Complete Circle

Complete Circle by Edouard Thomas de Lagarde truly lives up to its name, as the author invites readers on a sweeping journey from his early days in Washington, DC, and Philadelphia to the colorful chapters of his life in the United States Virgin Islands. Only he could capture the richness of his adventures, the unforgettable people he encountered, and the lasting bonds he forged along the way.

He paints an exotic portrait of his time at West Virginia State University, balancing academic pursuits with the gritty realities of street life. At times, he teetered on the edge but ultimately found his way back to a brighter path.

As the story unfolds, the author explores the growth of the Virgin Islands, stitching in lively portraits of his family, the governors, and other influential figures chosen by the community.

The author discusses island living and a Black community that avoided the Jim Crow era prevalent on the U.S. mainland. To be sure, when he traveled back and forth to the mainland to visit family and friends, he did not have an understanding of the reason all this Jim Crow "melee" was occurring.

The photographs in this book are a treasure trove, spanning from the author's baby snapshots to high school memories, family portraits, and proud moments with his four children. There are glimpses of his exciting social life with friends and the colorful festivities of the annual St. Thomas carnival, bringing the story to life.

de Lagarde's deep affection for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and his dedication to humanity shine through every page of this effortless memoir, offering an unforced look into the Virgin Islands and the remarkable life of its native son.