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Looking for Legends: Let Us Take You Somewhere You’ve Never Been Before, and Introduce You to Our Friends
Would you rather have dreams or memories? This poignant question forms the crux of Looking for Legends, a captivating memoir/travelogue by Scott and Tarantino. The book recounts the extraordinary adventures of a married couple who have lived a legendary life, blending personal anecdotes with tales of their globe-trotting exploits. Determined to lead a life of exceptional experiences, they embarked on a series of adventures that mirrored some of the most celebrated journeys in history.
Looking for Legends is more than just a travel narrative; it is a love story between two individuals who share an insatiable passion for exploring the world and an equally strong affection for each other. This unintentional sentimentality adds a delightful layer to the book, making it a truly heartwarming read. The couple’s adventures span the globe, from China to Ecuador, Switzerland to Greenland, and Jordan to many other destinations. However, their travel choices were far from random. As avid history enthusiasts, they often selected their destinations based on the writings and significant works of historical figures like Pablo Neruda, Knud Rasmussen, and Zorba the Greek. This historical context enriches their narratives, offering readers a deeper understanding of the places they visited. The sheer audacity and enthusiasm of Scott and Tarantino make this book a sublime experience. Their infectious wanderlust and joy for exploration are so vividly conveyed that even the most devoted homebodies might find themselves inspired to embark on their own journeys by the book’s end.
Complementing the engaging prose are images and hand-drawn maps that beautifully illustrate their travels. These visual aids not only enhance the storytelling but also showcase the couple’s profound appreciation for the planet and its myriad wonders.
Looking for Legends invites readers to reflect on their own lives and decide whether they are content with merely reading about such adventures or whether they will choose to create their own memories. This book is a testament to the extraordinary life that awaits those who dare to dream and take the leap into the unknown.
Pages: 427 | ASIN : B0CW1FRRWH
Reaching For Joy and Happiness
Following Sunshine shares your story of personal growth and dealing with life’s challenges through the lens of your travels and how they helped you on your journey. Why was this an important book for you to write?
While the individual chapters of my life are unique to me — leaving home at age seventeen to study French language and literature in Paris, France, volunteering on remote islands in Belize, Fiji, Vanuatu, and Palau, and reinventing myself professionally across five different industries: TV, scuba diving, hospitality, finance & insurance, and ultimately as an author, my journey is universal.
Many of us suffer loss, heartache, and to varying degrees trauma. We reach for joy and happiness, mental and physical well-being. But the one desire we share absolutely is to love and be loved. That we are enough. My purpose in laying bare my soul in this memoir is to light a path for anyone fighting the dark, to show that anything is possible, that you just need to keep breathing and take the next step. My travels across the world, often as a volunteer, serve as a backdrop to the butterfly effect: we are one human race and how we behave in one area of the world can affect another many oceans away. Our lives become the sum of our thoughts and our experiences the result of our choices.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Quite a few:
Anything is possible, never give up.
Setbacks don’t need to define us; they provide opportunities for growth.
Material possessions are not an indication of success.
Embracing minimalism enables you to travel lightly in the world and life.
Listen to your instincts, trust your intuition.
We are all here to serve each other.
Staying open-minded helps reveal our commonalities rather than what separates us.
Living in the “now” repels anxiety and fear of the unknown.
Practicing gratitude is the only way to soar.
In addition, I wanted to share a subject very dear to me: our oceans.
I’m passionate about marine conservation, protecting our coral reefs and in particular, dolphins. In Chapter 13 you’ll read: “The single most determined activist, who has made it his life’s mission to free dolphins in captivity, has got to be the man who believes he created the problem in the first place: Ric O’Barry. As the trainer on the TV show, he was not only responsible for capturing the five dolphins that played Flipper, but for teaching them to jump, twirl and tail-walk on cue. In the Oscar-winning documentary The Cove, Ric explains how he spent ten years contributing to the building of this industry and the rest of his life trying to tear it down. Most of the dolphins you see in what O Barry calls the “Abusement Parks” are “are captured during an annual hunt in Taiji, Japan. Those not chosen to be shipped to seaquariums are slaughtered, out of sight. Once you watch the movie, the blood red water of the scenic cove is a sight you can never un-see.”
My dad had a favorite life quote that resonated with me: When you know something, you can’t not know it anymore. As much as I love dolphins, I have never been near a dolphinarium since. Instead, I chose to volunteer with the Watamu Marine Association in Kenya, working with them on their project to educate boat captains and the community in the safe practices of bringing tourists out to observe dolphins in the wild.
You traveled to so many beautiful places along the way. What location did you find the most healing and why?
Water soothes my soul. If it’s warm and azure, set against green mountains and a deep blue sky the combination makes my spirit soar. So, naturally, finding a way to do Bora Bora on a budget as a single woman, and overcoming the loneliness of dining alone in the honeymoon capital of the world, brought me incredible joy. While it would have been wonderful to share this exotic and romantic destination with a lover I was at peace knowing I am my own best friend, and I am enough.
But the greatest healing was yet to come. Fulfilling a dream to work at sea I volunteered to crew for a solo sailor. From Florida to the Bahamas. It was only supposed to last a month. But when you live 24/7 in a 40ft space, with no wi-fi or cell service, and have to rely on your fellow mariner for your safety you get to know each other from the inside out. Gary and I talked; nothing was off limits. Drawing from his master’s degree in spiritual psychology he coached me in processing some issues from my past and showed me the art of self-forgiveness and self-love. While neither of us set out on the voyage looking for love, love found us. A month turned into four, a year into six, sailing the turquoise waters of the Bahamas and Caribbean islands. With toes in the sand in Antigua captain and crew became husband and wife. We are forever grateful for the universe conspiring in our favor and for the profound love we have for each other. Together, we have become greater than the sum of our two selves.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
Living a fulfilled, meaningful life is a choice. It starts with seeking clarity, not continuing in the role your parents, siblings or colleagues think is best for you. Past traumas do not define you. Believe anything is possible. Once you discard the noise, the life you really want to live becomes clear and it is never too late to take steps to create that existence. Be the driver, not the passenger. Visualize that life, take the necessary action to achieve it, be open to the all the possibilities it offers, and then live in quiet expectation and gratitude. It will come.
And remember you only have today, and it could be your last. Whatever you have been dreaming of, or putting off, do it now.
Enjoy this gift called life!
Author links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Website
In her honest and heart-warming memoir, writer and adventurer Niamh McAnally shares the story of her liberating journey from being unemployed, homeless, and divorced in her fifties, to embarking on a global quest to find purpose through volunteering and ultimately finding a profound love that changed her life.
From volunteering for marine conservation projects on remote islands in Belize, Vanuatu, and Tonga, to exploring exotic destinations like Bora Bora, Palau, Fiji, and St Barths, Niamh takes readers on a captivating journey where each destination unveils a layer of her self-discovery. An encouraging read for the dreamer in each of us, you’ll learn about unique cultures, dolphin research, turtle conservation, and coral reef protection. And be prepared for the most unexpected love story when she is selected as crew for a solo sailor in the Bahamas—a project that was only supposed to last a month but will now last a lifetime.
While telling the story of one woman’s quest for meaning, Following Sunshine also serves as a roadmap for the rest of us, inspiring us to awaken to the potential that lies within and choose a path truest to our being. Perfect for fans of adventure travel, romance, and anyone seeking meaning and fulfillment through giving back.
Following Sunshine: A Voyage Around the Mind, Around the World, Around the Heart
In Following Sunshine, Niamh McAnally takes readers on an enthralling journey across diverse landscapes, from the lush jungles of Fiji to the serene beaches of Vanuatu. Through her travels—which span Nairobi, Vietnam, Saint Barthélemy, Fiji, Palau, and beyond—McAnally weaves a narrative rich in cultural insights and natural beauty. She vividly describes moments of connection with the world around her, such as participating in turtle conservation in Vanuatu or reflecting on local customs.
The memoir is more than a mere travelogue; it’s an introspective look at McAnally’s personal growth amid life’s challenges, including dealing with loss, divorce, and financial struggles. Her expressive language enhances the narrative, painting scenes with phrases that capture the transition of seasons and emotions, like “As spring gave way to summer, daffodils and white-blossomed garlic were replaced by the bluebells of May.” McAnally also delves into profound personal topics, such as child abuse and the uncertainty of the future, integrating these themes into her travel experiences. This blend of personal history with adventure provides a compelling backdrop for reflections on broader themes such as love, loss, and the human impact on ecosystems.
Following Sunshine resonates with those who have a zest for adventure and nature and readers interested in the introspective aspects of travel. McAnally’s narrative invites us to explore a world of vibrant landscapes and rich textures, all while engaging with her contemplations on life and culture. This book is an invitation to experience the world through the eyes of a thoughtful and resilient explorer.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B0D2Z5LFVZ
Embraced Change
Perseverance, Journey to Alaska shares your journey of setting off on a new adventure in life, drastically different from anything you had done before, and biking through the wilderness of Alaska. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I started writing Perseverance, Journey to Alaska as a travel guide for e-bike touring enthusiasts. When I started my Journey, I had no idea I was embarking on a life-changing adventure. By the time I reached the halfway point of my journey, I knew I was not returning. The emotional aspect of that decision was overwhelming. I lived in California for 40 years, leaving that life for something unknown, shrouded in pitfalls, but the promise of something better inspired me to write a different story.
Writing this book is important to share a bit of soul-searching humanity with my fellow human beings. To lead by example, and share a story that inspires, encourages, and proves it can be done at any age given the determination and perseverance to change one’s life. It takes a lot of courage to leave everything you own behind. The material aspect is nothing compared to the emotional and psychological impact. Humans are creatures of habit; we crave the known, creating lifestyle patterns that lead to an easy life. I rode my bicycle into an unknown abyss, starting a new career with zero overlapping skills. Writing Perseverance, Journey to Alaska was a calling because a good writer writes stories that inspire.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The most important idea in this book is change. Change is inevitable in our society. I embraced change with an open mind and proved that with determination, anyone can change. Many humans get stuck in the status quo, afraid to embark on a journey of change. I wanted to document my journey to inspire others.
We live in a changing world. The speed of change and the decimation of information in the modern world is dizzying. The ideas behind my book were documenting a human being’s ability to adapt and change to a new environment, economics, sociology, psychology, philosophy, and culture.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who reads your story and decides to take a leap of faith and strike out on their own adventure?
The answer to this question is to paraphrase the last paragraph in my book. There is no better answer:
The most important thing you need before any adventure is a good attitude. Unexpected things will happen. That is part of life. You can plan everything, but it will inevitably go wrong. When this happens, stop, take a deep breath, and say, “Oh well, that did not work.” Focus on solutions; do not waste your time and energy on the problem. You will find a way to fix the problem if you are human. Mistakes are part of life, so roll with the punches; do not sweat the small things. If you get a flat tire or break a spoke, fix it. You can do anything you put your mind to. Don’t worry about what “might happen.” If I worried about all the “what ifs,” I would never have left San Francisco. Plan your trip with a margin of error and budget your money with wiggle room. Add a few days to your timeline. If you decide to turn left, you might find something beautiful, so just do it. If you plan your trip precisely, you won’t have time to stop and smell the roses. Slow down and enjoy your journey; that is the journey of life.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
Inspiration and hope for a better future. I left everything I knew for a better future. It was a leap in faith. I wrote this book to inspire others who are contemplating a better future.
Author links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
What would you do with your new life? Could you make it with the clothes on your back and a couple thousand dollars in your savings account? Move across the country to a small town where nobody knows you and start over? Would you be willing to risk everything?
Come on a ride with me to Alaska. I did this and more on a bicycle. Join me as we follow my map and embark on this adventure together.
Finding Common Ground
Karma and Kismet is an insightful and captivating literary work that delves into the intricacies of human connection and self-discovery. It is not just a personal memoir, but rather a profound exploration of the universal human need for understanding and meaningful relationships. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I obsessed about my story for over fifty years. My ruminationss were almost certainly neurotic, but perseverance eventually awoke an inner demand for expression of the story. I came to understand that I had gone through a unique passage that also perhaps would speak to others who might identify in some way. In a sense, I became the story’s servant and it expressed itself through me.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main arc of the story could be codified as father-hunger, the universal craving for connection with their fathers felt by sons. I don’t know if I had a stronger case of this than most boys, but my familial and societal circumstances drove home the feeling of father-loss and it remained a strong undercurrent for my entire childhood and adulthood––until I was able to give expression to the voice that we discover in Karma and Kismet. I believe that father-son conflict is all too common, but what is not common are father-son stories that describe the entire cycle–– from violent conflict, estrangement and cutoff to reconciliation.
The ”lessons” that emerge all came inductively from the story and became a part of the book’s tapestry. Some of these include the impacts of earlier generations’ history––antisemitism and the Holocaust. Other themes include openness and curiosity, faith in going forward even when you don’t know what lies ahead, the kindness of family and strangers, the power of travel and cross-cultural immersion in shaping a new mindset. Taking risks, what one might call becoming a reasonable adventurer. The human need for belonging, purpose, and connection to others.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
There were many aspects of the story that were challenging to write––from the vivid scenes of fighting with my father, to my family’s terrible dynamics. But the intricacies of the peer relationships with my spiritual brothers and sisters in Vancouver was perhaps the most challenging because of the deep involvement of a powerful and charismatic guru figure from whom I needed to detach.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
I hope readers will find common ground in my story and double up their efforts toward connection, be it with a father, mother, or a friend.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
KARMA AND KISMET
Michael Shandler’s sixties and seventies spiritual odyssey catapults him across continents, cultures, and eras, after a turbulent childhood. KARMA AND KISMET is a wounded stranger’s testimony as he seeks reconciliation with his painful past and finding his people and place in new lands.
Shandler’s unflinching ride through the twists and turns of his karma is a personal and universal story of transformation, and a demonstration of kismet in shaping destiny.
Karma and Kismet
Karma and Kismet, authored by Michael Shandler, is a compelling memoir that traces the poignant journey of self-discovery. Michael, uprooted from his home at the age of 13, embarks on a quest in his adulthood to unearth his true identity. This quest is not just a geographical journey but an emotional one, marked by a rich tapestry of love, acceptance, belonging, and healing. As he navigates through varied landscapes and cultures, Shandler finds himself grappling with the concepts of Karma and Kismet, which play a pivotal role in his understanding of life and destiny.
Shandler’s narrative style is noteworthy for its vivid and immersive quality. His ability to draw readers into his world is remarkable, making them feel as if they are journeying alongside him. This vivid storytelling in this memoir transcends the confines of a mere travelogue, offering a window into the diversity of cultures and the intimate recesses of the author’s personal saga. It’s a tapestry interwoven with cultural richness and personal introspection. Shandler’s journey is not only geographical but also a deep dive into his psyche, prompting readers to contemplate their own sense of identity and belonging.
Karma and Kismet is more than an account of travel; it’s a source of inspiration. It encourages readers to venture beyond their comfort zones, suggesting that in such exploration, one might find a more profound sense of connection and belonging. Shandler’s story resonates with anyone who has ever sought their place in the world or questioned their identity. The book is infused with elements that enrich its narrative – impactful dialogues, encouragement for self-reflection, and a celebration of acceptance. These aspects make Karma and Kismet a heartwarming read that leaves readers with a sense of joy and introspection. One of the book’s central themes is the significance of hospitality and support in an often indifferent world. This theme adds depth, highlighting the universal need for connection and understanding.
Karma and Kismet is a beautifully balanced blend of heartfelt storytelling, serene narration, and meaningful dialogues. It’s a memoir that tells a story and invites readers to reflect on their journeys and the paths they choose in life.
Pages: 312 | ISBN : 979-8-88824-382-4
Perseverance, Journey to Alaska
In the tradition of adventurers who once chronicled their explorations in detailed diaries, Steven Harrison revives this art with a modern twist in Perseverance, Journey to Alaska. This book serves as both a memoir and a guide, offering a window into the raw and majestic Alaskan wilderness through the eyes of a solo biker. Harrison’s narrative not only recounts his personal odyssey but also serves as a beacon for future travelers, illuminating the path with practical advice and candid reflections.
Harrison’s journey on his bike to Alaska is portrayed with a blend of adventure, solitude, and a deep connection to the untamed landscape. The book’s strength lies in its dual nature: part vivid travelogue and part survival handbook. Harrison skillfully intertwines tales of his experiences with essential tips and precautions for navigating Alaska’s demanding environment. His personal anecdotes about the emotional and physical trials of the journey add a layer of authenticity and engagement. The photographs and insights in the third section are particularly noteworthy, which bring the Alaskan backdrop to life. Readers will find the concise and practical tips especially useful, catering to both novice and seasoned travelers. Harrison’s ability to learn from his experiences and impart wisdom to others is a testament to the book’s value as a resource for planning a journey to this rugged territory.
Perseverance, Journey to Alaska stands out as an insightful and accessible guide that demystifies the challenges of exploring Alaska. It promises to inspire and equip a wide audience of travelers, from those dreaming of their first expedition to the most seasoned explorers, with the knowledge and spirit needed to embark on their own Alaskan adventure.
Pages: 150 | ASIN : B0CNV3QF4F
Let’s Go to Gabon, Cameroon, and Namibia
Terry Lister, an avid writer, and explorer, vivaciously brings to life the enchantment and allure of Africa in his captivating travelogue, Let’s Go to Gabon, Cameroon, and Namibia. Through an in-depth examination of each location he visits, Lister offers an immersive and intimate perspective of remarkable villages, exotic fauna, and notable tourist attractions, providing an armchair travel experience par excellence.
In addition to recounting specific details about each location, Lister further enriches the narrative by showcasing his personal photography collection. He paints a vivid picture with his words and imagery, drawing the reader into the heart of each experience. In a thoughtful and comprehensive approach, he details his routes, accommodations, and modes of transportation, creating an engaging travel blueprint that seems almost within reach.
Lister’s journey is punctuated by the inevitable trials and tribulations that accompany travel, but his unwavering positive outlook and resilient spirit give the narrative an enchanting charm. The reader is apt to be swept away in the exhilaration of travel, the comfort of home notwithstanding.
Let’s Go to Gabon, Cameroon, and Namibia is a treasure trove of remarkable experiences, from breathtaking sunsets to awe-inspiring landscapes and intriguing museums. Lister’s visit to the spiral tower adjacent to the Monument of Reunification is particularly memorable for its uniqueness. He provides an unusual perspective with his visit to uranium mines, offering insightful commentary that attests to his seasoned travel expertise.
Lister extends his narrative beyond mere descriptions of locations, sharing personal travel experiences and illuminating each journey’s uniqueness. From the idiosyncrasies of public transport to the varied character of hotels, Lister offers a holistic view of the travel experience.
In Lister’s narrative, a relaxed and entertaining tone prevails. However, a deeper exploration of his interpersonal interactions would have added an additional layer of life and color to the narrative. Yet, Lister’s dedication to portraying the distinct characteristics of each region with authenticity and objectivity is commendable and adds significant value to the narrative.
Let’s Go to Gabon, Cameroon, and Namibia is a captivating travelogue, ideal for travel enthusiasts and anyone eager to discover new locations. It’s a testament to Lister’s passion and commitment to capturing and conveying the essence of his travels in an engaging and informative manner.
Pages: 207 | ASIN : B0C8F3X5WS
LITERARY TITAN 