Review of The Bus Leaves In An Hour . . . Be Under It!

[Mutai Marshal]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Bus Leaves In An Hour . . . Be Under It!" by Marlon Belafonte.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Marlon Belafonte recounts his odyssey of growing up in a dysfunctional family in his memoir, The Bus Leaves in an Hour… Be Under It! At six years, his mother could not hide her hate toward him. The turning point came when she tried hitting him with a hairbrush. The hairbrush broke into two, and the only justification was that his angels were watching him.

Marlon endured Stanley’s incessant beatings and his mother’s scathing side growing up. He started working at a young age in his family's tire business to support himself and, at times, his family. He found that working helped him to escape from his life at home. Marlon showed entrepreneurial skills from a young age, but most of his ideas were rejected. Buckle up and join Marlon as he replicates his tumultuous and remarkable journey through stevedoring, real estate, insurance, entertainment, and adventure, among other industries.

The author’s comedic wit shines through in this autobiography. I’ve never read such a comical yet moving book. His comical side is so natural. Though glum, his encounters with Mr. L and Mr. B elicited laughter. They failed to appreciate his input at Carnival despite serving passionately and diligently. His ideas of running the ships effectively were turned down without introspection. Marlon is the epitome of never giving up. The hurdles along the way served as stepping stones. His ability to balance a demanding work schedule, family, and hobbies shines through.

I was moved by the author's supportive and compassionate nature. He loved his father even when he betrayed him and was always there for his family though they were often aggressive toward him. His story inspired me to be more supportive of my loved ones, and I hope his children will one day recognize and appreciate his contributions.

Apart from the small print that forced me to zoom in while reading, I found the book riveting. It elicited a flurry of emotions throughout. Therein, you’ll come across ruthless individuals benefiting off people’s backs without any ounces of pity. It deftly balances the author's life as a family man and in the corporate world.

You will commiserate with the author’s predicament and be empowered by his craftiness and ability to salvage situations. I was reminded that life can be ruthless, even to those who do good.

I gladly award this book 5 out of 5 stars despite my personal preference for a different font. I also acknowledge the professional editing of The Bus Leaves in an Hour… Be Under It! I recommend it to anyone looking for a comical book, autobiographies, and those interested in knowing more about the Carnival Cruise Line.

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The Bus Leaves In An Hour . . . Be Under It!
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[patricia MGBEMENA]

Marlon was really hardworking and I like that he was determined to help himself and family as the case may be. I also like the comedic wit of the author as it adds a good touch to the book.