I Am Somebody

Early on, Jerry Williams learned that he had he ability to fix and repair almost anything-even if it meant inventing something to make life work a little better and easier. From cars to houses, Jerry never met a challenge he couldn't master. He built a career as the go-to guy in his rural African-American community. Now, in a style "plain and simple so everyone can read it," Jerry offers up personal opinions about America, covering subjects as varied as race, education, literacy, money, and overcoming impediments, from within and without. Reacting strongly to a racist statement he once read, that poor people can't read, Jerry looks closely at what people can do to change their perceptions. While he encourages young and old alike to be strong and resolute, he strongly urges everyone to set aside their antagonisms and rage. What we must do, Jerry says, is to stop being fixated on the divide between black and white, but instead see each other as fellow human beings so that in the end all of us can come together. And if we can do that, the ever-optimistic Jerry sees a very bright future for our nation. ABOUT THE AUTHORJerry Williams is a self-taught electrician, diesel mechanic, auto mechanic, small engine expert, and carpenter. He is also the inventor of several devices, including a pullout extension cord, luggage beeper, hologram, and device to check the water level for a Christmas tree. Jerry lives in South Carolina.