4 books that inspired The Porter star Ronnie Rowe Jr.
The Porter premieres Feb. 21 on CBC TV and CBC Gem
Ronnie Rowe Jr. is a Canadian actor who co-stars as Zeke Garrett in CBC TV's The Porter.
Set in early 1920s Montreal and inspired by real events, The Porter follows train porters Zeke Garrett and Junior Massey (Amil Ameen) and Junior's wife Marlene (Mouna Traoré) and upstart performer Lucy (Loren Lott), as a tragedy in the community sets them on starkly different paths to a better life.
At the beginning of the 20th century, being a train porter in Canada was a thankless job reserved for Black men only. While Junior takes advantage of a broken system to pursue money and power in gambling and bootlegging, Zeke fights the railway to change the system from within by unionizing the Black porters.
The series aims to reframe Black Canadian history by featuring the diversity of the Black diaspora — including those who came from the Caribbean to Canada.
The Porter premieres in Canada beginning Monday, Feb. 21 at 9 p.m. ET on CBC TV and will be available to stream on CBC Gem.
Rowe spoke with CBC Books to talk about the books he loved reading.
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
"This was a book that was a recommended read in one of my acting classes when I was younger, and boy what a gift it was. The book outlines four principles: Be Impeccable With Your Word, Never Assume, Always Do Your Best and Don't Take Things Personal.
"I still follow the principles to this day. It is always one that I recommend to anyone. It's an easy read packed with value."
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
"When Will Smith said it was his favourite book, I had to see why! The Alchemist is a book for and about going after your dreams. It was relatable. It prepared me for things that I would come to encounter in my life on my journey as an actor.
"What I love most about it, is every time I read it, I discover something new."
As A Man Thinketh by James Allen
"This is a book that I use as a study guide more than just a book. It came at a time when I was really trying to understand manifestation.
"It really focuses on the power of thought — and how thoughts help mould the reality we experience. A very powerful and important book in my life for sure."
The Master Key to Riches by Napoleon Hill
"I really got into Napoleon Hill with Think and Grow Rich, but I feel that The Master Key To Riches organizes the information and principles in a way that is easier to digest.
"This book is a big reason that I approach my career the way that I do."
