Song for My Father: Memoir of an All-American Family [Paperback]

Song for My Fatheris a daughter's memoir of her father, Charles M. Stokes, a prominent African-American member of the National Republican Party. Known as Stokey, he was born just forty years after the abolition of slavery. But by the time he became a pioneer in the fields of law, legislation, and politics -- during the turbulent and transformative 1960s and 70s -- contemporary associations of the GOP with the party of Lincoln had faded. Stokes's choice to remain a Republican against the tide of black Democratic political loyalty took courage. He would live to become Seattle's first black state legislator and serve as Washington State's first African-American district court judge.
WithSong for My Father, Ms. Stokes pays tribute to a man whose love for his country, his family, and his people made a world of difference for generations to come. Stokes's life is a compelling example of what American Dreams are made of.Stephanie Stokes Oliver is the author ofDaily Cornbread: 365 Secrets for a Healthy Mind, Body, and Spirit;Seven Soulful Secrets for Finding Your Purpose & Minding Your Mission;andSong for My Father: Memoir of an All-American Family. Formerly the editor ofEssence, and founding editor-in-chief ofHeart & Soul, she started her magazine career atGlamour. For more information, see StephanieStokesOliver.com. [A] touching tribute to...the late Charles M. Stokes, a proud Republican and Seattle's first African-American state legislator.
--Essence Sheds new light on the historical role of blacks within the Republican Party and offers readers a glimpse of the world of a man who forged his own path and encouraged his children to do the same.
--Town & Country [A]n amazing piece of history.
-- Janis F. Kearney, presidential diarist to Bill Clinton [Charles M. Stokes's] life is a testament to the American-ness of us all.
-- Benilde Little, author ofActing Out