Author: Ron Hall & Denver Moore
Genre: Memoir, Standalone
Published: 2006
Personal Rating: 4/5 (very good)
Yearly Count: 125
An alternate title: International Art Dealer Meets Homeless Man
Funny how life works. When I was in the middle of this book, I happened to post a comment on a friend's blog explaining why I didn't watch the posted video. I shared that I was not in the mood for "being moved to tears," which is the behavior it was likely to provoke. Little did I know - it was coming around the corner whether I wanted it or not.
Both Ron and Denver share their thoughts with raw honesty in alternating chapters. Most are short and move their story along quickly, but not without emotion. I found it to be a serious and interesting book. It is one that can bring about change in one's life, plant a seed, or at the very least - shed more light on the homeless. There are two topics that may be a stumbling block for some: Christianity and Cancer. Both are prevalent in the book and both - yes, moved me to tears. However, as much as they made a statement, I was enthralled with the homeless man's life prior to being homeless. Slavery has always been a topic that I have been drawn to.
Ultimately, I am very glad I read it, but I am still a bit miffed that I had to endure weeping.
I love memoirs and this sounds like a powerful one! Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI read a lot of memoirs and have not heard of this one. I'm adding it to my list. Good review!
ReplyDeleteSomeone just posted that they could not get through this book, so I was happy to see that you enjoyed the memoir. I hope to get the library copy soon.
ReplyDeleteBermudaonion ~ It is! Especially if you have a connection.
ReplyDeleteMissy ~ If you read it, I hope you love it. :)
Diane ~ Les from Lesley's Book Nook just posted that. It is such a bummer when that happens.
I almost rated it a 4.25, and I can understand why others would rate it higher. I'm thinking you'll really like it. Can't wait to read your thoughts!
LOL--there's nothing wrong with weeping!! :) Two of my coworkers recently read this book and really liked it. I've been really curious about it since and I actually don't mind a little weeping. You don't weep if it ain't good. :P
ReplyDeleteTrish ~ There may be nothing "wrong with weeping," but I simply didn't want to be sad. And, I agree. Any book that can create a deep emotion has got to have some substance to it.
ReplyDeleteI will have to be in the right mood for this (I HATE to cry), but I'm adding it to my list. Homelessness is an important issue and one I am drawn to because of its complexity.
ReplyDeleteI didn't read your review because I have this on my TBR shelf...I did catch the crying comment though ;)
ReplyDeleteStacybuckeye ~ Yes, it is very complex and one that is so difficult to solve. Never would I put crying under Things I Like To Do! :)
ReplyDeleteDanielle ~ Be prepared! I look forward to your thoughts.
This does sound like a worthwhile read. I am glad you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteThat is a sign of a great book, in my opinion, when it gets me to tear up. I brought this home from the library but never got to read it. I'll request it again soon.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much
Literary Feline ~ I'm glad I read it. Heavy topics, but that's life, huh?
ReplyDeleteDiane ~ I'll be watching for your review. I hope you enjoy it.