An amazing story that captures your heart. – May 4, 2015

This is an amazing story that captures your heart it is based on a true story about a nine year old boy, Scott that was in an orphanage home but left to create a life for himself. He went through some very bad times but always staying on top. This is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time, I could not put it down. The author describes the places Scott travelled, the places he stayed and worked it is defined in detail and so dramatic. The author describes the wonderful accomplishments Scott did during his lifetime, he never gave up, never quit learning new things and when things went bad he always learned from them. The end of the book was amazing. I enjoyed it from the start until the very end, this is a book that I will remember for a long time, the author is a master storyteller, A book for all ages.

THE BEST BOOK SINCE “AVALON, THE RETREAT, AND BEYOND AVALON. NEXT WOODWORM, BUT NOW ” IT’S CALIFORNIA’S CHILD; AMAZING – September 11, 2014

I have been a fan of Mr. L. Michael Rusin since his first book “Avalon” he is an amazing author. I love this book. I COULD NOT put it down. its everything you want in a good read. It’s a page turner and yes, I went thru a box of kleenex. Mr. Rusin is an amazing man and writer. I love this book so much that I would like to share it with you. the price is right too. looking forward to his next book. you will not be disappointed.ck it out, its a wonderful book.

An excellent book, a book for all readers and one … – October 4, 2014

With California’s Child, L. Michael Rusin has written a book that shows the diversity of his talent. It is a powerful story. It is heart breaking and heart warming. A young boy with the tenacity to survive despite overwhelming adversity. It validates the determination of the human spirit. An excellent book, a book for all readers and one well worth reading.

Great story – October 22, 2014

It’s been a long time since I read anything written in the first person from the point of view of a child, but this is an entirely enjoyable read. Actually, I felt it was stronger when Scott, the central character, was younger. Some of the characters he encounters in his childhood really came to life for me. Things came together a little too easily later in the book, but it still held my attention. It’s a very good book and I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Gut-wrenching! – December 5, 2014

This is an important book with a horrifying message based on events that occurred in the not-too-distant past. It tells a sad story with an inspirational message. Based on true events, I found the consciousness-raising factor to be invaluable, and my level of empathy for unfortunate children who become the victim of circumstances beyond their control. There are some funny parts later in the book, which help to relieve the tension built up by the horrors this little boy lived through. A good read and well worth the price!

So heart wrenching – December 11, 2014

This book made me cry especially when the ones that Scott adored were plucked from his life. I hoped with every chapter that he would find his way back to the Cross ranch. My heart ached for Maude and I knew Shep would never be the same, as was stated in Aunt Mildred’s letter. I’m so sad that a system can fail a child so badly. It all started with his aunt who didn’t want the burden. i wonder if she ever felt remorseful. I’m still choked up. The love he gave unconditionally to his animals break my heart. He seemed to live his life by starting over and over and over. Shame on the system who beat him down. And congratulations to Scott who proved his worthiness over and over and over. A must read paired with a box of Kleenex.

And the real life stories don’t always have the “lived happily ever after endings” – December 26, 2014

I admire the writer, not because he is my first cousin, but because he is a man that has gone after his dreams despite a life of setbacks many of us can only imagine. A lot of his life is in this story, and it flows effortlessly. He is truly a survivor. One review stated it was so different than his other books. Perhaps, in many ways it is, but it is still a story about a survivor of the system, just as the author is. It’s fiction, based on life experiences, and the real life stories don’t always have the “lived happily ever after endings”. This book was an easy read, I finished it in 3 sittings. I loved the characters and the message.

I especially liked the absolutely relentless desire for life that the child … – December 31, 2014

This is a truly inspirational story about overcoming obstacles. The Vietnam section was less interesting to me but it was well done. I especially liked the absolutely relentless desire for life that the child showed. This story is worth way more than the charge for it on Kindle. Please buy it as you will not be disappointed!