James Freeman
In his book, Ishi’s Journey: From the Center to the Edge of the World, Bucks County Community College professor James Freeman invites you into his masterful work of historical fiction, which delves into the incredible life of Ishi, a man believed to have been the last of the living Yahi Indians. This interesting, and well-crafted book was a Philadelphia Inquirer 2006 Editor’s Choice and has been described as: “A man between two worlds, his simple wisdom leaves us a compelling message.” Interestingly enough, simple wisdom and a compelling message are something that this passionate and prolific author/teacher seems to live by.
James Andrew Freeman was born in Montreal, Canada but his father’s military service soon took them to California. As a child Jim’s family moved on average every 13 months and even though Jim has lived and taught in Bucks County for 31 years his heart is equally divided between the West and East Coasts. His looks, as well as his optimistic approach to life belie his long tenure here in Pennsylvania as he still carries a laid-back California surfer vibe about him. His casual clothing combined with his in-need-of-a-haircut shaggy blond locks help to seal the deal. But looks can be deceiving for this “man of two worlds” because if you count yourself among one of the countless Bucks County Community College students who have been fortunate enough to take a class taught by Professor Freeman you will soon learn that he is an excellent educator, a formidable task-master and a seasoned, accomplished writer. Jim is that rare breed of man who will finish the task set before him all the while making sure you finish yours, yet seasons his blue-collar work-ethic with the all-inclusive, generous philosophy to which he adheres, “Everybody’s welcome at the banquet of life,” which of course inherently implies that the journey shall be an interesting one.
To finish reading this article about James Freeman, please turn page 40 in the Winter 2013/14 issue of Bucks County Magazine.