I Didn't Know I Was Black: Growing up Black in the White World of Tennis

Steven Ryuse's book provides an interesting and insightful memoir about growing up black in the world of white tennis. A winner all the way, this book offers a universal feel as an intelligent study of racism and a thoughtful look at what it takes to succeed in sports. The author discusses his life as he grew up in a small-town white community. His initial shock of racism comes in third grade when he suddenly realizes he is in two different worlds. The author poignantly and powerfully engages the reader in his struggles from that pointforward. The book conveys an important message that social interaction, rather than biology, may play a larger role in a person's self- identity.Beginning each chapter with a tennis precept keeps the reader engaged, as well as the discussions of tennis greats. The authorshows how he made it as a black person in the white world of tennis, and he does it with grace and dignity. Anyone interested in booksabout race or sports will latch onto this book.