
Reserve it at BN.com & pick it up in 60 minutes at your local store.
Enter a zip code
In 51 visually stunning, emotionally compelling portraits, acclaimed photographer Carol Ross presents a hopeful, heartwarming, and caring view of black fatherhood in the United States. In an era that pays little positive attention to black fathers, Ross's inspirational perspective on the relationships between black men and their children is vitally important-and long overdue.
Ross's richly textured duotone photographs reveal a group of devoted fathers whose common bond is their profound love for their children. For her subjects, Ross has selected men from all walks of life-college professors, filmmakers, technicians, construction workers, and corporate executives-along with well-known music executives, directors, entertainers, and actors, such as Antonio L. A. Reid, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Funk Master Flex, Doug E. Doug, and Melvin Van Peebles. Film star Samuel L. Jackson, photographed with his daughter, provides the book's foreword, and each portrait is accompanied by a poignant personal recollection by the father depicted.
Exquisitely designed, Pop: A Celebration of Black Fatherhood finally gives black men their own voice about their experience as fathers. Inspired by her own father, Ross's book is, in her words, "a round of applause, a bow, a 'God bless you,'" to all those fathers who "take their children to that place where, one day, they can fly on their own."
As well-spoken as these "pops" are, Ross's photos say so much more.
More Reviews and RecommendationsCAROL ROSS has been a portrait photographer for eight years in New York and Los Angeles. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Reader Rating:
See Detailed Ratings
July 23, 2007: As a father to a 3 year old son I found this book completely moving. My intention was not to buy this book but it was showcased as I walked through the door. The cover lead me to the discovery and I sat in the bookstore and flipped through each page while drinking coffee. It now sits in my den as a conversation peace. Some photos, without reading the words, brought tears to my eyes because I was reminded of those special times I still share with my son.
Reader Rating:
See Detailed Ratings
June 24, 2007: This is a great book! Its shows positive pictures and shares simple quotes from Black Men. This is well overdue. Thank you so very, very much. All Black/African American families should have a copy of this book sitting on their discussion table. I am ordering more copies to shares with others. Be Blessed and Be A Blessing :'