Organized more as short stories with a deeply philosophical thread weaving them together, this memoir is both expressive (not surprising, given Saip’s background writing poetry) and absorbing. He paints adolescence in wistful hues, describing the freedom he was given to roam the county—and compares his desire to leave home and discover the world on his own terms to a hallmark rite of passage. Saip also acknowledges his passion for dangerous activities as a young man—“We danced barefoot on a knife edge between life and death and didn’t seem to suffer a scratch”—and candidly explores the origins, and consequences, of his addiction problems as a youth.
Readers will be captivated by Saip’s extraordinary stories: he shares a cryptic meeting with John Steinbeck, recounts his time spent with “a kamikaze mechanic who was usually loaded on Methedrine,” and describes a host of colorful characters who will leave lasting impressions. His philosophical musings are the backbone to nearly every experience, and the influence of maturing as a young adult in the 1960s manifests in his drive for harmonious living and belief that self-worth should be independent of societal norms. Fans of thoughtful American memoirs will be left contemplating life itself and all its meanings.
Takeaway: This eloquent memoir invites readers on a journey of self-discovery and conscious aging.
Great for fans of: Suze Rotolo’s A Freewheelin’ Time, Peter Coyote’s Sleeping Where I Fall.
Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-
This treasured read is a collection of stand alone stories skillfully woven together in this riveting autobiography. One is both astonished and inspired by this man’s unique life journey as he brings us to the present moment. The power of circumstances and choices made in life are demonstrated by the author’s willingness to take risks, go forward with courage & tap into previously unseen talents with wit and wisdom.
The author’s generosity in sharing the wealth of his life to date feels like a waltz with jazzy sparkled interludes for the reader’s eyes.
Anyone who lives or has lived in the California areas of San Francisco & Marin County will be particularly enriched by this book.
It’s a MUST READ in every context!
Eric Willson
5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating story
Reviewed in the United States on March 16, 2022
Verified Purchase
Captivating look back at a fascinating life
Helpful
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Celebrating Diversity
Reviewed in the United States on April 8, 2022
Verified Purchase
Rabon is able through compelling and superbly written short stories to immerse the reader into a world that embraces adversity and celebrates diversity. He allows us to access his life, even when casting less favorable light on his many characters. It is a beautiful read that rises to the challenge of becoming a stronger and better human being.
Helpful
Teri Jo Summer-Reiger
5.0 out of 5 stars A brilliant read for anyone who’s lived in the San Francisco-Marin vortex and beyond
Reviewed in the United States on April 1, 2022
Verified Purchase
This treasured read is a collection of stand alone stories skillfully woven together in this riveting autobiography. One is both astonished and inspired by this man’s unique life journey as he brings us to the present moment. The power of circumstances and choices made in life are demonstrated by the author’s willingness to take risks, go forward with courage & tap into previously unseen talents with wit and wisdom.
The author’s generosity in sharing the wealth of his life to date feels like a waltz with jazzy sparkled interludes for the reader’s eyes.
Anyone who lives or has lived in the California areas of San Francisco & Marin County will be particularly enriched by this book.
It’s a MUST READ in every context!
Helpful
Elizabeth
5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful collection of stories.
Reviewed in the United States on April 11, 2022
Verified Purchase
Each story takes me someplace new what a wonderful collection of adventures, so beautifully written. This makes a wonderful gift for a friend.
Helpful
