Review of That's what Ed said

[Darlyn McCormick]

[Following is a volunteer review of "That's what Ed said" by U A Dumas.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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"That's What Ed Said" by Ulbert Alan Dumas is most likely an autobiography, although the author does not admit this. The main character narrates a rather mature account of his long life. He begins with his childhood and progresses to the present time as a senior. He meanders a bit at times, but his musings and "interludes" between chapters are funny and insightful.

The main character is a delinquent boy turned educator, which some may not believe. But by the grace of God, he was saved from a criminal record, later helping students who were on the wrong path. Throughout the book the character is straightforward about the events in his life, as if he is having a discussion with the reader.

I especially enjoyed his teenage years, filled with events in which he nearly died or should have died. I believe they are plausible because stupid teenagers climb mountains and test lakes in freezing temperatures. They sold and smoked pot while trying not to get caught. They also raced cars. Unfortunately, his father was not so benevolent. The family relationships unfold throughout the book and transition throughout his life. This reader can relate to having a sibling who, in essence, destroys a family. We don't know it at the time, but we figure it out later.

I give the book 4 out of 5 stars because I enjoyed the characters and the delinquency demonstrated. I recommend it for an enjoyable read, especially if it is true. I omitted a star because of the grammatical errors. There is also repetition of ideas at times within the same paragraph and throughout the book. The main character, I am almost certain, if it is not about the author, is "based on a true story." If it is, I admire the author for having turned his life around not just once, but several times. Not many people can write a book about their lives and be interesting, although we think we can.

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That's what Ed said
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