Showing results for "sparrow" in Biographies & Memoirs

Growing up, Rachel Rear knew the story of Stephanie Kupchynsky's disappearance. The beautiful violinist and teacher had fled an abusive relationship on Martha's Vineyard and made a new start for herself near Rochester, NY. She was at the height of her life, and then, one morning, she was gone. Near Rochester—a region which has spawned such serial killers as Arthur Shawcross and the 'Double Initial' killer—Stephanie's disappearance was just another news item. But Rachel had more reason than most to be haunted by this particular story of a missing white woman.

Manfred’s ancestors left the safety and comforts of Germany in 1866 to go as missionaries to the warlike Zulu tribes of South Africa. He describes his early childhood and family memories growing up on a farm, being schooled in the Lutheran community and church, and the great love of family members. His book also brings out how he, his family, and relatives have faced numerous and serious dangers from wild animals, disease and armed farm attacks.

In 1999, Quan Huynh shot and killed another man in a gang-related incident in Hollywood, California. He received a prison sentence of fifteen years to life in a state that, at the time, did not parole prisoners with life sentences. Behind bars, Quan continued his downward spiral. This could have been the end of the story for Quan, as it is for many prisoners. But somewhere along the way, he discovered a new path—one that prompted him to commit to self-reflection, truth, and personal responsibility.

Singer/songwriter Tara MacLean has had an extraordinary musical career. From being discovered singing on a BC ferry to touring with Dido, Tom Cochrane and Lilith Fair, her solo albums and those with the band Shaye have touched legions of fans. But she hasn’t, until now, disclosed the details of how the power of song saved her from a childhood filled with danger.

It is the early 60s and Ann, who is Jewish, and Ty, who is Black, are college students excited to meet each other's families. Along the way they encounter potentially violent racially charged situations as their parents cope with children in the forefront of changes yet to come. Ty and Ann learn about their lovers' community and families as they struggle with the interracial relationship. And we, the listeners, have a window into exactly how far we've come in the last half century in America. Or have we?