A Rare Vintage Growing Up Black In Wine Country

by Pierce, Lee J.

• ISBN13: 9798350989519
• ISBN10: 8350989513
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2025-01-09
• Publisher: BookBaby

Summary

Lee Pierce's debut book takes readers from the vineyards and prune orchards of beautiful Napa County to a history-making seat on the dais of Santa Rosa's governing body. Santa Rosa is the largest city between San Francisco and Portland, Oregon. Following his graduation from St. Helena High School, Lee and a few of his classmates were called to army duty to be sent to the raging Vietnam war. As Lee's story continues to unfold, readers will note that his journey is ripe with an array of memorable and colorful characters who come to life on the pages. Pierce's story is a series of poignant moments and cultural revelations that will entertain, sometimes sadden, and ultimately inspire readers.

Author Biography

Lee Pierce was born and raised in St. Helena, California, where his mother worked as a domestic and his father worked as a skilled laborer in the nearby vineyards. His family migrated there from the rural South, and they were one of the very few Black families in the Napa Valley. His family life was in sharp contrast to the life he found himself navigating while in school and at his part-time jobs. "I learned early on to do my best to assimilate in any environment and make people feel more comfortable with me." This book is Lee's first literary effort after being told time and time again that he had an amazing story to tell. Lee currently lives in Sonoma County, California with his wife of nearly 30 years. He enjoys his time with family and friends and enjoys decompressing himself at his local health club.