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Temple Made: Profiles in Grit
Temple Made by Ronnyjane Goldsmith is a compelling narrative of greatness and resilience, chronicling the stories of thirty alumni from Temple University. Through personal anecdotes and detailed accounts of their accomplishments, Goldsmith explores the diverse and remarkable achievements of these individuals in sports, music, politics, medicine, art, photography, fashion, business, and more. From Daniel Aaron’s rise from a rough upbringing and foster care to becoming a leader in cable subscription sales through door-to-door marketing, to Walter Bahr’s pivotal role in the U.S. national soccer team’s historic 1950 World Cup victory against England, the book is brimming with inspiring tales.
The individuals in the book faced numerous challenges and discouraging situations, yet their lives were profoundly impactful. One particularly striking story is that of David Goodis, whose big break came after enduring continuous disappointment and rejection. His journey, like many others in the book, serves as a powerful message to persist in the face of obstacles and strive for excellence. Goldsmith excels at compiling information from various sources to create a highly enlightening and engaging book. The inclusion of opinions and quotes from the alumni themselves, as well as insights from other writers like Andrew Nette, adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. A standout perspective is provided by Ralph Rucci, who emphasizes the importance of not following trends and developing a personal point of view. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy stories of great achievements and historical narratives. With its multiple protagonists and diverse backgrounds, the book offers themes that resonate with a wide audience, including ethical healthcare practices, passion, depression, the struggles of making a living as an artist, and overcoming naysayers.
Goldsmith’s stories underscore the power of giving everyone a fair chance to prove themselves, regardless of their origins. Temple Made exemplifies this, showcasing the successful alumni from various races, cultures, and countries. This book is not only valuable to students and alumni of Temple University but also to anyone seeking inspiration to achieve greatness, make a significant impact, and learn successful practices across different industries.
Pages: 163 | ASIN : B09G8N6MPM
CCNY Made: Profiles in Grit
CCNY Made: Profiles in Grit by Ronnyjane Goldsmith is an engaging anthology that delves into the lives of some of the most notable alumni from The City College of New York. Through a series of compelling narratives, the book highlights figures such as Andrew Grove, a survivor of both Nazi occupation and Communist Hungary, who later pioneered Intel’s philosophy of “creative confrontation.” The collection also includes a profile on Edgar Yipsel Harburg, who rose from poverty on Manhattan’s Lower East Side to pen the lyrics for The Wizard of Oz, including the iconic song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
This book has profoundly impacted my perspective on the boundless potential inherent in every individual, regardless of the obstacles they face. For example, Ben Shahn, a Lithuanian immigrant who arrived in the U.S. without any knowledge of English, eventually became a pivotal social critic among twentieth-century painters. CCNY Made explores three central themes—politics, history, and social issues—offering readers a well-researched journey with extensive references to other significant works. This aspect has piqued my interest in exploring Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle, which is known for its historical controversy. The book caters to a broad readership, from CCNY alumni and current students to enthusiasts of inspiring biographies and historical narratives. It portrays a rich tapestry of characters from various backgrounds who have made notable contributions to fields such as art, business, literature, music, politics, and film. The inclusion of direct quotes and black-and-white photographs enhances the connection between the reader and these influential figures.
Ronnyjane Goldsmith masterfully contrasts the humble beginnings of these individuals with their later achievements, crafting a narrative that is as inspiring as it is educational. CCNY Made serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact one person can have on society, encouraging every reader to recognize and reach their own potential. This book is not just a collection of biographies but a source of motivation that echoes through generations.
Pages: 274 | ASIN : B0CRYWP4DJ
CCNY Made: Profiles in Grit
CCNY Made: Profiles in Grit by Ronnyjane Goldsmith is a compelling exploration of the lives of 32 distinguished alumni from City College of New York. The book artfully weaves their stories, showcasing their diverse paths to achieve remarkable success. It features engaging anecdotes about notable figures such as Mario Puzo, Yip Harburg, Ben Shahn, and Jean Nidetch, each illustrating the resilience and determination inherent in their journeys. Goldsmith skillfully narrates Puzo’s trajectory, which was temporarily disrupted by World War II, and his subsequent pursuit of writing education at institutions like CCNY, Columbia University, and the New School for Social Research. Similarly, the story of Yip Harburg, an Oscar-winning songwriter born to Russian immigrants in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, exemplifies the theme of overcoming adversity throughout the book.
The book is meticulously crafted, integrating photographs, quotes, and key information about each CCNY alumni’s lives. This format effectively transports readers to various historical eras, offering insights into the social conditions of those times. For example, Samuel Joel Mostel’s portrayal of Hamlet in a 1930s CCNY production provides a vivid snapshot of the school’s rich cultural landscape during that period. Author Goldsmith provides a window into how the college and its students navigated significant historical events. For instance, the narrative about Ed Koch touches upon the impact of the Great Depression on his family. Goldsmith’s portrayal of these alumni, including the story of Tony Curtis, who overcame a challenging childhood to become a Hollywood icon, is particularly inspiring. The book encourages readers to view obstacles as opportunities for growth and development.
This book is a valuable resource for current and former students of CCNY and anyone seeking motivation and inspiration. Goldsmith presents a compelling reminder that even the most challenging experiences and seemingly minor life events can shape one’s future positively. CCNY Made: Profiles in Grit is a richly detailed and engaging compilation, offering historical insight and personal inspiration.
Pages: 274 | ASIN : B0CRYWP4DJ
LITERARY TITAN 