Review of I Have Calluses on My Hands

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Oluwatofunmi Adeoye
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Re: Review of I Have Calluses on My Hands

Post by Oluwatofunmi Adeoye »

This book has me captivated! The author skillfully narrates the story, and I find the nuanced exploration of the family history particularly fascinating. The writing is engaging, and the story is utterly captivating. It's a popular title that has found itself on my list of favorite recommendations, and I strongly encourage others to take an interest in discovering its charms! Congratulations on BOTD!
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Post by Mary Omotosho »

I Have Calluses on My Hands: The Life and Times of Harold Henry is more than just a memoir—it's a heartfelt collaboration between a father and son, offering a vivid portrait of a family's history. Harold Henry, born in 1911, shares his life story with remarkable honesty, while his son, Neil Henry, born in 1945, skillfully edits and enhances the narrative. The book begins by tracing the family's roots back to Neil's great-grandparents, who emigrated from Russia and Germany. These ancestral tales set the stage for a story that is as much about heritage as it is about personal triumphs and trials.

Harold’s unfiltered recounting of his life is a highlight of the memoir. He doesn’t just chronicle his achievements; he candidly discusses his regrets and the challenges he faced. What makes the book particularly engaging is Harold’s attention to detail—whether it’s showcasing a treasured family heirloom or admitting when he can only offer a similar image in place of the original. This kind of authenticity draws you in, making the past feel both tangible and relatable.

The writing is crisp, clear, and impressively polished. The care taken in crafting this book shines through, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in biographies, autobiographies, or American history.
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Jennifer Coxon
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Post by Jennifer Coxon »

This is a non-fiction piece created between a father and son to commemorate their lives and their near ancestor’s lives. This is a great piece for any family to have and is an interesting view into history.
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Timothy Rucinski
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Post by Timothy Rucinski »

This is a nice concept for a book. Memorializing the life of a relative has to be a great personal achievement. It's a shame more people have not taken the opportunity to do the same with their own parents. Think of the library those books would represent! Congrats to the author.
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Tars
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Post by Tars »

Unfortunately, despite how emotional and touching it sounds to have such relationships between father and son, I still don't like non-fiction and only read it when absolutely necessary specialty literature. Apologies because I have no desire to make an exception to the book, but congratulate the author on BOTD!
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Post by Reniai Porter »

I can’t wait to dive in this novel . I love the fact that Neil basically writes his life from young to old . That his whole family after him can know him that’s a beautiful idea . I love this book thanks for sharing this with us
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Jane Gaskins
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Post by Jane Gaskins »

Love your review. This is a fantastic legacy to pass down to the family. I love the way the younger generation assist the older generation in completing this book.
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Post by Moisés Alcántara Ayre »

Tracing back one's origins reminds me that who we are today is the result of past generations, their suffering, hope, virtues, and the like. This book combines an autobiography with a biography, taking place in America. Will you join us on this historical journey?
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Post by Elizabeth-Tush4Christ »

People typically live their lives and later write a biography that captures their experiences, but this book takes a different approach. A son decided to collaborate with his father to start documenting their family history, beginning with their ancestors. This method allows for a vivid description of the father's childhood, helping him understand why he made certain decisions or acted in specific ways. I agree with the author that this approach provides a detailed reflection on one's life, particularly during childhood, when major life decisions are often beyond a child's control. I appreciate the unique concept behind this book and the perspective the author offers. I'm looking forward to diving into it. Thank you for the insightful review. Congratulations to the author on BOTD.
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Post by Faith Williamson »

First of all, I must say that the title of this book is rather unique. But I understand it is a biography, and I like the effort he put into telling his father's story. He is a filial son. This is quite an interesting story and a good recommendation.
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Post by Love Ukaegbu »

The title of this book seemed unique to me, but I appreciate the effort his son put into writing his story. I also liked that the story included his great-grandfather; it felt real. This is a beautiful story, and I love it.
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Post by Talha Munir »

Henry seems to have put a lot of effort and research into creating a very comprehensive and informative book about his family. Judging by the review, the book does not come across as a typical memoir. Although I see no reason why I need to read this book, the reviewer describes it in a way that piques my curiosity.
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Post by Ukaegbu Confidence »

I Have Calluses on My Hands: The Life and Times of Harold Henry is a memoir by the author, a compilation of his life to look back on. Congratulations on BOTD. The title, however, is something to instill joy and laughter.
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Post by Hemlata Sharma »

Neil Henry seems to have done a lot of hard work and research to make a very comprehensive and informative book about his family. From the review, the book doesn’t come off as a usual memoir. Although I don’t see any reason why I need to read this book, the reviewer has described it in a way that has peaked my curiosity.
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Post by Alarict surt »

This play not only tells the story of Neil's ancestors, who emigrated in search of a better future, but also delves into how these experiences shaped later generations. The journey from Russia and Germany, with Philip emigrating from England and Hannah from Russia, marks the beginning of a family saga that reflects the struggle, sacrifice and determination that brought the Henry family to where they are today.
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