Mikel Jollett spent his early childhood as a "Child of the Universe" within the infamous Synanon cult, escaping with his mother and brother when he was only five. This debut novel follows his journey from that day to adulthood, detailing his struggles with poverty, abuse, addiction, loneliness, and overall feelings of inadequacy. However, it is also a story of love and redemption, as Jollett finds a way to overcome the demons from his tumultuous past.
Words cannot adequately describe my feelings upon finishing this book. I'm not a huge memoir reader, and therefore, the author's writing must truly be something special to make it memorable. Jollett shares his story with a poetic voice that gripped me from start to finish, writing in a style that is sure to win literary awards. This is not a book that you need to have previous knowledge of the author to understand or empathize with him. I loved how he was able to craft his writing in a way that shaped the perceptions of his reality based upon his age, and it was astounding to witness his personal growth, where he never once placed the blame upon others for his actions and their outcomes.
Thank you, Celadon Books, for the opportunity to read and review this amazing memoir. I can say without hesitation that this will be a book that I recommend to others, regardless of their usual genre preferences. Hollywood Park is going to be a top contender for Best Book of the Year (Goodreads, I'm talking to you), and it will stick with me for quite some time.
Words cannot adequately describe my feelings upon finishing this book. I'm not a huge memoir reader, and therefore, the author's writing must truly be something special to make it memorable. Jollett shares his story with a poetic voice that gripped me from start to finish, writing in a style that is sure to win literary awards. This is not a book that you need to have previous knowledge of the author to understand or empathize with him. I loved how he was able to craft his writing in a way that shaped the perceptions of his reality based upon his age, and it was astounding to witness his personal growth, where he never once placed the blame upon others for his actions and their outcomes.
Thank you, Celadon Books, for the opportunity to read and review this amazing memoir. I can say without hesitation that this will be a book that I recommend to others, regardless of their usual genre preferences. Hollywood Park is going to be a top contender for Best Book of the Year (Goodreads, I'm talking to you), and it will stick with me for quite some time.