Customer Reviews

Loyal to the Sky: Notes from an Activist

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When I finished this book I sighed and closed my eyes in gratitude, as if I'd finally found clear cool water after being thirsty for years. Marisa Handler comes across as an enormously likable reluctant hero, mouthing off at hecklers, running like hell from cops, and - in one of the book's funniest moments - gamely mediating a protest group's argument over whether their placards should say "Stop War" or "Stop the War." But the greatest achievement of the book is Handler's steady wholeness of vision. In scene after scene she reminds us that those who befoul the world are not evil but lost, alienated from their own true nature. Love and compassion are the best tools we have to save them - and ourselves. In a world of poisoned political discourse, Handler's fiercely tender memoir will remind weary Americans that it's still possible to be angry without hating, and to fight while remaining compassionate.

Short of having the opportunity to travel the world yourself, read this book and be transported to lands near and far as if it were actually you, in search of global justice. Handler's vivid and colorful narrative of her experiences invite the reader along as if she/he were traveling in the author's back pocket. The tales of humanity - from an Indian man's description of local Muslim-Hindu race relations to the perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict voiced by University students around the country - are conveyed with passion that do justice to the "human voice"; something that is so real in each of the geographic experiences described by Handler.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. In these uncertain and often dark days, this is a relevant and hopeful book about making a difference. And, it manages to be humorous and entertaining too. Handler writes beautiful and accessible prose. She comes across as an honest, lovable, brave and inspiring person. You'll wish you had been with her as she traveled the globe and was an eyewitness to (and in some cases participant in) many of the recent social and political shifts of our time. Luckily, you can read about it.

Ever wonder why a fraction of the world's population is lavished in wealth, yet emotionally impoverished, while others eek by on little to nothing feeling rich? Handler beautifully responds to this global dichotomy in "Loyal to the Sky." Her social commentary about our common humanity divided by numbing drive for success and oppressive politics that maintain the status quo is spot on. Her inner-voice unfiltered by political correctness, is hysterical. And, her courage to engage strangers, from Nepalese politicians to the Miami-Dade police is inspirational. Handler's memoir is a breath of fresh air in a world of stifling avoidance. Don't miss this colorful work.

Author Marisa Handler takes you along on her courageous journey through many lands and through many formative, life experiences exposing different cultures and the struggles they encounter. She eloquently articulates the injustices that are taking place throughout the world and in her own backyard. Highlighting political demonstrations Ms. Handler provides a voice for those who are not otherwise heard. The author's passion for justice combined with her astute way of guiding the reader through history and through her own personal accounts makes this book one not to be missed.

Marisa Handler has written a wonderful account that tells her story of growing up in South Africa, the hope and promise of the US in contradistinction to the reality of life here, her journey as an activist, and her spiritual awakening. It's a surprisingly witty and moving story which I highly recommend. Idealists of all kind will feel a kinship with her story.

I couldn't put this book down. Marisa gives this memoir depth through her openness about her own insecurities and critique of her early activism and some of her activist brethren. This is an important read for anyone interested in what protesters do and why. It is also a wonderful story of maturation and growth. Bravo.

Marisa Handler is a remarkably gifted young writer and I look forward to reading much more from her. "Loyal to the Sky" moved me with its keen insights and flowing descriptions. I highly recommend it.