Y’all, I haven’t sat down and read a book for fun in years. Seriously. The only reading I have done of late has been either reading essays or books and articles for when I was in grad school. I got a copy of Black & Blue: Love, Sports and the Art of Empowerment and I was so excited to read something other than a student essay. If you are a female sports fan or look to find something enjoyable to read in general, Black and Blue will not only give you a good read but also leave you feeling empowered as a woman.
I love when I finish a book and I feel better for reading it; motivated if you will. In Black and Blue: Love, Sports and the Art of Empowerment, Andra Douglas tells the story of Christine, a professional football player, and her journey to not only playing tackle football, but also the journey of purchasing a women’s team to do so. As a woman who grew up in the south where football is King, and the saying Jesus and Football is a way of life, this story not only resonated with me on a personal level but also gave me the encouragement that many women in business (and in life in general) need. I don’t want to tell you the story – you really must read it for yourself – but this story isn’t just about sports, it’s about a woman persevering in business and breaking down the walls of female stereotypes. There’s the struggle, the hard work, the tears – all of it.
Christine goes through all of the highs and lows that any other person would endure in life; however, what makes this story more unique is that she’s a football player and that alone makes her different. This story shows just how societal norms are changing. Women aren’t just the cheerleaders, they are no longer on the sidelines. They are kicking ass, taking names and becoming the woman in charge. This book is not just for the girls, but for everybody. Pick up your copy here. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.
Have you read it? Let me know your thoughts! Would love to discuss in the comments!