by Wil Haygood
First published 2013
Wil Haygood examines the extraordinary life of Eugene Allen, the White House butler whose decades of service captured America's attention. Allen worked quietly in the corridors of power, serving eight presidents from Harry Truman through Ronald Reagan. Haygood traces Allen's journey from his early life through his remarkable career at the center of American politics. The author reveals how Allen witnessed pivotal moments in history while maintaining his professional dignity and dedication. Allen's story reflects the broader African American experience during decades of social and political change. His life inspired the major motion picture that brought his remarkable service to national prominence. Haygood includes an exploration of black representation in Hollywood cinema, drawing connections between Allen's real story and its cinematic treatment. The book features dozens of photographs documenting Allen's family, his presidential encounters, and the film production. Allen's quiet strength and unwavering commitment emerge as Haygood shows how one man's service embodied grace under extraordinary circumstances.
Genres: biography, historical-fiction, 20th-century, african-american, 21st-century, american-history
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: based-on-true-story, fish-out-of-water, underdog
Setting: America, United States, White House
Period: 20th Century, 21st Century
112 pages · Hardcover · 37 Ink