The Measure of a Man

I was in Barnes and Noble last week and saw the new book by Sidney Portier. I think I will get it. I really admire him as an actor. I loved his movies. I would have to agree with PBS when they say he is an artist. He really is an american icon.

Oprah Winfrey turned to an old acquaintance and personal idol for her first new book club choice since the James Frey scandal a year ago, announcing Friday that she had selected Sidney Poitier's "The Measure of a Man."

Poitier's "spiritual autobiography," published in 2000, combines memories of such plays and films as "A Raisin in the Sun" and "The Defiant Ones" with observations about the Academy Award-winning actor's childhood, his religious faith, his thoughts on racism and the influence of such world leaders as Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi.

"He writes really candidly and passionately about his childhood, his family, relationships and his extraordinary career," Winfrey said on her show. "It's a beautifully crafted book, written like poetry. Because just as he speaks so eloquently, he also writes that way, too."

Poitier did not appear on the televised show. But Winfrey said she will host "a once in a lifetime dinner party" with Poitier that will include members of her book club.

You can chase a butterfly all over the field and never catch it. But if you sit quietly in the grass it will come and sit on your shoulder.
~~Unknown~~