Blog Archives
The Road to Courage
The Road to Courage is a compelling autobiographical journey through Roy Taylor’s formative years in the remote wilderness of rural Alaska. Taylor’s vivid narrative captures the essence of his adventurous childhood, filled with encounters with Alaskan wildlife and the rugged beauty of his surroundings. His accounts of learning to fish and hunt moose in the Alaskan backwoods offer a fascinating glimpse into a life far removed from modern conveniences.
Taylor’s recollections go beyond mere adventure. He beautifully describes his family’s adaptation to the rhythms of rural Alaskan life. One particularly joyous memory he shares is the experience of being snowed in during winter—a moment that captures the stark yet enchanting reality of living in such isolation. A significant aspect of the book is the portrayal of his father’s experiences as a new church-planting pastor. The narrative reveals the challenges and pressures his father faced, underscoring the demanding nature of ministry in a remote setting. This aspect of Taylor’s story is both heartfelt and relatable, especially for readers familiar with the personal sacrifices associated with pastoral work.
The book resonated deeply with me. Taylor’s storytelling triggered my own childhood memories of exploring the backwoods of my neighborhood, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection. His vivid imagery and relatable writing style engaged me from start to finish, making me wonder if he ever experienced moments of fear akin to my own childhood adventures.
The Road to Courage is a richly engaging memoir. Taylor’s ability to weave a compelling narrative with vivid imagery makes it a captivating read. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a relatable and immersive personal memoir that promises to hold your attention throughout.
Pages: 296 | ASIN : B0D42WR751
Dancing Between the Raindrops: A Daughter’s Reflections on Love and Loss
Dancing Between The Raindrops: A Daughter’s Reflections On Love And Loss by Lisa Braxton is the memoir of Lisa’s family, the love and joy throughout the years as well as the hardships, challenges, grief, and loss that come with being a part of a union as strong as the nuclear family. In this book, Lisa reminisces on her being a painfully shy child growing up in Connecticut, her mother’s writing talent and aspirations, becoming aware of and dealing with racism from a young age, taking care of and losing both parents to cancer as well as dealing with breast cancer herself, and so much more. This heartfelt book is a reflection and an homage to the beauty of life and being human, the basic human needs, emotions, and desires, and the fact that the good and the bad are both essential parts of life.
Lisa writes in a beautiful tone, expressing undeniable gratitude and love towards her family members on each page of the book. Her honesty and raw emotions are what set her work apart from similar memoirs. Reading this piece felt like a lifelong friend sitting down for a coffee and telling me about all the stuff I’ve missed out on from the last time we saw each other. It deals with a lot of sensitive topics, including taking care of an elderly parent when they most need you, grief from losing a loved one, and being discriminated against on a racial level, to name a few.
Each chapter being a story of its own makes the book and its message even more powerful and real. One of the stories that touched me the most early on in the book was one of Lisa’s first times dealing with racism in school. Someone had told the African-American kids to go back to where they came from, and just reading about the way Lisa felt at that moment was heartbreaking. She explains that she felt confused because, yes, she has African ancestry, but how can she go back to a place she had never been to? Furthermore, her parents and grandparents were all born and lived in the U.S. The confusion in that little girl’s mind is something that will stick with me as a reader for a long time.
I highly recommend Lisa Braxton’s Dancing Between The Raindrops: A Daughter’s Reflections On Love And Loss to anyone looking for a poignant and touching memoir. The book is a heartwarming tribute to the universal experience of love and loss.
Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0CW1N2JWN
Me and My Shadow
Me and My Shadow by John Walker Pattison is a deeply personal account of his lifelong journey with cancer, exploring his roles as a patient, father, and nurse. Pattison opens his story with a childhood overshadowed by a cancer diagnosis, a fact kept hidden by his parents. This narrative takes us through the complexities of his treatment, its enduring physical and psychological impacts, and the isolation from normal childhood experiences.
Pattison’s story extends beyond his own battle with the disease. As a father, he recounts the heart-wrenching experience of supporting his daughter through her own cancer treatment, a chapter that lends a poignant depth to his narrative. His dual perspective as both patient and caregiver enriches the book, culminating in his decision to become a nurse. Here, Pattison’s personal insights blend with professional care, offering a unique view into the world of healthcare.
The book does more than just shed light on the cancer experience. It delves into the broader tapestry of Pattison’s life, including his exploration of Native American cultures, a vibrant childhood, a passion for rock music, and reflections on a challenging marriage. These varied experiences contribute to the richness of the memoir, painting a fuller picture of the author beyond his identity as a cancer survivor. This book resonates with authenticity and understanding for those touched by cancer, whether personally or through a loved one. Healthcare professionals, too, may find valuable lessons in Pattison’s insights on patient care. The book weaves together heartfelt stories and reflections, revealing life’s unpredictability and the importance of resilience.
Pattison’s narrative is more than a memoir; it is a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. His candid reflections and thoughtful observations offer a window into the complexities of living with and beyond cancer. Me and My Shadow is not just a story of survival but an invitation to embrace each moment of life with appreciation and awareness.
Pages: 233 | ASIN : B0BKYJYPY3
Extraordinary Experiences of an Everyday Woman
Extraordinary Experiences of an Everyday Woman takes readers on a captivating journey into the metaphysical and spiritual realms, portrayed through the author’s vivid personal experiences. Stewart’s autobiography ventures beyond the conventional and delves into interactions with higher dimensional beings, her exploration of psychic abilities, and encounters with extraterrestrial entities. The book is meticulously structured, guiding readers through various aspects of Stewart’s spiritual journey, from clairvoyance and dreams to her profound experiences at different locations, including her own home.
Stewart’s writing style is a blend of candid reflection and mystical exploration, striking a balance that keeps the reader engaged. Her descriptions of spiritual and extraterrestrial encounters are detailed and evocative, which paints a picture that is both intriguing and thought-provoking. The book covers a broad array of topics. This wide-ranging approach that, while comprehensive, made me feel as if I needed a central thread that provided me with guidance through the myriad of experiences and concepts discussed.
One of the book’s strengths is its ability to bridge the gap between the mystical and the everyday. Stewart’s experiences, whether it’s communication with dimensional beings or insights gained through dreams and visions, are presented in a way that encourages readers to consider the existence and influence of spiritual dimensions in their own lives. The book’s personal tone makes the content approachable, though I think the depth and complexity of the topics discussed might be more suited to readers already familiar with metaphysical concepts.
Extraordinary Experiences of an Everyday Woman offers a unique and personal glimpse into the world of spiritual awakening and metaphysical phenomena. Its blend of personal anecdotes and explorations into the unknown makes it a compelling read. This book is best suited for those who have an interest in spirituality and metaphysical concepts or anyone embarking on their own journey of spiritual discovery. Stewart’s book provides an eye-opening account of her experiences and serves as a guide for others who may be navigating similar paths.
Pages: 96 | ASIN : B0CT34N8ZR
I DECIDED
In I Decided, Wahiba C. Rekkab presents an inspiring narrative of personal transformation, emphasizing the profound impact of mental perspective on physical health and well-being. The book traces Wahiba’s journey from a determined child aspiring to make her parents proud, through the challenges she faced after relocating to France post-marriage. Battling isolation, discrimination, and health issues, Wahiba’s story takes a pivotal turn upon discovering the vital link between mindset and health.
The blend of a personal narrative with practical insight makes this book particularly engaging. Wahiba not only shares her compelling story but also offers valuable guidance on reshaping one’s attitude toward life. A standout feature of the book is its focus on positive affirmations. Phrases like, “I am pure light. I am pure love,” resonate deeply, suggesting a transformative power in nurturing a positive self-perception.
Wahiba’s self-awareness is a central theme in the book. Her detailed account of both her professional and personal life, coupled with an introspective examination of her mindset, presents a journey rich in knowledge and understanding. I feel this aspect of the book will particularly appeal to migrants and those feeling out of place in their environment. Wahiba’s experience with cultural restrictions, such as being discouraged from wearing her hijab, offers relatable content for readers facing similar challenges. Furthermore, the book delves into the importance of not neglecting one’s aspirations, illustrating how such neglect can have far-reaching mental health implications. This insight underscores the book’s overarching theme: the essential role of self-understanding in leading a fulfilling life.
I Decided strikes a balance between heartfelt storytelling and motivational guidance. Wahiba’s language is straightforward yet emotionally powerful, effectively conveying her experiences of sadness and other adversities. The book stands as a beacon of hope and practical advice for readers confronting similar health challenges, affirming the importance of a positive, health-oriented mindset.
Pages: 186 | ISBN : 978-2-9589304-0-0
Deputy While Immigrant: The Story of a German Who Became a Deputy Sheriff in Arizona
Deputy While Immigrant by Tom Peine offers a reflective and engaging look into the life and career of a German immigrant who navigates the challenges and triumphs of working as a police officer in the United States. Peine’s journey from exploring various professions to becoming a dedicated policeman is presented with an honest and grounded perspective, highlighting the rigorous testing and physical confrontations he faced, especially as a 40-year-old entrant into law enforcement.
Peine’s memoir stands out for its blend of personal anecdotes, detailed crime scene descriptions, and insightful reflections on his mental and emotional experiences. His narrative style is engaging, bringing to life high-adrenaline moments of vehicle pursuits and home raids while acknowledging the less glamorous realities of police work that often contrast with their cinematic portrayals. This authenticity is evident in stories like the noisy trailer home raid, which diverges from the stealthy operations commonly seen in films. The book also delves into the more somber aspects of law enforcement, such as handling sensitive cases involving minors and attending a fellow officer’s funeral. These moments are presented with sensitivity, adding depth to the narrative. For those interested in action-filled memoirs or considering a career in law enforcement, Deputy While Immigrant offers valuable insights. Peine’s advice, such as maintaining professionalism in adversity and using police jargon, immerses readers in the law enforcement.
This memoir is more than just an account of a police officer’s life; it explores resilience, adaptability, and dedication. It resonates with current, former, and aspiring police officers, providing a multifaceted look at the profession. Peine’s compelling storytelling and richly detailed experiences make Deputy While Immigrant an absorbing and enlightening read.
Pages: 299 | ASIN : B0CNQRV7QL
Keep the Faith
Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess shares with readers your experiences of growing up near poverty and taking a leap of faith, and getting a job that allowed you to see the world and changed your life dramatically. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I really wanted to share what may have been “Behind the Smile” on the Stewardess whose flight they were on. I felt it was important for future passengers to think that there was more to their Stewardess than just a pretty face. And he or she may be going through some challenging things in their lives regardless of the fact that they were there to interact in a positive way with their passengers. And I hoped to encourage my readers to “Keep the faith!” regardless of what might seem like insurmountable circumstances.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Just to know that regardless of the smile on their Stewardess’s face they could have just had a challenging occurrence in their personal lives that they had to put on “the back burner” to be able to go out on that airplane and maintain a positive attitude for their passengers. As I shared a story of a fellow co-worker who had just spent the night with her former husband thinking they were about to possibly get back together to wake up to a note on her pillow stating “Fooled you again didn’t I?” She had to come to work on a three day trip after having gone through this the night before she was scheduled to fly.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
Actually the most difficult thing for me to write about was my relationship with Wendell Ladner, the Professional Basketball player that I had an affair with for over three years. I was not brought up to ever consider doing such a thing. However I was in a loveless marriage and did not have a fulfilling relationship with my husband at the time. I had never experienced a passion like the one I shared with Wendell. But the absolute most difficult thing was to have to relive and share what happened to Wendell, on of all things, an airplane. To say my heart was broken into is an understatement!
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
I hope that my readers will be encouraged to believe in themselves regardless of circumstances that may say “NO” to their dreams.
Being raised just above the poverty line in Parkersburg, WVA, Janie didn’t have big aspirations and dreams for her life. Yet moving to Columbus, Ohio changed everything about her including her name.
She was in a dead-end job at the phone company when a dare from her best friend took her to an interview to become a Stewardess. Fearful she would be rejected on sight because of her height; she was shocked when she was accepted to be the one out of 5,000 applicants who applied for the job.
A whole new world opened up to her. Seeing places she had only read about, spending time with politicians, movie stars and professional athletes. One very special athlete, a professional basketball player named Wendell Ladner stole her heart with his southern charm. An extraordinary ‘connection’ with the King of Rock & Roll (Elvis Presley) allowed her the unique experience to spend ‘one on one’ time with him and remain in touch until his passing. You’ll share with her the challenges of marrying someone so different from her upbringing and coping with the attempts to try and fit in. Behind Her Smile reveals a devastating event that deeply affected Beverly and made her reexamine her life and what she truly wanted out of it.
Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess
Beverly Golden Cuevas’ Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess offers a rich tapestry of historical context, personal growth, and nostalgia. It traces the journey of Janie, the protagonist, from her modest beginnings in Parkersburg, West Virginia—a town marked by limited opportunities for women and above-average poverty rates—to her transformative career as a flight attendant.
The narrative starts with Janie’s early life, highlighting her transition from a stagnant job at a telephone company to the dynamic world of aviation, spurred by her best friend’s encouragement. Despite initial apprehensions about her height affecting her employability, Janie embarks on a career that takes her to numerous cities and introduces her to a variety of notable figures, including politicians, movie stars, athletes, and musicians. A particularly poignant aspect of Janie’s story is her interaction with Elvis Presley. Their heartwarming connection, forged during her time as a flight attendant, remains a memorable part of her life, enduring until Elvis’s death in 1977. Cuevas masterfully uses first-person narration to bring alive the 1950s, skillfully weaving together the challenges of the era with personal struggles and the journey of coming of age. The novel not only serves as a memoir but also as a vessel for valuable life lessons, such as perseverance and the importance of a strong work ethic.
Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess offers insight into the demanding role of flight attendants, highlighting the extensive work and various challenges they face in ensuring passenger safety. This portrayal aims to garner appreciation and respect for the profession and the dedication of those who serve in it.
Pages: 532 | ASIN : B0CKYBJ2YW
LITERARY TITAN 