When you open a non-fiction book beginning with “I,” the next word you expect is not “died,” especially not referencing a past event. However, Paul O. Scott masterfully captures attention from the very first beep. His memoir, Trouble Ain’t Nothing But a Word: Conquering Fear, chronicles Scott’s tumultuous life, filled with challenging times, encounters with racism, criminal charges, jail time, and a near-death experience. The book opens with a gripping recount of Scott’s heart attack, which left him in a vegetative state. Despite doctors’ grim prognosis, his wife insisted on pursuing the best possible care. As Scott takes readers through his arduous journey to rehabilitation, he also reflects on his childhood in a Christian Science home, his troubled youth, and his struggles with faith.

Scott’s detailed recollection of his past, even after such a catastrophic health event, is remarkable. This aspect highlights his storytelling ability and the profound depth of his memories. With an engaging and immersive narrative, Scott draws readers into his life, making them deeply invested in his journey. His storytelling prowess is evident as he navigates through different phases of his life. Trouble Ain’t Nothing But a Word offers a satisfying and coherent narrative arc. The memoir is fundamentally about redemption, recovery, and resilience. It’s a story of overcoming immense physical and emotional challenges, leaving readers with a sense of hope and admiration for Scott’s journey. It celebrates his ability to overcome adversity and rebuild his life.

Trouble Ain’t Nothing But a Word is a compelling read that not only provides a detailed account of Scott’s life but also showcases the incredible human spirit’s capacity for recovery and resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a testament to Scott’s strength and determination, making it a highly recommended read for those seeking inspiration and a powerful story of personal triumph.

Pages: 313 | ASIN : B0CWQ6BJMZ

Paul Orlando Scott’s memoir, Trouble Ain’t Nothin’ But a Word: Conquering Fear, chronicles the tumultuous journey of a man born into a large, complex family in 1954 Chicago. Raised as a Christian Scientist and the sixth of eight siblings, Paul navigated the challenges posed by his father’s post-World War II trauma and resultant alcoholism. With an often absent father, Paul sought guidance from his older siblings and the streets, leading to a youth marked by delinquency, substance abuse, and instability in both his careers and relationships.

The narrative reaches a poignant climax with the loss of his younger brother, Peter, an event that precipitated a profound personal crisis yet eventually spurred a transformative self-reckoning. Paul’s subsequent career path—spanning roles in correctional facilities, teaching, campaign management, and ultimately, a respected consultant and educator—mirrors his journey from chaos to purpose. This memoir offers a recount of personal redemption and an insightful look into the vicissitudes of urban life and the resilience required to overcome them. Paul’s vivid recounting of his youthful escapades, from romantic pursuits to spontaneous adventures with friends, enriches the memoir with both humor and wisdom. Particularly moving is the portrayal of his relationship with his wife, whose devotion played a crucial role during his life-threatening ordeal.

Trouble Ain’t Nothin’ But a Word: Conquering Fear is a testament to the idea that one’s future can shine bright despite a shadowed past. Paul Orlando Scott’s life story, characterized by significant adversity but also remarkable recovery, is engaging and imbued with life lessons that resonate long after the last page is turned.

Pages: 313 | ASIN : B0CWQ6BJMZ