Kamal Ben Ali is releasing his guidebook for Black men, inspired by decades of experience.
WASHINGTON — The owner of one of D.C.’s most iconic eateries is releasing a book next month.
Earlier this month, Kamal Ben Ali debuted his inspirational work “Ascend: The Black Man’s Guide to Elevation, Success, and Purpose.”
Ali’s press team described the book as “a straight-talking, deeply personal guide for Black men navigating life’s toughest challenges and seeking lasting growth.”
Ali says the book draws on his “decades of experience as a business owner, mentor and advocate in the District.”
“This book comes from the heart of U Street. I’ve seen what our young brothers face every day. I’ve lived it. And I know we can rise above it, but it starts with healing, faith, and believing in our worth,” Ali said.
An excerpt from the book reads:
What people don’t often realize about power, it doesn’t always show up like thunder. Sometimes, it’s a whisper. A quiet decision. The decision to think differently.
The book will be released on Oct. 6 with a kickoff event at the restaurant. Digital and hard copy editions will be available at local bookshops and from online retailers.
Ben’s Chili Bowl has been one of the most famous restaurants in D.C. since it opened on U Street in 1958. The eatery has been a favorite destination for statesmen and celebrities alike.
The restaurant is also intertwined with the history of the city.
In 1960, the restaurant donated food to Martin Luther King Jr.’s Poor People’s Campaign and, in 1963, it donated food to the March on Washington. Last year, Ben’s Chili Bowl was featured on Netflix’s “Somebody Feed Phil” show.