(3)The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni

When Sam Hill was born his mother declared that he would live an extraordinary life, red eyes and all. Sam's red pupils were unique and made him the victim of bullying from people of all ages his entire life.  They called him the "Devil Boy" because of the red eyes and being called "Devil Boy" while going to a Catholic school can make things tough.  But even while being bullied, Sam becomes best friends with Ernie Cantwell, the only African American in the school. From kindergarten on the two are inseparable friends, looking out for each other in every way possible. It remained that way until Mickie Kennedy entered the picture in junior high. She was unlike any girl in their school and she immediately fit in with the two misfits.  What happens next is a lifetime of ups and downs.  Good times and bad. And through it all Ernie and Mickie are there for Sam, even when he runs from his pain, his grief, and his friends.  Will Sam ever realize that Mickie and Ernie are just as much as his family as his parents?

I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell. What I found was an epic, multi-faceted story of a young man who just happened to be different from his peers. Funny enough, I could really relate. In a deep, profound way - I could relate. It was easy to like Sam Hill.  His relationship with Ernie was that of true friendship. At the same time, I was terrified for Sam and his interactions with the bully.  Both as a kid and as an adult. The author takes us from Sam's birth and follows him through his entire life and by the end of the book; it felt like Sam was my best friend, too. I was really pleased with everything about this book, including the ending. 

Bottom Line - The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell is a really good, heartwarming book.  One that will stay with you after you finish the last page. 

Details:

• The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni
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• Pages: 447
• Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
• Publication Date: 4/24/18
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