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Review of Man Mission

Posted: 15 Jun 2023, 01:59
by Nonny Kenneth Ezeanwu
[Following is a volunteer review of "Man Mission" by Eytan Uliel.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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Man Mission: Four Men, Fifteen Years, One Epic Journey by Eytan Uliel is an extraordinary chronicle that follows the transformative journeys of four men as they navigate their way into adulthood. Every year, these adventurous individuals embark on expeditions to explore exotic locations.

The story begins with two men who meet during a food fair in law school. Their shared passion for food sparks a conversation about their dreams of embarking on annual vacations to various exotic destinations, where they can indulge in unusual culinary experiences and embrace outdoor pursuits. Despite the passage of a few years and the fading of their initial exchange, one of them suddenly reaches out to the other, uttering the words, "Let's go." Swiftly, plans are set in motion, and thus the Man Mission is born. In the ensuing years, the original duo is joined by two more friends, forming a tight-knit group of four adventurers who explore diverse parts of the world through hiking, biking, and kayaking.

The author skillfully employs a narrative technique that seamlessly alternates between their escapades in these captivating locations and the events unfolding in their personal lives. This switching between narratives adds an element of suspense and keeps the reader engrossed throughout. What struck me most about the book was the author's honest approach to storytelling. Eytan Uliel fearlessly delves into difficult topics and openly acknowledges personal shortcomings, even when it portrays himself or his companions in a less favorable light. It is this unflinching honesty that enhances the authenticity and impact of the novel. Without such candidness, the book would have lost its essence and failed to resonate with readers.

However, one aspect that left me somewhat disheartened was the presence of hypermasculinity within the book. While the characters eventually confront the flawed nature of this perspective towards the end, it is prevalent for a significant portion of the story. The constant emphasis on adhering to stereotypical 'masculine' behavior, as exemplified by the Pink Bracelet concept, perpetuates the notion that men should suppress their emotions—an idea I personally find problematic.

Nevertheless, I must acknowledge the impeccably edited nature of the book. Its error-free presentation indicates a high level of professionalism, which contributes to its overall quality. Therefore, without hesitation, I award Man Mission: Four Men, Fifteen Years, One Epic Journey a well-deserved rating of 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to individuals planning trips to exotic locations, as they will find the book provides valuable insights and inspiration.

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Man Mission
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