Odyssey

Mississippi author Meredith Coleman McGee presents the reader with a triple expression of literary form in ODYSSEY, a uniquely written, well researched work which produces a family of fiction and nonfiction writings under one cover. This book is an interesting read especially for the poetic minded, the Civil Rights activists, students of history, and small business leaders. Of special notation is the prelude written entirely in a poetic fashion by the author's sister and niece. This one volume contains 228 pages with pictures, charts and references. The first three chapters consist of poems that mirror the behavior and conditions that are often seen in today's world. These human conditions exist in one's engaging journey for self-identification. Some of the poems are based on factual events; in one poem the author includes the experience of her ancestor in a four line stanza. Chapter four consists of pre-published articles by the author which respond to current and historically charged issues which provide valuable resources for a bevy of audiences. The articles include statistical and timely information about numerous topics and record facts about McGee's uncle Civil Rights Icon James Meredith's 2009 Walk for the Poor and his & 2012 Walk for Education & Truth. In the final chapter, McGee shares the findings of her research project which was submitted to Antioch University McGregor, now known as Antioch University Midwest, Yellow Springs, Ohio, in partial fulfillment of her Master of Arts Degree. This study compared the leadership characteristics of Sam Walton and Ray Croc with southern small business leaders. Walton and Croc turned Walmart and McDonald's respectively into global conglomerates. This study is heralding for leaders interesting in mirroring the leadership styles of successful entrepreneurs. Alma M. Fisher, Tougaloo College Retired Librarian and Archivist