Life Is So Good: One Man's Extraordinary Journey through the 20th Century and How he Learned to Read at Age 98

by George Dawson, Richard Glaubman

In this remarkable book, 103-year-old George Dawson, a slave's grandson who learned to read at age 98, reflects on his life and offers valuable lessons in living as well as a fresh, firsthand view of America during the twentieth century. Richard Glaubman captures Dawson's irresistible voice and view of the world, offering insights into humanity, history, hardships, and happiness. From segregation and civil rights, to the wars, presidents, and defining moments in history, George Dawson's description and assessment of the last century inspires readers with the message that-through it all-has sustained him: "Life is so good. I do believe it's getting better."

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Biography, Book Club, Biography Memoir, Autobiography, African American

260 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

George Dawson was called "America's favorite poster child for literacy" after learning to read at the age of 98. Dawson was a grandson and great-grandson of African-American slaves. After turning 21, he traveled extensively throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico; in 1928, after nine years of travel and work, he returned to find his family had moved away, leaving no clue as to their new home: "I wondered why they hadn’t let me know. Then again, how would they have found me? Even if they’d known where I was, I wouldn’t have been able to read their letter."

He married Elzenia, a literate woman, and they moved to Dallas, where Dawson began to work for the city in road repair, and went on to have seven children, helping them all with their homework despite not knowing how to read. In 1938, he took a job with a dairy, where he worked until his retirement at age 79.

When Dawson was around age 90, a man was making door-to-door visits on behalf of a local adult education/adult basic education program . Dawson overcame his initial reluctance to reveal his illiteracy, telling himself, "All your life you’ve wanted to read. Maybe this is why you’re still around." On first meeting instructor Carl Henry, a retired teacher, he learned that the oldest student to that time had been a woman in her fifties. Dawson learned to read and even went on to study for his GED at age 103. He was posthumously honored when the Carroll Independent School District named a middle school after him in Southlake, Texas.

Reviews

[Andrew Lasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life Is So Good is a book that everyone deserves to read. It is a feel good journey through the life of George Dawson, an amazing man who learned to read at the age of 98. While most feel good novels give me a sick feeling in my stomach, this one is free of the saccharine.

The book gives us an honest look at what happened to George Dawson through a century of life, and not all of it was good. What makes this book different from others is that it doesn't focus on the good parts. We get an honest telling of Dawson's life, both good and bad, and that really makes a difference.

If this life belonged to another man, this would be a tale of hardship, but we are blessed to see life through the eyes of George Dawson, who takes things as they come and is always thankful for what he has. Instead of becoming an unhappy, downtrodden, bitter old man, we read about the life of a man who can accept what life throws at him and always looks at the bright side.

This book shows us that that perhaps Abraham Lincoln was right, and "most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." And I believe that is a lesson that all of us could benefit from.

[Margitte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I give this book five stars for being much more than a historically correct well-research book. It is none of that. But it is the story of an ordinary quiet man, Mr. George Dawson, who is living proof of what the world should be about and he did it all in his humble stride to serve as an inspiration to millions of people. Besides, it is a true story.

LIFE IS SO GOOD - George Dawson & Richard Glaubman

Richard Glaubman said this about starting the book:

"I have come to record a life of hardship and was not prepared to hear of gratitude. I lost my story and had to start all over again."

Mr. George Dawson was alive in three different centuries, he started full time work when he was 8 years old and stopped when he was 90! He witnessed some major events, experienced his own country. He got bored with retirement and fishing and decided to go to school. He had one major regret and that was being cruel to his mule, "Blue". It would haunt him for the rest of his life. He had adventures along the way, but he always listened to his dad. He only saw a doctor once in his life and threw the pills away afterwards since he got better on his own anyway.

"All my life I have been good to people. In all those years, every person I met, I have treated with respect. People do the same for me."

I knew, when I read a review on this book, that I really wanted to read it!

Some books are just a possibility, when you aspire to find a copy and if you don't, you won't be the worse for wear. But this book instinctively became a must-read and lined it up in my have-to-buy-list. I have been a researcher for most of my life, talking and discovering the stories of people, like Mr. Dawson's, along the way. My reports always contained graphs, stats and cold scientific observations, but not many people understood why I always was so excited to start a new research project in a new community. Apart from the fact that it was very hard work with long sleepless hours, I also got to listen to those voices behind the numbers and I did that for many years in total awe. I just could never get enough of it. Life experiences, after all, fills the pages of novels. But some slip through the grid and is forever lost. But this one made it!

So when I read the review on this book, my immediately thought was: what an interesting life Mr. Dawson had to share - more than a hundred years of history in the making! In fact, between him and his dad it is more than 200 years!

He reminded me of my grandmother who lived through three brutal wars, the Anglo-Boer war as well as the First- and Second World Wars, but nobody ever thought of writing down her story. So in a sense I wanted to honor her memory by reading Mr. Dawson's story.

In a 'pay it forward', random-act-of-kindness, surprise I received this book and just could not believe it! Needless to say, it was lying on my desk waiting for me to be ready. Waiting. Waiting. Waiting. I prayed to be ready!

I suspect it was going to be: heart-wrenching, because of the period of USA history it covered, yet heart-warming, because of the man Mr. Dawson was.

The most important was that Mr. Dawson started going to school when he was 98 years old and said later "I did not stop there. I am still going to school working on my GED, even though I am 103.

"After all, now I know why I am here. I'm here to learn, I'm here to show folks it's never too late, and to tell them that should shouldn't let your pride hold you back.

My favorite book is the Bible. There's a verse I love: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God and the Word was God."

Now the Word is with me. If there's anything worth being proud if, it's that! Life is so Good."

In the end he says:

"Son, people think one hundred years is a long time. Most folks just don't understand. My life hasn't been so long at all, seems short to me. It's all gone by so fast. Life is good and it gets better every day."

This book will forever be lying on my desk. It will not land up in a book case. I have found my grandmother in Mr. Dawson. But apart from that, I want to have a man like him every day in my life. But I got a lot more than I have bargained for! The expression in his eyes on the photo tells me that every single excuse I want to dish up for whatever thing I do not want to do is
INVALID! I only have to look at the expression on his face and wordlessly make a u-turn.


PS: A HUGE THANK YOU to the kind person who decided to gift it to me! You changed my life!

[fpk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm re-reading this book. I read it 2 yrs ago.I'm needing a pick-me-up book now, and I know this one will do the job. I hope I like it as much this time as the first time I read this.

[Lori Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a life story. Years 1898- 2001 through the eyes of a colored man who lived through it all and came out being thankful instead of resentful. Very inspirational... this should be a required read for every high school student.

[Suhailah · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The old man who learned to read has touched the hearts of people who read about him."

Following Mr. George Dawson through his life experiences that spanned over three centuries was quite an unforgettable journey! I feel honored to have been given this opportunity and only wished I’d have encountered his story much sooner.

From the very beginning, you realize this is the type of story that promises you part from it with some life lessons, a deeper look into humanity, and flashbacks of crucial moments from our history. I parted with all of that and more. I really enjoyed spending time with Mr. Dawson, absorbing his optimism that I sadly lack in my own life.

I feel that many people who have discovered Mr. Dawson will dote mostly on the inspiration they felt for him with his ability to learn to read at age 98 and the fact that he lived to be 103 years old, but his story is so much more than that! No, he wasn’t just some fortunate African American man who learned to read at 98 years old! And no, he wasn't an African American man who actively fought against racism either. Instead, he was a simple hardworking man who attracted longevity by keeping things simple, not excessively worrying, being grateful for the things he had, and keeping his distance from trouble. Mr. George knew how to pick his battles. He was respectful yet fearless and never once questioned hard work. Even from a young age, he presented with strength most of us will never even come close to possessing in our entire lifetime. He was a survivor.

Mr. George never asked to be placed in the public’s eye by having this book written. He was simply just trying to accomplish a lifelong dream of his, one of which many kids take for granted, and that just happened to be having the opportunity to go to school. If you are looking for a personable story to read that makes you feel like your own grandfather is sitting before you telling you all about his life then this will be a very worthwhile read. It tugs at your heartstrings at all the right moments yet uplifts you in the best of ways.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A library patron recommended this to me. I hope to see her again soon, so I can thank her. This is such an inspirational book, I've recommended it to several more people. George Dawson was a simple man with an awesome attitude. The book is written in a coversational way. I felt like I was sitting in his livingroom listening to a grandparent. He had so many wonderful stories to tell, but above all teaches that us working hard and staying positive is the way to enjoy life-- because after all--what else can you do?

[Tad · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was terrible. There were VERY few redeeming characteristics for me to take away from this book. In a way though, I can almost understand why so many reviewers (all of whom were White) liked this biography so much. After all, he WAS on Oprah. And he’s so agreeable, quiet and docile which paved the way for him to survive for over 100 years. The book is technically an autobiography but there is a disconnection between the story of this man’s life and how the story is told. The co-author simply takes to many liberties in language/dialect to keep me connected to Dawson’s life. The co-author clearly changes Dawson’s words to make the book more readable and thereby makes the book less authentic.

The story is of George Dawson who, as a child, witnessed a horrible murder of a Black man by an angry White mob. The man was falsely accused of raping a White girl and this experience basically sets Dawson on a life long course fearing White people. Most of his life was spent wandering aimlessly around the country yet he was repeatedly compelled to return to his hometown where everything began. Throughout his life he questioned almost nothing and lacked a basic curiosity about life (at least through most of the book). His early years were especially perilous for a Black man in America. During those times it was important to measure your behavior versus the White world view in order to protect yourself against a racist backlash. But that doesn't tell the whole story of the times as evidenced by many books (autobiographies and otherwise) from which to choose. There is Frederick Douglas (My Bondage & My Freedom) and his example of a will to learn & read that wouldn’t be broken despite slavery. You can also look to Douglas’ Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas for an example of great leadership and inspiration.

Many of the reviewers saw Dawson's aimless meanderings around the country on box cars with hobos as a living example of what is good in people. I find tremendous value in his work ethic, get the job done! But I wonder how many of these reviewers would feel the same as Dawson in the face of constant racism. What they would do living with a daily threat to their life and safety. The book doesn’t set out to be a lesson in freedom or in one man’s fight for human dignity and equality. He didn’t even believe he deserved equality, even when there were examples of it in his travels (Cincinnati, Mexico, Canada). There are innumerable examples of African American men and women who fought against racism and bigotry and stood up against injustice, sometimes paying with their lives. Throughout history, bigots and racists have maintained their power by relying on those they've oppressed to remain ignorant. It's that ignorance that I see throughout this book. If you want to read about character, courage and dignity amongst African Americans throughout the 20th Century, you can start with Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, James Meridith, WEB DuBois, Maynard Jackson, Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Adam Clayton Powell, Stokely Carmichael, or Benjamin Mays.

You can also read:
‘Sisters in the Struggle: African American Women in the Civil Rights – Black Power Movement”, or
‘Freedom’s Journey: African American Voices of the Civil War’

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Dawson learned to read at age 98 - an inspiration for all us - but in particular those who struggle with reading comprehension. Heartfelt and uplifting...if you have a teenager who does not like reading give them this book. Read this book when I was tutoring ESL learners. Stressed how this book should be an inspiration to them on their journey.

[Louise at The Reading Experiment · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, the people with the least in life actually have the most.

If you loved Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom, you will enjoy Life Is So Good.

It is the inspiring and heart-warming memoir of George Dawson.

Who? I hear you ask.

George Dawson is a seemingly ordinary 101 year-old man. If you haven’t read this book, you’ve probably never heard of him. That’s a pity, because George is quite remarkable.

He was born into poverty in 1898, the grandson of slaves. He grew up in the deep south of America at a time when racial discrimination was rife. He never went to school and started working as a young boy to support his family. He worked on farms and in a sawmill and helped to build the railroads and the Mississippi River levees.

And he taught himself to read at the ripe old age of 98.

In Life Is So Good, George – with the assistance of Richard Glaubman – tells us his life story, provides an eyewitness account of 20th century America and shares pearls of wisdom he gathered along the way, most notably:

“Life is so good. I do believe it’s getting better.”

He’s a glass half-full kind of guy.

This book is a great pick-me-up. I read it several years ago and I still think of George to this day. It demonstrates the power of the human spirit, the importance of focusing on the positive and left me feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

You can read more of my book recommendations at www.thereadingexperiment.com

[Jocelyn Green]

A short read, and thoroughly uplifting. I loved hearing George Dawson's experiences over the century of his life, and his gratitude-infused perspective. A worthwhile memoir.

[John Dobbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have so many books I want to read that when a friend gives me a book to read, I am usually reluctant. It's true I was this time also. But I trusted the friend and began to read. I'm so glad I did.

Richard Glaubman, an elementary school teacher in Washington State, was reading the newspaper at his table when he ran across a story of a man who learned to read at age 98. He told his class about this man and they had lots of questions. So he decided to call George Dawson, and that set in motion the events that resulted in Life Is So Good.

Reading about the life of George Dawson was revealing of the history of race relations in the South during the past century. There was something about Dawson that touched my heart. The way he talked about those who mistreated him, the perseverance of spirit that never allowed anyone to steal his true self, and the revelation toward the end of the book that demonstrated both his growth and the growth of his writing partner, Richard Glaubman.

I think most anyone would be enriched by reading this amazing life story. For many people today, to understand the conditions and boundaries of growing up impoverished and Black in Mississippi and Texas during the past century - there's a lot to learn about the struggles of that journey. Dawson doesn't complain about it, but he does reveal it in honesty and grit. But it's also a family story. The principles of living he learned from his father gave him the strength to be a man committed to hard work, wisdom, honesty, and how those qualities guided him through the maze of the Jim Crow era.

Dawson's story is a testament to perseverance and hope. I highly recommend this book to anyone, young or old. It is inspirational and instructive. Thanks, Keith, for sending me a book and encouraging me to read it. I'm glad it's not in my too-large 'to-read' book pile.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really drawn to this book--I grew up in the south after the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and my grandfather never learned to read.

This is the memoir of George Dawson, grandson of slaves, who enrolled in a literacy program and learned to read when he was 98 years old. I became emotionally invested in this book on the first page. Ten-year-old George goes to town with his father, hoping to get a piece of stick candy, and ends up witnessing a lynching.

It was very eye-opening to hear George’s perspective of what it was like to live in the south in the decades surrounding the Jim Crow era. You always hear of the horrors, the lynchings, the Klan, drinking fountains, etc., but George touched on a lot of the subtleties that I had never though of. To play it safe, blacks could not even look whites in the eye or venture out after dark.

With his life spanning the entire last century, he shares experiences like the first time he saw an airplane and the first time he drove a car.

The writing sort of lags in the middle and it seems contrived at times, yet I cried on and off all through the book. George lived a simple life, full of gratitude. The only regret he had at the end of his life was that he had hurt his mule when he was 16 years old. He says, “Life is so good and it gets better every day.”

[Ann-maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book of personal insight and truth from some one who had lived through decades of amazing history. Eventho, some of the chapters jump around a bit, it keeps you intriged to find out what happens next. George is an inspiration to everyone he was born in 1898 in Marshall, Texas the grandson of slaves and he tells how his father, despite hardships, always believed in seeing the richness of life and trained his children to do the same.. What makes a happy person, have a happy life? This remarkable book, tells how George Dawson an 101 year-old man learns to read when he was 98 years old. Reflecting on the philosophy he learnt from his father- a belief that "Life is good" -as he offers valuable lessons in living and a fresh first hand view of America during the twentieth century. I was so entralled by Goerge I wanted to know what happened to him, apparently he died from a stroke at 103 years of age, but not before he achieved his GED, and leaving behind his wonderful legacy that he passed on too his seven children, grand children and great grandchildren. And he survived four wives! He said towards the end he was a good husband and he buried all his wifes. Also attended the same church for decades. An inspirational, must read:=}

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Dawson was what every person to strive to be. He was humble, intelligent, diligent, hard working, compassionate, savvy. He never quit. He saw the world through his logical eyes, from the perspective of a Black man from East Texas who was born in 1898. He was fine letting things be the way they are and seemed to know when it was time to try and change things a little. He was adventuresome. Always. Again, he never stopped, never quit trying new things, never quit learning. How he lived to 103 is a mystery. Genetics? Outlook? Attitude? Probably all those. He was a man who made an impact, the quiet, hard-working dairy hand, railroad worker, horse trainer, quasi-hobo, gardener, fisherman. Dawson packs wisdom into this book with his simple thoughts and experiences. His short narrations are full of profound insight that will give the reader pause to ruminate on themselves and apply them today. After all, the man lived in 3 centuries and was around for some of the greatest advances and sorrows of human history, he could not come out untouched. "Life is so good and it gets better everyday."

[Kathleen Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was probably one of the best books I have read in my entire life. When I finished reading it, I could have turned around and read it again, except I had other books on my night stand that required my attention.

During the Civil Rights era in S.F. CA, I grew up next door to a wonderful black man, Art Lyons who was our "adopted grandpa". Art was born in the late 1800's and he couldn't read or write and probably only had a 4th grade education. During his lifetime he had a wealth of experiences and wisdom and I always wished I had asked him more questions about his own childhood. I was young and didn't know how to ask. The fact that he was illiterate was something I didn't know until I was an adult myself. As a young girl my mother would send me over to Art's house after school and told me to help him take care of writing his Christmas cards each year. "Honey-child, you writes my letters for me, you writes so much better than I do."

George Dawson my "my Art Lyons". God Bless them both!

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this remarkable book, 103-year-old George Dawson, a slave's grandson who learned to read at age 98, reflects on his life and offers valuable lessons in living as well as a fresh, firsthand view of America during the twentieth century. Richard Glaubman captures Dawson's irresistible voice and view of the world, offering insights into humanity, history, hardships, and happiness. From segregation and civil rights, to the wars, presidents, and defining moments in history, George Dawson's description and assessment of the last century inspires readers with the message that-through it all-has sustained him: "Life is so good. I do believe it's getting better."

This is a hard book for me to "review." To criticize it in any way is to acknowledge great cynicism in the face of wisdom, courage, and enormous likeability exhibited by the main character. And, of course, I was taken with George as so many people have been. But there is something about the structure of the book that doesn't feel quite right. The book keys in on George's early life, breezes through the later 30-40 years, and then in the last few pages, finally delivers on what we thought the book was going to be about all along: 101-year-old George learning to read. To me, this is the crucial narrative lynchpin, not necessarily George's travels as a young man. I also found myself rolling my eyes at his co-writer, whose sole function in the book is to say, "What do you mean?" George is wise, he's not THAT wise. So it's a split for me between my respect for the subject matter and annoyance at its presentations. You be the judge as to what shines through for you.

[Jenifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

As mentioned in previous reviews, I'm fascinated by racism in America. I'm baffled at the compulsion to place value on the color of one's skin. So when I read about George and his life which spans the turn of the 20th century, the Jim-crow era through the civil rights movement, to OJ Simpson, I'm amazed at how little really changes for George as he describes his life memories. His simple style of facing life one day and one odd job at a time breathes of a by-gone era and of a gentle and grateful soul who knows how to enjoy the little things.

[Kara Belden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my... what powerful, feel good messages at the end! I cried. Just what I needed today. ♥️

[Mel Ostrov · Rating 5 out of 5]

103 Years of Wisdom

George Dawson was truly an amazing person -- not only because this grandson of a slave led a full, happy life to the wondrous age of 103, but also for always retaining a remarkable personal attitude that allowed him to withstand all offensive challenges. He was able to create a fulfilling existence even while completely illiterate up to age 98, when he began a successful course of reading and writing. The fact that his mother died at age 100 suggests that his longevity could be attributed to good genes, but it also seems likely that his ability to avoid and overcome stress also contributed significantly. You have to admire his parents for instilling in their children loving characteristics and unquestioning acceptance of laborious work despite confronting horribly challenging African-American segregation in Texas from the end of the 19th Century onward.
The author, Richard Glaubman, an elementary school teacher, explains how he was able to visit George and record his life story for creation of the book, writing it in first person prose, brilliantly retaining the old man’s authentic dialect, such as “He didn’t talk about nothing else.” It contributes to the feeling that the speaker is right there with the reader. George’s comments throughout the book are chock full of sagacity; the wisdom overwhelms you: “I thought about what Papa said: Always do the right thing and you will make your father proud.” When witnessing a serious crime he reports, “I hadn’t done anything wrong but I almost walked right into trouble anyway just by being where I was. From then on, I decided, when I saw trouble I would just walk to the other side of the street…I would just let trouble alone. It’s worked that way for me ever since then.” You will recognize his tenderhearted soul when you read about his discovery of a mouse in his home. Rather than setting a trap to kill it, he regularly left food for it.
This book is a gem. I even appreciated the chapter headers where each one correlated the current era with timely excerpts from newspapers and other publications. The 266 page (paperback) read is so easily flowing while holding your attention throughout, it would be appropriate for all ages including upper level elementary grades. As such, it has been used for young and old in libraries to celebrate Black History Month.

[Tamara Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Life is so good” is an inspirational book detailing the life of George Dawson, an 103 year old black man who learned to read at the age of ninety-eight.

The book consists of twenty-four chapters and starts with ten year old George spending the day alone with his father into town. Grows up during times of segregation and lynchings based on hearsay while the sheriff looks on. Adult George is surprised when a writer named Richard Glaubman comes to interview him and ask questions aabout how he is able to be alive and well at the age of 103. George wonders why he’s still here (alive) and decides he’s still alive to tell the truth of having lived life over the centuries with Richard’s help.

George tells Richard of starting to work from the age of four combing cotton while living in east Texas. Doesn’t attend school and instead works to support the family while younger children were sent to school although whites believed that blacks can’t read.

With family crops in dire straits, George’s father sends him to a distance businessman to work at twelve years old. George talks about the importance of having a lot of children in the past in order to work on family farms.Despite promise of forty acres and a mule to free blacks, not all slaves received what was promised to them. George's father advises him to remember that he’s colored and that white folks and colored folks don’t mix and when they mix, there’s trouble.

As George gets older, he shows he’s strong and capable worker. George only stops works and eats after the other workers are done. George doesn’t know how to interact with young white woman when she starts conversation with George. Although George has regular visits home, he feels different from having been away at the Littles.

George is with his family working in the fields when they see their first airplane. Although George’s father feels that airplanes will be short lived, but as time passes, airplanes become a permanent fixture in the world. George shares how at about age nineteen, he was saved from fighting in World War I by his mill boss.

At age twenty-one, George becomes his own man, picking up his own pay for work and leaving Marshall. Although he plan to travel alone, a friend tags alone which leads to trouble. Talks about traveling, interacting with hobos, and how in the past, age carried respect. George gets a lead on possible work in Memphis, has his first train ride, and makes a friend. George is exposed to gambling its consequences.

George arrives in Mississippi and has to prove himself working on the levees. Although it’s hard work, George excels at his new job with help from man named Henry. George has to prove himself since he’s an outsider not from the South. After two years in Mississippi, George returns to Marshall to see his family. Shortly after returning home, George feels the urge to leave again. George’s mother tells him he can always return home but he needs to leave to find his own way in the world.

George travels to Brownsville and finds it interesting how despite racist behavior by whites, they are willing to take George’s money. Takes his first trip to Mexico and is surprised to be treated well by whites and Spanish people due to his dark skin. Despite George’s so-so Spanish obtained from working on the levees, he is able to find his way. George is in a constant state of worry that he may get in trouble for not using the colored section. George makes a friend named Jorge and finds work in Mexico. Although George enjoys the kind treatment while living in Mexico, he knows that he will always return to Texas.

Upon returning from Mexico in the 1920s, George plans to go to Chicago but ends up in St. Louis and ends up working unloading barges and side work working at baseball stadium. George plans to go to Cleveland but got tricked with final trip destination since he can’t read.

Stranded in St. Louis, George hitches a ride and ends up catching a train with hobos in New Orleans. George finds a friend and work in New Orleans. George starts going to clubs because of the music and becomes a lady’s man.George has his first girlfriend but soon is on the road again.

George tells Richard how lots of historical events went unnoticed by colored props unless it involves colored people. George is surprised to see white and colored people shopping at the same restaurants and businesses.Takes a train to Ohio and Canada to see snow. Feels embarrassed when going to restaurant but is unable to read menu items.

George gets older and longs for roots and a family of his own. Upon returning home after being gone for five years,George meets a pretty girl named Elzenia while breaking a horse and decides it’s time to get married. Proposes to Elzenia then moves to Dallas, and eventually becomes father of seven children. George has a total of four wives and he’s outlived them all. Proud to have all his children graduate from high school and college.

George works for the railroad then for the city. By being able to learn by watching, George does well as his job and stays there for almost twenty-five years. After two decades, George sees blacks becomes supervisors but he doesn’t apply to be promoted due to not being able to read. Stayed there until he reached retirement age.

After retiring, George starts doing yard work and gardening for people. George is a hard worker and keeps working until he is almost ninety years old. In 1996, George finally learns to read and inspires adults and children alike. By starting to read so late in life, George inspires other adults to accomplish their goals no matter how old they are. George’s work ethic and commitment inspires other students to work harder. George provides unexpected history lessons and make history real to the students.

George makes up for time lost of not knowing how to read by reading books on different subjects. Shares he has no doctor and his feeling annoyed by being asked so many questions. In addition to knowing how to read, George is proud to sign his full name when paying bills and cashing checks. George lives a simple life, doesn’t drink or smoke, eats whatever he wants whenever he wants. and keeps to himself, has no checking or bank account or credit card.

In the final chapter of the book, George enjoys reading to his grandchildren since he wasn't able to read to his children when they were younger. Richard expresses surprised to George that although he had planned to record a story of hardship and anger, instead Richard leaves with a story of gratitude. By the end of the book, George and Richard’s relationship changes from author and subject to friends.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd give this book 3 1/2 stars. It is interesting... but not riveting. His overly simplistic lifestyle has brought him much happiness because he doesn't think long term or stress about anything. In fact, he lives day to day in all respects. Very few people could maintain a lifestyle where they work to merely have enough money to get by each day.

I will say that it was fascinating to hear about major points in American history from the first person perspective of an African American man. He has certainly learned much of human nature. He has lived a good life just by trying to always do the right thing; certainly this characteristic is scarcely seen today.

Much of his insight is revealed in the last few chapters where he comments on parenthood, money, food and stress. I particularly liked how he said that too many parents "grow" children by giving them food, shelter and anything else they can buy them, but parents should really focus on "raising" children by teaching them right and wrong and not worry about buying them so much. (Although if you were to interview his first wife, she'd probably say that he was always at work and she raised the kids.)

I would recommend this book as an interesting autobiography on the progression of an African American's relationship with Caucasians throughout the 1900's.

[Gail Holm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the mind-boggling story of a black man born into the Jim Crow South who learned to read when he was 98 years old. His life touched three centuries. His memories, experiences and perspective on life make this book a fascinating read, although the style is a little awkward. The narrative is supposedly in Dawson's own words, but was written down by a white man who became interested in Dawson's life. Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was inspired by the George Dawson's character.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many lessons to be learned in this book. George Dawson, whose grandfather was a slave, looked at the positive side of life from the time of his birth in 1898 until his death in 2001. He lived his life without hate or regret. He viewed many changes, from hate and segregation for 69 years to learning to read at 98 years old. As he said "Life is so good and it gets better every day".

I strongly recommend this book.

[Maryla · Rating 5 out of 5]

It all seems so simple to hear George Dawson tell it. Don't worry so much. Stay busy. Work hard. Be honest. Don't hold grudges. Love your family. Eat what you want. Be a good person.
I took a long time reading this book and I'll miss George now that I'm done. I'm so glad I got to meet him, if only through Richard Glaubman.

[booklady]

Mary Alice says, "Well, all,this a book worth reading. This is such a charming book. I would have loved to have met this man--would have been a blast to hear him tell his stories. If he was still living, I would put him in my dissertation. Maybe I still will. :)Peace, MAM"

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot to learn from Mr. George however… this book didn’t really go much into the process of him learning how to read at 98 years old (as the title suggests) a bit disappointed with that aspect but I enjoyed

[Jessica McGregor · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a joy. This man reminds you that we live in the NOW always. Choose what you what to do now. Tomorrow is not promised and it’s your life.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far the best book I have read so far this year. I got this as a gift from my friend, Kim. I could see instantly why she liked it. You fall in love with George's sweet spirit immediately, and root for him all the way until the end. What a great example of endurance and positivity.

Lines I loved:

She took a genuine interest in the story at a time when a discouraging word would have had immense power.

When the cabin was still dark, I did love to just look into the fire. It warmed me inside and out.

A white man enjoys his success, a colored man has to pay for it.

You always got to take something over nothing and be grateful to the Lord for that.

I’ve seen weather for one hundred years. I know what I see. But people today go with what they see on TV when all they need to do to check the weather is open the window and put their head out.

I am a witness to the truth. That’s why I am still here.

Sometimes, problems come anyway, so don’t be asking for more than your share.

I don’t need answers, just someone there who cared about me.

It wouldn’t be right of you to take away my pleasure in being of some help, however small that might be.

I man is born to die. You just don’t know when that moment will come so just always be doing the right thing. Don’t do no wrong and you will make your father proud.

I just like it, the idea of people going somewhere.

I was taught that on any job, I was to do my best. So, besides my muscles working with the shovel, my mind worked too.

Be generous in your dealings, but always have something saved for rainy weather.

Even though I wasn’t sure where I was heading, there was a journey I needed to take.

Funny how, even if people don’t like you, most cases they be happy to sell you something.

It was easier to understand them than to say something.

Didn’t matter; it wasn’t going to ruin my life.

Funny how if you don’t ask a question, someone answers even faster for you.

I’ve always liked that nice, tired feeling that comes from a good day’s work.

I had to wonder whey I came so far to see some snow. I would rather look a Texas rattlesnake in the eye. It was time to go home.

We have elected a President to guide us and we must have faith in him.

Son, book-learning isn’t everything. Common sense will go a long way.

A child doesn’t learn so much by words as he does by watching. The children were always watching their mother and me. That’s how they learn right from wrong, by watching what we do.

You don’t always have to go to school to learn something. Just pay attention.

I just let them pay me at the end of the day and what they paid me is what they paid me. If they paid me fair that was good. If they didn’t, that was more their problem than it was mine.

There’s no way to know that any change is going to make anything better.

I’m trying to get what you don’t want, [the chance to go to school:].

People forget that a picture ain’t made from just one color. Life ain’t all good or all bad. It’s full of everything.

See, I might think I know what’s best for him, but I don’t know what is really in that man’s heart.

Unless a man asks ffor advice, he don’t really want it. He isn’t gonna thank you for something he don’t need yet.

I want for people not to worry so much. Life ain’t going to be perfect, but things will work out.

Some people are growing children, not raising children, and there’s a big difference.

That’s right. Be happy for what you have. Help somebody else instead of worrying. It will make a person feel better. It’s good to be generous. It doesn’t take much to make a difference. Even the poorest man can just take the time to say hello; that can be a help. Have some sympathy for someone’s hard -luck story. It’s not about money. Give what you can. And if you have nothing, at least pray for somebody. Have good thoughts.

[Raymond C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

VLife Is So Good
By: George Dawson
Autobiography
272 pages

Life Is So Good is about the life of an African-American who learned to read at the age of 98. In the beginning of the book, George recalls when he was a young boy when he witnessed the lynching of Pete. Pete was accused of impregnating a white girl by the white folk of Marshall, Texas. After 6 months, when the white girl that Pete was accused of impregnating gave birth, it turned out to be a white boy, but no one payed attention to that. When George was 8 he started working at a farm and when he was 12, he moved to another farm to work in and sleep there. George helped support his family and later on, his uncle's family. After this it skipped to when George was around 20 years old and worked at a mill, at that time World War I was going on and George said he had to sign a paper and he thought that it said he wasn't old enough to go to the military. Later on, George goes on an adventure to Mississippi to work on a bridge. After he finishes building the bridge, he goes home and a man lets him test drive a car. George then goes to Canada because he wants to see snow, he finds out that in some countries African-Americans aren't mistreated. Then he goes to Mexico where once again he isn't mistreated for his skin color. George learned some Spanish from the workers in Mississippi. Tired from all of the adventures, George goes home to find out his parents have moved to another home. George goes to live with his aunt, when he falls in love with a girl who works in the same farm as his aunt. He marries the girl and has 7 children. After this, it switches back to modern times where George talks about school and motivating children who slack off to learn to read. The book ends with these words "Life is so good,".

I liked the book because it was a biography where the author didn't talk about every little detail about the subject. Also I like the book because it was written so much like a fiction book, if you didn't know it was non-fiction you might have thought this was all fake. A reason this was written like a fiction book was because all of George's thoughts were put down in the text unlike most biography books, George put his thoughts down because he can remember anything he sees. Another reason I like this book is because it is a motivational story, George learned to read at 98 and pushed other adults to learn to read. I disliked the book because some of the stories were boring, such as George watering someone's garden, but the owner of the garden made him eat with the dogs. I liked George because he could help his children with their homework without even knowing how to read and he could fool them into thinking he could read. Another story I disliked was when two people got into a fight in New Orleans and one shot the other because George ran away from New Orleans because of one gun shot. Overall this is one of the best biographies I've read because it wasn't as boring and was written in his perspective.

[Lana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply written in his own voice, "Life is Good" is the life story of a 103-year-old black man who endured segregation and prejudice, yet throughout it all, recognized the good in life. The co-author, Richard Glaubman, who helped him write his story said, "I was looking to give you a chance to voice your anger. . ." and George Dawson responded "Except that I don't have any anger." Glaubman responded, "I had come to record a life of hardship and was not prepared to hear of gratitude." p.252

His simple life and simple rules for life were inspiring: "All my life, I been good to people In all those years, every person I met I have treated with respect. . . Be happy for what you have. Help somebody else instead of worrying. It doesn't take much to make a difference. Even the poorest man can just take the time to say hello; that can be a help. Give what you can. And if you have nothing, at least pray for somebody. Have good thoughts." p.259

His advice on money: "wanting more than you have makes a person worry. A person only needs to manage with what they have. Be a good manager and there is no need to worry. . .I pay my bills first and all the money I have left is for groceries. . .I try to keep a little leftover if I can. That way. . .if somebody has an emergency, I can help them out with bus money and such." p. 246-7

On parenting: Mostly I told [my children] something and they listened. I only said something one time. See, I respected my own father and did what he told me. With my own children it was the same. We was the parents. It was our job to have the children ready to be in this world. A child doesn't learn so much by words as he does by watching. The children were always watching their mother and me. That's how they learn right from wrong, by watching what we do." p.202

Of raising children in the days of legal separation: "They understood. It wasn't right, but that's how life was. Breaking the rules could be dangerous. In one way or another, every colored man had the same talk with his children: how to get along, how to survive in this world. " And his son commented, "Daddy made it clear that there was no excuses; we would just have to work harder; that's all." p.202

George Dawson worked hard his whole life with whatever job was offered at whatever pay was offered. After a forced retirement at age 65, he did yard work. "I did that for more than twenty years. I was close to ninety when I stopped. I had to work all those years, but I was glad to work. A man is supposed to work and take pride in what he does no matter what the work is." p. 220