Reviews

I have to say that this was one of the most well-rounded memoirs that I’ve had the chance to evaluate, with the balance between personal remembrance and contextual detail feeling incredibly organic and effective. Not only does this book read like a very personal retelling and examination of your own life and your family’s but you were able to place the whole thing within a global historical and geopolitical context that makes the whole thing read as surprisingly relevant even to non-family members. As I read your memoir, I found my thoughts/feelings often turning to my own family (especially to those members that have been lost to us over the years) and wishing that they had left a book like yours behind so that I would have another chance to get to know them better. Friesenpress Evaluator

A touching and unflinchingly honest memoir of a family, this dual biography/autobiography highlights the moments of luck, uncertainty, sadness, and joy that define the roots of every family tree, demonstrating how we are all guided by similar experiences. Embracing the tragic and triumphal realities of life in equal measure, Angel has crafted a powerful reflection on mortality, modernity, and memory. Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★


I just finished your book. I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. It was absolutely incredible. So heartfelt, so raw, and so full of life. There were moments that broke my heart, moments that lifted my spirit, and a deep sense of love woven through every chapter. Your story moved me. Thank you for sharing your journey with such honesty. I feel lucky to have read it.
Robert Trassolini

I read your book, and I want to congratulate you. It captivated me so much that I finished it in one night— an excellent narrative! What I loved the most was your heartfelt gratitude to your wife and all the people who helped you move forward, as well as the tribute to your father. This book should be read by everyone battling cancer as an example of life and resilience.  Reinaldo Diaz, Ibérica employee.

A wonderful book! So well done, I read it in two sittings.  Tom Reagan

Titi, I was able to read Federico’s book straight through, from beginning to end. I loved it! I lived his pain, felt his immense love for you, I rejoiced, laughed, and cried. I identified with many parts – the journeys of migration, the bitterness of burying a father, the bankruptcy, the questions and reflections, the immense love for one’s partner and children. I suffered with the loss of Andrés, I cried out with Alejo’s departure, and I was moved to tears by Felipe’s words at the baptism. It wrapped me up!!! And one phrase in particular left a mark on me: “Life, I owe you nothing, Life, you owe me nothing, Life, we are at peace.”
You can’t imagine how much of a mirror this book has been for me at this moment in so many ways. What a delightful read, told in such a warm and familiar tone, like someone recounting a well-told story in their own living room. Please pass on my message of gratitude and admiration to Federico.  Laura Gomes


Federico, I’m fascinated by your book. What an interesting life you’ve had, your storytelling is fantastic and very well written, in addition to being a fitting tribute to your wonderful Titi. I truly congratulate you! Inés Botero de Pique

The book is something truly unique in every sense. What a beautiful tribute to Titi—very well deserved. It’s hard to describe the emotion the book stirred in me. Mixed feelings with an unbeatable life lesson. Alejandro Urdaneta

First of all, thank you for the generosity of sharing your life experience with everyone!! Not many people do that, and this act of generosity is incredibly valuable—an act of love. As I read each chapter, the descriptions made me feel like I was right there, living each moment. It’s very moving how the reader can get so involved in the scenes and moments described. Juanita Burgos

Federico, I really liked the chronological way you wrote it! Your life has been full of tragedies and adventures. Catalina Campos

Federico, I have just finished reading your amazing creation! You did such a wonderful job of portraying your incredible story. I found your words to be deeply inspirational and profoundly uplifting. Thank you for putting life’s small setbacks firmly into perspective for the rest of us! My only complaint is that your gripping narrative doesn’t allow your reader to put the book down – even for a second! Nicola

Excellent book. Very enjoyable to read.
I really liked how it begins and how it ends… like traveling through time by way of music.
Thank you, Federico. Luisa Ponce de Leon

I read the book in its entirety, without stopping. It’s a very well-written and deeply moving book. It touched me and exceeded my expectations. It brings every memory to your mind, as if you were living it all on a movie screen. Books that move you. Ahava Lumbroso Angel

For anyone that knows my dad knows that the one thing he has plenty of is stories. For years we have been telling him to share his stories with the world and it took some life altering events to realize how all his stories connected. I’ve always been amazed of my dad but to see the effort and determination he put into writing this memoir makes me beyond proud. I’m honoured to share a name with him and my grandfather. And even though this book is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of his stories, it’s an amazing book.    Federico Angel Jr

I wanted to say again how honored I feel to have read your book, Federico.  I knew some but of course not all of your story but also, I hadn’t noticed the strong similarities and meaningful connections within your family.  Your own life is extraordinary; it would have been a shame to leave this story untold. Margaret Hope