Two recommended narrative non-fiction books
A Pearl in the Storm: How I Found My Heart in the Middle of the Ocean - Tori McClure
Feisty Tori McClure narrates her memoir in flashbacks as she rows singlehandedly across the ocean. She has fought her way through life, achieving entrance into distinguished schools, looking out for and battling for her developmentally disabled brother, determing to be the first woman to row solo east across the Atlantic. Trained, provisioned, and ready, she rows halfway across the ocean only to be stopped in her tracks by a rogue hurricane that pummels her small craft twice, leaving her for dead, battered and bruised under the deck. After being providentially rescued by a freighter, she determines to try again, only to be lashed by another hurricane. In the midst of the maelstorm she finally realizes that it's "our brokeness, our helplessness, which makes us human. "
This is a special book for special readers--an exciting adventure of endurance, but also a thoughtful memoir. Readers will be gripped as Hurricane Danielle's waves swamp Tori's boat, but also thoughtful as she reviews her life.
The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating - Elisabeth Bailey
Elisabeth Bailey is struck down by an unusual virus which leaves her barely able to move. During her months of convalescence a friend brings her a pot of violets with a wild snail. Totally limited physically, Elisabeth is drawn into the details of her small visitor's life--and finds meaning in her own. "Watching another creature go about its life. . .somehow gave me, the watcher, purpose too."
This quiet book will appeal to readers who appreciate slowing down in life, those who like scientific observation, and those who like to read about overcoming adversity. The small hand-sized hardback is even perfect for reading lying down. :)
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