This is an interesting memoir. The level of racism he suffered was horrifying. It is well written. Very informative

A very insightful book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review.

In 1967, Norwell Roberts became a poster boy for British policing, becoming the first Black police officer in the Met. Even when facing prejudice and hindrance from within the force, he was determined to stick with the job. Recounting and reflecting on his life, from childhood in the West Indies to receiving recognition from royalty, Roberts speaks candidly about his experiences.

'...my shoulders were broad enough for others to stand on - I'm proud to have helped to prepare the path that others walked.' 51%

There is a considered and balanced tone used throughout, which shows that Roberts is not just someone writing because they have a story to share- he can write too. Occasionally the topic feels stilted between the paragraphs, but, on the whole, the narrative is clear. He even manages to incorporate some humour.

The regularly humble nature of Roberts is enjoyable to read about. He recognises and appreciates the role he played in influencing the police force but never denies that he is also just part of a larger incentive. This is evident in his mentions of other men who could be classed as 'The First Black/mixed-race Policeman'.

'...the debate around who was 'the first' matters far less than the question of whether others were able to follow in their footsteps.' 99%

Roberts comments upon past and present policing, highlighting areas that require change, or simply modernisation. He is not afraid to mention drives or campaigns that he disagrees with, always articulating why and giving alternatives to achieve the goal.

Frequently there are mentions of the press and specific UK publications, which feel a touch repetitive when mentioned so often in such a short book. However, this comes from reading forty years of someone's life in a condensed timeline; presumably, the incidents with the press are more noteworthy than the regular days at work. There is a stronger focus on his childhood and upbringing than expected but this supports his later experiences, giving context to his beliefs and sense of hard work.

An epilogue can make or break a read; it should summarise points made and address any questions a reader still has. This book does this perfectly. The reading of this prompted many interesting discussions about Roberts' actions, Using the benefit of distance in all forms to assess the situation. Namely, whether he should have spoken out more in the 60s & 70s. It's easy to critique actions when not involved but that's what makes reading these books so fascinating; they force one to reflect. Roberts himself discusses his role, eloquently describing how he wasn't aiming to be a race activist, merely, and always, a man doing a job.

'Some people might think I didn't shout loud enough early on, but there was no one to shout to.' 99%

This is the fascinating,and often shocking, story of the Metropolitan Police's first Black officer Norwell Roberts. I'm old enough to remember Mr Roberts' picture on the front pages of the newspapers in 1967, when his appointment was a big story .
I'll refer to him as Mr Roberts as we've never met........something he says in his book is the correct thing to do so I'll respect that
The book tells of his early life in Anguilla with his ultra strict Grandparents bringing him up and beatings for supposed misbehaviour being a regular part of his life,at the time he was going by Norwell Gumbs,using his absent father's surname.

Reunited with his mother in England the young man finds kindness and friendship but also increasing levels of racism where he lived and in the schools he went to. After succeeding on his second attempt he's accepted into the Met and from day one the newly minted Constable Gumbs encounters racism and open hostility from those quite open about their determination to drive him out. They failed and Mr Roberts ,he changed his name by deed poll to his mother's maiden name,retired after a spectacular career spanning 3 decades a much respected and admired man who had been awarded the Queen's Police Medal.

This is quite a short book but an inspiring and interesting one. I'm younger than Mr Roberts but still remember the attitudes towards minorities in the 60's and 70's, things aren't great now,back then they were appalling and quite openly and publicly expressed. I was amazed at Mr Roberts' fortitude,as a young Constable, he was an awesome physical specimen with no fear but tells how he often went home and cried after work and another day of bullying,open hostility from supposed colleagues and attempts to make him walk away from his chosen career.

My only disappointment with the book is that he skips around his career as an undercover officer with a few anecdotes but he does give his reasons for doing so that make absolute sense. There are plenty of good books "out there" written by former undercover policemen.but they don't have the public profile of Mr Roberts..

An excellent book by a great man.