By Jheri Hardaway
Staff Writer
The best ideas and inspiration are hidden in books; there are a plethora of reasons to read. Perhaps you’re seeking information, or entertainment, maybe you’re looking for a specific answer to a question, and you don’t even need to read the whole book. No matter how you slice it, opening a book is always beneficial. As an educator, I’ve observed many students and friends say they “can’t read.” My response is always, "What are you reading?” Perhaps the book wasn’t well written, or maybe it’s just not suiting the needs that you set out for it to fulfill. Maybe it’s just not a good book. There are all kinds of books published for all kinds of reasons. As a reader, every once in a while, you come across a treasure.
The book I’ve read most recently that lit my fire was, entitled Angier North Carolina From An African American Perspective. What a treat! Written by Walter E. Cheeck, W. Cornell Cutts, James M. Howerton, and Jimmy F. Ragland, this book covered the gamut of my needs as a reader. It was informational, it was entertaining, and it was personally fulfilling to get the background understanding of my community in Harnett County. From businesses to religious institutions, schools, and so many photos, this book provided insights and inspiration. I think it’s a great read for anyone who wants to understand history, specifically North Carolina history, with an understanding of the impact that the African-American population has had on the area. I’d like to see a book in this format for every African American community in America to better understand and articulate our progress and impact on what America is today. I’m so proud of every person mentioned, each of the farmers and businesses. This book made me extremely proud, and I felt encouraged that no matter the challenges of the past, people who look like me persevered and left a legacy worth reading and sharing.
