The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell: a Novel [S0044]

2018 HCDJ in Gift-Worthy condition. Sam Hill always saw the world through different eyes. Born with red pupils, he was called "Devil Boy" or Sam "Hell" by his classmates; "God's will" is what his mother called his ocular albinism. Her words were of little comfort, but Sam persevered, buoyed by his mother's devout faith, his father's practical wisdom, and his two other misfit friends. Sam believed it was God who sent Ernie Cantwell, the only African American kid in his class, to be the friend he so desperately needed. And that it was God's idea for Mickie Kennedy to storm into Our Lady of Mercy like a tornado, uprooting every rule Sam had been taught about boys and girls.

Forty years later, Sam, a small-town eye doctor, is no longer certain anything was by design-especially not the tragedy that caused him to turn his back on his friends, his hometown, and the life he'd always known. Running from the pain, eyes closed, served little purpose. Now, as he looks back on his life, Sam embarks on a journey that will take him halfway around the world. This time, his eyes are wide open-bringing into clear view what changed him, defined him, and made him so afraid, until he can finally see what truly matters.

From Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "I thought this was a really great book. Sam is a fascinating yet flawed character who is able to find strength and courage in the face of tremendous adversity, thanks to an incredible support system of his parents and his friends. I grew very attached to these characters and found myself worrying about and cheering them, and wishing they'd say the things they needed to, to those they needed to."

"There are books that make you think, and then there are books that make you feel, deep in your chest, where the heart lives. The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell is one of those rare treasures. It reminds us that what makes us different can be our greatest strength, and that love - messy, complicated, enduring love - can heal wounds we never thought could close."

"This book transported me into a world where one can find what seems to be escaping from our world today, human kindness, forgiveness, and love. I cannot recommend this book more highly as it brings one a world of peacefulness, tears, love, and the telling of a story that moves one's heart and soul."