There were parts of this book I loved and parts that were too slow moving but overall an enjoyable read. It's a book I don't think I would have picked up on my own so very glad it was given to me. ( )

Francis Slakey is a scientist and a professor who suddenly realizes his life does not have meaning, is not the kind of life he wants to lead. Thus, he begins a journey to find that meaning, to live the life he wants to live across the globe. When his plan veers off track, he begins to change while almost losing his life and changing his inner core beliefs. This is the story of a person in search of himself. The travels are fine for this, but it is really the challenges resented that show him who he really is and how to really live his life. The story, however, focuses on his life rather than some of the amazing feats that he achieves, leaving the reader to question who the author really is and whether this is just another self-centered person trying to cash in on a book deal. The book descriptions were fairly good but not as complete as they could have been and may have left the reader wanting for more. However, as a book about learning the importance of science in today’s world and the value of personal interactions and relationships, this is a real winner. It really depends on what the reader is looking for in a book. I received this book as art of the goodreads giveaway. ( )

The memoir and gripping adventure stories of Francis Slakey, Physics and Public Policy lecturer at Georgetown University. Slakey took on the challenge to climb the highest mountain on every continent and to surf every ocean. This is the story of personal growth, connections made, and the lessons learned that he passes on to his students. ( )

I absolutely loved this book, from the first page to the last page it was hard to put down. If I had the chance I would have read it through in one day. It was exciting but mostly it was insightful, to watch him on his journey how he transformed from the disconnected person he was to one with such passion. I would recommend this book to everyone, however if you want to read a book about mountain climbing and surfing this may not be the one for you. This is more about his journey and less about his adventures.

I won this book from Goodreads. ( )