Category: book releases

New children’s book release: ‘Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio’ by Lucille Newton Cascos

New children’s book release: ‘Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio’ by Lucille Newton Cascos
‘Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio’ is the new children’s book by Lucille Newton Cascos about a father and son opossum. Photo: Amazon

Children’s books are magical portals to worlds where imagination knows no bounds. From the whimsical tales of talking animals to fantastical adventures in far-off lands, these books ignite curiosity and foster creativity. Vibrant illustrations breathe life into characters, captivating young minds and sparking endless wonder. Through stories of friendship, bravery, and discovery, children learn valuable lessons about empathy, resilience, and the power of imagination. Whether it’s the comforting familiarity of bedtime stories or the thrill of exploring new realms, children’s books serve as timeless companions on the journey of growing up, leaving an indelible mark on both hearts and minds.

Brownsville native Lucille Newton Cascos has a new children’s book that centers around a young opossum named Tikito titled “Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio: Father and Son’s Life Lessons of a Brownsville Native Opossum Who Dared to Dream.” I attended a book signing she had on Friday at Surge Mobile Physical Therapy in Olmito. Lucille took the time to sign copies of the book and take pictures with guests and children. There was a costumed opossum greeting visitors and entertaining the children and guests were treated to fruit, cheese, and other snacks. The atmosphere was celebratory and cheerful as those in attendance were excited to have a book all about a common sight in the valley, an opossum. The author is looking forward to more book signings in area schools and libraries and confirmed that there could be more books in the future as a series.

The book is recommended for older children and is both entertaining and educational. It has colorful illustrations and plenty of reading comprehension words to help young readers improve their language skills. The glossary of vocabulary terms in the back comes in handy in case there’s a word or two they need to look up. The story is poignant and inspiring and explores the themes of family, culture, and the importance of being true to yourself. Thank you, Lucille, for shining a light on this often misunderstood marsupial. Congratulations – it was a pleasure meeting you.

“Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio” aims to make learning fun and engaging for children around the world, introducing them to animals, cultures, and the Spanish language. By combining these elements, Lucille hopes to inspire a sense of discovery and foster curiosity and a love for learning in young readers.

Tiko and his rascally son, Tikito, live in the alleyways of Brownsville, Texas, where they escape the assault and dangers of the outside world. Having lived among humans, Tiko tries to shield his young son against the treachery around them, ultimately sharing the life lessons Tikito will need to survive. (Amazon, 2024)

For Kids Ages 7-9, 10-12. Grades 2-8
Educational, 70+ Target Reading Comprehension Words

“As the seasons changed, Tikito always remembered one thing that stuck in his head from all of his father’s wisdom: even within a short time, everyone can leave a lasting impact and create a legacy worth remembering.”

With Tikito and author Lucille Newton Cascos
Author Lucille Cascos with Tikito
Snacks for guests

Forthcoming new book release: ‘Finding My Rainbow’ by Josh Coleman

‘Finding My Rainbow’ will be released June 12, 2024. Photo: Amazon

An exciting milestone in the world of literature and LGBTQ+ advocacy comes with the announcement that “Finding My Rainbow: A Journey of Courage, Acceptance, and Pride,” the highly anticipated children’s book by Josh Coleman, is now available for pre-order. (Iron City Communications, 2024)

Josh Coleman is a distinguished advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights, serving as the Deputy Director of the Division of Social Justice and Racial Equity in Birmingham’s Mayor’s Office. His pioneering role as the city’s first LGBTQ+ Liaison and leadership in Central Alabama Pride highlight his commitment to inclusivity. His academic pursuits in political science and public administration further underscore his dedication to public service and community engagement. His new book, “Finding My Rainbow: A Journey of Courage, Acceptance, and Pride” is a story of finding oneself, fighting for acceptance, and the power of love. It will be released on June 12, 2024. (Iron City Communications, 2024)

In “Finding My Rainbow,” readers are invited into the world of Josh, a young boy from Alabama, navigating the challenges of growing up gay in a community not fully prepared for his truth. This story of self-discovery, bravery, and the quest for acceptance is poised to become a beacon of hope and understanding for children and adults alike.

It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the beauty of being true to oneself. This book is not just for those who identify with Josh’s journey but for anyone who believes in the transformative power of love and acceptance. Join Josh on his colorful journey, and be inspired to find and spread your own light.

Through Josh’s eyes, readers are invited into a deeply personal narrative that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of unconditional love. “Finding My Rainbow” is not just Josh’s story-it’s a call to action for understanding, empathy, and support for LGBTQ+ youth navigating their own paths to acceptance. This book aims to inspire readers of all ages with its message of hope, reminding us that we all deserve to live our truth and find our rainbow. Suitable for readers aged 8 to 13, this story touches hearts and minds, encouraging a more inclusive and accepting world. (Amazon, 2024)

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New book release: ‘Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families’ by Clare Staples

‘Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus and Families’ is a beautiful tribute to wild Mustang family groups that have been reunited after suffering roundup and separation in the American West. Photo: Amazon

Clare Staples is the founder and president of Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary in Malibu, California, and Bend, Oregon, which provides long-term homes for formerly free-roaming wild horses gathered from the American West by the United States government. Staples is a lifelong wild horse advocate, managing the Sanctuary with a passion and commitment that has helped make her one of the world’s leading voices on the plight of Mustangs and the myriad social and political issues that surround them. (Miller PR, 2024)

Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary recently announced the release of “Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families,” a captivating tribute to the strength and beauty of wild Mustangs reunited after enduring roundup and separation in the American West. Written by activist and philanthropist Clare Staples, this beautiful book promises to reshape perceptions of wild horses and their plight. The book is published and distributed by Trafalgar Square Books.

In this remarkable book, founder Clare Staples shares touching narratives of Mustang families torn apart by captivity bureau of land management roundups and the tireless efforts of the Skydog team to reunite them and restore their freedom at the Sanctuary. Through stunning photography and heartfelt storytelling, readers are immersed in the journey of twenty-one horse families, including the iconic Blue Zeus, whose heartbreaking tale symbolizes the hope and determination driving Skydog’s mission. Skydog Ranch has already rescued over 300 wild horses and 50 donkeys and mules from a variety of terrible conditions, as well as reuniting bonded families separated during the roundup process.

“Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families” offers an intimate look at the struggles and triumphs of these majestic creatures, showcasing the steady commitment to preservation and compassion that defines Skydog Ranch. A percentage of all sales directly supports Skydog’s efforts to rescue and reunite wild horses and donkeys, ensuring their legacy for generations to come.

The cover price of “Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families” is $49.95. Copies can be ordered from the Skydog website with profits benefiting Skydog Ranch. The book is also available through Ingram Publishing Services, supplying national online retailers like Amazon, BN.com, Target.com, and select independent bookstores.

“Writing this book was a true labor of love, and it was my pleasure to tell the stories of some of the wild horse families of Skydog. In this environment, they have the freedom to decide their destinations, companions, and preferred proximity to humans, creating a sense of safety and happiness.” – Clare Staples, founder of Skydog Ranch.

Located in Malibu, California, and covering 9,000 acres near Bend, Oregon, Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary provides a haven for wild horses and burros in need. Founded on principles of kindness and respect, it offers refuge to equines who have endured neglect and mistreatment, often finding themselves in dangerous circumstances such as kill pens or auctions. Their mission extends beyond rescue; they prioritize the reunification of wild horse families, recognizing the deep bonds that unite them. Committed to transparency and accountability, the sanctuary maintains a platinum rating on GuideStar and are accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. With daily updates on the residents and rigorous annual inspections, Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope and compassion in the land of horses.

Book review: ‘Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles’ by Laura Garrett

‘Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles’ by Laura Garrett celebrates America’s best decades with 150 word search puzzles. Photo: Amazon

Word search puzzles offer a blend of challenge and relaxation for young and old. With a grid of letters hiding a selection of words to be discovered, they ignite the thrill of exploration. Engaging both hemispheres of the brain, they stimulate cognitive functions such as pattern recognition, attention to detail, and vocabulary recall. Their versatility spans from educational tools for language learning to leisure activities for down times. As eyes scan the grid, the satisfaction of uncovering a hidden word brings a sense of accomplishment.

Laura Garrett’s new puzzle book “Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles: 150 Large Print Puzzles That Celebrate America’s Best Decades (1950s – 1990s)” celebrates America’s best decades with 150 large print word search puzzles. Embark on a nostalgic journey through the golden decades of American culture with this engaging collection designed specifically for seniors, offering hours of entertainment and mental stimulation. Iconic Themes from the 1950s to the 1990s cover everything from the birth of rock ‘n’ roll to the rise of pop culture. (Amazon, 2024)

These puzzles cover a wide range of nostalgic themes, including:

  • Classic movies and TV shows
  • Popular music and legendary musicians
  • Iconic celebrities and public figures
  • Memorable events and historical moments

With 150 carefully crafted word search puzzles, this book provides ample variety and challenge to keep your mind engaged and sharp. Each puzzle offers a fun and rewarding experience, perfect for puzzle enthusiasts of all skill levels. The large print format ensures a comfortable and enjoyable solving experience, making it perfect for seniors or anyone who prefers easier-to-read text. Say goodbye to eye strain and hello to hours of puzzling fun. Whether you’re a baby boomer reliving your youth or a younger generation curious about the past, “Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles” makes a thoughtful and entertaining gift for any occasion.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of America’s most memorable decades. This collection is the perfect companion for anyone looking to unwind, relax, and celebrate the best of American culture.

I have always loved word search puzzles and nowadays, I still pick one up every now and then to help me relax. If you enjoy the challenge of a good word search puzzle, consider “Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles.” It is specifically designed for seniors due to the mental stimulation they provide, but anyone can benefit from them. I like that there’s 150 puzzles, all in large print, to minimize eye strain and make it easy to find the words. The theme is nostalgia, so they are divided by decade and with themes such as Classic Cartoons, Slang Words, Cultural Movements, and Fashion and Style. It’s fun looking back at what made each decade special while challenging your mind and unwinding. In a world of constant stimulation, word search puzzles provide a serene escape. So take a break from the constant screen time and exercise your mind. If you get stumped, the answers are in the back of the book. Looking for a unique gift idea? This puzzle book also makes an excellent gift for anyone who enjoys puzzles.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies’ by Jesse Roberts

‘Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies’ is a comprehensive guide to getting the most out of your Baofeng Radio. Photo: Amazon

Jesse Roberts is an experienced prepper, outdoor enthusiast, and licensed amateur radio operator. With over a decade of experience in emergency communication and survival strategies, Jesse has dedicated his life to helping others prepare for the unexpected. As a founder of a successful survival training academy, he has taught countless individuals the skills needed to stay safe and connected in any situation. Jesse’s passion for Baofeng radios and his commitment to empowering others make him the perfect guide to navigating the world of emergency communication. His new book “Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Radio” is a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of using Baofeng radios to stay connected and safe during any crisis. (Amazon, 2024)

“Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Radio”
A Baofeng radio is a handheld two-way radio that is designed to be used by both amateur radio enthusiasts and commercial users alike. It has become a must-have tool for preppers, survivalists, and anyone who wants to take their emergency preparedness to the next level. As someone who lives in a hurricane prone area, I admit I hadn’t thought about including one as part of our hurricane preparedness checklist until I picked up this book. In an emergency, communication is essential to survival. This comprehensive guide gives readers everything they need to know to stay connected and safe during an emergency or crisis.

Some of the topics covered include the essential features and capabilities of Baofeng radios, legal considerations and licensing requirements for operation, step-by-step instructions for setting up, and programming and maintenance of Baofeng radios. Once you have your radio up and going, there are some terms you need to know, so the author shares communication protocols including callsigns, the phonetic alphabet, prowords, q-codes, and radio etiquette. There are also tips for troubleshooting common issues and strategies for building an effective emergency communication network.

The book is divided as follows:

Introduction
Chapter 01 – An Overview of Baofeng radios
Chapter 02 – Legal considerations and licensing
Chapter 03 – Getting started with your Baofeng radio
Chapter 04 – Mastering communication protocols
Chapter 05 – Programming your Baofeng radio
Chapter 06 – Operating your Baofeng radio in the field
Chapter 07 – Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Conclusion
Glossary

Overall, this is an excellent guide to everything you need to know about Baofeng radios, from the basic features, to programming and learning the necessary codes to ensure you get the most out of your radio, it is a must-have for your emergency preparedness kit. In a world where being prepared means making sure you are able to communicate in a crisis or emergency, they come in handy since they don’t require a cell phone network or power grid to function. So pick up your copy today and learn all about this essential survival tool.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New book release: ‘This Kind of Man’ by Sean Murphy

‘This Kind of Man’ is the new short story collection by Sean Murphy. Photo: Amazon

Short story collections are literary treasures, offering a diverse tapestry of narratives within a compact form and offer a glimpse into the human experience. They invite readers to explore new perspectives and cultures within a single volume. Each story is a different universe and readers can enjoy them individually or binge through the collection, reveling in the variety of themes. There is a new short story collection out this month by Sean Murphy – “This Kind of Man.” So if you enjoy these types of books, here is some more information.

Sean Murphy is the Founding Director of 1455, a non-profit that celebrates storytelling. He has appeared on NPR’s “All Things Considered” and been quoted in USA Today, The New York Times, The Huffington Post, and AdAge. A long-time columnist for PopMatters, his work has also appeared in Salon, The Village Voice, Washington City Paper, The Good Men Project, Sequestrum, Blue Mountain Review, and others. His chapbook, “The Blackened Blues,” was published by Finishing Line Press in 2021. His second anthology of poems, “Rhapsodies in Blue” was published by Kelsay Books in 2023. He has been nominated four times for the Pushcart Prize, twice for Best of Net, and his book “Please Talk about Me When I’m Gone” was the winner of Memoir Magazine’s 2022 Memoir Prize. His new book “This Kind of Man” is his first collection of short fiction and offers an unvarnished look at life in 21st Century America, excavating the complicated, tender, wild truth of what it is to be a man across generations and relationships. (1455 Literary Arts, 2024)

“This Kind of Man” – These stories interrogate the pressures and tensions of contemporary life, and the ways men grapple with them, often without success. Issues such as marriage, fatherhood, aggression, alcoholism, gender expectations, generational backlash, and the inexorable dread of death, abound.

Many of these stories live within a slow implosion of coping, and often failing, as well as those who refuse to succumb, addressing concerns oft-discussed, or not discussed enough, in mainstream print: gun violence, the recent history of coal country Appalachia, sports-related concussions, illegal immigration (and the jobs many of these ostensibly unwelcome folks are obliged to do), homelessness, and the inability of men to honestly connect or communicate.

Far from excusing or exonerating toxic males, this collection locates their violence (toward others, against themselves) in the context of a deadening culture and the false narratives that prevail in an exploitative, zero-sum game capitalist model, where those without are encouraged to quarrel with similarly overworked and underpaid, mostly blue-collar workers. We see that our received notions of manhood and masculinity are inculcated-from the beginning and by design-to ensure willing participation in a system where the overwhelming majority are excluded from the start. We witness the way these dysfunctions are handed down like inheritance, and how every cliché, from fighting to drinking to intolerance of dissent and distrust of others, is a carefully constructed trap, preventing solidarity, empathy, and love (for others, for one’s self).

New book release: ‘Immune Heroes’ by Namita Gandhi

The new children’s book ‘Immune Heroes’ helps children learn all about the immune system. Photo: Nimitry Books PR, used with permission.

Children’s books are windows to the imagination and portals to whimsical worlds where adventures unfold and lessons are learned. They spark curiosity and foster creativity in young minds, while the vibrant illustrations captivate young readers and ignite their love for storytelling. Whether it’s tales of friendship, bravery, or the magic of everyday life, children’s books hold the power to inspire, educate, and entertain. Some of the best books around encourage children to explore, dream, and embark on unforgettable journeys, and maybe even learn an important science lesson or two. One such book is Namita Gandhi’s “Immune Heroes,” where through engaging storytelling and colorful characters, children meet brave white blood cells, outsmart villainous bacteria, and learn how their bodies fight back.

Namita Gandhi is a seasoned immunologist with a Ph.D. who has dedicated over two decades to unraveling the complexities of diseases in her biotech career. Inspired by bedtime stories with her nieces and nephew, Namita crafts whimsical picture books that demystify the wonders of immunology and science for children. Her new book “Immune Heroes: A science adventure with a twist! Celebrate the immune system and its power within your own body” is an illustrated book that captures children’s imagination and provides an entertaining education. It is an excellent way for children to explore STEM, work on their reading, and understand why it’s so important to wash our hands. (Nimitry Books PR, 2024)

“Immune Heroes” – imagine if your children could embark on an incredible journey, diving deep into the fascinating world of the human body. Crafted by a scientist, this book simplifies complex concepts, sparking curiosity and reducing screen time. It is perfect for inquisitive kids who ask “why?” or kids interested in careers in STEM, and especially useful for early elementary teachers looking to introduce the wonders of the human body to young minds. Through this beautifully illustrated children’s book that combines education and fun, kids can explore the worders of the immune system.

Forthcoming new book release: ‘You Like It Darker’ by Stephen King

‘You Like It Darker’ will be out May 21, 2024. Photo: Amazon

It is no secret that I love horror novels, especially from Stephen King. His were the first books I enjoyed in elementary school (yes, elementary school) but surprisingly, have yet to give me nightmares. I look forward to every one of his releases and my home library is filled with most of his books, especially the short story collections. I even have “The Bachman Books;” if you’re a Constant Reader, you get it. So today, I’m pleased to share that the Master of Horror has a new book coming out next month: “You Like It Darker.” Enough said.

Stephen King is the author of more than sixty books, all of them worldwide bestsellers. His recent work includes the short story collection “Holly,” “Fairy Tale,” “If It Bleeds,” “The Outsider,” “Sleeping Beauties,” (cowritten with his son Owen King) and the Bill Hodges trilogy: “End of Watch,” “Finders Keepers,” and “Mr. Mercedes.” His epic works “The Dark Tower,” “It,” “Pet Sematary,” “Doctor Sleep,” and “Firestarter” are the basis for major motion pictures, with “It” now the highest-grossing horror film of all time. He is the recipient of the 2003 National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. His new book “You Like It Darker: Stories” will be released on May 21 and is available for pre-order on Amazon. It is an exciting new collection of twelve short stories, many never-before-published, and some of his best EVER. (Amazon, 2024)

“You Like It Darker” – “You like it darker? Fine, so do I,” writes Stephen King in the afterword to this magnificent new collection of twelve stories that dig into the darker part of life—both metaphorical and literal. King has, for half a century, been a master of the form, and these stories, about fate, mortality, luck, and the folds in reality where anything can happen, are as rich and riveting as his novels, both weighty in theme and a huge pleasure to read. King writes to feel “the exhilaration of leaving ordinary day-to-day life behind,” and in “You Like It Darker,” readers will feel that exhilaration too, again and again.

“Two Talented Bastids” explores the long-hidden secret of how the eponymous gentlemen got their skills. In “Danny Coughlin’s Bad Dream,” a brief and unprecedented psychic flash upends dozens of lives, Danny’s most catastrophically. In “Rattlesnakes,” a sequel to Cujo, a grieving widower travels to Florida for respite and instead receives an unexpected inheritance—with major strings attached. In “The Dreamers,” a taciturn Vietnam vet answers a job ad and learns that there are some corners of the universe best left unexplored. “The Answer Man” asks if prescience is good luck or bad and reminds us that a life marked by unbearable tragedy can still be meaningful.

King’s ability to surprise, amaze, and bring us both terror and solace remains unsurpassed. Each of these stories holds its own thrills, joys, and mysteries; each feels iconic. You like it darker? You got it.

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New book release: ‘Toxic Prey’ by John Sandford

‘Toxic Prey’ is the thrilling new Lucas Davenport novel by John Sandford. Photo: Amazon

John Sandford is in the top 10 of my favorite authors. His crime fiction and mystery books are so engaging to read and I’ve read almost all of his Lucas Davenport novels. So naturally, I was pleased to hear that the next Prey novel, “Toxic Prey,” has just been released. Prepare yourself for another exciting Lucas Davenport mystery.

John Sandford is the pseudonym for the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist John Camp. He is the New York Times bestselling author of thirty-three Prey novels; two Letty Davenport novels; four Kidd novels; twelve Virgil Flowers novels; three YA novels coauthored with his wife, Michele Cook; and three other books. His latest thriller, “Toxic Prey” is the 34th Prey novel and has Lucas Davenport and his daughter, Letty, teaming up to track down a dangerous scientist whose latest project could endanger the entire world. (Amazon, 2024)

“Toxic Prey” – Gaia is dying. That, at least, is what Dr. Lionel Scott believes. A renowned expert in tropical and infectious diseases, Scott has witnessed the devastating impact of illness and turmoil at critical scale. Society as it exists is on shaky ground and the direct link to Earth’s death spiral; population levels are out of control and people have allowed disarray and disorder to run rampant. While most are concerned about deadly disease, Scott knows that it is truly humanity itself that will destroy Gaia. It’s only by removing the threat that the planet can continue to prosper, and luckily, Scott is just the right man for the job.

When Scott disappears without a trace, Letty Davenport is tasked with tracking down any and all leads. Scott’s connections to sensitive research into virus and pathogen spread has multiple national and international organizations on high alert, and his shockingly high clearance levels at various institutions, including the Los Alamos National Laboratory, make him the last person they’d like to go missing. As the web around Scott becomes more tangled, Letty calls in her father, Lucas, to help her lead a group of specialists to find Scott as soon as possible. But as Letty and Lucas begin to uncover startling and disturbing connections between Scott and Gaia conspiracists, their worst fears are confirmed, and it quickly becomes a race to find him before the virus he created becomes the perfect weapon.

Book review: ‘On My Way Back to You’ by Sarah Cart

‘On My Way Back to You: One Couple’s Journey through Catastrophic Illness to Healing and Hope’ by Sarah Cart with Glenn Plaskin. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Sarah Cart was raised and educated in New York and New England. As a freelancer, she wrote for multiple local publications while she and her husband, Ben, raised four sons in northeastern Ohio. Upon becoming empty nesters, the two moved to the Florida Keys. Then in 2017, Ben was diagnosed with a degenerative autoimmune disorder and over time, their relationship evolved to that of patient and caregiver and by the beginning of 2020, Ben was dying. Sarah’s new memoir, “On My Way Back to You,” is a first-hand account of the rollercoaster world of lifesaving transplants and the unimaginable challenges Sarah faced as she struggled to manage her husband Ben’s devastating illness and to save his life, their marriage, and her own sanity. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis:
“On My Way Back to You” is the story of Sarah and Ben Cart. For the first 42 years they shared together, Ben was a successful entrepreneur and outdoorsman. Then the unthinkable happens. Not only was he battling an autoimmune disorder, but ten days into the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown, his kidneys crash, his heart was failing, and he ends up in the ICU at Cleveland Clinic Weston (FL). In suspenseful and heartbreaking detail, Sarah shares how Ben’s incurable autoimmune condition was manageable and under control one minute and threatening to kill him the next. Thanks to a heart transplant, they now have a future, and, more than ever before, relish time spent with family and friends.

Thrust into the role of nurse and caregiver, Sarah joined the ranks of 39 million Americans who champion and care for an ailing loved one. In addition to confronting doubts, fears, and endless setbacks, aggravations, and red tape, she also had to consent to daunting procedures on Ben’s behalf. She had to endure the months-long Covid-era restrictions on hospital visitations and the post-surgery snafus with home healthcare personnel. The ongoing heartfelt communication with family and friends sustained her through the darkest of days. It is divided into 18 chapters including Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night, The Slippery Slope, and Battle Stations. She includes some of the email updates she sent out and sections such as Ben’s and his sons’ reflections on what was going on at the time.

Review:
Memoirs are windows into the lives of individuals, capturing their experiences, emotions, and reflections. These deeply personal narratives offer insight into the human condition, revealing triumphs, struggles, and moments of self-discovery. By telling her story, Sarah Cart connects with readers on a profound level, inspiring empathy, introspection, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the human experience.

It’s easy to say that we would undoubtedly become a caregiver to a loved one, but the reality can be sobering, as she puts it in the first sentence of the Preface: “Life is hard, messy, beautiful, unpredictable…and fragile.” Covid complicated matters because it affected his treatment and because of the restrictions, friends and family couldn’t help her as much as they ordinarily would. Writing this memoir was therapeutic for her because she shares what she went through, including the medical and personal struggles: “Documenting the details of his condition…provided a means of grappling with the fear.” Most importantly, readers can learn the questions to ask, the notes to take, the signs to never overlook, and the importance of self care. Stand out chapters include Chapter 7 when Ben finally gets the transplant and all the after care he requires and Chapter 14 when even after all she was doing to care for him, someone files a complaint with the department of human services about elder abuse.

Overall, “On My Way Back to You” is a profoundly inspirational account of one couple’s medical journey and the patience, determination, and love that ultimately helped them find their way back to one another. The focus is on the care Ben received and how it affected their lives, so it doesn’t come off as depressing or overly personal and heartbreaking. It is easy to read and offers lessons anyone can benefit from, so it is recommended for readers who enjoy medical memoirs and appreciate reading about the details of a patient’s medical treatment. It is also a testament to the importance of organ donation. 

“I offer you this story not because you will necessarily be interested in our particular saga but because life is hard and messy and unpredictable, and chances are high that ultimately each of us will face challenges we never imagined…”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.