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 to Al Qaeda in Iraq is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, military writing, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers as it discusses real-life graphic violence. Colonel Burl Randolph Jr. (Retired) provides a personal chronicle of his experiences during ...){kind=link}
The Iraq I Knew
From Saddam Hussein to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) to Al Qaeda in Iraq (AQI)
Colonel Burl Randolph Jr US Army Retired
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Iraq I Knew: From Saddam Hussein to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) to Al Qaeda in Iraq is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, military writing, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers as it discusses real-life graphic violence. Colonel Burl Randolph Jr. (Retired) provides a personal chronicle of his experiences during multiple combat deployments to Iraq. Randolph recounts his journey as a Field Artillery Captain during Desert Shield and Desert Storm, detailing the harsh realities of living in the Saudi Arabian desert, the transition to combat operations, and the liberation of Kuwait. Through his firsthand account, Randolph offers insights into the challenges faced by soldiers, the impact of prolonged deployment on morale, and the lasting effects of war on military personnel.
Author Colonel Burl Randolph Jr. offers a compelling insight into the life of a US Army Field Artillery Captain and a truly engaging, raw portrayal of what it’s like to experience extreme hardships in the name of duty. His detailed descriptions of the challenges faced in the desert, from enduring SCUD alerts to dealing with the toxic dangers of ‘burn barrels,’ highlighted the harsh realities of military life in vivid detail. A visceral sense to the narrative makes you feel every sensation in deep detail. The transition from diplomatic efforts to Desert Storm combat operations and the liberation of Kuwait was portrayed with striking clarity, and many more clever juxtapositions help to highlight the complexities and unpredictability of war. Randolph's reflections on the impact of deployment on soldier morale and the long-term effects of the war were particularly poignant, and his narrative tone offers a wise but friendly approach as if we’re gaining sage wisdom from a dear friend or relative. The book not only deepened my understanding of contemporary military history but also fostered a greater appreciation for the personal sacrifices made by military personnel. Overall, The Iraq I Knew is a powerful, firsthand account that underscores the complexity and dedication involved in military service. I’d certainly recommend it for fans of wartime memoirs.
The Iraq I Knew: From Saddam Hussein to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) to Al Qaeda in Iraq is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, military writing, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers as it discusses real-life graphic violence. Colonel Burl Randolph Jr. (Retired) provides a personal chronicle of his experiences during multiple combat deployments to Iraq. Randolph recounts his journey as a Field Artillery Captain during Desert Shield and Desert Storm, detailing the harsh realities of living in the Saudi Arabian desert, the transition to combat operations, and the liberation of Kuwait. Through his firsthand account, Randolph offers insights into the challenges faced by soldiers, the impact of prolonged deployment on morale, and the lasting effects of war on military personnel.
Author Colonel Burl Randolph Jr. offers a compelling insight into the life of a US Army Field Artillery Captain and a truly engaging, raw portrayal of what it’s like to experience extreme hardships in the name of duty. His detailed descriptions of the challenges faced in the desert, from enduring SCUD alerts to dealing with the toxic dangers of ‘burn barrels,’ highlighted the harsh realities of military life in vivid detail. A visceral sense to the narrative makes you feel every sensation in deep detail. The transition from diplomatic efforts to Desert Storm combat operations and the liberation of Kuwait was portrayed with striking clarity, and many more clever juxtapositions help to highlight the complexities and unpredictability of war. Randolph's reflections on the impact of deployment on soldier morale and the long-term effects of the war were particularly poignant, and his narrative tone offers a wise but friendly approach as if we’re gaining sage wisdom from a dear friend or relative. The book not only deepened my understanding of contemporary military history but also fostered a greater appreciation for the personal sacrifices made by military personnel. Overall, The Iraq I Knew is a powerful, firsthand account that underscores the complexity and dedication involved in military service. I’d certainly recommend it for fans of wartime memoirs.
Recommend this book:
Home at the Edge
Ronald Schulz
2025 Honorable Mention
292 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Home at the Edge by Ronald Schulz is a thought-provoking memoir that chronicles the author's tumultuous journey as a young hippie. By the age of seventeen, Ron had dropped out of school, run away from home, and found himself arrested during the Days of Rage demonstration in October 1969 in Chicago. He had joined a radical group opposing the capitalist system and condemning the war in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, after his release, he was sent to Riveredge, a mental hospital where he encountered suicidal patients and fellow rebels. Despite the anxiety of his upcoming court date, he engaged in meditation and sought connection in a world that felt increasingly alien to him. His conversations with other patients revealed their struggles and provided insight into the broader societal issues of that turbulent era.
Home at the Edge is a captivating story that takes readers on a wild ride. Ronald Schulz effectively conveys his inner struggles during his youth, intertwining personal experiences with wider societal themes. His honest reflections on rebellion, mental health, love, and the quest for identity will resonate deeply with readers, providing insight into the tumultuous atmosphere of the 1960s. The book is set against a backdrop of racial tensions, police brutality, substance use, and a period of enlightenment and transition. The narrative is conversational and flows smoothly, making it engaging and easy to read. The book is well-structured into three parts: Ron's time in prison, his hospitalization at Riveredge, and his reintegration into society. It provides readers with a deeper understanding of the author's personality, highlighting his intelligence and awareness of social challenges. I enjoyed reading this book and found it both informative and entertaining, striking a great balance between humor, spiritual growth, personal development, and commentary on societal issues.
Home at the Edge by Ronald Schulz is a thought-provoking memoir that chronicles the author's tumultuous journey as a young hippie. By the age of seventeen, Ron had dropped out of school, run away from home, and found himself arrested during the Days of Rage demonstration in October 1969 in Chicago. He had joined a radical group opposing the capitalist system and condemning the war in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, after his release, he was sent to Riveredge, a mental hospital where he encountered suicidal patients and fellow rebels. Despite the anxiety of his upcoming court date, he engaged in meditation and sought connection in a world that felt increasingly alien to him. His conversations with other patients revealed their struggles and provided insight into the broader societal issues of that turbulent era.
Home at the Edge is a captivating story that takes readers on a wild ride. Ronald Schulz effectively conveys his inner struggles during his youth, intertwining personal experiences with wider societal themes. His honest reflections on rebellion, mental health, love, and the quest for identity will resonate deeply with readers, providing insight into the tumultuous atmosphere of the 1960s. The book is set against a backdrop of racial tensions, police brutality, substance use, and a period of enlightenment and transition. The narrative is conversational and flows smoothly, making it engaging and easy to read. The book is well-structured into three parts: Ron's time in prison, his hospitalization at Riveredge, and his reintegration into society. It provides readers with a deeper understanding of the author's personality, highlighting his intelligence and awareness of social challenges. I enjoyed reading this book and found it both informative and entertaining, striking a great balance between humor, spiritual growth, personal development, and commentary on societal issues.
Recommend this book:
The Waypoints
From 400 Farewells and 3,000 Miles
Diane Gansauer
2025 Bronze Medal
224 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
The Waypoints: From 400 Farewells and 3,000 Miles by Diane Gansauer is a remarkable read. While in her fifties, Diane decides to hike the Colorado Trail. Then, at sixty-one years old, she hikes the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada. As a funeral celebrant, Diane has assisted many families with funerals and through their grief journey, helping them honor the lives of those who passed away in a meaningful way. Each chapter contains waypoints, magnificent pictures of cairns that she passed while walking the Continental Divide, the life stories of extraordinary people, and Diane's experiences in nature that give insights into what counts as a worthwhile life. Each life story reveals the principles the person built their life on, what they valued, what kind of person they became, and how they are remembered.
The Waypoints is an inspiring, extraordinary, and transformative work that awakens your soul to the wonder in this world. Diane Gansauer does a fantastic job of depicting her experience as a long-distance hiker and as an officiant at funerals, as well as honoring the essence of individuals and the sacredness of life transitions. This evocative read makes us contemplate what matters over time and reflect on our legacy. Anyone who wants to fall in love with life and nature again should read this book. It contains valuable life lessons about the importance of actively seeking out what is vital, getting rid of what doesn't serve you, cherishing little moments, persevering through challenges rather than moving quickly, and embracing both solitude and companionship, revealing what is good and stands the test of time.
The Waypoints: From 400 Farewells and 3,000 Miles by Diane Gansauer is a remarkable read. While in her fifties, Diane decides to hike the Colorado Trail. Then, at sixty-one years old, she hikes the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada. As a funeral celebrant, Diane has assisted many families with funerals and through their grief journey, helping them honor the lives of those who passed away in a meaningful way. Each chapter contains waypoints, magnificent pictures of cairns that she passed while walking the Continental Divide, the life stories of extraordinary people, and Diane's experiences in nature that give insights into what counts as a worthwhile life. Each life story reveals the principles the person built their life on, what they valued, what kind of person they became, and how they are remembered.
The Waypoints is an inspiring, extraordinary, and transformative work that awakens your soul to the wonder in this world. Diane Gansauer does a fantastic job of depicting her experience as a long-distance hiker and as an officiant at funerals, as well as honoring the essence of individuals and the sacredness of life transitions. This evocative read makes us contemplate what matters over time and reflect on our legacy. Anyone who wants to fall in love with life and nature again should read this book. It contains valuable life lessons about the importance of actively seeking out what is vital, getting rid of what doesn't serve you, cherishing little moments, persevering through challenges rather than moving quickly, and embracing both solitude and companionship, revealing what is good and stands the test of time.
Recommend this book:
Risk
A Life Saved by the River
Susan Norman
2025 Silver Medal
296 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Risk: A Life Saved by the River by Susan Norman is a gripping memoir of courage, motherhood, and resilience that explores the intersection of extreme sports and parenthood. Susan, a former whitewater world champion, faces her greatest challenge as a first-time mother after menopause while raising a child with unique needs. The memoir weaves together her experiences as an elite athlete with the unexpected turns her life takes, creating a narrative that mirrors the unpredictable nature of both whitewater rapids and life itself. Norman's writing captures the heart-pounding excitement of competitive racing while also delving deep into the quieter, more profound moments of maternal love and personal transformation.
Author Susan Norman offers readers a narrative that flows with the same intensity and grace as the rivers she once conquered professionally. The memoir is filled with sharp insights into her personal strength and vulnerability that readers from all backgrounds will appreciate. The story moves with natural momentum, often mirroring the unpredictable shifts of life's waters. I was completely drawn into both the thrilling moments of competition and the tender scenes of motherhood. Her descriptions bring the adrenaline rush of whitewater racing and the delicate moments of parenting to life with remarkable clarity. Her warmly penned memories let readers connect to her on deeply personal levels. The memoir's emotional honesty shines through as Norman explores her evolving identity, showing how the skills she learned as an athlete helped prepare her for the challenges of her later life in ways she never expected. I loved the way she describes learning to navigate the uncertain waters of parenting a child with special needs. Her treatment of her child is particularly moving, revealing both her struggles and triumphs with a raw authenticity that is sure to touch readers' hearts. Overall, I enthusiastically recommend Risk: A Life Saved by the River for anyone seeking inspiration in their own journey through life's unexpected challenges.
Risk: A Life Saved by the River by Susan Norman is a gripping memoir of courage, motherhood, and resilience that explores the intersection of extreme sports and parenthood. Susan, a former whitewater world champion, faces her greatest challenge as a first-time mother after menopause while raising a child with unique needs. The memoir weaves together her experiences as an elite athlete with the unexpected turns her life takes, creating a narrative that mirrors the unpredictable nature of both whitewater rapids and life itself. Norman's writing captures the heart-pounding excitement of competitive racing while also delving deep into the quieter, more profound moments of maternal love and personal transformation.
Author Susan Norman offers readers a narrative that flows with the same intensity and grace as the rivers she once conquered professionally. The memoir is filled with sharp insights into her personal strength and vulnerability that readers from all backgrounds will appreciate. The story moves with natural momentum, often mirroring the unpredictable shifts of life's waters. I was completely drawn into both the thrilling moments of competition and the tender scenes of motherhood. Her descriptions bring the adrenaline rush of whitewater racing and the delicate moments of parenting to life with remarkable clarity. Her warmly penned memories let readers connect to her on deeply personal levels. The memoir's emotional honesty shines through as Norman explores her evolving identity, showing how the skills she learned as an athlete helped prepare her for the challenges of her later life in ways she never expected. I loved the way she describes learning to navigate the uncertain waters of parenting a child with special needs. Her treatment of her child is particularly moving, revealing both her struggles and triumphs with a raw authenticity that is sure to touch readers' hearts. Overall, I enthusiastically recommend Risk: A Life Saved by the River for anyone seeking inspiration in their own journey through life's unexpected challenges.
Recommend this book:
Becoming Amazed
Discovering the World with Eyes Wide Open
Brenda E Smith
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Becoming Amazed chronicles Brenda E. Smith's transformative journey from a conservative New England upbringing to her adventurous spirit shaped by expeditions in California, Tanzania, and beyond. The narrative captures her evolution as an adventurer, beginning with her childhood infatuation with Pippi Longstocking and leading to bold adventures in wilderness settings, such as whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon and navigating Africa’s untamed rivers. As she transitions from a safe, structured life to an unconfined existence, the book illuminates her breathtaking encounters with nature, indigenous cultures, and her inner Self, culminating in an appreciation for life beyond her previous, mundane constraints. This memoir documents her travels, filled with excitement and terrifying moments. Brenda's adventures traversing Bolivia, Ethiopia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka range from awe-inspiring to terrifying, culminating in the brutal murder of a friend by terrorists, which forces her to rethink her reality, her desires, and the cost of adventure.
Set against the backdrop of natural wonders, including the Colorado River and Tanzania’s picturesque landscapes, Brenda E. Smith's memoir explores the themes of change, adventure, humanity, and nature. The author challenges conventional beliefs and family while embracing the thrill of exploration and embracing humanity across diverse cultures. The profound connection she forges with the local African tribes, especially the Bodi and Mursi, exposes her to their simple yet rich lives, exuding a sense of humility and admiration. The narrative melds the perception of wealth and the true riches of experience, revealing how materialism pales compared to the wealth of knowledge and understanding from cultural immersion and genuine human connections. Becoming Amazed delivers Brenda’s candid insights on life, evoking themes of courage and the pursuit of authenticity and adventure in a world marred by conventions.
Becoming Amazed chronicles Brenda E. Smith's transformative journey from a conservative New England upbringing to her adventurous spirit shaped by expeditions in California, Tanzania, and beyond. The narrative captures her evolution as an adventurer, beginning with her childhood infatuation with Pippi Longstocking and leading to bold adventures in wilderness settings, such as whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon and navigating Africa’s untamed rivers. As she transitions from a safe, structured life to an unconfined existence, the book illuminates her breathtaking encounters with nature, indigenous cultures, and her inner Self, culminating in an appreciation for life beyond her previous, mundane constraints. This memoir documents her travels, filled with excitement and terrifying moments. Brenda's adventures traversing Bolivia, Ethiopia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka range from awe-inspiring to terrifying, culminating in the brutal murder of a friend by terrorists, which forces her to rethink her reality, her desires, and the cost of adventure.
Set against the backdrop of natural wonders, including the Colorado River and Tanzania’s picturesque landscapes, Brenda E. Smith's memoir explores the themes of change, adventure, humanity, and nature. The author challenges conventional beliefs and family while embracing the thrill of exploration and embracing humanity across diverse cultures. The profound connection she forges with the local African tribes, especially the Bodi and Mursi, exposes her to their simple yet rich lives, exuding a sense of humility and admiration. The narrative melds the perception of wealth and the true riches of experience, revealing how materialism pales compared to the wealth of knowledge and understanding from cultural immersion and genuine human connections. Becoming Amazed delivers Brenda’s candid insights on life, evoking themes of courage and the pursuit of authenticity and adventure in a world marred by conventions.
Recommend this book:
Travels and Tribulations
Tyrel Nelson
2024 Finalist
133 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Travels and Tribulations is a work of non-fiction in the memoir genre. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by Tyrel Nelson. The book follows the author during the worst of the pandemic after losing both his mother and his career. During this period of isolation and sadness, the author reflects on the people and events of his life that led him to where he is today. Reminiscing on painful and happy memories alike, the book shows the author's journey to re-evaluate where he stood in the new world in which he was now an orphan.
There’s a level of personal detail that some writers achieve when putting together their memoirs that astounds me as a reader. The willingness to be vulnerable, to reflect on the most painful parts of your life in order to dissect them with the reader in the hopes of finding meaning or even strength. Tyrel Nelson leaves nothing behind as he reviews the life he has led so far whether that be losses that continue to devastate to this day or specific moments during his travels that etched themselves into his soul for good or ill. Travels and Tribulations is an intimate discussion on the life of an ordinary person who has seen both joy and sorrow in abundance and simply wants to walk through the memories with you as they make sense of it all. A tribute to self-reflection and to the effect of loving and being loved in return, this is a beautiful memoir that I recommend to all.
Travels and Tribulations is a work of non-fiction in the memoir genre. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by Tyrel Nelson. The book follows the author during the worst of the pandemic after losing both his mother and his career. During this period of isolation and sadness, the author reflects on the people and events of his life that led him to where he is today. Reminiscing on painful and happy memories alike, the book shows the author's journey to re-evaluate where he stood in the new world in which he was now an orphan.
There’s a level of personal detail that some writers achieve when putting together their memoirs that astounds me as a reader. The willingness to be vulnerable, to reflect on the most painful parts of your life in order to dissect them with the reader in the hopes of finding meaning or even strength. Tyrel Nelson leaves nothing behind as he reviews the life he has led so far whether that be losses that continue to devastate to this day or specific moments during his travels that etched themselves into his soul for good or ill. Travels and Tribulations is an intimate discussion on the life of an ordinary person who has seen both joy and sorrow in abundance and simply wants to walk through the memories with you as they make sense of it all. A tribute to self-reflection and to the effect of loving and being loved in return, this is a beautiful memoir that I recommend to all.
Recommend this book:
You Slept Where?
Calamities of a Clumsy Businesswoman
Brenda Prater Sellers
2024 Honorable Mention
440 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Brenda and her husband, Big Ed, celebrated their anniversary at Jules’s Undersea Lodge in Florida. Brenda wanted to give Ed an unforgettable present and to take a picture underwater that would be worth appearing on the cover of National Geographic. Also, Brenda's father, Harold, had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Brenda needed time to recharge before dealing with the frightening diagnosis. This underwater stay is one of her many incredible adventures that include the trip on the back of the mule to the bottom of the Grand Canyon to bring Brenda's father a meaningful gift; a night spent at the Ice Hotel in Quebec; a stay at an inn shaped like a huge dog, Dog Bark Inn, Idaho; or at a silo rebuilt into a hotel, Quaker Oats Inn, Ohio, and so the list goes on. Brenda always had a loyal fellow traveler by her side; a big suit bag named Bertha. You Slept Where? by Brenda Prater Sellers is for fans of memoirs, non-fiction travel, and humor books.
You Slept Where? depicts the successful president of Chroma Graphics, Brenda Prater Sellers, as a brave and resourceful explorer. Brenda and Big Ed even stayed at the allegedly haunted house of the famous Lizzie Borden in Fall River, Massachusetts, to take pictures! But as much as I loved reading about Brenda's humorous adventures, my favorite chapters of the book were those dedicated to her childhood years and her parents, Harold and Katherine. Brenda draws wonderful portraits of her parents, a down-to-earth, hard-working farmer from Tennessee, and his beautiful, loving wife. The author opens up about her fears and prayers to God while speaking about her mother's fight with vascular dementia, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Yet Brenda's unbeatable spirit and zest for life inspire us to follow her example in our search for unusual experiences. You Slept Where? is an informative and handy guide as the author offers recommendations regarding low-cost travel. I hope to read more about Brenda's other trips and adventures.
Brenda and her husband, Big Ed, celebrated their anniversary at Jules’s Undersea Lodge in Florida. Brenda wanted to give Ed an unforgettable present and to take a picture underwater that would be worth appearing on the cover of National Geographic. Also, Brenda's father, Harold, had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Brenda needed time to recharge before dealing with the frightening diagnosis. This underwater stay is one of her many incredible adventures that include the trip on the back of the mule to the bottom of the Grand Canyon to bring Brenda's father a meaningful gift; a night spent at the Ice Hotel in Quebec; a stay at an inn shaped like a huge dog, Dog Bark Inn, Idaho; or at a silo rebuilt into a hotel, Quaker Oats Inn, Ohio, and so the list goes on. Brenda always had a loyal fellow traveler by her side; a big suit bag named Bertha. You Slept Where? by Brenda Prater Sellers is for fans of memoirs, non-fiction travel, and humor books.
You Slept Where? depicts the successful president of Chroma Graphics, Brenda Prater Sellers, as a brave and resourceful explorer. Brenda and Big Ed even stayed at the allegedly haunted house of the famous Lizzie Borden in Fall River, Massachusetts, to take pictures! But as much as I loved reading about Brenda's humorous adventures, my favorite chapters of the book were those dedicated to her childhood years and her parents, Harold and Katherine. Brenda draws wonderful portraits of her parents, a down-to-earth, hard-working farmer from Tennessee, and his beautiful, loving wife. The author opens up about her fears and prayers to God while speaking about her mother's fight with vascular dementia, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Yet Brenda's unbeatable spirit and zest for life inspire us to follow her example in our search for unusual experiences. You Slept Where? is an informative and handy guide as the author offers recommendations regarding low-cost travel. I hope to read more about Brenda's other trips and adventures.
Recommend this book:
Little Boy, I Know Your Name
A Second-Generation Memoir from Inherited Holocaust Trauma
Mitchell Raff
2024 Bronze Medal
236 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Juan Lynch for Readers' Favorite
Little Boy, I Know Your Name: A Second-Generation Memoir from Inherited Holocaust Trauma by Mitchell Raff is an insightful, heartwrenching story of the author's life. Mitchell's father and mother both endured the unspeakable evils perpetuated on the Jews during the Holocaust. This left them ill-equipped to take on the challenge of parenting. For a while in his early years, his paternal aunt, Sally, and her husband, Issa, took him in and loved him as best as they could; they were also Holocaust survivors. At four years old, Mitchell was enticed to live with his mom and little sister. He soon regretted this decision. His mother physically and psychologically abused him. This trauma went on to affect every relationship Mitchell would have.
I enjoyed reading Little Boy, I Know Your Name by Mitchell Raff. The story was conveyed mainly in chronological order and was well-paced. Raff's writing style kept me in suspense, always wanting to know what would happen next. His childhood was filled with sad episodes that helped me connect emotionally not only with Mitchell, but also with his sister Regina (Malka), Issa, and Sally. Raff masterfully captured the essence of every person that he spoke about, no matter how small their contribution to the story. This included lovable family members, slimy in-laws, and racist classmates. Additionally, Raff relates his battle as an adult against drug and sex addiction tactfully. The themes of self-discovery, family betrayal, life, and death are beautifully portrayed in this memoir. I highly recommend Little Boy, I Know Your Name to all avid readers.
Little Boy, I Know Your Name: A Second-Generation Memoir from Inherited Holocaust Trauma by Mitchell Raff is an insightful, heartwrenching story of the author's life. Mitchell's father and mother both endured the unspeakable evils perpetuated on the Jews during the Holocaust. This left them ill-equipped to take on the challenge of parenting. For a while in his early years, his paternal aunt, Sally, and her husband, Issa, took him in and loved him as best as they could; they were also Holocaust survivors. At four years old, Mitchell was enticed to live with his mom and little sister. He soon regretted this decision. His mother physically and psychologically abused him. This trauma went on to affect every relationship Mitchell would have.
I enjoyed reading Little Boy, I Know Your Name by Mitchell Raff. The story was conveyed mainly in chronological order and was well-paced. Raff's writing style kept me in suspense, always wanting to know what would happen next. His childhood was filled with sad episodes that helped me connect emotionally not only with Mitchell, but also with his sister Regina (Malka), Issa, and Sally. Raff masterfully captured the essence of every person that he spoke about, no matter how small their contribution to the story. This included lovable family members, slimy in-laws, and racist classmates. Additionally, Raff relates his battle as an adult against drug and sex addiction tactfully. The themes of self-discovery, family betrayal, life, and death are beautifully portrayed in this memoir. I highly recommend Little Boy, I Know Your Name to all avid readers.
Recommend this book:
Becoming Fearless
Finding Courage in the African Wilderness
Brenda E Smith
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Tanya Kays for Readers' Favorite
Brenda Smith's Becoming Fearless tells the true story of a young explorer, Brenda, who is saddled with the daunting responsibility of leading an expedition in the rugged landscapes of Africa. Brenda's resilience is greatly tested by harsh circumstances and an unforgiving terrain. In the beginning, Brenda has an ordinary job as a staff auditor. Secretly, she longs to break free from her mundane and safe lifestyle and embrace a more daring and challenging one. Without warning, Brenda's wishes come true. Her boss assigns her to be the main lead in their company's thrilling expedition in Tanzania. Join Brenda as she journeys up Mt. Kilombero and battles the wild surroundings in the Rufiji River. It's a heart-racing experience of a lifetime, and we get to take this journey with her.
Brenda Smith does an incredible job of describing her adventures, experiences, surroundings, and emotions in Becoming Fearless. Brenda's smooth and motivational writing will safely transport and guide readers through uncharted jungles and crocodile-infested waters. Her book will appeal to all readers who secretly wish to be bolder and more adventurous in their everyday lives. On this thrilling journey, we live life vicariously through Brenda, and what an exciting journey it is! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. This is an engrossing tale simply because of the way the well-timed events dramatically unfold. Readers who seek more to life than the mundane, and want to venture into the unknown will find deep meaning in Brenda's inspirational story.
Brenda Smith's Becoming Fearless tells the true story of a young explorer, Brenda, who is saddled with the daunting responsibility of leading an expedition in the rugged landscapes of Africa. Brenda's resilience is greatly tested by harsh circumstances and an unforgiving terrain. In the beginning, Brenda has an ordinary job as a staff auditor. Secretly, she longs to break free from her mundane and safe lifestyle and embrace a more daring and challenging one. Without warning, Brenda's wishes come true. Her boss assigns her to be the main lead in their company's thrilling expedition in Tanzania. Join Brenda as she journeys up Mt. Kilombero and battles the wild surroundings in the Rufiji River. It's a heart-racing experience of a lifetime, and we get to take this journey with her.
Brenda Smith does an incredible job of describing her adventures, experiences, surroundings, and emotions in Becoming Fearless. Brenda's smooth and motivational writing will safely transport and guide readers through uncharted jungles and crocodile-infested waters. Her book will appeal to all readers who secretly wish to be bolder and more adventurous in their everyday lives. On this thrilling journey, we live life vicariously through Brenda, and what an exciting journey it is! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. This is an engrossing tale simply because of the way the well-timed events dramatically unfold. Readers who seek more to life than the mundane, and want to venture into the unknown will find deep meaning in Brenda's inspirational story.
Recommend this book:
Tap Dancing on Everest
A Young Doctor's Unlikely Adventure
Mimi Zieman
2024 Gold Medal
244 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Mimi, a young medical student from New York, is enamored with the highest mountains on earth, the Himalayas. She accepts the invitation to participate in an Everest expedition as a medical officer. Mimi is the only woman on the team. The climbers, Robert, Ed, Stephen, and Paul, will attempt to conquer the summit without oxygen or assistance from the Sherpas, using the new, extremely dangerous route on the east face of Everest. Mimi has the stamina of a passionate dancer and previous experience as a solo hiker, which she got on the challenging Annapurna Circuit in Nepal in the mid-1980s. Yet Mimi is uncertain and scared. When the expedition goes wrong with the initial plan, all she can do is wait. Tap Dancing on Everest by Mimi Zieman is for fans of adventure, travel, memoirs, and motivational books.
Mimi Zieman's Tap Dancing on Everest is a thrilling account of incredible adventure and an inspiring story of self-discovery. The book starts on a dramatic note. We learn about the result of the small team's bold attempt to climb the east face of Everest only at the end. The fate of three climbers remains unclear throughout the narrative. The anticipation and dread of finally learning what happened to Robert, Ed, and Stephen on their way to the summit make our hearts pound as Mimi continues her gripping story. The author also opens up about her upbringing and background. Mimi speaks about the unimaginable tragedies and struggles that her father, a Holocaust survivor, endured and how these influenced her perception of the world and her place in it. I admire the author's determination to empower women. Mimi narrates about serious matters with subtle humor, and her expressive writing style makes it impossible to put Tap Dancing on Everest down.
Mimi, a young medical student from New York, is enamored with the highest mountains on earth, the Himalayas. She accepts the invitation to participate in an Everest expedition as a medical officer. Mimi is the only woman on the team. The climbers, Robert, Ed, Stephen, and Paul, will attempt to conquer the summit without oxygen or assistance from the Sherpas, using the new, extremely dangerous route on the east face of Everest. Mimi has the stamina of a passionate dancer and previous experience as a solo hiker, which she got on the challenging Annapurna Circuit in Nepal in the mid-1980s. Yet Mimi is uncertain and scared. When the expedition goes wrong with the initial plan, all she can do is wait. Tap Dancing on Everest by Mimi Zieman is for fans of adventure, travel, memoirs, and motivational books.
Mimi Zieman's Tap Dancing on Everest is a thrilling account of incredible adventure and an inspiring story of self-discovery. The book starts on a dramatic note. We learn about the result of the small team's bold attempt to climb the east face of Everest only at the end. The fate of three climbers remains unclear throughout the narrative. The anticipation and dread of finally learning what happened to Robert, Ed, and Stephen on their way to the summit make our hearts pound as Mimi continues her gripping story. The author also opens up about her upbringing and background. Mimi speaks about the unimaginable tragedies and struggles that her father, a Holocaust survivor, endured and how these influenced her perception of the world and her place in it. I admire the author's determination to empower women. Mimi narrates about serious matters with subtle humor, and her expressive writing style makes it impossible to put Tap Dancing on Everest down.
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