Title: Destiny
Author: Mahlon Palmer
Publisher: Author Reputation Press, LLC
ISBN: 978-1-95012-098-9
Genre: Autobiography
Pages: 258
Reviewed by: Suzanne Gattis
Hollywood Book Reviews
Destiny is the story of a life; full of dreams, adventures, chance happenings, and hard work. This autobiography follows the life of a man, who followed and made his own destiny. Without the fortune of a fancy education or upbringing, this man was able to accomplish and see much in his life. He is a real-life inspiration to those who might not be able to take the easy or even traditional path.
Mahlon (Dick) Palmer chose to write his story after being told he should, by some of his nurses he recounted these tales to while recovering after a heart attack. They requested he write about the many adventures and travels he had during his life. Palmer also chose to write this book for those who may feel the cards that life have dealt them are rough, but still you must get up every day, put one foot in front of the other, and succeed. The author wrote this book for those who grew up in a similar environment as he did, quoting “Where if the latest gadgets and trends are not available to them, they must do without.”
I am a huge history buff, so I really enjoyed reading about Dick Palmer’s life. I was struck especially by how hard life must have been growing up on a farm in the 1930s and ‘40s. The fact they worked so hard daily that they were not even able to put in any schoolwork at the end of the day was poignant to me. Many of us think that formal education and schooling in life, including College, are so important, but for Dick, he put the lessons of hard work into everything he did and was able to accomplish so much without any fancy titles.
Dick Palmer’s life was one of destiny, from his time in the military to working with NASA. It literally took him around the world, providing him adventures that most farm boys could only dreamt of. The National Parks he visited, the women he met and loved; it was through his undeniable spirit, destiny, and maybe a few sprinkles of luck here and there which accentuates his colorful character.
I enjoyed this inspirational tale of a life well lived. There were a few things in the script I would have made minor changes to, for example in the story, Dick is referred to in 3rd person. Yet, there were a few times when it got a little awkward knowing that he was telling the story. For example, a few times it was written that “Dick wants you to know.” I also felt like other than with his loyal dog from youth, King, there could have been more about his emotions, such as his relationship with his late wife. It left me wanting a little more of the raw side to really develop Dick as a character. However, I would read this book again, and certainly recommend Destiny to other readers.