His Mother's Son

Memoirs of an Accidental Man

Non-Fiction - Memoir
384 Pages
Reviewed on 03/04/2023
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Paul Anthony worked sixty years to overcome the challenges that came from his birth into a dysfunctional family. By the time he succeeded, he found out how to escape his accidental past and create an authentic life. He also discovered the healing power of nature.

This book is for anyone who has ever struggled with issues of family, relationships, identity, or belonging. In fact, the very process of writing this book gave Paul the key to resolving the fractured maternal bond that had plagued him since birth.

His life-long passion for the natural world led Paul to explore it as a hiker, mountaineer, rock climber, and sailor. The lure of adventure took him to Canada, Latin America, East Africa, and around the western United States. Since 2018 he has lived in Cuenca, Ecuador where he writes, investigates his new surroundings, and learns Spanish.

Get in touch with Paul at https://www.amazon.com/His-Mothers-Son-Memoirs-Accidental-ebook/dp/B0BGM985KT

Or at https://authorpaulanthony.com/

    Book Review

Reviewed by Cloie Belle Daffon for Readers' Favorite

Accidents are things that need not be; they happen by chance and don’t always fit in. Paul Anthony seeks purpose in a life born from an accidental mother and an accidental father. He is a puzzle piece that didn’t quite fit. He is born incidentally from two unqualified people; an anxious mother and an angry father. In a home full of negativity and disappointment, Paul yearns to get out and find something better than his accidental life. Paul Anthony’s memoir, His Mother’s Son, witnesses his journey and his struggles with relationships, depression, and life as he tries to find his place in a bleak world.

Paul Anthony considers his life to be at odds with the current world. Like a puzzle piece that doesn’t fit the picture, he has always felt detached and out of place. Diego Molina’s illustrations of a missing puzzle piece, a cut-out person in a class picture, and many others are perfect representations of what each chapter is about. The undercurrent of indignation and exhaustion within its pages had me immersed in the story. The flow of the first-person narrative is smooth and the pacing is steady so it was easy to lose myself in it. Paul Anthony holds nothing back as he describes his arduous trek through life. The vivid feelings and scenarios played out like a movie in my mind.

This memoir stood out to me because of how articulate Anthony is as he writes down his feelings and encounters. I was amazed by how he can perfectly capture his anger and disappointment in words. This memoir resonated with me and after I finished reading it, I felt a little bereft. I wish I could have slowed down my reading pace and savored it more! Anthony's memoir is a masterpiece that delivers a magnetic, powerful, and heartfelt story. Excellent work!

Gene McKenzie

This book is a true gem. Paul Anthony's memoir is a captivating and intimate portrayal of his search for meaning and belonging. The author's writing is direct, pensive, and thought-provoking, making it a page-turner that is both easy to follow and engaging. The storyline is stitched together by the protagonist's relationship with his mother, making it a deeply personal and emotionally charged journey. The character development of the protagonist is beautifully illustrated and will leave you in awe. The author's travels to different parts of the world, described with mind-blowing detail, add an adventurous touch to the book. This is a highly imaginative and beautifully illustrated book that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the reader. If you enjoy thought-provoking and introspective reads, then this book is a must-read.

Diana Kimak

Well written, beautifully illustrated, and moving story. The author’s tale pulls you in and never lets you go. I highly recommend!!!

FergalK

In this book, Paul Anthony takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and belonging. Born into a fractured family with a troubled relationship with his mother, he embarks on a quest to find his place in the world and overcome the emotional trauma of his past. Through steamy jungles, frozen mountains, and even the depths of his darkest dreams, he searches for the answers that will unlock the mystery of himself and lead him to true authenticity.

This honest and raw storytelling style is powerful and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for anyone who has struggled to find their place in the world. Through his journey, we see how Paul overcomes the obstacles in his life and finds the courage to embrace his true self. The book is a testament to the human spirit and the lengths we will go to find peace and happiness.

Charah Smith

In this moving and insightful memoir, Paul Anthony takes us on a journey of self-discovery as he grapples with a complicated relationship with his mother. He explores themes of love, rejection, and the search for meaning and belonging, and the impact these experiences have had on his relationships with others. Through his travels to various parts of the world, he delves deep into his innermost thoughts and emotions and ultimately emerges with a greater sense of purpose and clarity. A powerful and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has struggled to come to terms with their past and find their place in the world.

Sung Sik Yoon

I just finished reading this book and I was blown away by the storytelling. The author does an amazing job of taking the reader on a journey through their life experiences, and I found myself completely engrossed in the story from start to finish. The way the author describes their family dynamics and their personal struggles is both raw and relatable. This is a must-read for anyone looking for a moving, thought-provoking, and ultimately uplifting memoir. Highly recommended!

Wesley Matthews

A man travels far and wide to find inner peace - really really well written!

M.C.

Author Paul Anthony's book His Mother's Son is a book about his search for meaning and belonging that was largely driven by his estranged relationship with his mother. In this book, he shares how this relationship, or lack thereof, created a spillover effect that impacted his relationships through different stages of life - at home, school, work, and in his other personal relationships. This kind of trauma, if I may use that term is a hidden mental epidemic, and he peels back the veil to reveal the mental struggles and questions of self-doubt that one experiences. It take courage to relive and re-examine one's life under an impartial microscope for others. Through his various adventures in life, he brings you on a cathartic journey of self-validation and self-understanding. Bravo to him!

Kayla

Such a strong memoir that has a lot of relatable and thought provoking excerpts. Really great read!

Matthew M

An amazing story that was beautifully illustrated. The development of the characters was thought provoking and the descriptions of the scenes were mind blowing.

R. Rivers

In "His Mother's Son," author Paul Anthony explores the impact of his estranged relationship with his mother on his search for meaning and belonging. He candidly shares how this trauma affected his relationships throughout his life. Through his journey of self-validation and self-understanding, he shines a light on the hidden mental struggles many face. A courageous and cathartic read.

Hopper

This thoughtful memoir shares how a broken relationship with his mother affected his life and relationships with others. His conflicted childhood led him to a life-long search for happiness and took him on adventures all over the world. The book is beautifully written, and the original illustrations help the reader to get another dimension of how the author viewed the world.

My favorite quote from the book "Forgiveness does not change the past, but it changes the heart."

Shaun Randall

I found this book to be truly open and authentic. The author is vulnerable and honest which makes his story compelling and easy to relate to. Great read for self-discovery!

Tracie

This was a good story. You got a chance to see the author's struggles and feel it as if you were there. You saw him grow into a man. Although, the past will never be forgotten he has become a better man and found mentors/teachers in his life to guide him. Love this book.

Review Fairy

This is a memoir of a seemingly ordinary man, but there is so much more to him. His writing alone provokes the deepest of thought, and I found myself writing down countless quotes from his musings. There are so many nuggets of wisdom within these pages, and I can’t recommend it enough to those looking to evolve their self-reflection.

Matt Emmorey

I love this story, as it opens up a world to me I never knew. One part travelogue, one part memoir, one part deep insightful musing. We really glimpse through the eyes of the author and learn quite a bit with what he shows us.

Alison859

A very interesting memoir of a life that began with family challenges, but becomes a life that the author lived on his own terms. In Paul Anthony's first memoir, he tells his life story that began with a disappointed mother and discouraged father (something that seems to be a trend in many families, I'm sad to say). However, while he terms his mother "accidental," there's nothing accidental about Paul. He sets his own course through life, which becomes an amazing journey through our physical world and his own psychological analysis.

Anthony was gifted with an amazing gift of intelligence, which he leans upon as he maneuvers his way through the 60s and 70s and beyond. His travels range from the dreary yet beautiful Northwest United States and south to the jungles and deserts and concrete highways of Mexico, Central America, and Los Angeles. He also explores some peaks and valleys along the way.

If you've ever traveled and dreamed of traveling a world that may no longer exist, this book is a must read. He graciously shares his lessons learned along the way as well as the joy of his victories.

Once again, I don't think Paul is an accident. He has made his own way and probably knows himself better than many of us.

Ejeks

The story of one man’s search for meaning in the midst of all the chaos that can engulf even the strongest of men. Very touching story. The truth is that most people are going through something similar in one form or another. This book is timely, and will help you cope if you find yourself in similar situations. I don’t see this book as a practical step by step guide to getting out such difficult situations, but the book is more of an emotional support which can lead to having a clear head so you can cope.

Underhill Homestead

The cover is what got me and then I stayed for the dysfunction. Wild story and great self reflection.

Jessica Writes

A highly imaginative, well-written page turner.

Melinda L. Byler

I could hardly put down my cell phone from reading it.
Was an awesome read!

LuvlyLongLocks

I value authors who share their life stories and the lessons they've learned along the way. Author Paul Anthony does just that!

LIR

A fascinating and unique story, well told. It is always interesting to read about a life so different than your own, especially when it's so well told. Great work!

Carson Nicholls

I do like the cover and the ending. The cover is attractive and the ending is interesting. The major characters are well developed enough to attract you and keep you reading. Fan of Common Loss by Kirsten Tranter? You may like this story as well.

Van V

This is a gripping memoir, and the writing is just sublime. There's a melancholy beauty to Paul Anthony's prose that's tempered just right. Like in Anna Karenina, “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way” and His Mother's Son manages to perfectly illustrate the quirks, proclivities, and banal tragedies of his home life. The pacing is just excellent, as it moves with easy grace from life event to milestone to deep retrospection, all colored with the author's casual misanthropy that makes each section so easy to read. I would recommend this book if you like misfits and how they came to be, and how an outcast can carve their own happiness in a world that can't quite accommodate them.

Oldman2

This book was so good and I felt this quote in my soul.
'Even though parents start out as cause and children effect, each child must become their own cause if they want their own life.'

Umran

An inspiring personal tale of a man walking through life on a path to self-discovery and mastery. Reading this book will make you count your blessings and appreciate life more. An inspiring read. I recommend it.

Oludolapo Ufaruna

As I delved into Paul Anthony's "His Mother's Son," I was struck by the raw honesty with which he shared his life story. Anthony's introspective journey of self-discovery and growth is a captivating and enlightening read.

Through the author's experiences, I gained a newfound appreciation for the power of personal choice and the impact it can have on our lives. Anthony's willingness to take responsibility for his own actions and decisions, rather than blaming his parents or circumstance, is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

The vivid descriptions of his raw food vegetarian diet and yoga practices, as well as his adventures climbing mountains and exploring the wilderness, transported me to a world of self-reflection and natural beauty. Anthony's perspective on the human-made environment versus the untamed wilderness is particularly poignant.

In summary, "His Mother's Son" is a testament to the power of self-discovery, personal growth, and the human spirit. I recommend this book to anyone on a journey of self-exploration and seeking inspiration.

richardreviewsbooks

I could connect with the book on a personal level, because Paul describes in magnificent detail his expeditions and adventures in the natural world and how it helped heal his past. It inspires me to get out more and find healing and refuge in nature.

The illustrations in the book are beautiful and thought provoking. It adds a visual element to Paul's story and elevates it to another level. His Mother's Son is more than just Paul's memoirs - it's a really a piece of art!

Deb Preston

This book really offers it all - fantastic adventures around the world, healing from trauma, and psychological introspection. I especially enjoyed traveling around the world with the author and listening in as he grappled with his past. I appreciated the raw honesty and think anyone would be able to relate to his thoughts and feelings.

Thomas D.

"His Mother's Son: Memoirs of an Accidental Man" is a poignant and deeply personal memoir by author Paul Anthony. In this powerful and honest book, Anthony shares his journey of self-discovery, which was driven by a difficult relationship with his mother.

From an early age, Anthony struggled to connect with his mother, and this strained relationship left him feeling isolated and disconnected from the world around him. As he grew older, this sense of alienation only intensified, and he found himself struggling to form meaningful connections with others.

In an effort to find meaning and belonging, Anthony embarked on a journey of self-discovery that took him to the far corners of the world. From steamy jungles to frozen mountains, he sought out experiences that would challenge him and force him to confront his deepest fears and insecurities.

Through it all, Anthony grapples with the fundamental question of how to overcome the barriers that separate us from the people we love. With searing honesty and emotional depth, he confronts the painful memories and unresolved emotions that have held him back for so long.

"His Mother's Son" is a beautifully written and profoundly moving memoir that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. Anthony's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of self-discovery to heal even the deepest wounds. Highly recommended.

Clockwork

Paul Anthonys memoir is a powerful and inspiring read that offers practical advice on emotional healing & resilience. With candid and introspective writing, the author takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, from the steamy jungles to frozen mountains, as he confronts the emotional trauma of his past and navigates complex family dynamics. Through his story, Paul offers a guide to overcoming the impact of trauma, finding one's true identity, and building resilience. Highly recommended for anyone who has experienced family conflict or childhood trauma, this memoir is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for transformation and self-improvement.

Kat

This memoir tells the story of Paul Anthony's journey of self-discovery and transformation. It is a powerful and moving account of his struggles with emotional abuse, relationship conflicts, and childhood trauma and his determination to overcome them. In addition, the book offers practical advice on emotional healing and coping mechanisms and is a must-read for anyone who has experienced similar struggles. The writing style is candid and insightful, and the author's journey will inspire and resonate with readers.

Mike

The story is touching and fascinating; the characters are well developed and compelling; the illustrations are beautiful and inspirational; the self reflection is authentic and honest. Once I started it, I could hardly put it down. Highly recommend!

Marissa

This book is a deeply moving memoir that tells the story of a man's journey of self-discovery and healing from childhood trauma. The author's candid and honest insights into his struggles with emotional abuse, complex relationship dynamics, and mental health challenges make this a compelling read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced similar difficulties. Through his personal experiences, Paul offers practical self-help advice and lessons in resilience and transformation, making this an inspirational and uplifting memoir that will leave a lasting impact on readers.

Ebay man

This book is extraordinary, very well written. This book is lengthy, but I honestly can't imagine anything being cut from it, so the length is warranted. It's easy to follow & really takes you in. The illustrations are remarkable, the character development is very well done & the description of the Author's travels are really beautiful.

Andrii

This moving memoir is a powerful story of one man's inspiring journey of self-discovery and healing. Paul Anthony takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster ride as he candidly shares his struggles with a troubled childhood, a fractured relationship with his mother, and his battles with mental health issues.
Beautifully illustrated and poetically written, this book is a page-turner that will captivate you from start to finish. Anthony's writing is insightful and thought-provoking, resonating with anyone who has grappled with trauma or sought purpose and meaning in their lives.

K.H.

This book is a touching and inspiring story of a man's journey to find his true identity and overcome childhood trauma. The author's candid writing style and practical self-help advice make this memoir a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience and capacity for transformation. If you're looking for an inspirational memoir, this book is a must-read.

Galyna Calvi

This book pulls you into the author's inner world as he travels across jungles, mountains, and the depths of his subconscious, unlocking the mystery of his identity and embracing self-acceptance. It is a powerful testament to the human spirit and our innate drive to find belonging. The writing is thought-provoking, resonating with anyone who has grappled with pain or sought to overcome adversity. It offers practical lessons on resilience, self-help, and transformation that leave a lasting impact. Highly imaginative and beautifully illustrated, this book is sure to captivate readers from start to finish. An inspiring story of hope, resilience and the timeless quest for purpose, His Mother's Son is a gem.

Cristina Flores

"His Mother's Son: Memoirs of an Accidental Man" by Paul Anthony is a heartfelt and captivating memoir that delves deep into the complexities of self-discovery, family dynamics, and personal growth. The author's genuine and vulnerable storytelling captivated me from the very first page, and I found myself unable to put the book down.

Anthony's introspective exploration of his life experiences, coupled with his poignant prose, creates an emotional and thought-provoking narrative that will resonate with readers from all walks of life. His courage to share the most intimate and challenging moments of his journey is both inspiring and humbling. Anthony's writing is relatable and honest, making it easy to connect with him as he navigates the intricacies of his life and identity.

"His Mother's Son" is not just an exploration of the author's own life, but also a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. It serves as a reminder that we all have the strength within us to overcome adversity and make sense of our own stories.

I highly recommend "His Mother's Son: Memoirs of an Accidental Man" to anyone looking for an impactful and beautifully written memoir that will stay with them long after the final page. This book is a must-read, and I look forward to seeing more work from Paul Anthony in the future.

JWJ

The author of "His Mother Son: Memoirs of an Accidental Man", Paul Anthony, takes you on a journey that not many survive and come out in one piece. I could not put the book away. It is a testament to human survival, love, and forgiveness. I felt his pain as he navigated his life with his family and his mother. The emotions I felt from this book have left a lasting effect on me. The book reminded me of some of my own demons I thought I had suppressed and forgotten. But just as Paul survived, so did I. So I really needed this book. It's a real therapy and healing. No book has touched my soul as this powerful book has. Highly Recommended.