Book - Beyond a Boundary by CLR James
"History is written by people who do the harm, not by the people that get harmed
Until we educate the entire human race, this thing will not stop" - Michael Holding
This was a tough book to read. It was recommended as I wanted to learn about the history of cricket and in particular the racism that still exists. This followed the interview with Michael Holding (I know now he is a highly regarded former Jamaican cricketer) in which he articulated in the most eloquent way I’ve every heard why racisms still exists in society today. We know it’s a lack of education but the way he put it across should leave even the hardened adversary in no doubt as to what is needed.
So this was a tough read not because of the racism anecdote’s which are woven in with grace and dignity. No it was tricky because it was written in the 60s - I hadn’t realised - and it was full of runs, wickets, bats bowls - all things I have almost zero understanding of. A delight nonetheless as it takes me back to the 30s, 40s and 50s.
It is astounding to learn of the lack of black players in the national Trinidadian cricket team at that time, when I think of the country as overwhelmingly black. But then, South Africa has only recently started including black players in national teams. If you love cricket then you will most certainly love this book. I would like to read Michael Holding’s book next.