A well written, inspiring story
588582
This is the inspiring story of a man born with just one hand and no feet who struggled to overcome the physical pain and social stigma of his disabilities. Wading into a cold mountain stream fishing for trout, piloting his sailboat up the Atlantic coast, or scripting and directing the television production of St. Louis Mid America Jubilee, he never accepted the judgment of others that he was crippled, impaired or disabled. There are not many who would decide to have their legs amputated to significantly improve their lives. This was the choice the author made, and it was transformative. Fitted with prosthetic legs he was now normal height, walked with a normal gait, and with long pants could keep his disability a secret. After thirty-four years of pain standing and walking, stares, epithets and social rejection, he appeared normal. With the right arm of his jacket altered, and with the skills of a magician, he was able to distract others gaze from the missing right hand.  He was now able to marry, have children and pursue a professional career in education and television as the bread winner for his family. Although his work life was always precarious, he was able to achieve his own version of the American dream. It is a remarkable story of courage, resilience, discipline, intelligence and skill.

This is a well written, well edited book, and in telling his story the author gives the reader an insiders view of the gauntlet our society has erected for those with disabilities.  Post World War II America was a time of upward mobility when the working class could earn a decent living and their sons and daughters could go to college and move into the middle class. However, people with disabilities were often excluded from the workforce, and regardless of their talents they had to struggle to get and keep a job. Employers felt fully justified in not hiring disabled persons because... they had a disability. It was also a time of social change and movements for the civil rights of women, minorities, the elderly and poor. It wasn't until 1990, however, that Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act, a wide-ranging civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. As the author points out part of the problem was that the community of disabled was divided into separate groups each fighting for the rights of those with a particular disability; the deaf, blind, multiple amputees, etc.

Nathanson did not feel it safe to reveal his secret that he was a triple amputee until late in his career.  He finally accepted the role of moderator for a series of television programs he produced about the disabled. He did not write this memoir for others, but for his children who had kept the familys secret. The fight for the civil rights of the disabled is not yet won.

There is a message here for all of us: we need to be inclusive. We are all in this together: white, black or brown; Christian, Jew or Muslim; old, young or middle aged, working, middle or wealthy class; husband, wife or partner, politically left, right or center; and yes, physically fit or physically handicapped. The strength of America is the diversity of its people.

Stat Rice
1190223
This is a heartwarming story, well written, which helps to restore one's belief that people can be upright and supportive of one another, underpinned by a faith in God.
3929279
Great story--inspiring, touching, and very well told. Also makes for a very interesting insight into the cultures and landscapes of Afghanistan and Pakistan. the story is narrated against a lofty backdrop of himalayan peaks and exotic locales, unfamiliar and exciting landscapes to this reader. The heart of the story, a mission to build girls' schools in the remotest areas on earth, is as expected, a very touching one and told with humour and humility. Some discrepancies in details with the previous book, Three Cups of Tea, but can be overlooked considering the author's crazy schedule and achievements.
1947264
As the great nephew of "Grandma Gatewood", whom I remember warmly, I was very pleased with the authors depiction of her personally, her determination, and her travels on the trail. I'm pleased that the story of this amazing woman was well written to inspire everyone, as she inspired me, and others that were fortunate enough to have known her.  Respectfully, James Ghrist.
4460446
Wilma Derksen's "The Way of Letting Go: One Woman's Walk toward Forgiveness" was a needed read for me. Derksen's story is compelling as she and her family face the horrible experience of having a loved one murdered. Mrs Derksen not only recounts the horror that took her child but the journey to 'letting go.' It is compelling because it is a walk of faith in which there are no shortcuts. Mrs Derksen is gifted in how she is able to connect and convey in a way that feels genuine and her faith and knowledge are inspiring. I feel it was a privilege to read this thoughtful, honest and inspiring story.
2599461
I loved this book! A well-told story of an average older man who did something remarkable, inspired by his concern for another human being.  The author skillfully interweaves the telling of Harold Fry's life struggles with the challenges of his long journey, and smoothly incorporates Harold's interactions with all kinds of interesting characters who pop up along his trail.
4674416
Like my title says this was very inspirational, a great story, and very well written.

Not sure if Tim is this good as a writer, but even if he got help writing this, he was wise to do so.

The book reads very fluidly, the stories keep pulling you deeper, and its hard not to be inspired by this book even if you are a total cynic.

While targeted to people looking to start their own business, and in particular, an internet based business, I think the stories and principles found in this book can apply to anyone.

I definitely would recommend this as a gift as well. Its well worth the read.

Cheers,
Jeremy
1534199
An inspiring book about an intelligent, courageous, hard working and positive woman, who knows who she is and what she stands for, and refuses to be labeled and "put in her place" by many who could  not see beyond her skin color, her sex or her age. A well written book, unpretentious and honest, gives us an insight into an American success story, fueled by hopes and dreams for a better life, and not just a financial success, but life lived in freedom and full of opportunities for those who are willing to work hard, sacrifice and not wallow in self pity when others act out of ignorance, but rise above it and accoplish their goals despite the naysayers. A great lesson to us all.
3272511
Reading this book was effortless, it was beautifully written, with phrases that were at times spine-tinglingly lyrical. And the characters were likable and believable--people I felt like I could easily know myself.  I loved Autumn's family, their meddling and their camaraderie, and Paul's protectiveness and love for his children made him incredibly relatable. The relationship between Autumn and Reese was a great blend of acceptance and awkwardness. The plot was very well done, although there was one small area that felt a little contrived to me, others may not even notice. I don't want to be specific because I feel like it would give away too much and everyone should be able to savor this book as it unfolds. It did not affect my enjoyment of the book at all. I also loved Autumn's journey, it was captivating. She was a survivor in more ways than one.

As good as the writing was, this book shined when it came to the spiritual. Life After is an exploration of "Why". Why me? Why not them? There are no easy answers and Katie Ganshert doesn't offer any, but the exploration of the questions themselves are deeply affecting and intriguing.  This is a book that will stay with you long after you read the last page.

Life After is a beautifully written, thought-provoking book that confronts the reader with deep spiritual questions. Don't miss the opportunity to read this fascinating and inspiring story.
2011034
Unlike other reviewers, I was NOT given a free copy of this work. But I agree with the assessments: this is a well-written and inspiring story. I have also read the author's previous novel, "Sea of Crises", which I enjoyed: it was a non-stop action thriller, very different genre. But in both, the author manages to portray characters who are admirable and decent without being saccharine. Just enough detail about the period and circumstances: sets  the stage without seeming like a dull slog through a history lesson. Look forward to reading new work by this author.
2357729
A beautiful story, beautifully written.  The characters have depth and create a relationship that is transformative and inspirational.  I would highly recommend this book
4105259
I enjoyed every minute of this book, and highly recommend it. The story of hardship, and perserverence to making a better life is well told by the author, and it is not lost on the reader that it is coming from personal knowledge and experience rather than just the imagination. The author also reminds us that we tend to take what we have for granted, and that some people made great sacrifices to have it. Good job!
3162404
Very engaging and well written.  A very inspiring story about how life in Vietnam was for Trang and her family.  It gives the reader insight into the life of a Vietnam family and how they lived and struggled for everyday necessities.  I have admiration for Trangs ability to adjust to life in the United States and not only not knowing a word of English when she moved here but how she overcame that and other obstacles to raising a family in the United States to owning her own business.
3708198
Rebecca Conti shares her journey of faith in her inspirational memoir. I found this book to be a well written lesson of courage and strength---simply told, but very thought provoking. How would I have reacted to similar events?  Becky is my summer neighbor. She is caring and thoughtful, dedicated to helping others.  I'm happy to report that her story has a happy ending.
3364778
This is a beautifully written, inspiring story written by a former screenwriter turned social enterpreneur. Jenny's story demonstrates how humility, a desire to learn and a drive to help others can accomplish anything. While she believes she isn't an expert, Jenny is a teacher for all of us on how to listen, connect with people from different cultures, keep your head down (when possible), and accomplish the impossible.
4574162
A wonderful inspirational story, actually people with compassion before their time, the year is 1964. The story deals with some tough subjects of pregnancy, adultery, and possible murder.
This is the Jocie Brooks thirteenth summer, she is a delightful young girl. She has been praying for a dog, when possibly the ugliest dog around finds her. Zeb is her prayers answer and she loves him. When another prayer is answered people begin to wonder what she wants next.
There are some wonderful characters in this book, I wanted to live with them. There is Aunt Love, who is in her golden years, quite often putting something on the stove to cook, and forgetting it. There is Jocie's Dad, David, he owns the local newspaper and is a preacher. We also have Zelda and Wes, the man who came from Jupiter, that work at the paper, and are rather like family. We meet a bit younger woman than David, Leigh, who wants to have a special relationship with the Preacher.
Some of the things that are found out in her search for family answers, are really quite sad. Others are sad, but are rather heartwarming. One is that her Mother abandons her when she is seven, but was she ever a Mother to the child?
We find that God is ever present in their lives, and nothing happens for no reason, trust and forgiveness are ever present. A wonderful book to get lost in...don't miss this one!

I received this book through Revell Publishing Bloggers Tour, and was not required to give a positive review.
1576627
This book is a Christian story about a young couple who are missionaries in Columbia. It is fiction, but reads as real. After reading the preface of this book I thought "big spoiler", but was I ever wrong. The beginning and the ending of this story was so griping, heart breaking and warming, all at the same time. Ms. Raney wove a beautifully inspiring story that also served as an edifying reminder of the price Jesus paid as God's  sacrificial Lamb.  And the priviledge and opportunities that we, as His followers,  have been given the  to share the Good News to unbelievers.  This story is well written, the characters are developed, a clean romance and smooth flow.  Good job!