Review of The Viewfinder

[Miyonna Jones]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Viewfinder" by Michael J. Bowen.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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The Viewfinder by Michael Bowen is a memoir that follows the life of a young man named Michael after a car accident leaves him paralyzed. The book is well written.

The book begins with the author’s preface that is engaging from the start. The author writes that he uses present tense for this book and that happens to be one of my favorite aspects of the book. The author shares his thoughts as though confiding in a close friend. The book is personal and honest.

One question that came to my mind was how the author was able to remember all the details of the events and milestones during recovery. When I read the preface again, I read that the author recorded a “verbal diary.” The details are what kept me wanting to read the book. I felt like I was there during the journey as the author gave the reader views of childhood, the day of the accident, the recovery process, and the amazing journey after recovery.

Among the aspects I appreciate most about this book are its use of the present tense, the effectiveness of its title, and the thoughtful references to the title woven throughout the narrative. The title is perfect and clearly explained at the beginning of the book. The visual descriptions given to readers add to the appeal of the book.

The support from family, friends, strangers, and the rehabilitation staff is a main theme. The author's positivity and determination made me cheer along with the support team in the book.

There is also a part of the book that mentions Dr. Hardy, a “revered” neurosurgeon who has an inspirational story also. The people that the author meets during recovery are significant and mentioned fondly by the author. There is a picture section in the book. This is always a nice addition and gives the reader the chance to “put a face with a name.”

I did not dislike anything about the book. The author seems very charismatic and likable and engages the reader. The book flowed very well and was easy to follow along. I was extremely interested and eager to read what would happen in each chapter. This is an especially important and intimate part of the author’s life and reading about it was very inspirational, encouraging and uplifting.

I rate The Viewfinder by Michael Bowen 5 out of 5 stars.

I recommend this book for people who are open to books with references to religion and inspirational books and for people who want to read a book about a person’s healing journey and recovery.

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The Viewfinder
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