The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey

3.99 of 5 stars 3.99 · rating details · 226 ratings · 43 reviews

"During my boxing career, you did not see the real Muhammad Ali. You just saw a little boxing. You saw only a part of me. After I retired from boxing my true work began. I have embarked on a journey of love." So Muhammad Ali begins this spiritual memoir, his description of the values that have shaped and sustained him and that continue to guide his life. In The Soul of a B...more

Hardcover, 256 pages

Published November 16th 2004 by Simon & Schuster (first published 2004)

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

This book is not yet featured on Listopia. Add this book to your favorite list »

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 467)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Jul 30, 2012 Marcella rated it 4 of 5 stars

Muhammed Ali says it best:

"One day I won't be around to answer people's questions, or advise young aspiring athletes. What I want to say is for the people whom I've never met. It is for the boys and girls whose hands I will never hold. It is for the champions to come. These comments are for every spirit on the downside of advantage.

Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something deep inside—a desire, a dream, and a vision. They have to have the skill and the will.

But the will m...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 26, 2012 Scott Sinks rated it 3 of 5 stars

Muhammad Ali, “The soul of a butterfly”

The book “The soul of a Butterfly,” By, Muhammad Ali and the help of Hana Yasmeen Ali, dates back to the early years of Muhammad Ali’s career. The book exploits into detail on all of his amazing fights, but not all in the rink. It described about the battle Ali went through with court and his religious beliefs, and the color of his skin. Ali was a great boxer who became a leader and a champion of his people.

Ali describes all of his amazing experiences an...more Muhammad Ali, “The soul of a butterfly”

The book “The soul of a Butterfly,” By, Muhammad Ali and the help of Hana Yasmeen Ali, dates back to the early years of Muhammad Ali’s career. The book exploits into detail on all of his amazing fights, but not all in the rink. It described about the battle Ali went through with court and his religious beliefs, and the color of his skin. Ali was a great boxer who became a leader and a champion of his people.

Ali describes all of his amazing experiences and fights as a professional boxer. He explains how all about his adventure in winning the heavy weight title three times. He went into detail on how you have to work hard to achieve your dreams, and how they just don’t show up on your front porch. Ali names the book, “The Soul of a Butterfly,” after his famous phrase, “dance like a butterfly, and sting like a bee, that’s why they call me Muhammad Ali.” They gave him this phrase for the way he pranced around the rink like a butterfly, and how his punches stung. The title is very appropriate. It is symbolic for the way he stood up for his beliefs and for how good of a boxer he was. One of Ali’s biggest ideas he wanted to be remembered for was that he was a man who stood up for his beliefs and united mankind through faith and love. I see that idea through the title. I think that the soul symbolizes his life and the adventures he’s been through, and the butterfly stands for never giving up by sticking to what you believe in. I think that the title fits his ideas and is very appropriate for the book.

In conclusion, Muhammad Ali was one of a kind at the sport of boxing. He dodged nearly every punch, and knocked out nearly every one of his opponents. He was a true inspiration to watch. Some say, “He was like a butterfly in the rink.” And that’s exactly how the title described him as, so I strongly believe that the title, “The Soul of a Butterfly,” fits the description for the book.

(less)

1 like · like · see review

May 01, 2013 Zain rated it 5 of 5 stars

Earlier this week, my sister shared a link of a short documentary on how Muhammad Ali played a pivotal role in the release of US prisoners of war released after Saddam Hussein's army captured them and others during the 1990 invasion of Kuwait. It was very moving, especially the concluding scene, and as it was pretty close to home (I grew up in Kuwait) I was overcome by a strong desire to know more about him.

And so I chanced upon his autobiography, Soul of a Butterfly: Lessons on Life's Journey,...more

like · see review

Mar 23, 2012 CD rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: theology, religion, autobiography-memoir, civil-rights

Muhammad Ali and his daughter Hana Yasmeen Ali have written what is as much a devotional work as it is inspirational memoir/auto/biography. The book is well written in a deceptively simple style that reflects Hana professional abilities combined with Muhammad Ali's wit and experience.

There is a timeline of his life that is followed as an organizing principle of the book. Anecdotes and stories of his life are not all 'new' to this story (with an exception or two), yet they are incorporated effect...more Muhammad Ali and his daughter Hana Yasmeen Ali have written what is as much a devotional work as it is inspirational memoir/auto/biography. The book is well written in a deceptively simple style that reflects Hana professional abilities combined with Muhammad Ali's wit and experience.

There is a timeline of his life that is followed as an organizing principle of the book. Anecdotes and stories of his life are not all 'new' to this story (with an exception or two), yet they are incorporated effectively and not just as often repeated tales.

An attempt is made in the graphic layout and design of the book to have it work as an inspirational work in the tradition of many Mid-Eastern/Islamic/Sufi works throughout history. Graphic washes and overlays of background text and patterns only partially works. The book suffers in places that the use of very light and low contrast ink to 'force' the reader to pay closer attention goes to the extreme that it is hard to read, even in bright light. Too much graphic intervention. The layout of what is on a page however seems consistently to work from 25 words to a whole page. Technique is used to give the reader a chance to pause and reflect at the end of a single page or a minimum of multiple pages about important points. i.e., it is a Devotional work.

The authors make may interesting points regarding faith and belief. They make certain that the reader understands the importance of the difference between spirituality and religion. Of course there are numerous definitions and principles espoused in this work via the Sufi story, one of my favorite types of writing and anecdotal relaying of philosophy, morals, and belief.

From childhood and his upbringing in Louisville, Kentucky, to his battles in the civil rights arena, to religious freedom and respect, to his life in Michigan fighting still, now against Parkinson's, Ali covers the scope of his amazing life story. Stories that are new or are to most readers include what really happened to his Olympic Medal, specific details of his thought process in full regarding the draft, his meeting Islam, and other that are told in a readable and enjoyable way. Touching on fatherhood and being very kind and generous to his ex-wives and his great connection to his parents, Ali with his daughter Hana's partnership is far more open about his life than many celebrities ever manage even in a 'tell-all' book.

The impish and still proud Ali shines through both in his poetry past and present, his sly asides that he is still 'pretty'. The humble Ali is also here in full force including his personal acknowledgement of those he hurt including Joe Frazier and his family. Ali is candid in his creation of a persona that most of the public viewed and that he, himself, with family and close friends is a more complex and less arrogant man. Or 'he tries very hard' he says with that impish grin you know that is on his face when he at his most disarming and most influential. Ali still draws 'em in and he is still more than worth the time.

Love Ali or not, there is a something for most readers in this work even if it suffers on several levels, perhaps the worst in the ill-executed if not well intended physical format of the book.

(less)

1 like · like · see review

Apr 16, 2012 Huda rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: bookaholics-anonymous

This book is beautiful, as beautiful as the title itself. Yes, it might not be a real biography of Muhammad Ali but this is the thought of the man himself.

When he said that he's the greatest (his tagline), it could be his message to the world that even though the whites thought they are great, Muhammad Ali can still beat them and be the greatest though he's black. Towards the end of the book, Muhammad Ali did mention that God is the Greatest, and that is true. Without God and his faith towards G...more

1 like · like · see review

Jul 24, 2011 Mike Steven rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Disappointing if I'm honest. Not really an insight into the mind of a champion but the religious musings of someone blinded by ideas about spiritualism. He does describe all religions as 'different paths to the same truth' and his ideas about inter-faith harmony should be embraced by all those unable to accept athiesm. However, if you were hoping to see that, behind the Parkinson's Disease there is still the wit and fire that he had as a boxer then you will be disappointed.

My biggest criticism w...more

like · see review

Oct 01, 2010 Josh rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Soul of a Butterfly

Do you know the real Muhammad Ali? Not just the boxer but the person inside the religious man that was not seen in the ring. Well in this book the Soul of a Butterfly you will see that man. This book was good because it showed his life before boxing and how he was a little boy growing up in Louisville, KY and why he started boxing. Also it talks about what it was like for him going through the hard times when he didn’t go to Vietnam and how religion helped him get through...more

1 like · like · see review

Sep 15, 2011 Jeff rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is a great book.

Found this book inspirational and easy to read. Not a long winded read. Chapter were bite-sized and was exactly what I needed. A great read by one that has lived an extraordinary life. Had a chance to meet him when I was only four, but he was eating with family at friends at the Bob's Big Boy on Wilshire Blvd in LA. Thought I would have that chance again, but much time has passed. Hope to meet him someday. Soon.

Watched When We were Kings. Enjoyed the movie Ali. Not a great...more

like · see review

Mar 15, 2013 Gus Vitt rated it 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed every bit of this book. This book connected to me on many levels.For example, this book describes how Ali never gave up on his goals in life. I'm the type of person that won't give in until I achieve my goals.This book also connects to the world and media by telling how famous he was and still is. He is still in the media constantly for his highlights of his career.This auto-biography connects to other text such as other biographys and/or books, magazines, record books, etc. I highly r...more

like · see review

May 13, 2012 Minzi rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is a great book. I would like to read the 1st Muhammad Ali Autobiography, 'The Greatest - My Own Story', which is out of print. I loved this book. I have the kindle version, I don't know what a paper copy would look like. Some pages have a few short sentences, some of his poetry, some of his daughters poetry. Ali is almost childlike in some of his writings and reflections and I have a real sense that this book was really written by him, and his daughter and not heavily edited. He explains a...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 20, 2008 Maggie rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: best-young-adult-books

This was an interesting read, and Ali is a unique person with a very American story. His rise from Cassius Clay, poor black boy in a time of great prejudice and discrimination, to the people's hero is a wonderful story. I enjoyed the fact that his 'voice' was not changed with an editor. He writes simplistically and with great integrity.
My 14 year old son read this book and was really affected by it. It's a good read for young boys, and started a few dialogues with my son and I such as Ali's dec...more

like · see review

Jan 21, 2013 Lekii rated it 4 of 5 stars

So many good quotes, loved it! specially the last part that his daughter Hana wrote at the end. Shows what kind of person he is.
It doesnt get full 5 stars because i feel like he repeats himself a few times.

"I even had chicken pox at and measles at the same time. My mother used to say that my mind was like the March wind, blowing every which way." 16

"But sometimes all you have to do is breathe, and people will have an opinion on how you drew that breath." 69

"Turning my back on Malcolm was one of...more

like · see review

Jul 02, 2008 Tommy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Muhammad Ali has been one of my favorite athletes since I was a kid, drawn to his brash personality as much as his prowess in the ring. So, when I was asked to write a series of videos that honored his work at the Ali Center in Louisville, KY, I knew the research would be fun. I started - and pretty much finished - here.

This autobiography truly lets you into the soul of the man. It's not a detailed look at each stage of his life. Instead, he speaks more philosophically, sharing honest insight a...more

1 like · like · see review

Feb 10, 2008 Matt rated it 4 of 5 stars

A very spiritual memoir of primarily how Islam and his faith has made him
the man that he is today, noting that most of his bravado was for show to
entice fans and get large crowds. He speaks specifically of his great
African American pride (and his dislike of the inequality) that led him to
the teachings of Islam. He speaks specifically of winning his Olympic gold
medal for the US and then coming home to Kentucky, wearing it everywhere
with honor, and still not being able to eat in a white rest...more

like · see review

Apr 15, 2012 Lyla Ibrahim rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I love reading it. He just didn't tell his life story but what he learns from his experiences as well. I especially like his notion that diversity in religion is a beautiful thing and that we should cherish them and not fight each other because of it. Its a book that centres around love and compassion and good deeds. The book organization needs more work though. Everything just all jumbled up. I get confused once in a while reading this book. Nevertheless, a recommended read for all.

1 like · like · see review

Aug 23, 2010 Marisela rated it 5 of 5 stars

Excellent book (CD). I enjoyed reading Muhammad's biography. The only problem which doesn't pertain to the book was the reader on the CD. Although he is an actor, he was very hard to understand. Some parts of the book or quotes are done by Muhammad's daughter. She would have done a much better job in reading the whole book. She is easier to understand.

like · see review

Feb 24, 2009 Jessica rated it 3 of 5 stars

I've been interested in biographies/true to life stories lately. I wasn't sure I would like this one since I don't really care about any sports especially boxing, but it provided a lot of interesting information on the life and career of Ali. He sounds like a wonderful and caring person, who I would be honored to meet some day.

like · see review

Jun 16, 2011 Sasa rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

Shelves: ang, bio-avtobio-memoir, favourites

I have never understood or liked boxing, I could never see past its brutality and violence.

However, I have always liked Ali's persona, wit and showmanship. He is a remarkable person and one of the few truly pure souls outthere.

A beautiful, inspiring read which provides insight into his conversion to Islam, his mind, his background and, sadly, Parkinson's.

like · see review

Aug 23, 2010 Ayesha Moore rated it 5 of 5 stars

My dad had me hooked on Muhammad Ali not only as a boxer but as a person when I was younger so I was intrigued when I saw this on the book shelf, I knew I had to read it just on the simple fact that I am a huge fan. This book truly reflects his life journey by outlining the important parts of his life and the events and life experiences that define him as told by both he and his daughter.

like · see review

Dec 06, 2012 Kyra Campbell rated it 5 of 5 stars

Muhammed Ali is someone I've looked up to since I was 8.

This book is beautiful, you connect with him on a personal level. He has a gift to inspire people. Boxing or no boxing his wisdom makes you wanna achieve your dreams #king

1 like · like · see review

Dec 22, 2012 Sarah Salleh rated it 5 of 5 stars

God is the Greatest, and that is true. Without God and his faith towards God, he could not be the best that he can be. Even if he doesn't do boxing, he would still do his best and be the greatest.

like · see review

Jun 28, 2011 Sturlaugur Halldórsson rated it 5 of 5 stars

I loved it and think Muhammad Ali must be one of the most inspiring men on earth.

Inside the ring or out, ain't nothing wrong with going down. It's staying down that's wrong. - Muhammad Ali

1 like · like · see review

May 15, 2010 Katie rated it 4 of 5 stars

I found this book really interesting. I really enjoyed hearing Ali's philosophical views and it helped me learn more about the race divide than I had known before.

like · see review

Mar 27, 2011 Colin Bruce Anthes rated it 5 of 5 stars

I'm not a religious person myself, and I can't count any of Ali's many included poems amongst my favorites, but the size of the man's heart provides such a beautiful form of inspiration. I was tremendously moved many times, and thoroughly recommend this book regardless of your religious background or post as a poetry professor.

like · see review

Feb 10, 2013 Brian rated it 5 of 5 stars

A great person full of wisdom and joy, I recommend this to everyone who's heard of his name and more..
One of the best books ever.

like · see review

Jul 09, 2009 Ali rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book motivates you towards greatness in perhapps the most simple words and man has written orignally in English.

like · see review

Apr 10, 2010 Michael rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: biography

Ali takes a sentimental look back at his life, with emphasis on the spiritual. It's superficial but honest for the most part.

like · see review

Apr 07, 2011 Surfshellsg rated it 5 of 5 stars

loved learning about this AMAZING man and his life...what an inspiration

like · see review

Jul 03, 2009 Shirley Hines rated it 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book, it opened my eyes to a side of Islam I never knew.

like · see review

Apr 21, 2012 Fredia rated it 4 of 5 stars

More about the huMAN side of Ali.

like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 15 16 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Bookaholics Anony...: [April 2012] What do you think of the book?	2	9	Apr 23, 2012 11:46am

combine
Other Editions (10)

More editions...

Genres

Biography

11 users

Non Fiction

4 users

Religion > Islam

3 users

Biography > Autobiography

2 users

Autobiography > Memoir

2 users

Sports And Games > Sports

2 users

See top shelves...

About Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr.; January 17, 1942) is an American former professional boxer, philanthropist and social activist.

More about Muhammad Ali...

Books by Muhammad Ali

The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections of life's journey

Healing: A Journey of Tolerance and Understanding

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About The Soul of a But...

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from The Soul of a Butterfl...

“If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it - then I can achieve it.” — 285 people liked it

“I try not to speak about all the charities and people I help, because I believe we can only be truly generous when we expect nothing in return.” — 5 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey
avg rating	preview: The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey Goodreads rating: 3.99 (226 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/536955.The_Soul_of_a_Butterfly?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348386336l/536955.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/536955.The_Soul_of_a_Butterfly?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey by Muhammad Ali[/url]

The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website