The autobiography “From Compton to Congress – His Grace For My Race” examines Rev. Walter Tucker’s triumphs, mistakes and favor from God
By the age of 33, Walter Tucker III was living a charmed life. He was his high school valedictorian, graduated with honors from USC, passed the California State Bar exam and was the new mayor of Compton.
Two years later, his magical existence increased more with his election to Congress where he became the youngest African American to represent California.
But just as his trajectory pointed towards the stars, he was indicted on federal charges, found guilty of bribery and sentenced to prison.
However, Tucker’s story doesn’t end there. In fact, he emerged from the experience with a stronger faith and a renewed commitment to fulfill God’s plan for his life.
Tucker shares the captivating story of his triumphs, mistakes and spiritual journey in his new memoir, “From Compton to Congress – His Grace For My Race.”
The fascinating autobiography, which was co-written with his mother, Martha Tucker, gives valuable insight into the criminal justice system as well as the determination of the human spirit.
“The book is my testimony as to how I became this sold-out Christian for the last 20 years. I was a believer before. I was practicing, but I wasn’t sold-out. God didn’t have my whole heart and that’s so central to the book,” explained Tucker, who currently serves as pastor of Truth and Love Christian Church in Carson.
“God had some things He wanted me to do and even though I was doing a lot of good for people inside the political office, I’ve done even more on the outside. At the end of the day, you don’t have to be an elected official to really make a difference.”
“From Compton to Congress” also describes Tucker’s upbringing and strong family ties; the influence and accomplishments of his father, Walter II; Tucker’s marriage pursuit and love for his wife, Robin; his relationship with famed attorney Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr.; and his mayoral tenure.
In addition, various scriptures that have sustained Tucker through the good times and bad are interspersed throughout the book.
Several chapters also review the trial and its occurrence in light of the cultural environment caused by several events rocking the county in the 1990s such as the police beating of Rodney King, the 1992 civil unrest and the O.J. Simpson trial.
The book’s riveting commentary places the reader in the courtroom hearing Tucker’s thoughts, listening to witness testimony and bracing for the judge’s rulings.
“This is a must read story for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s a true personal story, a story that involves and touches people in some way. You’d be surprised at things that are really truthful that are so suspenseful and gripping,” said Tucker.
“It’s a political story, a legal story and a spiritual story. It covers everybody.”
“From Compton to Congress – His Grace For My Race” is available at Amazon.com. The Sentinel will host a book signing for Tucker on Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 5:30 p.m., at 3800 S. Crenshaw Blvd., in Los Angeles.
