Monday, May 12, 2014

American Story: A Lifetime Search for Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things by Bob Dotson


Release Date: March 26, 2013
Publisher: Viking Adult (newest editions by Plume)


Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Becoming a TV journalist was something that Bob Dotson knew he wanted to do, but what type of journalist was harder to figure out. During his time working for several stations, he tried several ways of making himself stand out. It wasn't until he land a job for the Today Show that he found an avenue to pursue.

Millions would watch his American Story segments over the next few decades. He captured the heart and soul of ordinary Americans who might have gone unrecognized for the work. After leaving the world of television behind, Bob chronicled the countless other small stories of positivity and American spirit that make up the fabric of our nation.

Review:
This book was among the first few that I won from a giveaway at Goodreads. I was really interested in the real life, non-fiction aspect of the books. With the media presenting the darker side of the news every newscast, I wanted something more uplifting and positive. This book definitely fulfilled that wish and more. What I thought was going to be a simple, good read turned out to be a great book that warmed my heart.

In the beginning, Bob chronicled his journey to discover what kind of journalist he truly wanted to be. These early chapters helped me to see his thought process and added weight to his decision to begin the American Story segments. I enjoyed watching those stories during my younger years. Reading the history behind them was an added delight.

Many of the stories Bob covered in this centered around average everyday American people who put love and kindness into everything they do. The various stories took place across the country, in big cities where many people are forgotten and in small towns where everyone is family. I was touched by a lot of the stories but a couple of them stood out for me. The first one covered a group of teenagers in a small Alaskan town who became the town's sole EMT providers. They stepped up because of the need and surpassed the expectations of others while earning respect along the way. The second story showed how a business can be so much more than a simple money-making venture. A businessman sold his company to start a new business and staffed it with former employees as well as other who weren't able to find jobs in their area.

Overall, the book was uplifting and heart-warming. I liked how the author was able to weave his thoughts and feelings into the stories without overshadowing the people involved. He put the spotlight on those who put their heart and soul into their work as it should be. We can learn so much by following in their determined footsteps. If you're looking for an inspiring book to lift you up, I would very much recommend this book.

American Story: A Lifetime Search for Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things by Bob Dotson is currently available at most retailers. It can be purchased online in several formats which include, hardcover, paperback, audiobook, and Kindle. The link below will take you to the book's Amazon page.
American Story: A Lifetime Search for Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things by Bob Dotson

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