The Soul Of A Butterfly: Reflections on life's journey

First and foremost I will say this book is not about boxing, those who are expecting a book with analysis of a boxing career through the mans word would be sadly disappointed. However this book is such a gem, purely for a lot of reason other then the fact that it was written by the greatest. I will try and not be bias in my view of this book as Muhammad Ali is a hero of mine since young, firstly this book is a reflection of spirit, life and beliefs by muhammad Ali himself. So this book is full of stories about the spirit, its growth and sufi wisdom, thus all being big components that drive muhammad ali's spirit and if one is lacking spiritual guidance then a few words from muhammad Ali go in quiet well. Another reason why this book is a great quick read is for me personally is the fact that this is muhammad Ali being himself, you see a shade of the man in his truest self as he puts forward apologies and regrets that he has ( the one about Malcolm x touched me), it's the fact that this book is like a conversation between him and a friend, and its through these stories, explanations for his actions and apologies he provides that made me look up to muhammad Ali even more. Lastly there are little secrets about training and boxing he gives in this book so you boxing fans would find that a good mix of personal writing and boxing stories by the greatest, Highly recommended.

Firstly, let me point out that this is not a book about boxing. Obviously, various bouts are mentioned but only to set the scene and mark the various points in the life of this great man. The book is titled "The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on life's journey" and this is exactly what the book achieves. It is a poignant and deeply moving collection of memories and interpretations that show Ali not only as a great champion in the ring, but also a great champion out of it to. Every emotion is portrayed in this book as it takes the reader through a journey of injustice, personal sadness, self discovery and eventually triumph and worldwide adoration. Ali is probably the most famous living person on the planet today and to many he is the number one role model and hero. The book has a strong feminine perspective which is deeply moving and thought provoking and obviously entirely due to Ali's daughter and co author Hana Yasmeen Ali . Her input is very personal and deeply touching as she shares her own personal thoughts and memories of dad. The scattering of poems throughout also contributes to making this book feel more like a personal journal or diary rather than just another biography. After reading this book, the reader will go away with a great understanding of this proud and heroic warrior. He is my hero and reading this has only solidified my deep admiration for him. Muhammad Ali is MUCH MUCH more than boxing. Please read this book.

Muhammad Ali has always been a hero and an inspiration to me, not only through his courage as a boxer but by the glowing example he sets as a human being. He was instrumental in " waking me up " to mans often inhumanity and intolerance to his fellow beings, during my informative years growing up. This book pays tribute to, and is a perfect testament to, a messanger of truth who will always truly be THE GREATEST. It paints a wonderful picture of the character of a man, a father and a compassionate human being, who's daughter obviously shares his qualities. The short chapters make it a very easy book to read. It will appeal to everyone who is travelling the path of truth and enlightenment.

Good read

This book is highly inspirational and well written. It is highly physiological and gives a wonderful insight of how The Greatest, was well beyond just boxing. Ali was a living legend,poet, humanitarian,devoted to his convictions and faith. A must read even if you dislike boxing or boxers. These lies may deep meanings in this book which many will find useful in their everyday life and find reading and understanding it, comforting.

More about Muslims and their faith and Ali's views on religion. Many views on life and how he lived his - the methods and views he adopted. Maybe I expected more about his actual life and approach to Boxing. Irregardless of his religeous beliefs there is a lot of good advice and principles that we can all adhere to in life.. The Book has changed my view of alI. He was more than a Boxer.

If reading this doesn't reawaken your belief in hope, love, perseverance, kindness and God, then nothing will. A beautiful reflection into the personal life of one of the greatest men that ever lived; Muhammad Ali. He is truly one in a million and the world will cherish his legacy forever. A must read for those that love Muhammad and all that he strived and stood for.

There are a lot of books out there about this great man. I just wanted something which had words by the great one himself. This was not a disappointment. Its a book which doesn't just deal with boxing, but endeavors to show you how much of a great man he was and his other dimensions. A very interesting read for true fans. I would even class it as a self help/feel good book as well.

Loved loved this book..must buy

Ali's story can inspire ours! Great book to read!!

felt so inspired after reading this book! Muhammad Ali was a great person. i loved how the book talks a lot about the spiritual side of him

It is always great to hear about amazing people. He truly lived a honorable life despite all. And with his recent passing, I will cherish the book even more.

my father-in-law really loves reading books and on top of that one of his favorite people is Muhammad Ali. So when I found this book on paperback, I thought it was the perfect gift. He loves the book and reads it all the time.