The Deeper the Roots

A Memoir of Hope and Home

By: Michael Tubbs

Narrated by: Michael Tubbs

Length: 7 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

“Insightful, emotional, and enraging. By sharing his story in gripping detail, Michael Tubbs embodies an old feminist tradition whereby the personal is political. He empowers us to fight for equal opportunities for our communities, and encourages us to amass the courage to overcome loss and injustice.” (Ibram X. Kendi, National Book Award-winning author of Stamped from the Beginning and How to Be an Antiracist)

The making of a visionary political leader - and a blueprint for a more equitable country

“Don’t tell nobody our business,” Michael Tubbs’ mother often told him growing up. For Michael, that meant a lot of things: Don’t tell anyone about the day-to-day struggle of being Black and broke in Stockton, CA. Don’t tell anyone the pain of having a father incarcerated for 25 years to life. Don’t tell anyone about living two lives: the brainy bookworm and the kid with the newest Jordans. And also don’t tell anyone about the particular joys of growing up with three “moms” - a Nana who never let him miss church, an Auntie who’d take him to the library any time, and a mother, “She-Daddy”, who schooled him in the wisdom of hip-hop and taught him never to take no for an answer.

So for a long time, Michael didn’t tell anyone his story, but as he went on to a scholarship at Stanford and an internship in the Obama White House, he began to realize the power of his experience, the need for his perspective in the halls of power. By the time he returned to Stockton to become, in 2016, at age 26, its first Black mayor and the youngest-ever mayor of a major American city, he knew his story meant something.

The Deeper the Roots is a memoir astonishing in its candor, voice, and clarity of vision. Tubbs shares with us the city that raised him, his family of badass women, his life-changing encounters with Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama, the challenges of governing in the 21st century, and everything in between - en route to unveiling his compelling vision for America rooted in his experiences in his hometown.

©2021 Michael Tubbs (P)2021 Audible, Inc.

Story of a Black man facing giants

Michael delivers an energetic audio experience. His story is inspiring and he is clearly a great model. His experience in "valley" moments in life helped validate my own feelings when it came to my personal valley experiences. He shared vulnerable moments, which is a sign of great leadership and humility--two characteristics not normally associated with someone so young. I hope the youth (or aspiring leaders) look to him as someone they can emulate.

An inspiration for generations of healing and breaking cycles

This man is a true hero and inspiration. He perfectly speaks on breaking generational “curses” that plague our community due to systemic oppression. His work in Stockton sent waves around the world as I was hearing about his moves in the different cities I lived in over the course of his efforts.
The passion, perseverance, and…patience (often undeserved) act as one clear through line in this love letter to his his family both given and chosen, and his city.
Great read!

The Deep The Roots

A captivating novel, that kept you engaged from cover to cover. A refreshing journey of the power of perseverance, grace, and a passion to create change. A must read for our younger generation.

An empowering read and survivor tale

A must read to understand youth development, leadership, intersectionality, relationships, mentorship, family, and systems change.

Greatness

I loved hearing Michael tell his life story thus far. The story is enlightening and encouraging. I’m glad there are still politicians who are fighting for the good, not just for money or their selfish personal desires.

Thoughtful leadership and commitment

Story of real leadership in action and problem solving with people in mind. Lots of lessons in the book, I look forward to supporting his future endeavors.

Wisdom Beyond His Years

Michael Tubbs, youngest mayor ever of one of the largest U.S. Cities writes a thought provoking book about overcoming barriers to success, racism, respect for women, impact and, influence of his father’s incarceration had on his life. The Deeper the Roots is about hope, achieving success against all odds, and the three women who had his back while growing up Black in one of the largest cities in America and their contribution to his success. Michael’s narration of this well written book displays wisdom beyond his years. It’s a great read!