard not just as an overall person, but in each iteration of his life from child, to soldier, to spy, and beyond. This book gives us that delicious "forgotten history" vibe and brings us into a world which we feel we should already know.
This book is a classic tale of beating the odds, fraternity, and fame. There was no question in my mind to give it five stars. The author writes in a way that is both gripping and succinct. It's easy to get an idea of Eugene Bullard not just as an overall person, but in each iteration of his life from child, to soldier, to spy, and beyond. This book gives us that delicious "forgotten history" vibe and brings us into a world which we feel we should already know.
November 19, 2019
Eugene Bullard lived an extraordinary life. I found the story about Bullard to be fascinating and for his time, amazing. To think that a boy from a small Southern town riddled with prejudice, he accomplished great things.
The writing felt a bit unpolished and rough this might have been intentional to match the story, I am not sure.
If nothing else, I would recommend this book to anyone to learn more about this great American.
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
The writing felt a bit unpolished and rough this might have been intentional to match the story, I am not sure.
If nothing else, I would recommend this book to anyone to learn more about this great American.
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
February 10, 2023
I am so glad I listened and learned the story of Eugene Bullard - his is a story more people should know. Sadly, few people in America are aware of Bullard’s story due to the color of his skin. A true hero who fought prejudice and beat the odds with pride, dignity, and grace. This story would make an amazing movie.
Why 4 stars and not 5? I think the book could have been better edited and while the narrator had a very pleasant voice it was choppy at times and I felt like I was being read rather than immersed in the story as an excellent narrator makes one feel.
Why 4 stars and not 5? I think the book could have been better edited and while the narrator had a very pleasant voice it was choppy at times and I felt like I was being read rather than immersed in the story as an excellent narrator makes one feel.
July 31, 2020
This is an incredible tale of survival, success and overcoming obstacles, beginning with growing up black in Georgia in 1900s. That was such a dangerous a prospect that Gene Ballard fled the country as a teenager and stowed away to Europe where, his story got even more interesting as a boxer, the first African American fighter pilot, jazz club impresario and spy. “The Legendary Life” is a great read through every moment of his story.
September 5, 2024
What made me dove in to this book was because of a Reddit post I saw the other day about Eugene Bullard. What a remarkable résumé’! Not only he was the very first African American WW1 pilot, a boxer, a soldier and a spy; he was also a bar owner, a musician, an ambassador under Roosevelt, an elevator operator and more!
What saddened me that clouded all his achievements? He wasn’t given a chance to publish his own autobiography because no publisher would take his story because of the color of his skin. And what’s even more frustrating is racism is still happening today.
What saddened me that clouded all his achievements? He wasn’t given a chance to publish his own autobiography because no publisher would take his story because of the color of his skin. And what’s even more frustrating is racism is still happening today.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2020
Phenomenal story, and one that is so wide-ranging! Although it was delightful to see little windows into the lives of so many recognizable figures (Langston Hughes, Josephine Baker, F. Scott Fitzgerald, etc), Bullard's fascinating life is more than capable of holding the reader's attention all on its own.
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