In
an autobiography marked by staggering vulnerability, former NBA star
Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf—whose
given name was Chris Jackson before converting to Islam and changing
it in 1991—recounts
the twists, turns, trials, and triumphs of his life. He is perhaps
most well-known for being exiled from the league for praying--instead
of standing and saluting the flag - during the playing of "The
Star-Spangled Banner" before games throughout the 1995-96
season. Abdul-Rauf's protest sent shockwaves through the NBA that can
still be felt today. With wit and candor, Abdul-Rauf tells the story
of how he rose to the top of his game—only
to have his career taken away in
the blink of an eye
when he stood up for his principles. He also recounts his experiences
living with Tourette Syndrome, committing his life to the Islamic
faith, and growing up estranged from his father. In
the Blink of an Eye
challenges readers to examine our own lives by asking what we value,
how we want to be remembered, and how we can contribute to making the
world a better place. Through evocative passages that place the
reader in the heat of the moment as well as poignant portraits of the
important people in his life, In
the Blink of an Eye will
capture the attention of readers from all walks of life. This book is
a must-read for anyone who has faced down adversity by standing up
for the integrity of their own life, path, and identity. From his
confrontations with racism--including the burning down of his
house--to his difficult relationship with some of his closest family
members, Adbul-Rauf reveals in intimate detail the important and
inspirational, if painful, episodes that shaped his life.