Inspired by Arthur Ashe's bestselling memoir Days of Grace, a
collection of positive, uplifting stories of seemingly small acts of
grace from across the sports world that have helped to bridge cultural
and racial divides.
Like many people of color, James Blake has experienced the effects of
racism firsthand--publicly--first at the U.S. Open, and then in front of
his hotel on a busy Manhattan street, where he was tackled and
handcuffed by a police officer in a case of "mistaken identity." Though
rage would have been justified, Blake faced both incidents with dignity
and aplomb.
In Ways of Grace he reflects on his experiences and explores those of
other sports stars and public figures who have not only overcome
adversity, but have used them to unite rather than divide, including:
Aisam-Ul-Haq Qureshi, a Pakistani Muslim and Amir Hadad, an Israeli Jew,
who despite the conflicts of their countries, paired together in the
2002 Wimbledon men's doubles draw.
Muhammad Ali, who transcended racism with a magnetic personality and a
breathtaking mastery of boxing that was unparalleled.
Nelson Mandela, who spent twenty-seven years in prison for his
commitment to social reform, peace, and equality yet never gave up his
battle to end apartheid--a struggle that led to his eventual freedom and
his nation's transition to black majority rule.
Groundbreaking tennis legend Arthur Ashe, who was a model of courage,
elegance, and poise on the court and off; a gifted player who triumphed
in the all-white world of professional tennis, and became one of his
generation's greatest players.
Weaving together these and other poignant and unforgettable stories,
Blake reveals how, through seemingly small acts of grace, we can
confront hatred, bigotry, and injustice with virtue--and use it to
propel ourselves to greater heights.
