My Curious Life: If My Grandkids Ask About Me, Tell Them This

by Robert Danna

My name is Bob Danna.

I wouldn’t have written this memoir ten years ago. This collection of stories, reflections, calls to action, and hard-earned insights is a direct response to a very particular my grandkids.

Their physical presence the last few years has changed me. The curiosity that comes so naturally to them—to all children, really—brings me immeasurable joy. But I fear their curiosity will be squashed out of them by the pressures of this accelerating world, and this would be an incalculable loss.

Because I have found that curiosity drives all aspects of a happy and fulfilled life.

I have so much to tell them, so much to teach them. What if I’m gone before they are old enough to understand? That’s why I’m writing all this down.

I know what I look like. I know that many today would dismiss me as “just another Boomer.” I’d hate to think my grandkids would do the same.

My name is Bob Danna.

And I am not who you think I am.

284 pages, Paperback

Published April 8, 2024

Reviews

[Bob Kelner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was genuinely surprised by how different and intriguing Bob's background is compared to the Bob I have known for the past decade. He truly embodies the notion that people are often more complex than they appear. Bob's life, driven by an insatiable curiosity, is a captivating journey beautifully chronicled in his book. Whether you are a grandparent, a baby boomer, or neither, his stories offer valuable life lessons on striving to be the best person you can be. This book is an absolute joy to read, filled with profound insights and delightful anecdotes.

[Robin Strom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is what all kids would like to know about their grandparents lives. The stories are honest, revealing, and they highlight the gifts of a life well lived containing learning jewels that will interest the kids as they are growing up and living their lives. Mr. Danna, is a renaissance man with curiosity leading his life’s adventures, he wants to pass this legacy on to his and all grandchildren. Enjoy the ride!

[Mac MacLure · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it is ostensibly an autobiography, it is really the story of the American Dream, as told by Bob Danna. Raised in a family of modest means, through his hard work, intelligence, curious mind and enthusiasm for life, Bob has led a fascinating life, which his taken him around the world and led to success in a variety of fields. With the goal of preserving his life story for his young grandkids, Bob imparts the values and guiding principles by which he has lived. Any young person, particularly those at the start of or early in their career, could benefit by reading Bob's story. This book provides much food for thought to those who are trying to figure out how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

[Taylor Arth · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an early millennial, the ideas in this book forced me to think about my own life, what I want to be known for, and how I want to be remembered. It encourages living by a set of values, acknowledges that failure is inevitable, and places emphasis on learning and continuous growth and curiosity. I much appreciated the theme of doing good for others and expecting nothing in return. This is the true definition of integrity and should encourage us all to do more and do better, simply because it’s the right thing to do. I look forward to referencing the ideas in this book as I embark on my own journey.

[Paolo Nunez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bob has been my professional advisor for the past year, and has helped me become a better person both personally and professionally as I start to finish my time in college. Reading this book has cemented in me that I never stop pursuing success and always stay positive for the future, and that there is no shortage of endeavors and careers I can sink myself into.

Moreover, reading about Bob's life after spending a year learning from him has taught me that having a wide variety of experiences is essential to making a fulfilling and worthwhile life experience. He has been instrumental in my development, and it was an enriching experience understanding the moments that built the man that I have learned so much from.

[Jeanne Meister · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have known and worked with Bob for over 25 years and gosh, did I learn a lot about Bob from reading his life journey organized as a five act play: #1, Coming of Age, #2, Finding My Way, #3 The Beginning of You, the Grandkids, #4 Finding Robert Danna and finally #5 The Undiscovered Country.

Through-out it all, Bob conveys a curiosity and self confidence in moving seamlessly from academia, to the US Navy, engineering and working as a senior executive General Physics Corporation to being a Partner in human capital management at Deloitte. Bob's professional background only sets the context for the life lessons Bob has learned and sets out to impart to his grandkids, Sean and Kyle. And I think they are worth mentioning here as we so often forget these values as we rush thru our 24X7 jam packed life. They are;

Live the Golden Rule: treat others as you would like others to treat you
Be curious and stay skeptical
Work hard and NEVER STOP LEARNING (this is key)
Do not compromise your integrity
Value honesty and openness: (Bob does this in spades from sharing his Italian background to his political views)
Be responsible and accountable
Live Aloha

What was my favorite part: GrandPa Sundays. I saw first hand the Science White jackets for Bob and his grand kids and how precious it is for Bob to be present with them and share his love of science.
I do not have grandkids yet (maybe one day!) but from his book, I learned the importance of spending uninterrupted time with them to learn, laugh, be curious and create memories that will stay with Sean and Kyle forever!

I recommend this book for anyone who wants to think deeply about how curiosity will take you on your journey!

Jeanne Meister