Review of Man Mission

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Komal Phartyal
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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 paints a compelling picture of navigating the challenges of midlife, blending the essence of a coming-of-age tale with an adventurous narrative. Following four dear friends over 15 years, the story unfolds during their yearly exploits, aptly named 'Man Missions,' involving outdoor pursuits like long-distance trekking, riding, and kayaking. Governed by evolving and occasionally humorous rules, these adventures push the boundaries of physical endurance, guiding the friends from one locale to another.

Beyond the thrills of their adventures, the narrative probes into the unique journeys of each man as they navigate professional crossroads, marriage, fatherhood, and the complexities of contemporary society. Emotional conflicts, pivotal life choices, and the resilience to rebound from missteps are portrayed beautifully. The Man Mission becomes an annual sanctuary, offering a break from routine and fostering friendship, yielding fresh insights into life and the essence of manhood—sometimes humbling, often marked by physical challenges.

Told from an undisclosed first-person perspective, the conversational tone blurs the line between fiction and reality, creating an immersive and relatable encounter. The narrator's self-deprecating humor adds a delightful touch, transforming the storytelling into an informal chat with a friend.

A notable feature is the author's depiction of internal struggles through encounters with animals, which provides depth to the narrative. Scenes like attempting to swim off a Fijian pier or encountering a leopard in the African jungle mirror the characters' inner turmoils and insecurities.

A criticism is raised regarding the portrayal of female characters, who remain somewhat elusive and confined to background roles. Even the men's offspring lack names, revealing a discernible gap in emotional intelligence despite adherence to a self-fashioned 'Relationship Playbook.'

In sum, Man Mission delivers a persuasive and animated narrative, enriched by meticulous proofreading and editing. The inclusion of mission maps at each chapter's outset, along with thoughtful scriptures and quotes at the end, elevates the reading experience. The relatability of the story, coupled with its enjoyable facets, positions it as a highly commendable read.

The book appeals to recent college graduates, professionals, entrepreneurs, those grappling with identity and emotional expression, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone in pursuit of a good laugh. The storytelling caters equitably to both genders. Because of all the aforementioned factors, Man Mission unequivocally merits a five-star rating, accompanied by my wholehearted recommendation.

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Man Mission
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