What Is A Hero?

by Henry E. Peavler

Henry Edwards was driving to the golf course on May 2, 2009 when his cell phone rang. The caller was his doctor and the news was devastating: Cancer! Lymphoma to be exact. His life would never be the same.

To keep family and friends abreast of the diagnosis and treatment of his deadly disease Henry kept a diary. The diary entries are included in the book along with the illustrations, he drew.

Between the diary entries are accounts of his coming of age during the Vietnam War, sexual and drug revolutions and the aftermath of World War II. Forced to reflect on a life now changed, Henry revisits his youth to search for solutions about what his life has become. He finds the answers in the remembrance of his mother. A woman who faced heart-rending tragedies with a sense of humor and humility; never questioning why these things happened, asking only of herself, what do I do to keep my family together. A lesson that serves Henry Edwards well in his own time of need.

345 pages, Paperback

First published November 12, 2016

Reviews

[R. Kilgore]

This is a heart warming memoir that kept me entertained the whole time. I laughed during the lovingly crafted childhood memories and cried during Hank's struggle in the cancer ward. Hank's optimistic and hilarious way of looking at life is inspiring. This is an important read for anyone that has ever gone through cancer or known someone that has.

[Brenda Edwards]

This book made me very emotional, but I loved reading it. Parts tugged at my heart strings because so much of it was very realistic and relatable. I also laughed at the funny moments, and the ending left my feeling hopeful. This book spanned many years and numerous hardships, but the final message is powerful and inspiring.

[DS]

I really enjoyed this book. There were times when I laughed out loud. The cancer diaries were informative, hopeful and humorous.

[Margret Robinson]

I enjoyed reading this book because it was so truthful. It was sad, but honest, which I loved. If you enjoy stories that have happy endings, but sad middles, this book is for you.

[Dodie]

I found myself totally caught up in the perils of Henry's cancer and yet chuckled at some of his unexpected humor thrown in. The book was easy to follow to say it would go from the past to the present. I definitely recommend this book as it will make one stop and wonder how they would have reacted if in the author's shoes. Great reading!

[Jacqueline Peavler]

Great book really enjoyed the short stories. The Cancer stories, while dealing with a serious subject, made me laugh at times.