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Slave to the Dream: Everyone’s Dream
Slave to the Dream: Everyone’s Dream is a work of non-fiction written in the style of a memoir by author Gaylan D. Wright. Sometimes focusing on some tragic and/or surprising events that more sensitive readers may not wish to experience, this candid and honest account details the history of the author’s eighteen-year career with the Wyoming Highway Patrol. Discussing themes of the American Dream and the true measure of success in life, Wright takes us through the life of a trooper from training to tragedy and back again, with the idea that dreams are not always what they seem, for worse and for better.
136 pages, Unknown Binding
Published January 29, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 1, 2021
Slave to the Dream: Forever in Pursuit by Gaylan D. Wright is one of the most fascinating memoirs I have read. His humble, yet commanding, beliefs are refreshing as he serves and protects others as a state trooper. Life is a precious gift and his desire to preserve that gift is inspiring. Gaylan does not beat around the bush in what he believes and the high standard in which he lives.
One statement by Gaylan D. Wright that really stood out, "the way I am now is the way my environment made me" makes for a powerful testimony. Slave to the Dream was written for teenagers and it shows the difference they could make in the world, no matter the color of their skin. The people skills and work ethic seen in the author is unseen in many young people now. One thing I noticed immediately about this author is his drive to be the best he could be. He does not have a bitter agenda he is trying to push because of the prejudice he faces through his job or skin color. He strives for excellence and pushes others to expect more of them.
One statement by Gaylan D. Wright that really stood out, "the way I am now is the way my environment made me" makes for a powerful testimony. Slave to the Dream was written for teenagers and it shows the difference they could make in the world, no matter the color of their skin. The people skills and work ethic seen in the author is unseen in many young people now. One thing I noticed immediately about this author is his drive to be the best he could be. He does not have a bitter agenda he is trying to push because of the prejudice he faces through his job or skin color. He strives for excellence and pushes others to expect more of them.
January 28, 2021
In Galen the rights slave to the dream, everyone’s dream he takes you from his retirement from the Air Force to working as mall security to on a whim trying out for the state patrol. The rest of the book he’s been telling us his insights on race, violence, guns and not to mention the daily life of a state trooper. Not to say it is all stories of crime and criminals they are also a lot of LOL moments which I totally appreciate it. He also weaves in a few life lessons that makes you think twice about things you wouldn’t normally even think about. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it it is written as an autobiography and it kept my attention throughout. I really like the quoteat the beginning of the book.
February 3, 2021
Slave to the Dream: Everyone's Dream by Gaylan D Wright is the fascinating autobiography of an ordinary man, a retired state trooper who served his country. This is a candid, honest and at times blunt account of some of his life experiences which led him to be the person he is today, he shares experiences from his rough childhood in Chicago to serving his country as a highway patrol officer. The main focus of this book is looking at how humanity behaves when dealing with situations and how we could all learn a thing or two by questioning our own thoughts and actions.
The way of writing in this book was insightful, simple and very easy to follow.
The way of writing in this book was insightful, simple and very easy to follow.
January 29, 2021
‘The gift called life is the miracle of when a soul is given a vessel to carry it within’
Author Gaylan D. Wright is proving to be a memoirist of note. He has published two books to date – SLAVE TO THE DREAM: FOREVER IN PURSUIT and now SLAVE TO A DREAM: EVERYONE’S DREAM. With these two books Wright seems destined to become a role model for young people fortunate enough to absorb his solid and straightforward vision and wisdom.
The time for this book to be placed before the public is propitious. Galan is an African American man and a law enforcement agent – two arenas bringing challenges to contemporary changes of views, as the BLM demonstrations and the concurrent reactions of the police address. If only more people would read Gaylan’s solid and positive approaches to both elements as shared in this important memoir, there would likely be far broader understanding and insight and acceptance that may propel our progress to making the world better.
But on to the content. This is a memoir of a man who, after being raised in Chicago, joined the Air Force earning to Meritorious Service and three National Defense Medals and other decorations, and moving forward, became a Wyoming State Trouper. Related in a conversational manner, Gaylan shares his experiences – positive and negative – while serving mankind in that protective role, and in doing so opens our eyes to the vantage of seeing the world as a an officer whose mission is to uphold the law. While that may not sound challenging to some, read Gaylan’s accounts and become informed!
The book is rich in insightful comments, ideas that ask the reader to be open to change and growth, to understand and respect, and many other ideals. ‘There seems to be a requirement for just so many people to be in the poor class, just as the need for a middle class exists. One class actually supports the other. The only way to get out of that cycle is to fight your way out. Never pass up an opportunity, and stick your foot into every open door, even if it’s just to see what’s inside. If there’s a possibility of seeing something you never have seen to experiencing something new. Do it. The mind expansion is mind-blowing.’ That is only one passage of many that are memorable.
Toward book’s end, Gaylan states, “What I have learned so far had been an incredible journey and adventure. I remained in my own character even when I was not well liked. I now enter a room looking for people I may like rather than for those who will like me. There are people who change their demeanor between regular people and professional people. Just try to be who you are consistently and let those closest to you see your best, along with those you work with. People around you should not be the cause of change in your personal character…’
Honest, wise, and moving, this is a book we all need to read – now! Recommended.
Author Gaylan D. Wright is proving to be a memoirist of note. He has published two books to date – SLAVE TO THE DREAM: FOREVER IN PURSUIT and now SLAVE TO A DREAM: EVERYONE’S DREAM. With these two books Wright seems destined to become a role model for young people fortunate enough to absorb his solid and straightforward vision and wisdom.
The time for this book to be placed before the public is propitious. Galan is an African American man and a law enforcement agent – two arenas bringing challenges to contemporary changes of views, as the BLM demonstrations and the concurrent reactions of the police address. If only more people would read Gaylan’s solid and positive approaches to both elements as shared in this important memoir, there would likely be far broader understanding and insight and acceptance that may propel our progress to making the world better.
But on to the content. This is a memoir of a man who, after being raised in Chicago, joined the Air Force earning to Meritorious Service and three National Defense Medals and other decorations, and moving forward, became a Wyoming State Trouper. Related in a conversational manner, Gaylan shares his experiences – positive and negative – while serving mankind in that protective role, and in doing so opens our eyes to the vantage of seeing the world as a an officer whose mission is to uphold the law. While that may not sound challenging to some, read Gaylan’s accounts and become informed!
The book is rich in insightful comments, ideas that ask the reader to be open to change and growth, to understand and respect, and many other ideals. ‘There seems to be a requirement for just so many people to be in the poor class, just as the need for a middle class exists. One class actually supports the other. The only way to get out of that cycle is to fight your way out. Never pass up an opportunity, and stick your foot into every open door, even if it’s just to see what’s inside. If there’s a possibility of seeing something you never have seen to experiencing something new. Do it. The mind expansion is mind-blowing.’ That is only one passage of many that are memorable.
Toward book’s end, Gaylan states, “What I have learned so far had been an incredible journey and adventure. I remained in my own character even when I was not well liked. I now enter a room looking for people I may like rather than for those who will like me. There are people who change their demeanor between regular people and professional people. Just try to be who you are consistently and let those closest to you see your best, along with those you work with. People around you should not be the cause of change in your personal character…’
Honest, wise, and moving, this is a book we all need to read – now! Recommended.
January 25, 2021
Slave to the Dream: Everyone's Dream by Gaylan D Wright
Book starts out with quotes from various famous people. Story starts when author became a civilian, 36 later.
Many recollections of his time on the road, coming up on head on collisions on the main highways and nothing left of the people involved.
Mostly drunk driver accidents. Because of the way he was trained he was strong in getting the jobs done along with paperwork. Just when you think you've heard it all he tells of other accidents.
Like the camaraderie he and other troopers had over the years. Hated to hear some bosses did not fight for them or pay increases.
I recall my father also going through state police training but he stayed on the local level. So informative to me and another part of my father's life I didn't know much about.
Pictures throughout the book and love that he brought up his kids like his dad brought up him.
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
Book starts out with quotes from various famous people. Story starts when author became a civilian, 36 later.
Many recollections of his time on the road, coming up on head on collisions on the main highways and nothing left of the people involved.
Mostly drunk driver accidents. Because of the way he was trained he was strong in getting the jobs done along with paperwork. Just when you think you've heard it all he tells of other accidents.
Like the camaraderie he and other troopers had over the years. Hated to hear some bosses did not fight for them or pay increases.
I recall my father also going through state police training but he stayed on the local level. So informative to me and another part of my father's life I didn't know much about.
Pictures throughout the book and love that he brought up his kids like his dad brought up him.
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
January 28, 2021
Slave to the Dream: Everyone’s Dream by Gaylan D. Wright is an interesting and honest memoir. The author tells of growing up in Chicago, being exposed to a lot of guns, then later joining the Air Force. Ultimately he tells of his time as a highway patrol officer in Wyoming and his experiences there. This is an intricately detailed memoir, filled with photos and experiences. Plenty of quotes in the beginning provide inspiration for life. The author recounts his experiences on the road, some of them awful, and many of them confrontational and scary. However, Wright has a way of turning a negative into a positive throughout his life, and you will see this reflected through this candid memoir. This is a well written story of one man's life, well rounded and humble in its approach. Highly recommended for an interesting tale of a life well lived and enjoyed despite some difficult times.
February 21, 2021
Memoirs are exceedingly difficult to write and hold interest. It’s hard for us to filter out what’s important to us and what’s interesting to a reader, and this is why a lot of memoir-style books aren’t written by the subject. However, Wright is among the few who manage it well. I will admit I wasn’t immediately hooked in. The writing is good, though, and I kept on. I really got invested in the fourth chapter, “The Law is not Meant to Crush but Must be Enforced” and from that point on I was in it with Wright. It really showcases the moral dilemma and shares the “other side of the fence” regarding police (in particular the Highway Patrol).
It’s clear that Wright has conviction and hope for people but remains honest about himself and his station/circumstances. He does not dress up the darker periods of his life or thoughts and doesn’t overdo what we’d read as positive. His perspective on major social issues is a valuable piece of insight that we only get in edited interviews after something bad has happened. But this isn’t cut to fit for media, this is raw. Sometimes funny, sometimes tragic, but always candid.
Another thing, one that really makes this book stand out, is that there are so many quotable and relevant lines and commentary on Wright’s situation (by the author himself) that really push one to think.
It’s clear that Wright has conviction and hope for people but remains honest about himself and his station/circumstances. He does not dress up the darker periods of his life or thoughts and doesn’t overdo what we’d read as positive. His perspective on major social issues is a valuable piece of insight that we only get in edited interviews after something bad has happened. But this isn’t cut to fit for media, this is raw. Sometimes funny, sometimes tragic, but always candid.
Another thing, one that really makes this book stand out, is that there are so many quotable and relevant lines and commentary on Wright’s situation (by the author himself) that really push one to think.
February 18, 2021
I adore this book more than anything.
March 4, 2021
Gaylan D Wright’s book, Slave to the Dream, Everyone’s dream, is an inspirational, heartfelt, and interesting tale about the author’s life. From his time in the air force to his eighteen years of service in the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
What makes this journey so engaging to read is the way that Wright is unafraid to explore the negatives and positives. He is not trying to romanticize his life but to give his honest story. The book connects to a lot of modern discussions as Wrights explores his place as an African American man who spent his life working in law enforcement. He explores his experiences and the new light which reflection brings.
The book is written in an easy and engaging style that is easy to read and makes you feel connected to Wright. Each chapter takes the reader through the different phases of Wright’s life, giving an expansive view of how these experiences changed him and his outlook on life. There are also photos sprinkled in along the way, which I really enjoyed.
This book is a relevant and truly heartfelt read. I am very glad to have found this book!
What makes this journey so engaging to read is the way that Wright is unafraid to explore the negatives and positives. He is not trying to romanticize his life but to give his honest story. The book connects to a lot of modern discussions as Wrights explores his place as an African American man who spent his life working in law enforcement. He explores his experiences and the new light which reflection brings.
The book is written in an easy and engaging style that is easy to read and makes you feel connected to Wright. Each chapter takes the reader through the different phases of Wright’s life, giving an expansive view of how these experiences changed him and his outlook on life. There are also photos sprinkled in along the way, which I really enjoyed.
This book is a relevant and truly heartfelt read. I am very glad to have found this book!
February 22, 2021
Gaylan Wright's memoir 'Slave to the Dream' is an interesting memoir where we see a young boy seeking out attention among his 11 siblings in all the wrong ways, join the Air Force and turn his life around. It gave him the discipline and self-confidence to be a better man. Over his years in the Air Force and Highway Patrol, he has gained wisdom and a lot of great stories to tell.
Is the book written perfectly? No, but that in no way affected my enjoyment of Wright's great story. It's honest, unflinching, uplifting, and inspiring.
Is the book written perfectly? No, but that in no way affected my enjoyment of Wright's great story. It's honest, unflinching, uplifting, and inspiring.
February 10, 2021
I found this book to be an eye opener, the author Gaylan D Wright talks about his own experiences as a highway patrol officer, Wright discusses every aspect of his career and gives you an insight into the real life of a state trooper (the good, the bad and the ugly!) Wright shares lots of his personal experiences with the reader so if you enjoy real life literature i would definitely recommend you read this book.
February 16, 2021
This book really was so awesome!
February 16, 2021
Thought provoking build up!
February 17, 2021
A first-rate book.
February 17, 2021
A pretty fantastic book.
February 17, 2021
Must-read book, so involving!
February 17, 2021
I loved this novel.
February 18, 2021
Amazing book to read on vacation.
February 18, 2021
Superb story I’ll read again soon.
February 18, 2021
Excellent book, I recommend it.
February 18, 2021
Most amazing book for demanding readers!
February 18, 2021
Interesting story.
February 18, 2021
Most amazing book for a cold winter’s day.
February 18, 2021
Superb storyline I’ll read it again.
February 18, 2021
Superb story I’ll read again.
February 18, 2021
A timeless story.
March 18, 2021
So good I’ll be recommending to friends.
March 18, 2021
Unforgettable storyline. Outstanding.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews