A true classic that's probably my favorite story I ever read! ( )

"Ishmael: Into the Depths" chronicles the life of a young man that overcomes numerous challenges.

His integrity is inspiring. His humility and selfless service are extraordinary. His testimony in the face of extreme poverty, false accusations, and his status as a social outcast (due to illegitimacy) is uncompromising. If one were to strive to emulate Ismael, the results would be life-changing.

While the book is long, it's well worth the time it will take to read it (as is the sequel-- Self-Raised: Up from the Depths). I highly recommend this book. ( )

Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte Southworth (December 26, 1819 – June 30, 1899) was raised in Washington, D. C., Southworth studied in a school kept by her stepfather. She was an American writer of more than 60 novels in the latter part of the 19th century and the most popular American novelist of her day. ( )