Yes I Can

The Story of Sammy Davis, Jr.

Yes I Can is the self-portrait of one of the extraordinary men of our time, who became a figure of controversy because he dared to live his life not as a Negro but as a man. "I've got to be a star like another man has to breathe" writes Sammy Davis. "I've got to get so big, so powerful, so famous that the day will come when they'll look at me and see a man, and then somewhere along the way they'll notice he's a Negro."

Yes I Can “is:...one of the most candid, engrossing and important American autobiographies of our time,” wrote the N.Y. Herald Tribune Book Editor and Critic Maurice Dolbier. "One of the really great autobiographies ever written." Brother Judd, Audible.com.

©1965 Sammy Davis, Jr. and Jane and Burt Boyar (P)2012 Sammy Davis, Jr and Jane and Burt Boyar

An amazing biography

This is one person I knew nothing about, and I'm glad that I listened. It is a well written and fun biography.

Engaging story

I laughed and cried. I gained an understanding of what life was like for African American people around the time I was born. I was able to picture the casinos and lounges, which made the story more real. Excellent read.

A Fascinating Story About A Fascinating Man

If you have any interest in a real human story about one of the most fascinating entertainers ever, then this book is it. From his early struggles to his reaching the highest highs, Sammy’s story is a lesson in determination and resilience. His 1st person account of the blatant racism he overcame, to meeting Sinatra, to becoming the hottest ticket everywhere, to the Rat Pack days and marrying a white woman in the 60’s is riveting. I was lucky enough to have seen him perform live at Caesars Palace in VEGAS so this book has extra value to me. Well worth the investment. Such a great American success story. Enjoy.

A Story Beautifully Told

Burt Boyar was emotional, REAL, loving and wonderful. I was moved to tears at times. I loved it. Would read again.

Very illuminating and well narrated

Sammy Davis Jr. was trailblazer in the entertainment industry and broke down barriers through his excellence, hard work and most of all perseverance. This book in his own words chronicles his life and experiences as America was changing in the 50s and 60s. This book paints an excellent picture of how the volatile beginnings of desegregation affected him and how he adapted from vaudeville schtick to polished solo performer. This book was written in 1965 so it isn’t the full picture of his life, but it is an entertaining snap shot of his recounting of his life when he was 40. It’s quite compelling and worth the listen.