Overview

"""A beautifully balanced blend of heartfelt storytelling, serene narration, and meaningful dialogues . . . encouragement for self-reflection, and a celebration of acceptance . . . a heartwarming read that leaves readers with a sense of joy and introspection."" --Literary Titan Five Star Gold Award Evoking Paul Theroux's travel novels in directness, color, and observations, Karma and Kismet catapults the reader into an international and cross-cultural journey, an authentic sixties and seventies quest for meaning and place. Filled with real characters, deep human conflicts, pathos, and passion, this memoir tells a unique yet universal story about overcoming bad karma and the role of kismet, or fate, in shaping life and destiny. A deeply honest, courageous, and inspiring account, Karma and Kismet challenges readers to go beyond their comfort zones, resonating with anyone who has ever questioned their identity or their place in the world and how they might find connection and belonging. With a vivid and immersive style, Shandler effortlessly draws readers into his story, inviting them to reflect on their own life paths."

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Reviews

""". . . a skillful writer who bring readers directly into his experiences as a young man searching for a sense of belonging. . . . he vividly writes of his first psychedelic trip in 1968: 'The Mescaline journey . . . has blasted me into a profound new awareness of inner space, of being, of potential for healing, of psychological and spiritual growth."" He's also a meticulous chronicler of the times and places in which he lived, from South Africa under apartheid to an ashram in Canada where he studied yogic teachings. Shandler paints a detailed portrait of his pain due to his father's rejection, his fear and anger when he faced antisemitism, his disappointment with the political wranglings in yogic factions, and finding his path to psychological peace and financial success. A thoughtful, emotionally forthright, and engaging retrospective.""-Kirkus Reviews ""Sometimes wry, sometimes sad, Shandler's excellent memoir illustrates the power of persistence in overcoming childhood adversity in an engaging narrative that readers won't want to put down."" -Laurie Pearlman, PhD, trauma specialist, 2019 Lifetime Achievement recipient, trauma division, American Psychological Association ""In the end, Karma and Kismet is a story of challenge, perseverance, resilience, and triumph. As Shandler notes (in his epilogue), 'I am one of the lucky ones-one of those who escapes the confines of his karma and finds healing, love, reconciliation, purpose, and belonging.'"" -Earl J. Glusac, MD, professor of pathology and dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine ""The author's writing is characterized by its directness and a deeply personal touch. This authenticity not only makes for an intriguing narrative but also leaves a profound impact on the reader. Through the author's words, readers are able to connect with the vulnerability and authenticity of Shandler's journey, allowing them to share in the experiences and emotions that shape his story. ""Karma and Kismet is a journey of profound self-reflection, a quest for acceptance and tranquility in a world that at times appears hostile and unwelcoming.""-2024 Winner Inspirational Nonfiction, Literary Global Book Awards "". . . Shandler's writing, from the initial dramatic escape from his irate father to the transformative closing tributes, exudes remarkable authenticity and fervor, effortlessly immersing readers in the heart of his personal odyssey. With an authentic and passionate voice, he artfully unravels his tale, rendering it not only enthralling but profoundly resonant . . . an emotional roller coaster featuring a cast of multifaceted characters. Readers are compelled to accompany him on his journey and battle for inner serenity and self-acceptance . . . a quest across continents, seeking personal growth and ultimately finding serenity and spiritual fulfillment."" -2024 Nonfiction Finalist American Writing Awards"

Author Information

Award-winning author, life coach, and organization development consultant, Dr. Michael Shandler's boyhood in a dysfunctional family during the apartheid era in South Africa provided powerful grist for his transformational personal journey. Michael is the coauthor with Nina Shandler of four books, including The Marriage and Family Book: A Spiritual Guide, and Ways of Being Together. Shandler is a former principal and partner at Arthur D. Little and holds a master's in counseling and a doctorate in leadership and group studies from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA. Michael lives in western Massachusetts, where he continues writing, coaching, cycling, and being a husband, a dad, and a grandpa of five incredible grandchildren.

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