Book Review: It’s About Time

Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha

A moving tale about adversity and human nature’s indomitable spirit

It’s About Time takes readers on an emotional journey. From growing up in Compton in the 50s and 60s to going to jail and dealing with the death of his mother, Mickey Bridges’ true story is all about making mistakes and yet finding a way. 

This memoir opens with a young boy in a Resident Release program. One of his professors, Dr. William T. Beilby, encourages him to write a book about his life’s journey. What follows is a roller-coaster ride through Bridges’ life, from before he was born to the point where he finds contentment.

We witness his childhood with divorced parents, a rough neighborhood, and the early influence of addictive substances. He faces frequent run-ins with the law and always ends up in a worse position because of some or the other offense. One can’t help but feel sympathy for the little guy.

Each chapter in the book reflects a significant phase of the boy’s life. There is no wasted space here. The language is apt; even the profane words fit smoothly into the world presented. The memoir’s central theme seems to be in the cultivation of human relationships, especially how those lacking a solid foundation can be fickle and potentially hurtful. 

Betrayal is another recurring discussion. First, he feels betrayed by his dad for marrying a woman other than his mom. Then Michelle, his lover and the mother of his child, is unfaithful to him and runs off with someone else while he is in prison. The final nail in the coffin is when he feels betrayed by his partner, Thomas, in his drug activities. 

But the book is not all pessimistic when it comes to relationships. Mickey’s relationship with his mother and Mama B (Michelle’s mother) are pure and based on mutual love and adoration.

Another striking aspect of this book is how the author has chosen not to gloss over racism in the south side of Chicago. This conversation is one of Bridges’ strongest.

The intention seems to be to convince readers of the power of faith. Bridges shows how believing in Jesus Christ could help others emerge from the darkest corners of their lives, just as it did for him. The message comes in fairly late in the memoir, so for the most part, this life story continues to pass and asks primarily of us to connect and sympathize with Mickey.

This is an inspiring tale that asks readers to think of their struggles and privileges in a different light. As Bridges works hard to get his degree and establish a successful crime-free career, it gives readers hope for a better, merciful future.

Genre: Nonfiction / Autobiography

Print Length: 200 pages

ISBN: 978-1667837529

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