Review of Man Mission

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Awolumate Boluwatife
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Review of Man Mission

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[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 by Eytan Uliel is a rich and complex literary piece that blends elements of travel writing, fiction, and potentially autobiographical recollections. At its essence, this work represents a powerful exploration of the self, fostering personal growth, greater fulfilment, and a more profound connection to the world around us. Through the journey described in the book, readers can gain strength, resilience, and the skills needed to navigate life's challenges.

The book follows the journey of four comrades, Eytan, Sam, Daniel, and Alec, as they embark on an annual excursion to remote and unfamiliar locations around the world, seeking relief from the monotony of their everyday lives. The group engage in physically demanding activities that test their limits and require them to rely on their strength, such as biking, kayaking, or hiking, to traverse challenging terrains. These expeditions, spanning over a decade and a half, concluded with the men returning home with newfound perspectives on their roles as men and a deeper understanding of their own lives, albeit often with injuries or humbling experiences. Throughout their journeys, the friends confront new obstacles in their personal lives, including issues like employment, marriage, and more. The book also delves into whether these challenges will eventually create a rift between close-knit friends over time. The destinations for their missions include New Zealand, Thailand, Africa, Taiwan, and other places, each presenting the group with fresh obstacles to overcome.

The way Eytan Uliel presents the narrative in his book is truly remarkable and inspiring. He explores the complex struggles that men face when confronted with opposing forces such as success and failure, happiness and emptiness, love and heartbreak, and particularly, insight and denial. The author skillfully unveils the flaws and triumphs of each character as romantic partners, parents, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts. I appreciated how the characters and their pursuits represent more than just masculine adventure but also reflect a fundamental human yearning for connection and achievement. One of the most impressive qualities of the book is the author's ability to transport readers to each location with his vivid descriptions. From the stunning beauty of New Zealand to the tropical paradise of Fiji, from the bustling cities of South Korea to the serene beaches of Hawaii, Uliel's illustrations of each destination are breathtaking. The portrayal of friendship and camaraderie among the main characters, Sam, Alec, and Daniel, is also noteworthy. Throughout each year and mission, the bond between the friends deepens and matures, as they support each other through difficult times with minimal judgment.

I cannot fault this book as it provides educational and informative content. The story covers a wide range of human experiences, including both positive and negative aspects of our lives, from significant milestones like education, employment, and marriage to more challenging situations such as divorce, injury, job loss, and disillusionment. The book effectively demonstrates that men are capable of crying, but societal norms often hinder them from expressing their emotions, leading to silent suffering. Credit is due to both the author and editor for their exceptional work.

I gave the book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The book utilizes a captivating narrative to explore the heart of the matter. Both men and women will find value in its pages, though to varying degrees of relatability, entertainment, and challenge. The book's message will be most appreciated by those who are already aware of the changing gender norms. Therefore, I recommend this book to any reader who enjoys reading about far-off places and authentic characters, regardless of gender.

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Man Mission
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