Poignant, tender, and unflinchingly honest…
Caraballo confronts his struggles with mental health, addiction, self-hatred, cancer, and embracing his queer identity in his touching debut memoir. Opening with the powerful line, “some of the most beautiful things in life are born from pain,” the book traces his difficult birth and strict Jehovah’s Witness upbringing. Living in secrecy, torn between rebellion and the fear of rejection, Caraballo’s quest for freedom drives the narrative. At 18, diagnosed with stage IV Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he sees it as divine punishment. With blunt detachment, he recounts the toll of chemotherapy and scumbling to addiction before serving time in prison for violating DUI sentencing rules. He reflects on his time behind bars, owning his choices while confronting the forces that shaped him. His resilience emerges not just in survival but in transforming pain into strength. Narrator Andrew Sykes elevates Caraballo’s story with gripping precision. His voice captures Caraballo’s raw emotion and stoic reflections, guiding listeners through moments of vulnerability and introspection. Sykes’ delivery enhances the memoir’s impact, making each chapter resonate deeply. Caraballo’s story, raw and honest, carries a clear message: strength can emerge from even the darkest struggles. Deeply affecting.
Listening Length 7 hours and 15 minutes
Author Dr. Joshua Caraballo
Narrator Andrew Sykes
July 01, 2024
ASIN B0D8CSMM3Z
Price $0.00 Audible members