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The Book about James
Julia Gray
2015 Finalist
104 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Ashley Tetzlaff for Readers' Favorite
In her work, The Book About James, Julia Gray shares her thoughts on raising her son born with Down Syndrome. The book is broken into twenty-one “articles” – chapters that can be read as stand alones or in conjunction with the rest of the book (just like a magazine article). In each article, Julia Gray deals with a particular issue or experience: her reaction to James’ birth, schooling James, trusting in God when things are rough, side-effects of Down Syndrome, etc. Julia is honest about how her feelings were and what they are now. For those who are just starting to walk this road, this book will offer encouragement and hope. For all others, it's a peek into the ups and downs of life with Down Syndrome and God’s grace for it all.
Wow! Julia Gray’s The Book About James blessed me so much! I confess, I have always had this little fear in the back of my head that I would have a “forever child” – a kid with Down Syndrome or something like it. This is funny since as a kid I had friends who had DS and I loved to be around them. Who doesn’t enjoy a forty-year-old who plays like someone who is six? But I was afraid of having one myself. Julia Gray came face-to-face with her own fears when James was born: what would others think of her? Of him? How would her other children be affected? I really appreciated Julia’s honesty. She is willing, not only to share her joy in James NOW, but the feelings of fear she had THEN. I was encouraged that even if I do have a forever child one day, DS can be a blessing and not a burden.
Even though my two children are “normal”, I still found much encouragement in this book as a mother: no matter what our kids do or don’t accomplish, they are special just the way they are. And God gives us the grace to deal with everything – no matter how overwhelmingly big it seems to us. He really does work all things together for good and The Book About James shows us that. Beautifully written. Wonderful witty style. Well edited. Altogether highly recommended. Is there such a thing as a dozen stars?
In her work, The Book About James, Julia Gray shares her thoughts on raising her son born with Down Syndrome. The book is broken into twenty-one “articles” – chapters that can be read as stand alones or in conjunction with the rest of the book (just like a magazine article). In each article, Julia Gray deals with a particular issue or experience: her reaction to James’ birth, schooling James, trusting in God when things are rough, side-effects of Down Syndrome, etc. Julia is honest about how her feelings were and what they are now. For those who are just starting to walk this road, this book will offer encouragement and hope. For all others, it's a peek into the ups and downs of life with Down Syndrome and God’s grace for it all.
Wow! Julia Gray’s The Book About James blessed me so much! I confess, I have always had this little fear in the back of my head that I would have a “forever child” – a kid with Down Syndrome or something like it. This is funny since as a kid I had friends who had DS and I loved to be around them. Who doesn’t enjoy a forty-year-old who plays like someone who is six? But I was afraid of having one myself. Julia Gray came face-to-face with her own fears when James was born: what would others think of her? Of him? How would her other children be affected? I really appreciated Julia’s honesty. She is willing, not only to share her joy in James NOW, but the feelings of fear she had THEN. I was encouraged that even if I do have a forever child one day, DS can be a blessing and not a burden.
Even though my two children are “normal”, I still found much encouragement in this book as a mother: no matter what our kids do or don’t accomplish, they are special just the way they are. And God gives us the grace to deal with everything – no matter how overwhelmingly big it seems to us. He really does work all things together for good and The Book About James shows us that. Beautifully written. Wonderful witty style. Well edited. Altogether highly recommended. Is there such a thing as a dozen stars?
Recommend this book:
Charity
The Gifts of Giving
Garret Biss
2015 Honorable Mention
81 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
Charity: The Gifts of Giving is a non-fiction religion/philosophy book written by Garret Biss. In it, the author explores the concept of charity and the effects that giving can have on your personal well-being and happiness. Charity, he explains, takes many forms. It can be a kind word to a friend or colleague, or a thoughtful gift. Tithing to one's church is also a form of charity. In each chapter, Biss describes an aspect of charity and offers suggestions for the reader to implement this exercise of giving in his Actions assignments. No donation is too small in the author's view; he advises that the reader give what he can and shows how designating a portion of one's income for charity can make the act of giving easier. He also gives information on how to set up charities and fund raise for them.
Garret Biss' non-fiction motivational book, Charity: The Gifts of Giving, is filled with ideas that are easily put into practice, and you don't need to have a lot of money to get started. I liked how the author demonstrated through his personal experiences every aspect covered in this book. As I was reading it, I started brain-storming on what I could do and how I could use my personal skills to help others. Biss' attitude on charity and giving is quite contagious. His ideas on charitable donations and the links he provides for finding charities that resonate with the giver are very helpful. In addition, his ideas on fundraising are first-rate, especially those which utilize social media to give your charitable efforts the widest distribution. This inspiring book may seem small at first, but it's really very big on ideas to make acts of charity a part of your everyday life. Charity: The Gifts of Giving is most highly recommended.
Charity: The Gifts of Giving is a non-fiction religion/philosophy book written by Garret Biss. In it, the author explores the concept of charity and the effects that giving can have on your personal well-being and happiness. Charity, he explains, takes many forms. It can be a kind word to a friend or colleague, or a thoughtful gift. Tithing to one's church is also a form of charity. In each chapter, Biss describes an aspect of charity and offers suggestions for the reader to implement this exercise of giving in his Actions assignments. No donation is too small in the author's view; he advises that the reader give what he can and shows how designating a portion of one's income for charity can make the act of giving easier. He also gives information on how to set up charities and fund raise for them.
Garret Biss' non-fiction motivational book, Charity: The Gifts of Giving, is filled with ideas that are easily put into practice, and you don't need to have a lot of money to get started. I liked how the author demonstrated through his personal experiences every aspect covered in this book. As I was reading it, I started brain-storming on what I could do and how I could use my personal skills to help others. Biss' attitude on charity and giving is quite contagious. His ideas on charitable donations and the links he provides for finding charities that resonate with the giver are very helpful. In addition, his ideas on fundraising are first-rate, especially those which utilize social media to give your charitable efforts the widest distribution. This inspiring book may seem small at first, but it's really very big on ideas to make acts of charity a part of your everyday life. Charity: The Gifts of Giving is most highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Why Not?
Conquering The Road Less Traveled
John Brown
2015 Honorable Mention
178 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Roy T. James for Readers' Favorite
Why Not? Conquering The Road Less Traveled by John Brown with Donna Brown is about the journey of a life that’s had its ups and downs, and of growing up disabled in a non-disabled world. It begins with the author’s entry into the world at three in the morning, a child diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Recounting his memories of hospital, loving people, dear friends and his school days in general, he mentions the fun and the difficulties of life. Growing up with other kids staring, laughing and calling names, as well as his experiences with marijuana and hash are mentioned. His dreams resonate throughout the book; dreams of becoming a DJ, and his entry into a career that was to last more than forty years as a radio broadcaster.
Why Not? Conquering The Road Less Traveled by John Brown with Donna Brown is an inspiring book. How John meets the challenges that are his constant companions, and how he has to overcome those in every step he takes, unlike the normal ones amongst us, make that victory even sweeter. The perseverance and dedication shown by John in fulfilling his ambition is an example to all. This book thus has the potential to be a great motivator for all kinds of people, including those with a disability. As the author mentions in the book: "My hope is that after reading this book, whether you’re disabled or not, that when life throws at you all kinds of challenges, you meet them head on the best you can.”
Why Not? Conquering The Road Less Traveled by John Brown with Donna Brown is about the journey of a life that’s had its ups and downs, and of growing up disabled in a non-disabled world. It begins with the author’s entry into the world at three in the morning, a child diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Recounting his memories of hospital, loving people, dear friends and his school days in general, he mentions the fun and the difficulties of life. Growing up with other kids staring, laughing and calling names, as well as his experiences with marijuana and hash are mentioned. His dreams resonate throughout the book; dreams of becoming a DJ, and his entry into a career that was to last more than forty years as a radio broadcaster.
Why Not? Conquering The Road Less Traveled by John Brown with Donna Brown is an inspiring book. How John meets the challenges that are his constant companions, and how he has to overcome those in every step he takes, unlike the normal ones amongst us, make that victory even sweeter. The perseverance and dedication shown by John in fulfilling his ambition is an example to all. This book thus has the potential to be a great motivator for all kinds of people, including those with a disability. As the author mentions in the book: "My hope is that after reading this book, whether you’re disabled or not, that when life throws at you all kinds of challenges, you meet them head on the best you can.”
Recommend this book:
Girl with the Crooked Smile - Stuck In A Moment
...and the Pearls of Wisdom that pulled her through it
Darah Zeledon
2015 Bronze Medal
280 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Girl with the Crooked Smile and the Pearls of Wisdom That Pulled Her Through it is Darah Zeledon’s story, a memoir of how life can throw you not one curve ball, but several in a row. Darah, pregnant with her fourth child, is diagnosed with a life threatening brain tumor. Her doctor tells her she will either lose her own life or that of her child, and will more than likely experience some sort of paralysis. That is enough for any person to go through in their entire life. But not Darah. No, Darah and her family are also up against an armed robbery, a suicide, financial ruin that forces them to flee their home and a near-fatal accident to boot. Darah tells her story with brutal honesty, with a touch of humor thrown in for good measure. She tells how she and her family pulled through everything that life threw at them and how they survived to tell the tale. Her pearls of wisdom should serve as a message for anyone that life is for living and nothing on earth was going to stop her.
Darah Zeledon’s Girl with the Crooked Smile was a wonderfully inspiring read. It was painful and yet funny. There was none of the “poor me” syndrome about it – it was more like Darah telling us to come with her on her journey and experience everything for ourselves. And, boy, did she manage to draw you in to the extent that you felt as if you were there. No reader will be able to put this book down – you will laugh, you will cry, you will experience the pain and the joy that Darah and her family went through. And, you will be glad you did. I read this book in four hours flat – I could not put it down.
Girl with the Crooked Smile and the Pearls of Wisdom That Pulled Her Through it is Darah Zeledon’s story, a memoir of how life can throw you not one curve ball, but several in a row. Darah, pregnant with her fourth child, is diagnosed with a life threatening brain tumor. Her doctor tells her she will either lose her own life or that of her child, and will more than likely experience some sort of paralysis. That is enough for any person to go through in their entire life. But not Darah. No, Darah and her family are also up against an armed robbery, a suicide, financial ruin that forces them to flee their home and a near-fatal accident to boot. Darah tells her story with brutal honesty, with a touch of humor thrown in for good measure. She tells how she and her family pulled through everything that life threw at them and how they survived to tell the tale. Her pearls of wisdom should serve as a message for anyone that life is for living and nothing on earth was going to stop her.
Darah Zeledon’s Girl with the Crooked Smile was a wonderfully inspiring read. It was painful and yet funny. There was none of the “poor me” syndrome about it – it was more like Darah telling us to come with her on her journey and experience everything for ourselves. And, boy, did she manage to draw you in to the extent that you felt as if you were there. No reader will be able to put this book down – you will laugh, you will cry, you will experience the pain and the joy that Darah and her family went through. And, you will be glad you did. I read this book in four hours flat – I could not put it down.
Recommend this book:
Conversations on the Bench
Life Lessons from the Wisest Man I Ever Knew
Digger Cartwright
2015 Silver Medal
304 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
Conversations on the Bench: Life Lessons from the Wisest Man I Ever Knew by Digger Cartwright is an uplifting and inspirational book based on real life events. This insightful conversation is also an example of timeless friendship that transcends everything and motivates readers to look into their lives and effect positive changes that will make their living more interesting and fulfilling. The bond between Robbie and Sebastian and their words of wisdom will show readers how to live life using the basic lessons that we all are aware of but have forgotten to incorporate into our lives. It's a truly inspiring and moving story where Robbie and Sebastian give a new perspective on living a contented life to readers.
The interaction and dialogue between Sebastian and Robbie in the initial chapters set the tone for the rest of the book. The stories and the words of wisdom shared by author Digger Cartwright are relatable and readers can connect well with the author's words. All the lessons are valuable, true and useful and the friendship between two different people will inspire and motivate readers in different ways. Many of the lessons shared will make readers look within themselves. The story is original and the author is hopeful that the wisdom shared in the book will enrich, improve and inspire everyone's lives. These conversations shared on the bench will definitely be useful to all readers, to find a purpose in their lives and also guide them during their journey of life.
Conversations on the Bench: Life Lessons from the Wisest Man I Ever Knew by Digger Cartwright is an uplifting and inspirational book based on real life events. This insightful conversation is also an example of timeless friendship that transcends everything and motivates readers to look into their lives and effect positive changes that will make their living more interesting and fulfilling. The bond between Robbie and Sebastian and their words of wisdom will show readers how to live life using the basic lessons that we all are aware of but have forgotten to incorporate into our lives. It's a truly inspiring and moving story where Robbie and Sebastian give a new perspective on living a contented life to readers.
The interaction and dialogue between Sebastian and Robbie in the initial chapters set the tone for the rest of the book. The stories and the words of wisdom shared by author Digger Cartwright are relatable and readers can connect well with the author's words. All the lessons are valuable, true and useful and the friendship between two different people will inspire and motivate readers in different ways. Many of the lessons shared will make readers look within themselves. The story is original and the author is hopeful that the wisdom shared in the book will enrich, improve and inspire everyone's lives. These conversations shared on the bench will definitely be useful to all readers, to find a purpose in their lives and also guide them during their journey of life.
Recommend this book:
Toe Up to 10K
A Journey of Recovery From Spinal Cord Injury
Steven Fujita
2015 Gold Medal
162 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Chris Fischer for Readers' Favorite
A true story of determination, hope and recovery, Toe Up to 10K: A Journey of Recovery from Spinal Cord Injury by author Steven Fujita is an inspirational read that’s hard to put down. When Steven Fujita, a generally healthy man, has a headache that lasts a few days, he’s at first not concerned. He’d experienced them before, often when going through caffeine withdrawal, and took his usual aspirin to treat them. But when his headache grew so terrible that he sought medical attention, he was diagnosed with viral meningitis, and the next thing he knew, he was waking up after several days in the ICU with burning hot skin, a tracheotomy tube in his throat attached to a ventilator that was breathing for him, and paralyzed from the waist down due to a spinal cord injury at the T4 level.
From this hellish scenario that anyone can relate to, and fear, Steven Fujita was able to claw his way back to normalcy. Not easily, not with simplicity, and not completely, at least at the time that this book was published, but with a grit and work ethic that few might have the reserves to pull together. In a person’s darkest hour, it’s hard to guess how they may react, and at a time when many people may have decided to curl up in a ball and wish for death, Mr. Fujita acted with a bravery and strength that is more than admirable, it is inspirational.
Toe Up to 10K: A Journey of Recovery from Spinal Cord Injury is a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys a great inspirational story, but would be even more appropriate for anyone who is dealing with or has dealt with an extremely difficult health issue, and their family and loved ones. After reading this book, I live in hope that Steven Fujita continues on his path to a full recovery, and that we may be able to read more of his journey in a follow up book in the future.
A true story of determination, hope and recovery, Toe Up to 10K: A Journey of Recovery from Spinal Cord Injury by author Steven Fujita is an inspirational read that’s hard to put down. When Steven Fujita, a generally healthy man, has a headache that lasts a few days, he’s at first not concerned. He’d experienced them before, often when going through caffeine withdrawal, and took his usual aspirin to treat them. But when his headache grew so terrible that he sought medical attention, he was diagnosed with viral meningitis, and the next thing he knew, he was waking up after several days in the ICU with burning hot skin, a tracheotomy tube in his throat attached to a ventilator that was breathing for him, and paralyzed from the waist down due to a spinal cord injury at the T4 level.
From this hellish scenario that anyone can relate to, and fear, Steven Fujita was able to claw his way back to normalcy. Not easily, not with simplicity, and not completely, at least at the time that this book was published, but with a grit and work ethic that few might have the reserves to pull together. In a person’s darkest hour, it’s hard to guess how they may react, and at a time when many people may have decided to curl up in a ball and wish for death, Mr. Fujita acted with a bravery and strength that is more than admirable, it is inspirational.
Toe Up to 10K: A Journey of Recovery from Spinal Cord Injury is a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys a great inspirational story, but would be even more appropriate for anyone who is dealing with or has dealt with an extremely difficult health issue, and their family and loved ones. After reading this book, I live in hope that Steven Fujita continues on his path to a full recovery, and that we may be able to read more of his journey in a follow up book in the future.
Recommend this book:
On Dragonfly Wings
A Skeptic's Journey to Mediumship
Daniela I. Norris
2014 Bronze Medal
152 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Kelly Santana for Readers' Favorite
On Dragonfly Wings: A Skeptic's Journey to Mediumship is an inspirational guide by Daniela I. Norris. After losing her younger brother Michael to drowning, Daniela went on a journey of self-discovery. Everything started when the author felt Michael’s presence at his own funeral. Different from previous times when Daniela received communication from loved ones in dreams, this time she got a real message from her brother. From that point on, wanting to learn more about this phenomenon and other spiritual experiences she had had before, Daniela decided to take past-life regression courses. She went under hypnosis and learned about her past existences. These courses changed her life and brought meaning to what she was experiencing.
On Dragonfly Wings is beautifully written and is one of the most well-crafted books I have read in English literature. Besides taking us on a journey through her own personal experiences, Daniela guides us to use our potential for our well-being and for the betterment of others. I loved the fact that she backs up her explanation of mediumship phenomena with various trustworthy sources. That not only brought credibility to the material, but also demystifies the idea of the spiritual world and its wonders. The book is based on her personal experiences, but also on many researches on the subject matter. Daniela teaches to use the pendulum, read auras, and brings up thoughtful insights on birth and death. It is definitely a great read for those who are looking for some sort of comfort (such as grieving a loss), looking for answers to something that no one can explain, or even getting a better understanding of spirituality. I liked this book so much that this is already my second time reading it. I certainly recommend it.
On Dragonfly Wings: A Skeptic's Journey to Mediumship is an inspirational guide by Daniela I. Norris. After losing her younger brother Michael to drowning, Daniela went on a journey of self-discovery. Everything started when the author felt Michael’s presence at his own funeral. Different from previous times when Daniela received communication from loved ones in dreams, this time she got a real message from her brother. From that point on, wanting to learn more about this phenomenon and other spiritual experiences she had had before, Daniela decided to take past-life regression courses. She went under hypnosis and learned about her past existences. These courses changed her life and brought meaning to what she was experiencing.
On Dragonfly Wings is beautifully written and is one of the most well-crafted books I have read in English literature. Besides taking us on a journey through her own personal experiences, Daniela guides us to use our potential for our well-being and for the betterment of others. I loved the fact that she backs up her explanation of mediumship phenomena with various trustworthy sources. That not only brought credibility to the material, but also demystifies the idea of the spiritual world and its wonders. The book is based on her personal experiences, but also on many researches on the subject matter. Daniela teaches to use the pendulum, read auras, and brings up thoughtful insights on birth and death. It is definitely a great read for those who are looking for some sort of comfort (such as grieving a loss), looking for answers to something that no one can explain, or even getting a better understanding of spirituality. I liked this book so much that this is already my second time reading it. I certainly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Inside/Outside
One Woman's Recovery from Abuse and a Religious Cult
Jenny Hayworth
2014 Silver Medal
346 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
Inside/Outside: One Woman's Recovery from Abuse and a Religious Cult by Jenny Hayworth is an honest depiction of the author's life. Jenny Hayworth belonged to a family who were followers of the religion Jehovah's Witnesses. Jenny left it after following it for thirty years of her life. In the meantime, the church had let go of her from their group. In this book she takes us through her journey of surviving sexual abuse and further working on her recovery and exploring religious fundamentalism. Though the story begins on a traumatic note, she shows us how the experiences in her life change her perception, outlook, and connection with the outside world. From a closed society, she reinvents her life all over again to start afresh.
The book is an inspiring story for those who are going through traumatic times in their personal space. Being shunned by her family, the author tells readers that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Readers can actually use this book as a guide to help them face their problems and emerge triumphant. It is motivating to see the author overcome her personal tragedies and sorrows. The fact that it is a true story of hope and healing makes it more inspiring.
Some of the scenes in the book are raw and honest. That makes it a compelling read. The book is also very uplifting. The author reaches out to people and connects with them through her personal experiences, making the book tangible.
Inside/Outside: One Woman's Recovery from Abuse and a Religious Cult by Jenny Hayworth is an honest depiction of the author's life. Jenny Hayworth belonged to a family who were followers of the religion Jehovah's Witnesses. Jenny left it after following it for thirty years of her life. In the meantime, the church had let go of her from their group. In this book she takes us through her journey of surviving sexual abuse and further working on her recovery and exploring religious fundamentalism. Though the story begins on a traumatic note, she shows us how the experiences in her life change her perception, outlook, and connection with the outside world. From a closed society, she reinvents her life all over again to start afresh.
The book is an inspiring story for those who are going through traumatic times in their personal space. Being shunned by her family, the author tells readers that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Readers can actually use this book as a guide to help them face their problems and emerge triumphant. It is motivating to see the author overcome her personal tragedies and sorrows. The fact that it is a true story of hope and healing makes it more inspiring.
Some of the scenes in the book are raw and honest. That makes it a compelling read. The book is also very uplifting. The author reaches out to people and connects with them through her personal experiences, making the book tangible.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/my-extraordinary-life&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41wL%2BfhkJHL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="My Extraordinary Life" was written by Monica Sucha Vickers. This easy-to-read, well-written, inspirational, uplifting book is one for all ages to enjoy. Monica Sucha Vickers describes her life's struggles, joys, hardships, griefs, frustrations and everything else about how it was to grow up with a disability. Having a disability in today's life is...){kind=link}
My Extraordinary Life
Monica Sucha Vickers
2013 Gold Medal
194 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Michelle Robertson for Readers' Favorite
"My Extraordinary Life" was written by Monica Sucha Vickers. This easy-to-read, well-written, inspirational, uplifting book is one for all ages to enjoy. Monica Sucha Vickers describes her life's struggles, joys, hardships, griefs, frustrations and everything else about how it was to grow up with a disability. Having a disability in today's life is more commonly accepted than when Monica grew up. In the 1950's, hard work, dedication, strict family values, and unspoken words, as well as a "do it yourself attitude ", were more prominent than now. Monica was born with missing limbs and was not expected to survive even a few weeks in the hospital, let alone live a full adult life. Throughout the book Monica tells the detailed story of her life's challenges and stories of her childhood home, family members, and schools. We find that she had never realized as a small child that there was anything wrong with the way she lived her life.
The stories the reader will find among the pages of this book are very powerful, inspirational, and very honest. Monica grew up at a time and with a family that did not allow self pity. She learned right from a young age that despite her disabilities she would learn to do things for herself, before she asked for help. This may seem cruel and unusual for a young child with three missing limbs, but actually the "tough love" type of life Monica lived ended up being the best way of life she could have created for herself in her situation. Monica's perseverance and will power are outstanding, and will give the reader a new perception of and respect for those who are disabled.
"My Extraordinary Life" was written by Monica Sucha Vickers. This easy-to-read, well-written, inspirational, uplifting book is one for all ages to enjoy. Monica Sucha Vickers describes her life's struggles, joys, hardships, griefs, frustrations and everything else about how it was to grow up with a disability. Having a disability in today's life is more commonly accepted than when Monica grew up. In the 1950's, hard work, dedication, strict family values, and unspoken words, as well as a "do it yourself attitude ", were more prominent than now. Monica was born with missing limbs and was not expected to survive even a few weeks in the hospital, let alone live a full adult life. Throughout the book Monica tells the detailed story of her life's challenges and stories of her childhood home, family members, and schools. We find that she had never realized as a small child that there was anything wrong with the way she lived her life.
The stories the reader will find among the pages of this book are very powerful, inspirational, and very honest. Monica grew up at a time and with a family that did not allow self pity. She learned right from a young age that despite her disabilities she would learn to do things for herself, before she asked for help. This may seem cruel and unusual for a young child with three missing limbs, but actually the "tough love" type of life Monica lived ended up being the best way of life she could have created for herself in her situation. Monica's perseverance and will power are outstanding, and will give the reader a new perception of and respect for those who are disabled.
Recommend this book:
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The Answer
The Road to Peace
Rose S. Kurtz
2013 Finalist
150 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Kelly Santana for Readers' Favorite
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” is an inspiring story written by R.S. Kurtz. In this book, Mrs. Kurtz tells about her personal journey through her more than 80 years of life. In this candid narrative, she describes what was like growing up as a Jewish girl while assuming many roles (daughter, sister, wife, mother and later on grandmother) and searching for answers about religion, spirituality and inner growth. With her inquisitive nature, Rose Kurtz researches various religions, and probes many questions on her quest for God. Although she cannot find the exact answer for her questions, her life experiences and her spirituality guide her to believe that there is more to life than simply satisfying our individualistic needs. Mrs. Kurtz chooses the Baha´i Faith as the one which gives her the best road for inner peace and sense of accomplishment in life. She discusses her beliefs in giving and the betterment of mankind, and gives practical advice about spiritual growth and taking care of the mind, body and soul.
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” was a delightful book. While trying to bring important facts about her life forward, Rose Kurtz is concise and entertaining, making me want to dig deeply into the story. Among many passages that I enjoyed, I give special kudos to the mystic side of her book. Mrs. Kurtz brought up the thoughtful relationship she had with her older sister, Clara, including her sister´s medium abilities, and cited a situation that happened and made her know when her beloved sister passed away. I liked that while explaining her position about God, spirituality and the meaning of life, Mrs. Kurtz gave a snapshot on various world religions without being pretentious or biased. Lastly, I want to commend her approach to life. The sharing of her personal experiences can help many people to reflect and search for ways to become better individuals.
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” is an inspiring story written by R.S. Kurtz. In this book, Mrs. Kurtz tells about her personal journey through her more than 80 years of life. In this candid narrative, she describes what was like growing up as a Jewish girl while assuming many roles (daughter, sister, wife, mother and later on grandmother) and searching for answers about religion, spirituality and inner growth. With her inquisitive nature, Rose Kurtz researches various religions, and probes many questions on her quest for God. Although she cannot find the exact answer for her questions, her life experiences and her spirituality guide her to believe that there is more to life than simply satisfying our individualistic needs. Mrs. Kurtz chooses the Baha´i Faith as the one which gives her the best road for inner peace and sense of accomplishment in life. She discusses her beliefs in giving and the betterment of mankind, and gives practical advice about spiritual growth and taking care of the mind, body and soul.
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” was a delightful book. While trying to bring important facts about her life forward, Rose Kurtz is concise and entertaining, making me want to dig deeply into the story. Among many passages that I enjoyed, I give special kudos to the mystic side of her book. Mrs. Kurtz brought up the thoughtful relationship she had with her older sister, Clara, including her sister´s medium abilities, and cited a situation that happened and made her know when her beloved sister passed away. I liked that while explaining her position about God, spirituality and the meaning of life, Mrs. Kurtz gave a snapshot on various world religions without being pretentious or biased. Lastly, I want to commend her approach to life. The sharing of her personal experiences can help many people to reflect and search for ways to become better individuals.
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