Life Is So Good

One Man's Extraordinary Journey Through the 20th Century and How He Learned to Read at Age 98

By: George Dawson

Narrated by: LeVar Burton

George Dawson was a slave's grandson who learned to read at age 98 and lived to the age of 103. In this remarkable memoir, he reflects on his life and shares valuable lessons in living, as well as a fresh, firsthand view of America during the entire sweep of the twentieth century. Dawson's irresistible voice and view of the world are captured here as he offers insights into humanity, history, hardships, and happiness. From segregation and civil rights to many other defining moments in history, George Dawson's account and assessment of the last century inspires listeners with the message that sustained him through it all: “Life is so good. I do believe it's getting better.”

©2000 George Dawson (P)2000 Phoenix Books, Inc.

Perfection - this Book is So Good

I loved listening to this book and cannot recommend it enough! It's such a lovely story. 🖤

I usually have a harder time focusing on autobiographies/history texts, especially if I'm reading them rather than listening. But not this time. It was amazing to hear about all the events Mr. Dawson lived through, his childhood, the adventures - both good and bad - he had travelling the rails, and the heartwarming retelling of how he finally learned to read and how much he loved school.

I don't know if it's because LeVar Burton is the narrator and it evokes all the warm, fuzzy feelings of watching Reading Rainbow when I was little, or if it's just how engaging the storytelling is, but whatever the reason, like Mr Dawson says, "Life is So Good!"

Story Content & Narrator Presentation

I loved the account of Mr. Dawkins rearing and how he navigated through life. The tidbits of ‘life information’ given was pleasing and will be used. Mr. Burton’s narration was easy on the ears and gave me visions as if Mr. Dawson himself was actually the one speaking.
I look forward to not only recommending this audible but also re-listening myself and taking notes 💯

Well written and beautifully told

The blessing of being able to document the real life stories of our ancestors is not something afforded to everyone. I’m glad the choices were made to do so here. I loved it and could so identify with stories told by my own grandmother during my youth. Thank You Mr. Dawson for your wisdom and thank you Richard Glaubman for helping to capture every detail.

A humbling story. Mr. Dawson's story is beautiful.

Great book. A must read. Encouraging. Motivating. Connection. Family. Hope. History. The future. Love.

Wonderfully uplifting

A wonderfully uplifting book! The goodness of George comes through in the story and narration. There is so much wisdom in the optimism portrayed.