Miracles can happen . . .
Compelling, engaging, and inspirational. Beautifully written and without a trace of self-pity or drama you might expect in so harrowing a tale — Jessica Bram, Founder, Westport Writers’ Workshop
A powerful message to all, especially those who constantly say, "Oh that's too bad but it will never happen to me." — Mike Calise
A heart-warming book of faith, family, and inspiration. A true page turner that I couldn't put down. — Christina
A story about dogged determination and a dream, about family and faith, about limitless hope and a rivaled recovery. A feel-good read with upbeat vibes all around. — Aline Weiller
Available through Ingram Spark: Paperback 978-1-960865-08-3
The year was 1974 and Mike Krysiuk was a high school senior who had finally hit his stride. He loved baseball, being in a band with his buddies, and cruising around in his Chevy Chevelle blasting tunes on his 8-track. That spring Mike was finally popular-part of the "in" crowd-the cool jocks who cut classes, got away with it, and always dated the pretty girls. He even made the varsity baseball team but spent the season getting splinters on the bench. When the coach finally called Mike in to relieve the star pitcher, a scout from the Mets who had come to observe the starter got to see Mike close the game with his famous sinker and turn a blowout into a one-run loss for the Wreckers. Suddenly, the major leagues were more than just a dream.
After the game Mike was elated, and despite his parents wanting him home right away to catch up on the homework he'd been skipping, he decided to go out with his new friends to celebrate. The boys planned a short drive across the border into New York where they could buy some beer at a liquor store. Mike got the seat of honor, riding in the tiny Triumph GT6 belonging to Ted, a James Dean type and the cool crowd's cocky ringleader. They sped away with Mike's six-foot-four frame crammed into the passenger seat-a decision that would change his life forever.
The rest of the story is a family saga of determination, teamwork, and resolute optimism. Mike's remarkable journey reminds us that, in a life-threatening crisis, the love of parents, siblings, relatives, and friends is invaluable-and likely the key difference between premature death and a new lease on life. Miracles really can happen when you shoot for the sun.
Mike Krysiuk grew up in Westport, Connecticut, and worked at Town Hall there for over 25 years, where his friendly and positive presence made paying taxes as close to a pleasure as it could be. He has done stand-up comedy, lectured on his story, and performed (voice and guitar) his original songs in local venues. His story was the subject of a one-man show at the Westport Museum for History and Culture, and he had a bit part in the film, Revolutionary Road. Mike wants his story to help today’s youth learn the dangers of being a follower, of getting in with the wrong crowd and walking in the shadows. It is Mike’s hope that his personal tragedy will prevent teenagers from reckless drinking and driving accidents. He knows he came back from the edge of death for many important purposes, but one of the greatest is sharing his story so the next generation does not forget his hard-earned lessons.
Learn more about Mike Krysiuk
Hear Mike read from The Big One
Julia L. Bobkoff holds a B.A. with high distinction in English from the University of Rochester and attended New York University’s graduate film directing program. She is a recipient of The Academy of American Poets Prize as well as other awards for her writing, including Best Drama (one of the grand prizes) in the Launch Pad Manuscript Competition. She has written numerous scripts for film and television and adapts bestselling books for the screen. Her articles and poems have been published in Weston Magazine and on The Good Men Project. Julia is also a musician. She contributed an original soundtrack (in which she played violin and viola) to a Holocaust documentary film that was nominated for an Emmy and received the Audience Award at the Jewish film festival. Julia comes from a long line of writers, educators, and artists, and she is passionate about inspiring people.