Will I love The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell?

Almost through metaphor, Dugoni teaches the reader a lesson by introducing us to Sam Hill. Because literally he was born with different eyes, he saw the world through an exceptional lens. The teasings and taunting influenced Sam to address his pain and use it for good. This was refreshing and uplifting. I was so sad to get to the end. Not to be full of pun, but I also saw pieces of my life differently from reading this book. It was literally a breath of fresh air.

When Bob Dugoni learned I was interested in inspirational thrillers, he suggested I read this book, thinking I might enjoy it. He was right.

The author’s protagonist, Sam, who is born with a rare ocular albinism and sheltered by a loving mother, is unusual as the main character. It was easy for me to engage with his struggles of guilt, acceptance, and finding meaning in this coming-of-age story. I could identify with Sam’s experiences of being bullied and found his determination to be an overcomer inspiring. 

I was hooked right from Sam’s birth and the origin of his unusual name.

I loved the fiercely zealous Catholic mom who would literally do anything for Sam, and his hard-working dad, who has his own ideas about turning his son into a man, including a hilarious scene where a seriously hungover Sam has to mow the lawn. Friends Ernie and Mickey are wonderful complements to Sam's character. I loved how they held each other up through life's many cruelties and rooted for them all through laughter and tears.

This coming-of-age story is often likened to John Irving’s masterpieces (Owen… show more.