The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko – Book Review

The Autobiography of Benjamin Sisko by Derek Tyler Attico

Synopsis:
Benjamin Sisko tells the story of his career in Starfleet, and his life as a father and Bajor’s Emissary to the Prophets. Chart his rise through the ranks, his pioneering work designing the Defiant class, his critical role as ambassador and leader during the Dominion War, and his sacred standing as a religious leader of his adopted home.

Explore the hidden history of his childhood and early career in Starfleet, and the innermost thoughts of the man who made first contact with the wormhole aliens and opened safe passage to the Gamma Quadrant, and united Starfleet, Klingon and Romulan forces to defeat the Dominion. Discover Sisko’s personal take on his confidantes Lieutenant Dax and Major Kira Nerys, the enigmatic Garak, and his adversaries, Gul Dukat and Kai Winn, as well as his fatherly advice for his son Jake.

Passing on lessons from father to son, from his experiences with the Prophets to the writings of Benny Russell, Sisko’s story is a unique phenomenon in Starfleet and human history, told in the way only he can.

Review:
Benjamin Sisko’s autobiography is written in a unique way. Since he is with the wormhole aliens, he passes along his memories and musings to his son Jake to ghost write his autobiography for him. This is a heartwarming and engaging look back at the life of an impressive man from humble beginnings and his path to become the religious leader of an entire world.

Sisko’s previously untold story of his early life to his beginnings in Starfleet was well-developed and felt true to his character and those we know from the series. I only wish it was longer – especially his early years in Starfleet! But my favorite part (as in all of the previous installments of these autobiographies) is his ruminations on his final crewmates, friends, and acquaintances on Deep Space 9. It’s poignant and nostalgic and a wonderful tribute to a fantastic, groundbreaking character.