Airbnb Investment Guide for Beginners: Tips and Strategies

“Perspective Investments in Airbnb for beginners” by Oscar Ray.

Airbnb revolutionized travel accommodation by connecting travelers with unique lodging options worldwide. Founded in 2008, it allows individuals to rent out their properties, offering diverse choices from cozy apartments to lavish villas, often at competitive prices. Hosts can monetize their spaces while guests enjoy personalized experiences beyond traditional hotels. Airbnb’s platform fosters cultural immersion, enabling travelers to live like locals and discover hidden gems. However, its rapid expansion raised concerns about housing affordability, neighborhood disruption, and safety. Despite controversies, Airbnb continues to reshape the hospitality industry, catering to adventurous spirits seeking authentic stays and forging connections across borders.

Synopsis: Oscar Ray “Perspective Investments in Airbnb for Beginners” is an essential guide for anyone looking to dive into the world of short-term rental investments using Airbnb. Authored by seasoned investor Oscar Ray, this book offers a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap tailored for beginners. It details the newest strategies to not only get started but also to thrive in building a profitable short-term rental business.

From understanding the basics of Airbnb and real estate investment to mastering the complexities of property management and guest relations, this guide covers all the crucial areas. It is packed with practical advice, useful tips, and industry tricks that are designed to help readers navigate their way through the competitive market. Readers will learn how to identify promising properties, set competitive pricing, enhance guest experiences, and manage bookings efficiently. The book also discusses the importance of online marketing and how to use social media to boost your property’s visibility. (Amazon, 2024)

Review: This extremely useful guide is aimed at investors and homeowners who want to learn about the history of Airbnb and gives “insights and strategies needed to navigate the exciting world of Airbnb investments.” The main objective is to help readers learn all about Airbnb and how to use it to create passive income by providing key strategies for maximizing rental income. Readers will learn how to create a high quality detailed listing that draws traffic, how to provide an exceptional guest experience, and, most importantly, how to handle challenges and regulations such as zoning laws, and management duties.

Who will benefit from this book? Beginners get the basics of Airbnb and how to get started in their successful investment journey. Seasoned Investors get advanced strategies such as market analysis techniques and insights on optimizing operations. Entrepreneurs get advice on building their rental business, whether it involves single or multiple properties.

This guide also includes tools and resources such as checklists, the software needed, and case studies and real world examples of successful investors – their strategies and lessons learned. There’s also a glossary of terms related to Airbnb and real estate investment in case some of terms used seem unfamiliar.

It is divided as follows with chapters that include:

Introduction
Chapter 1 – The History and Growth of Airbnb
Chapter 2 – Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Chapter 3 – Criteria for Choosing Profitable Properties
Chapter 4 – Designing and Furnishing Your Rental for Comfort and Appeal
Chapter 5 – Providing Exceptional Guest Experiences for Positive Reviews
Chapter 6 – Methods for Acquiring Additional Properties
Chapter 7 – Handling Difficult Guests and Resolving Conflicts
Chapter 8 – Long-term Strategies for Building a Sustainable Rental Business
Chapter 9 – Emerging Trends in the Sharing Economy and Short-Term Rental Market
Appendices – Resources for Airbnb Hosts (Websites and Platforms, Community Support and Learning)

Overall, “Perspective Investments in Airbnb for Beginners” is an outstanding user manual for readers interested in using Airbnb to create passive income or as an investment option. Standout chapters include Chapter 4 – Setting Up Your Airbnb – how to create a listing by using high quality photographs and how to create a welcoming atmosphere on the property; and Chapter 7 – Navigating Challenges and Risks – dealing with difficult guests and preventative measures to take that will ensure a smooth transaction. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is considering going into the Airbnb business. The material is easy to understand and the chapters are conveniently organized to make it easy to reference as needed and the resources listed in the appendix provide much needed support. It is a definite must have for investors of all levels.

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

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

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.

Forthcoming new horror thriller release: Blackwater Lane

Blackwater Lane will be released in theaters, digital, and On Demand on June 21, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

This week, the trailer for Lionsgate’s new horror/thriller “Blackwater Lane” was released. The movie is directed by Jeff Celentano, written by Elizabeth Fowler and stars Minka Kelly, Maggie Grace, Dermot Mulroney, Alan Calton, and Natalie Simpson. (Cinematic Red, PR, 2024)

Based on the successful The New York Times bestselling book “The Breakdown” by B.A. Paris, after witnessing a grisly tragedy, Cass is visited by a ghostly presence and starts to question her sanity. As these otherworldly experiences intensify, she is driven closer to the brink until she begins to assemble the pieces of a horrific plot against her.

Blackwater Lane will be released in theaters and digital/On Demand on June 21, 2024.

Rating: PG-13
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Runtime: 108 mins.

Book synopsis: “The Breakdown”

If you can’t trust yourself, who can you trust?

Cass is having a hard time since the night she saw the car in the woods. It was on the winding rural road, in the middle of a downpour, and a woman was sitting inside—the woman who was killed. She’s been trying to put the crime out of her mind; what could she have done, really? It’s a dangerous road to be on in the middle of a storm, and she probably would have been hurt herself if she’d stopped. Not only that, her husband would be furious if he knew she’d broken her promise not to take that shortcut home.

But since then, she’s been forgetting every little thing. Where she left the car; if she took her pills; even the alarm code. The only thing she can’t forget is that woman, the woman she might have saved, and the terrible nagging guilt; and the silent calls she’s receiving, or the feeling that someone’s watching her. (Amazon, 2024)

‘The Breakdown’ by B.A. Paris. Photo: Amazon

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.

Book to series adaptation: ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ by Heather Morris

‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ has been adapted into a Peacock original series. Photo: Amazon

Historical fiction transports readers to bygone eras, blending fact with imaginative narrative. They resurrect ancient civilizations and wartime landscapes with meticulous research and vivid storytelling. Through the eyes of fictional characters, readers explore crucial events, from epic battles to intimate moments of daily life, offering insights into the human condition across time. These stories often combine real historical figures with invented protagonists, creating a rich tapestry of emotion, intrigue, and adventure. These books not only entertain but also educate, inviting readers to ponder the echoes of the past in our present and future. One such historical novel is The New York Times and International bestseller “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” by Heather Morris.

Heather Morris is a native of New Zealand, now living in Australia. For several years, while working in a large public hospital in Melbourne, she studied and wrote screenplays, one of which was optioned by an Academy Award-winning screenwriter in the US. In 2003, Heather was introduced to an elderly gentleman who ‘might just have a story worth telling.’ The day she met Lale Sokolov changed both their lives. Their friendship grew and Lale embarked on a journey of self-scrutiny, entrusting the innermost details of his life during the Holocaust to her. Heather originally wrote Lale’s story as a screenplay – which ranked high in international competitions – before reshaping it into her debut novel, “The Tattooist of Auschwitz.” It is a tale of hope and courage based on interviews that were conducted with Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov—an unforgettable love story in the midst of atrocity. It has now been adapted into a Peacock original series (6 episodes) and will be available for streaming starting May 2, 2024. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Tattooist of Auschwitz” – In April 1942, Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew, is forcibly transported to the concentration camps at Auschwitz-Birkenau. When his captors discover that he speaks several languages, he is put to work as a Tätowierer (the German word for tattooist), tasked with permanently marking his fellow prisoners.

Imprisoned for over two and a half years, Lale witnesses horrific atrocities and barbarism—but also incredible acts of bravery and compassion. Risking his own life, he uses his privileged position to exchange jewels and money from murdered Jews for food to keep his fellow prisoners alive.

One day in July 1942, Lale, prisoner 32407, comforts a trembling young woman waiting in line to have the number 34902 tattooed onto her arm. Her name is Gita, and in that first encounter, Lale vows to somehow survive the camp and marry her.

A vivid, harrowing, and ultimately hopeful re-creation of Lale Sokolov’s experiences as the man who tattooed the arms of thousands of prisoners with what would become one of the most potent symbols of the Holocaust, “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” is also a testament to the endurance of love and humanity under the darkest possible conditions.

Book review: ‘Revival’ by Stephen King

‘Revival’ by Stephen King. Photo: Amazon

Stephen King is the author of more than sixty books, all of them worldwide bestsellers. His recent work includes the short story collection “You Like It Darker,” “Holly,” “Fairy Tale,” “If It Bleeds,” “Sleeping Beauties” (cowritten with his son Owen King), and the Bill Hodges trilogy: “End of Watch,” “Finders Keepers,” and “Mr. Mercedes” (an Edgar Award winner for Best Novel and a television series streaming on Peacock). He is the recipient of the 2020 Audio Publishers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2018 PEN America Literary Service Award, the 2014 National Medal of Arts, and the 2003 National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. His 2015 book “Revival” is a dark and electrifying novel about addiction, fanaticism, and what might exist on the other side of life. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis:
“Revival” – In a small New England town, over half a century ago, a shadow falls over a small boy playing with his toy soldiers. Jamie Morton looks up to see a striking man, the new minister. Charles Jacobs, along with his beautiful wife, will transform the local church. The men and boys are all a bit in love with Mrs. Jacobs; the women and girls feel the same about Reverend Jacobs—including Jamie’s mother and beloved sister, Claire. With Jamie, the Reverend shares a deeper bond based on a secret obsession. When tragedy strikes the Jacobs family, this charismatic preacher curses God, mocks all religious belief, and is banished from the shocked town.

Jamie has demons of his own. He plays guitar in bands across the country, living the nomadic lifestyle of bar-band rock and roll while fleeing from his family’s horrific loss. In his mid-thirties—addicted to heroin, stranded, desperate—Jamie meets Charles Jacobs again, with profound consequences for both men. Their bond becomes a pact beyond even the Devil’s devising, and Jamie discovers that revival has many meanings.

Review:
Like all the best novels from Stephen King, this story develops over five decades and follows Jamie Morton’s life from child to adult. His life is linked to Charles Jacobs right from the beginning and Jamie is thus destined to witness his chilling journey from minister to a madman obsessed with electricity and the afterlife. King masterfully weaves together elements of horror and psychological suspense to create a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking.

His vivid characterization and immersive storytelling transport readers into a world where the line between science and the supernatural blurs. True to his creative use of creature imagery, he doesn’t disappoint: “Now from the dead woman’s gaping mouth came a black leg with a flexing claw at the end of it. The claw was alive; it was a face.” The character development in both lead characters is impressive, which makes them highly relatable. Jacobs’ obsession with electricity is reminiscent of Victor Frankenstein, especially towards the end: “‘No heartbeat,’ he said. ‘Yet she lives. She lives!’”

“Revival” by Stephen King is a haunting exploration of obsession, faith, and the dark corners of human nature and is proof of his ability to entertain and unsettle his audience. With its eerie atmosphere and profound themes of family, death, and the afterlife, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture into its pages. It is the author at his best, and this novel is recommended for longtime King fans who appreciate horror stories with flawed but fascinating characters.

“This is how we bring about our own damnation, you know – by ignoring the voice that begs us to stop. To stop while there’s still time.”

Book review: ‘JavaScript and jQuery’ by Jon Duckett

‘JavaScript and jQuery: Interactive Front-End Web Development’ by Jon Duckett

Jon Duckett has been helping companies create innovative digital solutions for over 15 years, designing and delivering web and mobile projects for small businesses and tech startups through to global brands like Diesel, Philips, Nike, Wrangler, and Xerox. During this time, he has written and co-authored over a dozen books on web design and programming. He has not only written his latest books “HTML & CSS” (design and build websites) and “JavaScript & jQuery” (interactive front end web development), but also designed the entire book from scratch. Dispensing with the traditional template of programming books, he wanted to present the information in a manner that is less intimidating and more relevant to those who have never tried to write code before. The result is a new, exciting way to learn about HTML, CSS and JavaScript presented in full-color, with plenty of info-graphics and photography that really make the title stand out from other books that cover the same topics. In “JavaScript & jQuery,” he give readers expert techniques to make their websites more interactive and engaging. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis
“JavaScript and jQuery: Interactive Front-End Development”– best-selling author Jon Duckett delivers a fully illustrated guide to making your websites more interactive and your interfaces more interesting and intuitive. It starts by introducing basic programming concepts that assume no prior knowledge of programming beyond an ability to create a web page using HTML & CSS. You’ll use core elements of the JavaScript language and learn to recreate techniques you have seen on other web sites such as sliders, content filters, form validation, Ajax content updates, and much more.

Each chapter breaks subjects down into bite-sized chunks with a new topic on each page, contains clear descriptions of syntax, each one demonstrated with illustrative code samples, and uses diagrams and photography to explain complex concepts in a visual way. It is divided into 13 chapters, including The ABC of Programming, Basic JavaScript Instructions, and Error Handling & Debugging. By the end of the book, not only will you be able to use the thousands of scripts, JavaScript APIs, and jQuery plugins that are freely available on the web – and be able to customize them – you will also be able to create your own scripts from scratch.

Review
Programming books are valuable guides when it comes to learning how to code. They help readers understand programming languages, algorithms, and all coding related concepts. Whether you are new to coding, or seasoned coder, this book will help you learn JavaScript and jQuery, one line of code at a time. The eye-catching illustrations and diagrams make it easy to follow and understand the material. While it is a lot of information to take in, overall, it is presented in small doses with different colors and layouts. This is a quality textbook-style guide that uses appropriate language without sounding too technical or condescending to beginners. It is recommended for readers interested in learning all about JavaScript to complement their existing websites.

“To get the most out of this book, you will need to know how to build web pages using HTML and CSS. Beyond that, no prior experience with programming is necessary.”

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

Book event: Annual San Antonio Book Festival

The annual San Antonio Book Festival is taking place this Saturday. Photo: San Antonio Book Festival, used with permission.

Exciting news, fellow book lovers! The annual San Antonio Book Festival is happening this weekend. I was lucky enough to be at the inaugural event and it was so much fun. Book festivals are vibrant celebrations of literature that bring together authors, publishers, and avid readers to explore everything book related. These events cater to book enthusiasts and offer a platform for diverse voices and narratives to thrive. From panel discussions to book signings, they foster an immersive experience where attendees can explore the world of storytelling. Book festivals ignite a passion for reading, sparking intellectual discourse and fostering a sense of community among bibliophiles. With their eclectic mix of genres and authors, these festivals serve as catalysts for inspiration, creativity, and the enduring love affair with the written word.

The San Antonio Book Festival (SABF), taking place at the Central Library and UTSA Southwest Campus in downtown San Antonio, is excited to celebrate their 12th annual festival this Saturday, April 13 from 9a.m. to 5p.m. The festival will feature nearly 100 national, regional and local authors including 66 sessions for guests to attend. A full list of all the sessions at the festival is available online. The festival is FREE and open to all ages. (San Antonio Book Festival, 2024)

SABF is also hosting its Authors in Schools program in partnership with San Antonio ISD and Edgewood ISD on Friday, April 12. Participating authors include Pedro Martin (Mexikid) and Kazu Kibuishi (Waverider). The Authors in Schools program helps encourage a passion for reading among children and teens, pairing award-winning authors with underserved, low-income schools to deliver presentations, tell funny stories, share personal journeys, and describe the process of writing their books. All students in attendance receive a free, signed copy of the author’s book to take home. This year’s Authors in Schools program will impact over 1,500 students.

Authors in Schools:
• 2p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024

San Antonio Book Festival:
• 9a.m. to 5p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024

Authors in Schools:
• Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Middle School, SAISD
1130 E Sunshine Dr, San Antonio, TX 78228
***Author: Pedro Martin (Mexikid)
• Alonso S. Perales Elementary School, Edgewood ISD
1507 Ceralvo St, San Antonio, TX 78237
***Author: Kazu Kibuishi (Waverider)

San Antonio Book Festival:
• Central Library and UTSA Southwest Campus
600 Soledad St. and 1201 Navarro St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

The mission of the San Antonio Book Festival (SABF) is to unite readers and writers in a celebration of ideas, books, libraries, and literary culture. SABF was first presented in April 2013. Founding partners include the San Antonio Public Library, UTSA Southwest Campus, the San Antonio Public Library Foundation, and Texas Book Festival. This “Fiesta for the mind” is a gift to visitors and the citizens of San Antonio, free and open to all.

600 Soledad St, San Antonio, TX, United States

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…”