Member Reviews

This is an interesting memoir, but it left me feeling unsatisfied. Leon Ford can definitely write, but the overall story wasn't enough to keep my attention. There was a little too much backstory, I wanted to hear more of his life during and after the shooting. But this is an inspiring book, and I think a lot of people will enjoy this.

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This memoir is such an incredible testament to the power of healing in the face of our country's police brutality epidemic, all told through the lens of Leon Ford as he developed his own sense purpose. Not only do we learn how his life had been irrevocably changed from the police-involved shooting, but Leon Ford gives an honest portrayal of his childhood, family, and society's influence on his worldview, underscoring the fact that there are no perfect victims. Ford's vulnerability calls readers in to understand his own experiences and offers the choice of radical hope and forgiveness to power social justice efforts.

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Thought provoking, heartbreaking, and a necessary read. I had chills all throughout this book. This will be my holiday gift to family members this year.

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"I was hurting, physically and mentally. However, the love was stronger than the pain."

A thread that weaves through An Unspeakable Hope is love. Love of family and love of community. Leon Ford tells his story in a painfully honest way. He isn't afraid to show every bit of his human experience and because of this, I was hooked from page one.

I found it inspiring that Leon let himself feel his initial anger and grief but didn't let that stop him from creating real change, in his community and within himself. Leon transformed that anger into something bigger and pushed through every challenge thrown at him, in the hopes for a better world for his community and his family.

Leon is an incredible example of overcoming adversity. He has a refreshing and inspiring view on what we can do for social change in this country and even more important, what we can do in our own neighborhoods. I feel that we could all benefit from hearing Leon Ford's voice. I highly recommend for anyone looking for an inspiring, raw, and heartfelt read.

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