The book is a captivating memoir that addresses issues of race and poverty in America. Castro, a Latino living in America was born to unmarried parents in abject poverty. The prospects of Castro escaping this poverty-stricken neighbourhood seemed bleak and the odds of him becoming a success were minimal if any. Despite one’s politics, this book is indeed a transcendent story of one resilient family and the unlikely journey of one emerging icon.
Castro and his twin brother were lucky to have a mother who was once a political activist, and when they showed interest in politics she was there to give them the necessary political foundation that would pave the way for Castro’s political ascent. Castro was elected as the mayor of San Antonio city in Texas as his first entry into politics - a city he helped transform and revitalize to one of the leading economies in the country. Because of his exemplary leadership, he was appointed to be President Obama’s secretary in charge of housing and urban development in 2014.
Castro’s leadership began to get traction and in 2016 he was shortlisted to be Hillary Clinton’s running mate and, in the 2020 election, he became a presidential candidate. Despite all the obstacles Castro had to go through, he is motivated and continues to fight on. His story tells of resilience and strength. It does not only confirm the American dream but it also resonates with millions who are searching for a new hero, especially in this age of political cynicism and hardening hearts. Throughout the history of the United States, no Latino made it as far in the Primary process as Castro. That’s is why his success was unexpected and can be described as an unlikely journey.
