Profound courage - a compelling story..
937394
This book was the most chilling story I have read in a long time.  I am humbled and amazed by these women's courage.  Throughout the whole time I was reading it, I kept asking myself, "what would I be willing to die for - and would I be strong enough to do it".  I highly recommend it if you wonder what it is like to live in Iran and be willing to speak up for what you believe.
2705346
"The Letters",  those written by Mother Teresa to her spiritual advisor brought to light a new dimension to this wonderful woman's life.  It exhibited her frailties through which she fought valiantly to continue her ministries to the forgotten and the poor.  The story exhibited the power of courage and determination despite hidden problems one might have.  I was immensely moved by this story.
914116
In his impressive debut, Kevin Dorival gives us a deeply moving account of his life.  From very humble beginnings, Dorival encountered a series of mounting challenges that tested his faith and integrity.  Through every struggle, he persevered, demonstrating unwavering courage and tenacity.  Told in a personal, conversational style that will invite readers from page one, The Courage to Believe is a testament to the resilient nature of the human spirit.
2298035
Faith, courage, honor - that is the essence of Unbroken Will.  In the face of the worst brutality of the Nazi Third Reich, Leopold Engleitner kept his faith and principles intact.  His experiences are accompanied by wit, a strongly positive view of his fellow man and even a sense of humor which win any reader over to love this powerful yet gentle man.

Bernhard Rammerstorfer's biography is painstakingly and thoroughly researched to bring to light some otherwise unknown facts of history.  Why would Himmler plan the release from camps of prisoners he had hitherto relentlessly tried to break of their allegiance to their God, Jehovah - a stand that was perceived as a serious threat to Nazi ideology? Rammerstorfer reveals a surprising secret found in Himmler's correspondence.

Leopold Engleitner is one of the most compelling heroes of the concentration camps, and his story is a remarkable episode of bravery.

Unbroken Will is best read in conjuction with viewing the documentary film of the same title available as a DVD.  To see the actual character is very moving and rounds out the account.

This story must be read.
2668653
I could not put this book down! An inspiring story of courage, unconditional love, and true compassion. This story provides an insightful and powerful glimpse into the realities of foster care as well as the harsh reality of a child suffering from fetal alcohol syndrome.
525306
Mr. Fazli and Lt. Col. Moffett have written a compelling, insightful, and exciting memoir of a real "hero's journey" in their book, Fahim Speaks.  The authors relate details of life in Afghanistan with unblinking clarity and honesty, and with a refreshingly objective style, forgoing blame, and instead, letting events speak for themselves.  Mr. Fazli courageously speaks about the harsh realities of life in Afghanistan under Russian authority and the emerging Taliban, and the tolls this life took on him, his mother, father, and siblings.  All responded to the pressures differently, and these events are related with frankness, forthrightness, and self-reflection.  Mr. Fazli traces his journey from anger to compassion, from suffering to gratitude, and from dreamer to man-of-action.

Lt. Col. Moffett lays out the events of Mr. Fazli's early life and escape from Afghanistan with journalistic clarity and an engaging pace, creating curiosity and a desire to find out "what happens next" in the reader.  As the story unfolds in the United States, then opens out into the theatre of U.S. operations in Afghanistan, Lt. Col. Moffett's writing style hits its stride.  Weaving history with current events, the reader is afforded an expertly crafted and easily understandable account of Fahim's experiences as an interpreter to the commander of a company of U.S. Marines in one of the most dangerous areas of conflict in Afghanistan.  The poignancy of Fahim's return to the land of his birth under these circumstances is beautifully and compassionately written, his respect and love for the place and the people palpable.  At least as beautiful and compelling is Fahim's devotion and gratitude to his new homeland, the U.S.

Fahim Fazli followed the call to a new life in a new country and faced the "monsters" of challenges and setbacks, sadness and heartbreak along the way. Through persevering toward his dream, he achieved what he never thought possible as a young boy, embracing his gift as an actor in Hollywood.  Infused with a deep desire to thank his new country, Fahim took the extraordinary step of giving up his sweet home-life with his beautiful wife and daughter for one year, in order to serve the United States in tangible form, in the uniform of the Marine Corps.  The most important part of any hero's journey is that time when the hero must bring his "boon", or gift, back to the community.  Fahim did this, does this, in an amazing, unique and inspiring form.  Rarely do we read such a beautifully written love-letter from a man to his country.  ~~Beth Anne Boardman, PhD
3547262
This book is deeply insightful and I could not put it down. This story was very inspiring and describes the human spirit triumph over extreme adversity, with Yovi overcoming incredible odds without compromising a rich and fulfilling life. This is a true testament to a womans resolve and self-determination, overcoming the trials of trauma against all odds. RThank you!!!!
3782879
An amazing tale of courage, fortitude, and a desire to live, despite dire circumstances. The author, Joe Simpson and his climbing partner, Simon Yates, ascend a perilous section of the Peruvian Andes. Near the summit,  tragedy strikes when Joe, up over 19,000 feet, falls and hits a slope at  the base of a cliff, breaking his right leg, rupturing his right knee, and  shattering his right heel. Beneath him is a seemingly endless fall to the  bottom. Simon reaches him but knows that the chances for Joe to get off the  mountain are virtually non-existent. Yet, they fashion a daring plan to to  do just that.

  For the next few hours, through a snow storm, they  work in tandem, and manage a risky, yet effective way of trying to lower  Joe down the mountain. About three thousand feet down, Joe who is still  roped to Simon, drops off an edge, and finds himself now free hanging in  space six feet away from an ice wall, unable to reach it with his axe. The  edge is over hung about fifteen feet above him. The dark outline of a  crevasse lies about a hundred feet directly below him.

Joe couldn't get  up, and Simon couldn't get down. In fact, Joe's weight began to pull Simon  off the mountain. So, Simon was finally forced to do the only thing he  could do under the circumstances. He cut the rope, believing that he was  consigning his friend to certain death. Therein lies the tale.

What  happens next is sure to make one believe in miracles.
294866
Paul Wilkes is a brave, inspiring soul. This is a compelling recounting of his life long journey of faith.  I am grateful he shared his story so honestly and completely.  I highly recommend it and am a new fan of this author/fellow companion on the journey.  Bravo!
4753823
Almost unbelievable but true story of tremendous courage, ingenuity and perseverance through more trials, challenges and hardships than any one human should have to bear.  That Louie Zamperini could not only survive but manage to overcome debilitating after effects and reverse the course of a life spiraling out of control so that he became an inspiration to many is proof of the power of deep spiritual faith and "unbroken" personal strength which can serve as a lesson to all.
3627510
Totally enjoyed Boomer. It is hard to define a book with so many important parts, so many insights. You can't but be touched by this author's journey through life. Boomer is a collection of stories about the author and the many people of his life. This book is striking in both its softness and then hard hitting, gut wrenching experiences. The book at times seems almost odd for its inclusiveness and acceptance of at times seemingly different insights and life positions. But it all comes together and we are left with a profound message of Life, Love, and Hope. This is more than a California story, it is a story of the human condition; good, bad and inspiring. I believe that Mr. Noyes-More has written a book for us all. Boomer is a book of courage and honesty well worth the time and money.
2311648
This book is a compelling read from start to finish. Chris Moore-Backman's insights into Gandhi and the path that non-violence calls us to was eye opening to me. I had been familiar with non-violent resistance, but had not taken to heart what is required of us in our internal life and in our daily interactions with the community...so we can" represent in our own lives and persons the world we seek to build and inhabit". The book has challenged me to live a life "that gives answer to our deep longing to respond to whatever it is that most breaks our heart and whatever it is that brings us most fully alive".
Jean Farmer
1012485
The main effect this book had on me was a deep sense of my own lack of similar courage. I was moved almost to tears by the fate of Ruth Wesman, and the knowledge that this is basically a true story made it all the more gripping. This book is an excellent example of how best true stories can be converted into novels, without sacrificing neither authenticity nor readibility. ALl too often I've seen obviousy autobiography sinply relabelled as "a novel", when in truth the writer has not made an attempt to create a narrative arc or to develop characters so that we can identify with them and follow them on a journey that has a beginning, a middle and an end.
This book made me realise in what privileged and easy times we live today -- and how little we are challenged to face the real life-and-death issues which are still there, even though they are invisible. I have no desire to live through a time of war, but reading this book showed me how hard times can challenge us to the very edge of our endurance -- and we are better humans for it. A devastating book -- for all the right reasons.
3792340
These are turbulent times and we need things that give us courage. Urdang's book gives me courage. It's the story of deeply disturbing times, in southern Africa and in the US and how one woman found her way to authentic participation in the movements for fundamental change. I have known Urdang as she lived these years and have a small part in the story. It is thrilling to see how she has captured her story in words and made it available to all of us and to those who will read it in the years to come.
4066529
A story of courage, love, faith and strength in the face of fear and uncertainty can truly uplift any heart and spirit of anyone who reads this book. I could not put it down once I started reading. It is one of those books you must have in your library.  I am glad I got mine to keep and reread.  This is one story that ought to be made into a film. I highly recommend it to any one who loves a truly good book!
15757
This well written exposition of one of the most challenging encounters with the violence and indifference of nature truly captivates and draws you deep into the experience of the Endurance crew and officers. Lansing is an excellent story teller and has done a tremendous service for the remembrance of these men who fought back and won.

Shakleton's leadership and the men's determination to survive and overcome all challenges as one, proves the depths of bonds in the depths of the human heart. It is a study in human character to observe how different men behaved and how Shakleton and the others learnt how to deal with each other yet remain committed to the preservation of each other's life. True courage and character.

Highly recommended for all ages, especially anyone interested in the strength of human endurance, commitment, and the ability to overcome under the most challenging of circumstances.
3954669
A quiet reality is a story of compassion spoken with conviction for all facets of the truth.  It is the hope of all who have fought and died for the price of freedom in that it shares the wisdom and insight born of faith that everyone stands in need of redemption.  The long road from the Bronx to San Diego and into the jaws of death is a journey of the well fought fight bearing the humanity of combat. Chaplain Marrero's courageous tale balances the heart of a pastor with the patriotism of a Naval Officer. The Quiet Reality unfolded in the pages before us nothing more than brilliant!