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Showing posts with label Memoir. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Memoir. Show all posts

Friday, July 15, 2022

#NetGalley Audio Book Review: Just Tyrus: A Memoir by Tyrus

This was definitely Tyrus and I found it interesting to learn of his rough childhood.
Just Tyrus: A Memoir
by Tyrus
Narrated by Tyrus

Just Tyrus: A Memoir

Listening Length 4 hours and 58 minutes
Release date: 07-05-22
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Biography, Memoirs
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0.


Pro wrestler and political commentator Tyrus goes deep into his wild but triumphant life story, from his painfully dysfunctional upbringing to bodyguarding for Snoop Dogg, to becoming a wrestling icon and one of the most provocative on-air voices today.
The product of a 1970s mixed marriage, George Murdoch learned to fight early in life, fending off both race-baiting bullies and the demons of a dysfunctional home. Couch surfing all through high school and most of college, the quick-witted, sharp-tongued giant played football, ran drugs, and bounced at clubs to try to survive. After a false start with the WWE, he eventually became Snoop Dogg's bodyguard and traveled the world with the hip hop legend, biding his time and honing his rap. When the WWE urged him to return, George became "Brodus Clay" and, for the next several years, reinvented himself numerous times under the watchful mentorship of the legendary Dusty Rhodes, "the American Dream." He was eventually christened "Tyrus," and shortly after, a chance social media encounter with Greg Gutfeld at Fox News resulted in Tyrus finding a new skill: sage social commentator. Ferociously funny, blunt, and tenacious, Just Tyrus traces his unlikely and spectacular rise. As always with Tyrus, it's in-your-face and offers no apologies.


Review:

This memoir tells the reader/listener about Tyrus’ struggles in his dysfunctional family, pugnacious childhood, and his short ventures in crime as a young adult. Tyrus got into fights early in his life as a result of his mixed heritage and bullies who he decided to deal with. One of his childhood heroes was American Dream wrestler, Dusty Rhodes. It was a long time dream for Tyrus to get into wrestling. Through his employment journey, Tyrus, born George Murdoch, went through numerous trade names.

It seems as though Tyrus stumbled into his successes. He had a rough time in football before he fought his way into a position as a bodyguard for Snoop Dogg. Tyrus enjoyed that work, especially a time coaching young, disadvantaged children. The bodyguard position led him to a chance in wrestling. His participation in television wrestling went through some ups and downs but ultimately gave him a chance meeting with Greg Gutfeld, a political commentator and comedian at Fox News. This led to Tyrus being a regular (sidekick) on the Greg Gutfeld Show, now rebranded as Gutfeld!

Tyrus fulfilled a dream when he became the NWA World Television Champion in August 2021. He wears his champion belt during his appearances on Gutfeld! and while contributing on various other Fox news and opinion programs.

I enjoyed the informative memoir which is presented with Tyrus’ sharp wit and a humble forthrightness. He was a hot head as a youth, still has a brash mouth, but has, over the years, found wisdom grounded in common sense that he is able to share. I have seen Tyrus on television and was impressed by his down-to-earth common sense. I sensed he had a rough childhood but didn’t really know. I recommend this to anyone who would like to know more about this intelligent commentator. (Warning: there is a liberal amount of swearing.)

Audio Notes: Tyrus does the narration of his own work. Although I enjoyed his natural delivery, there were technical issues with sound levels, background noises, and uneven pacing. This didn’t hamper my enjoyment of the audio.

Source: 2022 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2022NetGalley and 2022Audiobook goals.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Audible Book Review: The Reaper, Autobiography of One of the Deadliest Special Ops Snipers, by Gary Brozek, Nicholas Irving

Nicholas Irving shares his years of sniper action in service of our military.
The Reaper
Autobiography of One of the Deadliest Special Ops Snipers
By: Gary Brozek, Nicholas Irving
Narrated by: Jeff Gurner

Length: 7 hrs and 40 mins
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Biography, Memoir, Military, Special Elite
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.5; Narration 4.5.


Publisher's Summary
Groundbreaking, thrilling and revealing, The Reaper is the astonishing memoir of Special Operations Direct Action Sniper Nicholas Irving, the 3rd Ranger Battalion's deadliest sniper with 33 confirmed kills, though his remarkable career total, including probables, is unknown. In the best-selling tradition of American Sniper and Shooter, Irving shares the true story of his extraordinary career, including his deployment to Afghanistan in the summer of 2009, when he set another record, this time for enemy kills on a single deployment. His teammates and chain of command labeled him "The Reaper," and his actions on the battlefield became the stuff of legend, culminating in an extraordinary face-off against an enemy sniper known simply as The Chechnian. Irving's astonishing first-person account of his development into an expert assassin offers a fascinating and extremely rare view of special operations combat missions through the eyes of a Ranger sniper during the Global War on Terrorism. From the brotherhood and sacrifice of teammates in battle to the cold reality of taking a life to protect another, no other audiobook dives so deeply inside the life of a sniper on point.
©2015 Nicholas Irving (P)2014 Macmillan Audio


Review:
Nicholas Irving was given his nickname, “The Reaper”, by other military men who heard of his skills and confirmed kills while protecting his teammates. He was rumored to have many more kills than were actual but he did have a good record especially after so many snipers had uneventful deployments. For Irving, a busy mission was a mixed blessing. Like many young soldiers he dreamed as a young boy of eventually becoming a soldier serving his country. He was only in his early 20s when he was a leader taking his team into enemy territory. On one hand many of the young men are eager to face the enemy, but Irving is mindful of each mate he is responsible for.

I enjoyed this autobiography which is written to be active and interesting. I found it amusing how Irving describes his special relationship with his equipment which is presented in a light way with a touch of self-deprecation. The entire book is presented with honest feelings addressing the relationships, including a dog and handler pair, developed and the reality of the dangers faced in hostile territory. I appreciated the intensity of the thoughts shared with minimal bad language. I recommend this to readers interested in the life of a military sniper.

Audio Notes
: Jeff Gurner does a clear job with the narration. My only thought was that the accent didn’t really fit as Gurner appears to be an older white male narrating the thoughts and actions of a young black man. This detracted a bit from the reality of the biography.

Source: March 2016 Sale at Audible. This qualifies for 2021TBR, and 2021Audiobook goals.

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Audible Book Review: Break Shot: My First 21 Years, An Audio Memoir, by James Taylor

I was surprised by this history of James Taylor's early years.
Break Shot: My First 21 Years
An Audio Memoir
By: James Taylor
Narrated by: James Taylor

Break Shot: My First 21 Years audiobook cover art
Length: 1 hr and 33 mins
Release date: 01-31-20
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Arts & Entertainment, Memoir, Music
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.


About This Audible Original
"I’m James Taylor and I’m a professional autobiographer," says the celebrated folk singer at the start of this tender audio memoir. Through decades of music by one of the best-selling musicians of all time, who created classics like "Fire and Rain" and "Carolina in My Mind," James Taylor has doled out his history in the poetry of his work. Taylor says his early life is, "the source of many of my songs," and Break Shot is a tour of his first 21 years in rich, new detail. Praised by Forbes magazine as going "beyond the spoken word," Break Shot combines storytelling, music and performance to create a one-of-a-kind listening experience. Longtime fans will savor a crop of musical gems, including an unreleased recording of the beloved hymn "Jerusalem," selections from his newest release American Standard, as well as new original scoring by Taylor specially recorded for Break Shot and more from the Grammy Award-winning artist.
Recorded in his home studio, TheBarn in western Massachusetts, Taylor tells the deeply personal story of his youth, which is entwined with the story of his family. What started as an idyllic tight unit soon became a family sent to different emotional corners—like a break shot in the game of pool, he says, when you slam the cue ball into the fifteen other balls and they all go flying off. By the time Taylor released his breakout second album in 1970, Sweet Baby James, he had seen the disintegration of his parents’ marriage and his family crumble in the aftermath. He had committed himself twice to a psychiatric hospital, battled depression, a heroin addiction, suffered a relapse, and traveled far away from the wood smoke and moonshine of the North Carolina landscapes in which he came of age. Despite it all, he was also on the cusp of superstardom and on his way to bringing light and joy to millions. He was 21.
Journey with James Taylor to a time before he became a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors and both the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Medal of Arts—and a beloved voice to millions.
© 2019 James Taylor (P) 2020 AO Media LLC


Review:
James Taylor, born in 1948, is a renowned musician/songwriter who is only a few years older than me. I enjoy many of his songs when I was young, and still do today. I was totally surprised that this prolific songwriter suffered mental illness during his teen years. I enjoyed that he shared his family struggles openly and frankly. He acknowledged that he got involved with drugs early on and had to seek help more than once… all before the age of 21. Taylor thanked several friends and musicians who helped him begin his career, including a visit with the Beetles. He also explained how personal events and relationships contributed to the songs he was writing. It was interesting that Taylor reveals the humanity and fragility that provided inspiration for his music.

I agree that Fire and Rain is a ‘classic’ and I was pleased when the song was shared at the end of the book. This is a quick listen, narrated by the author which provided more authenticity. I did enjoy what was shared but I would have liked more lyrics in the piece. There were several sections of music without lyrics which were nice but not as meaningful for me. I recommend this to those of the era and to those who enjoy learning about the background of an American songwriter.

Source: 2/10/2020 Extra Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet goals.

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Audible Book Review: The Autobiography of Santa Claus by Jeff Guinn

This is full of interesting history tidbits about Santa and other Christmas traditions.
The Autobiography of Santa Claus
By: Jeff Guinn
Narrated by: John H. Mayer

Length: 9 hrs and 7 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-10-04
Language: English
Publisher: Listen & Live Audio, Inc.
Genre: Biographical, Folklore, Memoir
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Narration


Publisher's Summary
Jump on Santa's sleigh for a journey through 17 centuries of Christmas magic!
This enchanting holiday treasure combines historical fact with glorious legend as Saint Nicholas himself reveals the definitive story of Santa Claus. From his birth in Lycia to meeting Mrs. Claus and all of his helpers, Santa relates the tale of how he spread his message of generosity and the goodness of giving across the world.
Families will delight in every entertaining chapter of this holiday classic, one for each cold December night leading up to Christmas!
©2004 Jeff Guinn (P)2004 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.


Review:
This interesting work begins with Santa choosing to share his own biography to a journalist who doesn’t quite have all the facts. He tells of his birth in Lycia in 280 A.D. and shares how his Christian faith and the baby Jesus influenced him to share his wealth with others. After years the legend of Saint Nicholas was developed around his gift giving to others in his home town.

He shares how magic became part of his story as he picked up friends along his travels and how he was given different names around the world. He also shares how many of the Christmas traditions, such as stockings, trees, yule logs and much more, began.

I was fascinated and delighted by his helpful friends who include Felix, Layla, Attila the Hun, Arthur of Britain and even Leonardo Da Vinci! I was even more interested in the history, for example, learning that Christmas celebrations were banned by American pilgrims, but fortunately celebrated in the Dutch communities.

I didn’t realize until I looked at the Table of Contents on the Kindle ‘look inside’ feature that the chapters are set out so they can be read one a night for the first 24 days of December. That is a good idea and I think would make the reading or listening more enjoyable than forging through it as I did. I recommend this to families to read and share with their children during December. The story is filled with the philosophy that "it is better to give than receive."  It would be a great way to encourage finding ways to share with others instead of focusing only on the anticipation of receiving gifts.

Audio Notes: John H. Mayer’s deep voice fits the work and Santa’s personality. He captures other voices appropriately too. The listening is engaging and fun.

Source: Audible 12/24/17 Daily Deal Purchase $2.95. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

Saturday, December 1, 2018

Audible Book Review: 29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life by Cami Gilbert

This is very well done and inspiring. It was a nice listen for Thanksgiving week!
29 Gifts
How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life
By: Cami Walker
Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert
29 Gifts audiobook cover art
Length: 6 hrs and 27 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-20-09
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Inspirational, Memoir, Multiple Sclerosis
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
At age 35, Cami Walker was burdened by a battle with multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurological condition that made it difficult for her to walk, work, or enjoy her life. Seeking a remedy for her depression after being hospitalized, she received an uncommon prescription from an African medicine woman: give to others for 29 days.
29 Gifts is the insightful story of the author's life change as she embraces and reflects on the naturally reciprocal process of giving and receiving. Many of Walker's gifts were simple - a phone call, spare change, a Kleenex. Yet the acts were transformative. By day 29, not only had Walker's health and happiness improved, but she had created a worldwide giving movement.
The book also includes personal essays from others whose lives changed for the better by giving, plus pages for the reader to record their own journey. More than a memoir, 29 Gifts offers inspiring lessons on how a simple daily practice of altruism can dramatically alter your outlook on the world.
©2009 Brightside Communications, Inc. (P)2009 Blackstone Audio, Inc.


Review:
This memoir/inspirational work started out rather difficult to read (listen to). Cami, the author, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and at age 35 she was struggling with fatigue, weakness, consistent pain and severe depression. This impacted her life as well as tired out her caregivers, her husband and mother.

Cami met with an African healing woman for massage and mental therapy. This friend (she was more than a healer) shared the unique prescription of spending 29 days in a row giving gifts to others. Cami’s friend explained that the gifts did not have to be big or expensive but did have to be given with meaning and intent. The purpose was to focus on giving but it had a surprising effect on opening Cami to receiving gifts too. Cami was so impressed with the changes in her life that she established a blog to share the story and prescription with others.

Cami does a good job sharing her 29 Gift experience with honesty and charm. The change in her attitude was a relief and pleasure to listen to. I can appreciate the difficulties for the caregivers as I experienced some of the meanspirited elements when my husband was on medication recovering from his heart valve operation. (You would think the patient would show more sorrow for bad behaviors and gratitude for the care, but they don't seem to recognize that.) The end of this audio includes short descriptions from others who shared on the blog/webpage. Since I am a strong Christ follower, I wasn't totally comfortable with some the occult 'dabblings' the author shares.

I like to think I have a pretty giving nature to begin with. I am not sure I will do the 29 day exercise, but this has made me more mindful to give unexpected gifts to friends and strangers. I love the idea of unexpected kindnesses! I would certainly recommend this to anyone who is suffering with stress and depression as I do think it would help turn the focus to more positive ground.

Audio Notes: Tavia Gilbert did a fine job with the narration. She captured the distress in the beginning and the relief as the journey progressed. I didn't realize that I had just listened to a fiction title by Tavia (Zoe's Tale) until I started to include my audio notes here. The works are totally different but she did well on both of them. I am glad that I picked this up at a bargain price and I enjoyed the listen.

Source: June 2017 Audible Daily Deal $1.95. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Book Review: To Thine Be the Glory by Angela D. Martin

Although this is interesting as a memoir, it needs a solid editing.
To Thine Be the Glory
by Angela D. Martin
File Size: 141 KB
Print Length: 50 pages
Publisher: AuthorHouse UK (April 17, 2018)
ASIN: B07D5T5G25
Genre: Christian, Memoir, Religion
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0


This is a book that outlines the testimony of the authors life and how she officially came to faith and realized that there was a call of God on her life.


Review:
This is an interesting sharing of the author’s introduction to God during her childhood and her mature choice as an adult to recognize the call of God in her life and to seek a closer relationship with Him. I give the author kudos for sharing her personal journey through life's struggles and mistakes.

I would love to give this a higher rating as the content is meaningful to me. However, although the situations are interesting, the telling is terribly disjointed. English may be a secondary language for the author but, more importantly, the work is in desperate need of editing. The events do not appear sequentially which adds to the incohesive and awkward nature of the reading. I did read from a proof version, but I wouldn’t expect even a proof to have the extent of editing errors. I think with solid, proper editing this would make an appropriate memoir of a faith journey.

Saturday, August 26, 2017

Audible Book Review: H Is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald

This is not quite what I expected but beautifully written for an interesting memoir/biography.
H Is for Hawk
Written by: Helen Macdonald
Narrated by: Helen Macdonald
Length: 11 hrs and 6 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-03-15
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Memoir
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
When Helen MacDonald's father died suddenly on a London street, she was devastated. An experienced falconer captivated by hawks since childhood, she'd never before been tempted to train one of the most vicious predators: the goshawk. But in her grief, she saw that the goshawk's fierce and feral anger mirrored her own. Resolving to purchase and raise the deadly creature as a means to cope with her loss, she adopted Mabel and turned to the guidance of The Once and Future King author T. H. White's chronicle The Goshawk to begin her journey into Mabel's world. Projecting herself "in the hawk's wild mind to tame her" tested the limits of MacDonald's humanity.
By turns heartbreaking and hilarious, this book is an unflinching account of bereavement, a unique look at the magnetism of an extraordinary beast, and the story of an eccentric falconer and legendary writer. Weaving together obsession, madness, memory, myth, and history, H Is for Hawk is a distinctive, surprising blend of nature writing and memoir from a very gifted writer.
©2014 Helen Macdonald (P)2014 Isis Publishing, Ltd. UK


Review:
The first thing I noted in this audio is the beautiful writing. This drew me in although I struggled with the content as the work moved on. This a memoir of the author’s struggle to overcome the disabling grief that overwhelms her upon her father’s sudden death.

At times this is her story, at others it is the story of her photojournalist father. Then woven in is a personal glimpse of T.H. White’s rather dysfunctional and sad life story. All of these are connected through their respective working with and love of hawks and falconry. Ms. Macdonald chooses to train a goshawk using older books from White and other authors as guides although she learns through experience their methods are wrong – at least as they might be applied to her calmer bird. Working with Mable initially takes Ms. Macdonald out of the world and insulates her from society, but eventually helps her see her need for other people and helps her find purpose to move on with her life.

I am not much into depression and obsession so those elements weren't wonderful for me. I did enjoy the bird training especially since I have had a few variety of birds, though none were hunters. I was struck by the fear of more lose when it came time to let the bird fly free and hope that it would return.

It was really the beautiful writing that kept me listening when the content might have caused me to skip forward or stop listening altogether. The whole work is a composition of lives, reflected in words but apparently with the same distinct and sharp skill of her photojournalist father. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy memoirs and nature.

Audio Notes: It is always interesting to have the author narrate their own work. Clearly Ms. Macdonald does a lovely job with the narration. She conveys her emotions more through the content of the book and thankfully does not make the depressing moments any darker than they are by the written word. I am glad that I listened to this as I am not sure if I would have picked up the print or ebook.

I picked this title from my TBR shelves. It qualifies for Mount TBR, Audiobook and for "H" on my Alphabet Challenge.

Saturday, June 24, 2017

Audible Book Review: You Will Not Have My Hate by Antoine Leiris

This is very well written and narrated, and poignant in it's message.
You Will Not Have My Hate
Written by: Antoine Leiris
Narrated by: Gildart Jackson

Length: 1 hr and 43 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-25-16
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Personal Memoirs
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
Number one international best seller
"On Friday night you stole the life of an exceptional person, the love of my life, the mother of my son, but you will not have my hate."
On November 13, 2015, Antoine Leiris' wife, Hélène Muyal-Leiris, was killed by terrorists while attending a rock concert at the Bataclan Theater in Paris, in the deadliest attack on France since World War II. Three days later Leiris wrote an open letter addressed directly to his wife's killers, which he posted on Facebook. He refused to be cowed or to let his 17-month-old son's life be defined by Hélène's murder. He refused to let the killers have their way: "For as long as he lives, this little boy will insult you with his happiness and freedom." Instantly that short Facebook post caught fire and was reported on by newspapers and television stations all over the world. In his determination to honor the memory of his wife, he became an international hero to everyone searching desperately for a way to deal with the horror of the Paris attacks and the grim shadow cast today by the threat of terrorism.
Now Leiris tells the full story of his grief and struggle. You Will Not Have My Hate is a remarkable, heartbreaking, and indeed beautiful memoir of how he and his baby son, Melvil, endured in the days and weeks after Hélène's murder. With absolute emotional courage and openness, he somehow finds a way to answer that impossible question: How can I go on? He visits Hélène's body at the morgue, has to tell Melvil that Mommy will not be coming home, and buries the woman he had planned to spend the rest of his life with.
Leiris' grief is terrible, but his love for his family is indomitable. This is the rare and unforgettable testimony of a survivor and a universal message of hope and resilience. Leiris confronts an incomprehensible pain with a humbling generosity and grandeur of spirit. He is a guiding star for us all in these perilous times. His message - hate will be vanquished by love - is eternal.
©2016 Antoine Leiris (P)2016 Penguin Audio


Review:

As the blurb states; “Antoine Leiris' wife, Hélène Muyal-Leiris, was killed by terrorists while attending a rock concert at the Bataclan Theater in Paris” on November 13, 2015. Three days after the event Leiris posted a post to refute the damage of the terrorists by declaring they would not have his hate and would not steal the joy of life from his 17 month old son, Melvil.

This story travels through the immediate reactions of Antoine when he hears of the attack at an event that his wife was attending. He is unable to make contact with his wife and slowly comes to the acknowledgement that she is missing … or worse… killed in the attack. Leiris has to become mother as well as father to their son. He shares the raw emotions of grief and the difficulties dealing with well-meaning sympathies.

I totally appreciated the open sharing and especially the strength exhibited in the sharing. I consider this more a sharing than a story. Although Leiris hoped to write a story for Melvil one day, this debut writing is beautiful, poignant and powerful. It reveals grief, love and the strength and determination to go forward in life. I recommend this to anyone who has suffered a tragedy or wants to understand a life affirming response that can result when faced with such a loss.

Audio Notes: Gildart Jackson does an excellent job narrating this memoir. His soft voice and fitting accent make this a gripping audio experience.

This is from my Audible TBR shelf for "Y" in Alphabet Challenge. This also qualifies for Audiobook and Mount TBR challenges.

Saturday, August 13, 2016

Audible Book Review: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

This is an extraordinary story of a WWII hero – and it tells so much more.
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption
Written by: Laura Hillenbrand
Narrated by: Edward Herrmann
Length: 14 hrs
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:11-16-10
Publisher: Random House Audio
Genre: Biography, Memoir
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
On a May afternoon in 1943, an Army Air Forces bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean and disappeared, leaving only a spray of debris and a slick of oil, gasoline, and blood.
Then, on the ocean surface, a face appeared. It was that of a young lieutenant, the plane's bombardier, who was struggling to a life raft and pulling himself aboard. So began one of the most extraordinary odysseys of the Second World War.
The lieutenant's name was Louis Zamperini. In boyhood, he'd been a cunning and incorrigible delinquent, breaking into houses, brawling, and fleeing his home to ride the rails. As a teenager, he had channeled his defiance into running, discovering a prodigious talent that had carried him to the Berlin Olympics and within sight of the four-minute mile. But when war had come, the athlete had become an airman, embarking on a journey that led to his doomed flight, a tiny raft, and a drift into the unknown.
Ahead of Zamperini lay thousands of miles of open ocean, leaping sharks, a foundering raft, thirst and starvation, enemy aircraft, and, beyond, a trial even greater. Driven to the limits of endurance, Zamperini would answer desperation with ingenuity; suffering with hope, resolve, and humor; brutality with rebellion. His fate, whether triumph or tragedy, would be suspended on the fraying wire of his will.
In her long-awaited new book, Laura Hillenbrand writes with the same rich and vivid narrative voice she displayed in Seabiscuit. Telling an unforgettable story of a man's journey into extremity, Unbroken is a testament to the resilience of the human mind, body, and spirit.
©2010 Laura Hillenbrand; 2010 Random House Audio


Review:
This is a biography/memoir portraying the remarkable life of Louis Zamperini. Zamperini was an  uncontrollable scamp of a boy. Although he exasperated his parents and sister, he was greatly loved. His older brother, Pete, was always trying to rein Louis in and direct his enthusiastic energy to better pursuits. Finally, Pete was able to encourage Louis to pour his energies into running. Louis became a running champion and did well at the German Olympics in 1936.

Zamperini was training for the next Olympics when America was drawn into WWII. Zamperini entered the aircorps and was deployed to the Pacific island of Funafuti where he served as a bombardier on a B-24 bomber named Super Man. Zamperini became good friends with the pilot,
"Phil" Phillips. The plane survived one remarkable enemy battle and returned with multiple bullet holes, putting it out of commission. Phil, Zamperini and their crew mates were sent on a rescue hunt in another plane that was known for mechanical problems. The plane had difficulties and Phil was forced to crash in the ocean. Eleven crew mates were killed or lost, leaving only three survivors, Phil, Louis and another young man, Mac.

The story follows their 47-day struggle to survive at sea without food and fresh water. Only Louis and Phil make it to land where they become Japanese prisoners of war under brutal and cruel wardens.

The story is remarkable and brings out a wide range of emotions. The portrayal of the struggle at sea is a frightening tale. The description of the P.O.W. experience is horrifying and heart wrenching. I have heard of these horrors and watched one or two movies. There is no way to read/listen to the abuses and atrocities without cringing. The author presents societal and psychological backgrounds/reasons to explain the treatment. It is still hard to understand, much less swallow.

The summary of this story is stated in the title: “Unbroken”. It made me cry, cringe and smile. It is well researched, richly written and shares the history of a remarkable man and several of his friends. I was impressed with how Zamperini came through the trials and how God used him. I recommend this to any reader who needs a story of courage, strength and forgiveness. Also recommended to any reader who wants to remember the horrors of war and hope that they never occur again.

Audio Notes: Edward Herrmann does a beautiful job with the narration. He shares different accents and voices but, even more impressively, he shares the intensity of the emotions that are portrayed by the story. The narration definitely contributed to the experience of the story for me.

I pulled this from my Audible TBR shelf. It qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge, Audio Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Challenge.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Audio Book Review: Buster: The Military Dog Who Saved a Thousand Lives by Will Barrow, Isabel George

This is an engaging and interesting listen.
Buster: The Military Dog Who Saved a Thousand Lives
Written by: RAF Police Flight Sergeant Will Barrow, Isabel George
Narrated by: James Langton
Length: 6 hrs and 12 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-27-15
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Personal Memoir
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
"With some dogs you share a boil-in-the-bag breakfast and maybe a blanket on a cold desert floor. Some you wouldn't leave in charge of your Grandma unless you wanted to find out just how fast the old girl could run. But if you're very, very lucky, there will be the one dog you would lay down your life for - and for me that dog is Buster."
Buster, an English springer spaniel who has served his comrades and his country with unstinting devotion, has saved thousands of lives. This is the story of his partnership with RAF Police Sergeant Will Barrow, told by Will himself, describing how each came to save the other's life. It is a relationship that produced some heroic feats - including sniffing out explosive vests that led to the arrests of two suicide bombers - in the dust and desert heat of Afghanistan and beyond.
Buster, uniquely, has served five tours of duty in three theaters of war (Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan) - more than any other military dog. He also won the prestigious Crufts Friends for Life Award in 2012 and has gone on to become the official lifetime mascot of the RAF Police, the only dog in history to have been honored in that manner. A best friend in dog's clothing, an RAF dog with his mossy feet firmly on the ground, Buster is truly a dog in a million.
©2015 Will Barrow (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.


Review:
This audiobook shares the story of how Buster becomes RAF Police Sergeant Will Barrow’s partner. They travel on several active war tours in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. Buster actually served five tours although not all were with Will. Although Will and Buster face danger in many different search scenarios, there is no real gore shared. The story is told by Will, giving descriptions of their bases and desert dwellings and providing wonderful images of Buster’s friendly personality. The book makes it clear that Buster, and dogs like him, help provide strength and courage to their partners and to other troop members who are grateful to know the skills and talents the dogs bring to the arena.

We often think of military or search dogs as German Shepherds or maybe Labradors. But Buster is a springer spaniel search dog. I love how the author portrays Buster’s human-like emotions and expressions. He reflects friendliness, sarcasm and stubbornness to name just a few. Buster sounds like a dog you would love to give a big hug to. I recommend this to readers who like dogs and those interested in how a military dog works in his search modes.

Audio Notes: James Langton does a nice job with the narration. The accent fits the author and provides an easy and direct presentation.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies for my Audiobook Challenge, B in the Alphabet Soup Challenge, and Triple Dog Dare.


Saturday, July 11, 2015

Audible Book Review: Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca by Maria Goodavage

This is a wonderful story!
Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca
Written by: Maria Goodavage
Narrated by: Neil Shah

Length: 7 hrs and 58 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-23-14
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Personal Memoirs
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
The New York Times best-selling author of Soldier DogsTop Dog, Maria Goodavage takes listeners into the life of Lucca K458, a decorated and highly skilled military working dog. An extraordinary bond developed between Lucca and Marine Corps handler Chris Willingham, launching what became a legendary 400-mission career. A Specialized Search Dog, Lucca belongs to an elite group trained to work off-leash at long distances from her handler. She served alongside both Special Forces and regular infantry. She and Willingham became so sought-after that units scheduled missions around their availability.
The audiobook describes in gritty detail the team’s adventures on and off the battlefields, including tense, lifesaving explosives finds and firefights as well as the bravery of fellow handlers and dogs they served with. Ultimately, we see how the bond between Lucca and Willingham overcame the endless brutalities of war and the traumas this violence ignites. Here is a portrait of modern warfare with a heart-warming and inspiring conclusion that will touch dog lovers and the toughest military listeners.
©2014 Maria Goodavage and Christopher Elden Willingham (P)2014 Recorded Books


Review:
This book tells the story of Lucca K458, a highly skilled military working dog who developed a strong bond with her primary handler, Marine Staff Sgt. Chris Willingham. Lucca also had a good bond with her second handler, Cpl. Juan “ROD” Rodriguez. This book portrays Lucca’s experiences searching out IEDs and hidden weapon stashes in Afghanistan and other war zones. She risks her own life as she saves many others. The story includes relationships with other military working dogs and their handlers. There is also a little sharing of military friendships and home life interactions.

There were some disjointed sections that seemed to be taken from an outline that was added on. This disrupted the flow a bit but the information was still gripping. The description says “gritty detail” but this does not mean foul language as it might in other stories. The gritty details are the violence and trauma of war. Although it is hard to hear the awful reality of war, the story of the great work and service that the dogs perform is worth the listen. I found the story absolutely wonderful. It is definitely 'heart-warming and inspiring'.

I think any dog lover would like this story. Those interested in military detail would also enjoy this different view.

Audio Notes: Neil Shah does an adequate job but I am sorry to say that the narration is not stellar. I felt that there could have been a lot more energy and inflection added to enhance the reading. I am glad I found this as a Daily Deal. I recommend listening to a sample of the audio to determine how you feel about it before purchasing the audio version.

I picked this up recently for $2.95 as a Daily Deal at Audible. This is added to my Audio Challenge. I would like to use this as my outstanding heroine for Full House Challenge. 

Friday, August 29, 2014

Audio Book Review: The Curve Of Time by M. Wylie Blanchet

This is a delightful listening pleasure.
The Curve of Time
by M. Wylie Blanchet
Narrated by: Heather Henderson

Length: 7 hrs and 24 mins
Format: Unabridged
Release Date:06-17-14
Publisher: Post Hypnotic Press Inc.
Program Type: Audiobook
Genre: Memoir
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
At a time when Vancouver Island was still an extremely remote and sparsely populated backwater, a young widow packed her five children into a 25-foot boat dubbed The Caprice and set off on an adventure. Summer after summer the brave young mother, who became known as "Capi," would set sail and explore the rugged coastline for months with her young crew. Although the hazards the family faced were numerous-tides, fog, storms, rapids, cougars, and even grizzlies-Capi brought them through it all. The Curve of Time is Capi's poignant, thoughtful, and poetic recollection of these days.This classic coastal tale has been a bestseller since it was first published in 1961. That was also the year of the author's death. In print continuously since it's original publication, this is the first time it has been made available in audio.
©1961 The Estate of M. Wylie Blanchet (P)2014 Post Hypnotic Press Inc.


Review:
This is a sharing of personal experiences of a young widow who is boating with five children as they explore the remote areas of the rugged Vancouver coast. The author adds some history tidbits along the way as well as the summer adventures. The stories are natural, often charming and humorous. It is extra special as this is set in 1927 so their explorations tend to be true adventures of a more primitive time and setting. Most visits and encounters with strangers, even native Indians, are safe and friendly. They make friends and share time with loners and couples in remote areas. Then again, there are natural dangers too in the form of bears and cougars.

The tales share the events of the young family during their summer vacations and include, at the end, a sweet returning home to their “Little House” on Vancouver Island. The chapters represent separate events and adventures in no particular order of time. The stories include lovely descriptions of the rugged, beautiful and sometimes eerie landscaping, including visits to abandoned tribal villages and burial grounds. There are also some lovely moments of poetic observance.

I particularly enjoyed this experience because my family did a lot of boating when I was a teenager. My experiences were with more modern boats in the Bahamas but we still had similar adventures. We met strangers who became friends and had times when we faced the dangers of shark infested waters and were stranded by engine failures.

This is a book that shouldn't be limited to boaters although that is a large part of the entertainment. This is a lovely, enjoyable family journal with adventures that could be shared with children as well as adults. I have recommended it to my daughter to listen to with my grandchildren, ages 3 to 10. It is perfect for vacation listening as it tells of summer explorations but it doesn’t have to be limited to summer. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys tales of family time adventuring and especially those who might enjoy the excitement of boating in sometimes tight and danger places. Although there is a bit of an old fashioned tone the stories are timeless in the nature of remembering family adventures.

Audio Notes: I found the narration by Heather Henderson to be spot on for the nature of the story. The pacing and inflections fit the circumstances being described. She is able to portray the experiences with a gentle and natural presentation. I am sure that the book is good in print but the audio is a delightful, easy listen.  You can find some comments from Ms. Henderson and lovely images from the family at her own blog: http://heatherannehenderson.com/2014/07/04/a-narrators-joy-the-curve-of-time/

I received this audio download from Post Hypnotic Press for and honest review.

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Book Review: Let Me Get This Off My Chest: A Breast Cancer Survivor Over-Shares by Margaret Lesh

This is a very informative memoir that handles a difficult subject with sincerity, humor and hope!
Let Me Get This Off My Chest:
A Breast Cancer Survivor Over-Shares
by Margaret Lesh
  • File Size: 454 KB
  • Print Length: 203 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0615812511
  • Publisher: StoryRhyme.com Publishing; 1 edition (January 3, 2014)
  • ASIN: B00DQSVL4W
 Genre: Memoir, Nonfiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Book Description
Publication Date: July 1, 2013
Tamoxifen hot flashes, mastectomy, reconstruction, breast cancer etiquette, Frankenboobs, bras with special attachments—Margaret Lesh shares all in her funny, heartfelt collection of essays, anecdotes, and life lessons from the perspective of a two-time breast cancer survivor. She’ll tell you when it’s okay to play the cancer card, what you should take to the hospital, and gives suggestions on how to cope in those dark moments of the soul. With practical tips sprinkled throughout, LET ME GET THIS OFF MY CHEST explores how breast cancer changed her outlook on life, offering honest insights, humor, and sensitivity as she looks for the silver lining in a not-so-great situation.

Whether you are a woman diagnosed with breast cancer or whether you know someone with breast cancer, this book was written for you.


Review:
Ms. Lesh takes a sensitive subject and shares from her personal experience with sincerity and lots of humor. I appreciated her attitude which seeks the “silver linings” while dealing with the stark realities of diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Ms. Lesh was only 34 in 1999, with a two year old son, when she felt a lump and they discovered cancer. She had a lumpectomy and radiation treatment. Because the cancer was stage 1A, chemotherapy was not recommended at that time. After the radiation treatments she was prescribed medication for five years and celebrated when she could throw those bottles away. Although many years passed successfully, Ms. Lesh was one of the unfortunates who had a recurrence after 11 years so her story continues with more aggressive treatment. The second time around she had to make more difficult decisions and treatment that included chemotherapy so she shares those experiences as well.

This book has wonderfully upbeat quotes at each chapter which I find encouraging.  There are many good resources shared and specific tips that I have already used and know I will be referring to as my own treatment proceeds. The chapters are short and focus on specific events, decisions or treatments so it is easy to look up certain sections to refer back to. Cancer, like most diseases, impacts upon close family and friends as well as the individual. There are chapters in the book that give insight to friends and family on the fears and emotions that are being experienced and shared.

This is a quick, informative and easy read. It is comforting even though there is anxiety and sadness shared. I think a big part of cancer treatment focuses on faith and hope which Ms. Lesh conveys throughout, even through the stumbles of fear and depression that are natural. The book confirms something I have quickly learned through friends and on-line cancer boards. The diagnosis and treatment are unique for each individual, but we all share a common bond and can be helpful and supportive to others as well as accepting help and support graciously for ourselves.  I  recommend this book to any woman facing their own cancer journey and to those who wish to be supportive and understand more clearly what the patient is going through.

I give a big THANK YOU to Ms. Lesh for responding to my daughter’s frightened messages on Facebook and being so warm and gracious to gift this book to me!

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Book Review and Giveaway: Tears Water the Seeds of Hope by Kim Tews

I dare you to try to read this book without tissues or a handkerchief.  (Giveaway at bottom of post}
Tears Water the Seeds of Hope
by Kim Tews

  • Paperback: 232 pages
  • Publisher: CrossHouse Publishing (September 6, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 161315027X
  • ISBN-13: 978-1613150276
The book will be featured in the October Issues of Christianity Today and Books and Culture.
Genrre: Memoir-Narrative Non-fiction
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 6, 2012
Tears Water the Seeds of Hope is the inspiring true story of a Midwest husband and wife that become disenchanted with the relentless pursuit of the American Dream and embark on a journey that spans six countries and redefines their values and lives. The story begins in a small town in Wisconsin and weaves its way through South and Central America as the couple gathers an army of supporters and establishes an organization to save the lives of children in the end stages of starvation in eastern Guatemala. The narrative is filled with action-packed adventure and heartwarming victories as the characters face incredible odds and seemingly hopeless situations, while hundreds of volunteers join mission teams to offer help and hope through the programs of the ministry. Readers of all ages will enjoy the roller-coaster ride of emotions-from laughter to tears to sheer joy-as they realize that ordinary people can make a difference one life at a time.


Review:
This is a true story in which Kim Tews shares her journey from measuring success in the standards of materialism to acknowledging the priceless rewards of storing up treasures in heaven.

Kim and her husband were successful real estate agents with two children, the expensive house, cars and toys in Wisconsin. Kim and Randy took a vacation trip in 2000 to Mexico that started a new direction for their lives. Kim made a simple remark among friends that she would like to help poor people in the world. The next thing she and Randy find themselves going on a mission trip to Ecuador that changes their hearts and soon changes their priorities.

Kim shares the beauty and simplicity of the lifestyles and gentle nature of many of the Latin Americans even amid the poverty. Kim and Randy start by coping with places that have no indoor plumbing and hotels with creepy crawlies in the bedrooms. After numerous mission trips to Ecuador and Nicaragua they discover a new need to help children suffering severe starvation and malnutrition. Unlike some of the surrounding areas they learn there is no relief program in the Southeast mountain areas of Guatemala. Step by small step Kim and a dedicated and loving team of volunteers begin and develop a mission organization known as Outreach for World Hope.

The writing is more than a journal of the events that shaped the goals and transformation for Kim.  It is a rich, flowing picture of their personal journey. Kim is able to pull the reader into the setting to see and feel the deprivations of the people and the fear and heartache of parents who do not have even $25.00 to buy life saving medicine for their children. There are (seemingly) small gifts and acts of kindness that are not small to the recipients.  There is warmth and joy too. Although outside the focus of their ministry, Kim describes the miraculous and huge gifts of time and money from multiple doctors and a hospital that step in to save the life of a teenage girl who would die without expensive, painful and risky surgery.

There are many harrowing adventures from mudslides to getting lost in the mountains. There are also difficult challenges including parents who do not know how sick their children are and who fear the hospitals. Not to mention parents who abuse and neglect their children.  Kim openly shares times of doubt in God when she faces such poverty, neglect and conditions that are so difficult for those of us with plenty to understand. Ultimately she acknowledges that the beauty and miracle of seeing a child restored to health can only reaffirm the existence of God and the awesomeness of His creation even when we do not understand all of His ways.

There are some striking photos shared in the back of the book. (See this link to OWH website to see before and after pictures.) Sometimes we forget how greatly blessed we are. This is an awesome story of how one family can make a difference as they improve the lives of poor children while sharing the love of God.  I encourage everyone willing to have their heart touched to read this story, give thanks for your blessings and then share what and how you can.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
The source of the book title:
...had God not brought us to this horrible scene of human suffering, He could not have convicted us to serve Him in this place. The tears we cried would soon water the seeds of hope that would change the future fo children like Elias. Page 59.
I received this wonderful book from the Author as part of a blog tour through Great Escape Book Tours. 

Amazon Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Tears-Water-Seeds-Hope-Tews/dp/1613150288/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1346857734&sr=1-1&keywords=kim+tews

Barnes and Noble Page: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tears-water-the-seeds-of-hope-kim-tews/1112117261?ean=9781613150276

Link to Outreach For World Hope (Author’s webpage): http://outreachforworldhope.org/

Link to Book Page on Author’s Site http://outreachforworldhope.org/Tears%20Water%20Book%20Link.htm

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/outreachforworldhope

Great Escape Book Tour – Tour Page For This Tour: http://www.escapewithdollycas.com/great-escapes-book-tours/tears-water-the-seeds-of-hope-tour/



About This Author
Kim Tews was raised in Madison, Wisconsin and attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, majoring in Economics. She and husband, Randy, pursued careers in real estate before beginning mission work together in Ecuador, South America in 2001. In 2005 they established the 501 (c) 3 non-profit Outreach for World Hope to save the lives of starving children in eastern Guatemala. The couple lives in Verona, Wisconsin with their three children, traveling back and forth to Guatemala frequently to facilitate the ongoing programs of Outreach for World Hope.

Tears Water the Seeds of Hope
Chapter 1 - Wrecked for Life

The setting sun painted a backdrop of cotton candy pink clouds over the roadside bar and grill where we would soon hear our favorite acoustic guitar duo sing Jimmy Buffet songs. It was an idyllic Wisconsin summer night late in June of 2005. Under normal circumstances, I would have enjoyed the warm breeze and the glow of the festive colored tiki lights on the outdoor deck with the sense of carefree recreation that midwestern families enjoy when school is out and the days are longer. Randy shook his head, smiling as our two daughters took turns throwing harmless jabs at one another, each laughing hysterically at her own jokes. I felt as if I were watching the scene from a distance, fighting back tears as my mind returned to the children I had seen two days earlier in a squalid hospital in drought and famine-stricken eastern Guatemala—a scene that would change me forever and wreck me once and for all for the relentless pursuit of the American Dream. I was haunted by the forlorn faces of two children whose hopeless situation had laid the framework for the rest of my life.

The severely starved two-year-old boy was scarcely more than skin and bones. Hair was a luxury his body could not afford, as the nutrients available to him were barely enough to keep his vital organs functioning. His face was sunken and pale, the outline of his ribs and spine clearly visible through his thin layer of skin. He had been carried by his barefooted ten-year-old sister from El Volcancito, their remote mountain village several miles away, into the small town of Jocotan, in hopes that his life could be saved. The mother of the children was bedridden with a debilitating illness for which she could not afford treatment. My heart broke as much for the boy, barely hanging on and suffering miserably, as for the young girl, exhausted and saddled with the crushing responsibility of keeping her baby brother alive.

A frail little girl sat weeping on a tattered bench at the entrance to the facility, her body emaciated and her abdomen severely bloated, revealing the presence of parasites within her weak, trembling frame. She had been brought to the hospital for nutritional rehabilitation, and because she was four years old, and her mother had two smaller children to care for at home, she had been left alone. Lidia could not have understood why she had been left behind by her family in this unfamiliar place. She had been sitting on the bench since early morning waiting for them to return. In her hand she clutched what was probably her only toy, a comfort and reminder of home. The lump in my throat returned each time I recalled opening her tiny hand to find that she held a black plastic vulture.

Randy and I were married in May of 1993. During our early years together, we were blessed with two beautiful daughters and were pursuing careers in real estate, climbing the ranks among our colleagues in terms of sales volume. We purchased an enormous house on four acres, and although it was only four years old, we completely remodeled it to suit our tastes. With luxury vehicles and an ever-increasing income, we were living the American Dream. There was much to be thankful for, but something was missing.

Randy and I had both grown up near Madison, Wisconsin in middle class families, Randy’s Methodist and mine Catholic. We had attended Sunday services and believed in an all-powerful God, but faith and religion were not playing a major role in our adult lives. Having agreed as newlyweds to raise our family in faith, we dutifully attended services at a congregation near our home for seven years. But we eventually felt that we needed a change and in spring of 2000, we set out in search of a new church home. With no predetermined denomination in mind, we experienced a variety of church cultures, some too formal, some too weird, others seemingly insincere. We eventually stumbled across an Evangelical Free church on the west side of Madison, near our home in the suburb of Verona. I was surprised to find that instead of an organ and a choir, this church had a band that played upbeat contemporary Christian music on keyboards, guitars and drums. The young pastor spoke with passion, bringing the Bible to life by applying scripture to issues faced by the generations of the twenty-first century. It was at this church that our faith came alive.

Our new understanding of the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ and the resulting sense of love and gratitude we felt toward God, inevitably began to pose problems for us. We were embarrassed to invite our new Christian friends to our supersized home, and conflicts began to surface in our hearts about how our time and money were being spent. One of the many bedrooms in our home had been turned into my personal closet and was loaded with clothing and shoes, most of which I did not need. I had become so busy in my career as a Realtor that I began to feel like a gerbil on a wheel. My twelve-hour workdays did not leave room for the peace and joy I had heard should come with our newly authenticated Christian faith. One frantically busy day I decided to return phone calls while waiting in line for lunch at the McDonald’s drive through. When a voice came over the speaker saying, “Can I help you?”

I was so preoccupied that I mistook it for a phone call and said, “Hello, this is Kim Tews with the Tews Team Realtors”.

During the awkward silence that followed the kid must have been thinking, “Yeah, who cares? What do you want for lunch?”

That night I arrived home from work late in the evening to find our three-year-old daughter asleep on the couch clinging to a shirt I had worn the day before. When I asked Randy about the shirt he explained, “She said it smells like you, and she misses you.”

It was time for a change.

********************
Thank you to Kim and Great Escape Book Tours for providing a book for Giveaway!
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for a Print Copy for US or Canadian winner 

* This contest is only open to US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on October 19, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on October 20, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.  

CymLowell

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Book Review and Giveaway: Bossypants by Tina Fey

Live from New York its.... Tina Fey!
This is a fast and entertaining collection of life experiences and views; not quite a memoir but that genre fits.

Bossypants 
by Tina Fey
  • Hardcover: 288 pages
  • Publisher: Reagan Arthur Books; 1st edition (April 5, 2011)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0316056863
  • ISBN-13: 978-0316056861
    Genre: Memoirs
    My Rating: 4.0

Book Description
Publication Date: April 5, 2011
Before Liz Lemon, before "Weekend Update," before "Sarah Palin," Tina Fey was just a young girl with a dream: a recurring stress dream that she was being chased through a local airport by her middle-school gym teacher. She also had a dream that one day she would be a comedian on TV.

She has seen both these dreams come true.

At last, Tina Fey's story can be told. From her youthful days as a vicious nerd to her tour of duty on Saturday Night Live; from her passionately halfhearted pursuit of physical beauty to her life as a mother eating things off the floor; from her one-sided college romance to her nearly fatal honeymoon -- from the beginning of this paragraph to this final sentence.

Tina Fey reveals all, and proves what we've all suspected: you're no one until someone calls you bossy.

(Includes Special, Never-Before-Solicited Opinions on Breastfeeding, Princesses, Photoshop, the Electoral Process, and Italian Rum Cake!)

Review:
I don’t watch a lot of TV and it has actually been years since I watched Saturday Night Live (SNL) so I didn’t recognize Tina Fey as an actress.   I actually thought this book was comedy fiction.   Instead it is real life shared with great wit. The author sets the tone immediately by jumping into very up-beat humor. The attitude is very positive and tolerant on many subjects, especially liberal and moral issues.

Ms. Fey is an actress who became the head writer and a performer on SNL during the late 1990s to 2006.  She then became the producer, as well as a writer and performer, in 30 Rock (a show I have never seen.) Anyone who has watched and enjoyed crazy SNL skits can certainly appreciate the wacky and satirical level of humor and entertainment that are reflected in Bossypants. I could picture Ms. Fey in the SNL sketches where she portrayed Sarah Palin with Amy Poehler as Hillary Clinton.

The book covers the author’s childhood with her protective and penny-pinching father, her early employment trying to break into some of the “male” jobs, including the early years at SNL when women were not given prime roles. She also shares fun views on Photoshop (note the arms on the book cover), being thin, being fat, mothering issues like breast-feeding and differences with the nanny, and more fun snippets of her life.

I was turned off at times by swearing and some graphically blunt descriptions. And sorry, but I really don’t want to know about men peeing in cups or fecalists at photo shoots... although I guess these are interesting and little-publicized tidbits. For me some of this falls close to what I consider “toilet” humor which I don’t enjoy. (Okay - I admit, I’m sort of a prude.)

The book moves very fast both in print and on Audible.  Ms. Fey does the narration and the same upbeat pace carries in her fast narration. [What did disturb me on the audio was the almost vitriolic use of a phrase taking God’s name in vain. That is personally offensive to me and I switched back to the print to avoid any more negative from that.]  If the language won’t bother you and you like audio, you might very well enjoy her energy in the audio version - although you might want to get the Audio book which includes a pdf. Otherwise I would say go with the book which includes pictures that add interest.


Thank you to Little Brown and Company for this book to read and review.



This also falls into my New Authors and ARC challenges for 2012.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Review Print Copy:
1. Tell me if you recognized Tina Fey by name or visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there.  This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3.  For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 20, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on January 21. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Audiobook Review: Unmeasured Strength by Lauren Manning

If you enjoy true stories revealing remarkable character you will want to read this book with its inspiring words of wisdom and insight.

Genre: Memoir
My Rating:  4.0 of 5.0
Product Description:
A survivor's awe-inspiring story of how she overcame tragedy and re-created herself as a wife, mother, and woman.

She had a big job on Wall Street, a loving husband, and an infant son, and a confidence born of intelligence and beauty. But on 9/11, good fortune was no match for catastrophe. When a wall of flame at the World Trade Center burned more than 80 percent of her body, Lauren Manning began a 10-year journey of survival and rebirth that tested her almost beyond human endurance.

Long before that infamous September day, Manning learned the importance of perseverance, relentless hard work, and a deep faith in oneself. So when the horrific moment of her near-death arrived, she possessed the strength and resilience to insist that she would not yield - not to the terrorists, not to the long odds, not to the bottomless pain and exhaustion. But as the difficult months and years went by, she came to understand that she had to do more than survive. She needed to undergo a complete transformation, one that would allow her to embrace her life and her loved ones in an entirely new way. Fleeing the burning tower, Manning promised herself that she would see her son's face again. Courageous and inspiring, Unmeasured Strength tells the riveting story of her heroic effort to make that miracle - and so many others - possible.
Review:  This author reveals her remarkable strength and determination while sharing her personal tragedy.

The early chapters reveal aspects of Lauren’s childhood and first marriage. This established the character traits that helped her struggle through early self esteem issues and showed some of the qualities and values that formed her determination to succeed in life.

There is remarkable prose describing her view of the dark times and struggles while under massive doses of pain medication. I particularly like these portions. I also enjoyed the upbeat quotes at the beginning of each chapter.

There is a nice acknowledgment of the strength and comfort her husband, Greg, received from his faith while he steadfastly loved Lauren and stood by her side. Lauren’s own recognition of God’s love was strengthened by all those people - strangers - who reached out to offer her support and encouragement.

During her treatments Lauren focused on wanting to get home to her son who was barely a toddler at the time of the injury.  Lauren knew herself, respected herself and was able to believe in her own worth. She continually followed her father’s motto: “get over it.”  Her motivational mantra became “I can do it and I will do it.”

She suffered excruciating pain, skin grafting and rehabilitation. She lost part of her fingers because of the burns. Even after she returned home after six months in the burn treatment facilities she had to relearn basic skills like feeding herself and she needed help dressing.  I appreciated that Lauren focused on repeatedly committing to “doing my best” and learning to compromise; acknowledging that she didn’t have to be “Super woman”.

At points there is too much minutia in certain less important events.  The medical and therapy are presented in great detail and some people might be more interested in these aspects than I was. Once I felt there was an awkward  transition from the details of a family disagreement on the morning of 9/11 to her being caught in the conflagration of the explosions at the World Trade Center.  I had to back track to make certain I hadn’t missed something.

Interestingly the author’s narration trembles with the remembered pain of her emotional turmoil during her failing first marriage. Yet at other times the narration is a bit monotone as she seems to be reading the text without pauses and without inflection. These times lacked the emotion that would add to the impact of the story although I sense that the author struggled to walk a fine line between sharing emotionally and sharing the practical strength needed to share her recovery.

The book reveals a remarkable woman who learned there are more important things in life than striving for professional success. The bottom-line advise she gives is highlighted at her website: “Every day you have a choice. Make it count.”  If you prefer to read memoirs, by all means get the book. If you like audios and memoirs then this is an inspiring story which is well worth the listen.
I received this audiobook for review as part of the Audiobook Jukebox reviewer program.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Life is Not a Stage by Florence Henderson

I very much enjoyed this memoir!

by Florence Henderson
    Life Is Not a Stage: From Broadway Baby to a Lovely Lady and Beyond
  • Hardcover: 288 pages
  • Publisher: Center Street (September 20, 2011)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1599953889
  • ISBN-13: 978-1599953885
Genre: Memoir
My Rating: 4.25
Product Description:
For millions of people around the world, Carol Brady is synonymous with motherhood, but growing up as the youngest of ten children in rural Indiana in the aftermath of the Great Depression, Florence Henderson lived a life quite different from that of the quintessential TV mom she later played on television.

Florence's father was a dirt-poor tobacco tenant farmer who was nearly fifty years old when he married Florence's twenty-five-year-old mother, and was nearly seventy when Florence was born. Florence's childhood was full of deprivation and abandonment. Her father was an alcoholic at a time when there was no rehab or help for the disease. Their home rarely had electricity or running water. When she was twelve, Florence's mother left the family to work in Cleveland and never returned.

Florence opens up about her childhood, as well as the challenges she's faced as an adult, including stage fright, postpartum depression, her extramarital affairs, divorce, her hearing loss, and heart problems. She writes with honesty and wisdom of how her faith and ability to survive has brought her through rough times to a life of profound joy and purpose.
Review:  This is a strong, uplifting memoir from a “Lovely Lady.” I don’t read lots of memoirs but I like to pick a couple a year. I am so glad I picked up this one.

I remember Ms. Henderson from the TV series, The Brady Bunch. I had no idea of the earlier successes she had on stage and Broadway in Oklahoma, The Sound of Music, South Pacific and many other productions. Florence was very active, before and after The Brady Bunch, in variety TV shows, commercials, Las Vegas acts and game shows like The Hollywood Squares (which I do remember).

This book reveals an overview into Florence’s life and career.  More importantly it tells how she pushed through her difficult childhood, strove as a professional to fulfill “the show must go on” motto, married and managed to raise four children while juggling her successful career, and finally, in her mature adult life, with the help of hypnotherapy, grew to understand her emotional struggles. The book gives a glimpse of the change of moral attitudes from the restrictive 1930s through the rebellious ‘60s and then the more liberating ‘70s and ‘80s.

As the blurb notes, Florence shares details of many emotional and physical struggles. You might expect the stage fright, but I was surprised to learn of the postpartum depression and the loss of hearing among other issues revealed.  Florence’s childhood and early years were carried by her mother’s phrase “It will never be noticed on a galloping horse.”  She learned not to address any real problems but to just keeping pushing through. That gave her determination but also brought her to the point of exhaustion physically and emotionally.

This is a quick, easy flowing and nostalgic read. The memoir is direct, open and honest. Although she mentions other actors, directors and other well known figures of the eras, this is not a “tell all” type of expose.  It is focused on Florence’s experiences and how even fleeting contact with some people, even strangers, may have helped her see beyond herself.

Florence doesn’t hide the unpleasant things in her life but doesn’t dwell on them in a negative fashion either.  There are a few industry secrets and many tidbits of wisdom laced throughout the book.  Florence presents a message that there is a real life that goes on behind the stage persona and it is a certain positive spirit and strength of faith that carried her through with grace. The memoir is infused with her determination, professionalism, sense of humor and her singular effervescence.  If you like memoirs, or if you would like a fairly gentle nostalgic glimpse of stage and TV in these pivotal years, I am confident you would enjoy this book.
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Thank you to Hachette Center Street for this book to review.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC copy:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there. This is required for entry.
 For fun, tell me of a production or show that you recall seeing Florence Henderson in.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on October 7, 2011. (This month's book giveaways will all end on the 30th except for Friday Picks, SBB or other special posts.)
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on October 8. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

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