I really enjoyed Messenger.  I learned way more about Muhammad Ali than I ever knew including his refusal to enter the draft as a conscientious objector and the resulting battle with the Supreme Court, the fact that he was married 4 times, his battle with Parkinson's disease, and his break with the Nation of Islam.  I like this book did not sugar coat the racism he faced despite all his success.  He is winning gold medals, representing the USA in the Olympics and the government wants him to join the military and fight overseas; however, he is still being called the n-word and not able to sit down at restaurants.  I'm glad he fought for what he believed in and brought that issue to light.  He is definitely a legend and his positive optimistic boastful attitude shows that.  Great book for any reader.  Book does use the real n-word so readers should definitely be prepared for that (only once but racial issues are prevalent throughout the book).  I feel like the book is lacking in describing why he started speaking in the poetic way he does and also in not stating why he parted with the Nation of Islam and Malcolm X.  Overall, I enjoyed the book a lot.  The black and white illustrations are perfect to showcase the story and his struggle. Well done.