Reach! Finding Strength, Spirit and Personal Power

Have to say, didn't really care for this book. I'd be interested to read it if it were written by Ms. Ali now, as opposed to when she was only 23. I was disappointed that the vast majority of the book focused on her childhood. As a pioneer in women's boxing, I was hoping there would be more coverage and emphasis on her training, career, etc. I mean, of course, people would expect her to at the very least touch on her childhood, given her lineage, but more than half the book covers a period of time before she even started training. And between you and me, the writing felt quite amateur, although I suppose that's to be expected given her age at the time.I felt that the tone to be argumentative and combative, in a way that turned me off almost immediately. It would be one thing if she was telling of certain events with the explanation of how she handled it at the time, with a certain attitude, but there never seemed to be any reflection or admittance that it probably wasn't right, or this is how/what I learned... One such passage recalled how she was caught shoplifting and, while in custody and at the hearing, was defiant and putting on airs 'cause she was strong and wouldn't take anything from anyone. Ummm... you broke the law. There's nothing morally ambiguous here- say your sorry. Or, now that you're an adult, at least admit it was wrong.I also felt that that was a degree of disingenuous throughout much of the book. Obviously, that's just my own feeling. But many things just didn't ring true, and felt staged. Some of which includes how she talked about her parents. Everyone of us has flaws, some of them BIG, but you can still be a good person. I certainly don't dispute that, but she went on and on about what a hero her dad was and how great her mom was (with the exception of a period of time when she was in a certain relationship). She referenced how some of her "step-siblings" (really her half siblings, not step) harbored resentment towards her mom. No offense, but can you blame them? Her mom started an affair with Ali years before he and his wife at the time were divorced, and also got pregnant before the divorce. Of course there was resentment. Things happen, no one is a saint, and it takes two to tango, but you can hardly be surprised that there was bitterness regarding the situation.Any way, that was just my take. Another person in my book club felt almost the exact opposite. So, to each their own. She definitely was instrumental in bringing women's boxing to the forefront, and has lived through many hardships, and came out the other side. I just didn't particularly enjoy reading this book.

Awesome book. Very inspiring words and encouragement for up and coming young ladies or actually men. These are words to live by.

I just received it, and have not completed the book yet, but from what I've read, I can tell you that it's very, interesting, inspirational, and believe or not very relatable. Laila is very sincere and honest in this book and with pretty much all that she has done, she's truly inspired me. I'm a fan of her and her father. I know this is a old book but I love supporting people like her because I'm always left inspired. Fun fact) I feel that I'm in my blessing season because when i ordered this book, I had a standard shipping, which means it could have came early as June 30 or late as July 19 but it came exactly on my 24 Birthday which was yesterday, the first of July and at the time in this book she said she's 24, what a coincident.

Awesome read! Laila Ali is transparent and provides great advice to young ladies. I read this book in two days! The book reads well and offers true, gritty stories of Laila Ali’s life. I truly recommend this book to young ladies and anyone who wants to be inspired!

Good read!

I was actually caught off guard by Ms. Ali's candor about her famous father. On the surface it appeared as if they were a typical loving family, but beneath it was quite the opposite. She shares stories of hurt, distrust, victory, and triumph. Anyone looking to gain insight of her life will truly get a sense of just that. I recommend this to anyone needing to get inspired.

So inspiring and real! Laila speaks such wisdom from experience through her story. Her words inspire me and make me appreciate her more!

Great book

A powerful insight into Laila Alis early life. HIGHLY RECOMMEND for everyone to read whether your a boxing fan or not!