Book details

  • Genre:sports & recreation
  • Sub-genre:Basketball
  • Language:English
  • Pages:232
  • eBook ISBN:9781667852928
  • Paperback ISBN:9781667852911

Defying Expectations

Family, Sports & Recreation

By Al “Hondo” Handy

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Overview

An inspiring memoir about a young black man defying the odds by becoming one of the first black kids to attend an all-white school before integration, win a basketball state championship, and continue to thrive throughout his career.
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Description

An inspiring memoir about a young black man defying the odds by becoming one of the first black kids to attend an all-white school before integration, win a basketball state championship, and continue to thrive throughout his career. This is just one example of the many obstacles Al "Hondo" Handy had to overcome to become the influential and determined man he is today. This book is perfect for anyone with a dream that seems impossible. By reading Al's story, you will feel inspired to chase your goals no matter what stands in your way!
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About The Author

Al "Hondo" Handy recently retired from the Ocean City Recreation & Parks Department, as a Recreation Manager. As the smiling face of the Recreation and Parks Department, Hondo actively sought to attend the meetings of most Town civic groups, educating their members of the value of youth involvement in positive recreational endeavors, and engaging the already philanthropic-minded-memberships in expanded philanthropic endeavors specific to Ocean City's youth. Throughout his life, he has served, been honored, and celebrated for his many accomplishments and accolades despite the many obstacles he has faced. Al's passion for writing his story is to reignite and inspire the youth to chase their goals fearlessy.
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Book Reviews

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sean
Hondo Rocks!! Hondo has been an inspiration in my life since he hired me for my first job in Ocean City back in 1994! He is an amazing person who defines the true meaning of sportsmanship. He's been a wonderful role model for myself, my wife and daughter. The book is easy to read and extra meaningful for anyone living here on the eastern shore. His legacy will live forever at Northside Park and we are forever grateful to have learned "The Hondo Way" directly from the source. Sean Rox & Family Read more
Emma Jean's
Defying Expectations Fabulous book. Have known Hondo over 50 years. Strongly recommend having his book in your collection. Waiting for a sequel! Read more
Adriano
Amazing Must Read!! Hondo is a massive inspiration to the Ocean City, MD community and the youth! He not only honorably served 40 years working with youth but once he retired he wrote his inspirational story for everyone to read! This book is a must read for anyone! Hondo is a hero undoubtedly! Read more
Steve
Defying Expectations Hondo Handy was a dorm-mate of mine at Salisbury State College. When I saw that he had published a biography, I naturally had to have it. The book took me back to life on Campus ‘70-‘74 with all the crazy and life shaping events that occurred. The stories Hondo described so well of him, his roommate Ron Dixon, and all of our other friends was a trip back in time with memories I had long lost and cherished in there return. I bought the book took read on a plane during a trip to Scotland and found myself immersed in mental images of sporting events, parties, late night exam cramming, and, yes, old girlfriends. Beyond the 4 years we shared together, I learned more about Hondo’s remarkable journey to Salisbury State and his lifelong commitment to serving the youth of Wicomico County. What a remarkable book and guy! Thanks Hondo!!- SteveHorrell Read more
Sally
Hondo- soars with delivery!!! Hondo your early years reminded Mimi (mom now 92 and yes she read cover to cover) and I of our early years growing up. Back then people bought a house and stayed and all neighbors were like extended family.Unlike today, people are always on the move and climbing the ladder of success forgetting simple thoughtful living . Your book brings us back to the good ole days . Family, kinship, and neighborly love. When reading your book it felt like we were sitting right next to you as you told your story of life. Thank you for the great delivery and we highly recommend your read around the USA! Kind regards, Sally and Mimi Read more
Terry
Defying Expectations I could not put "Hondo's" book down! I was captivated the moment he said: "If You Think You Can, YOU CAN"! I remember teaching my nephew how to ride his bicycle. I would run beside him chanting "I Think I Can, I Know I Can, I CAN DO IT" over and over again until he got the beat of the little song and, in no time, was riding in the wind! I also grew up in Campbelltown which is a stone's throw from Bishop. I remember doing some of the same things as a kid that he did. Hondo's love for his family and friends is genuine. I also remember one thing from my basketball coach: "Keep Your Eye On The Ball". Thank God for that little orange ball that awarded "Hondo" fingertip control that carried him through Life! I'm proud to call him my Friend. Read more
Alphonso
Defying Expectations This book brought back so many memories and reflections while growing up on the eastern shore. The author, a good friend of mine, did an outstanding job capturing all the interpersonal and sentimental portrayals of everyone in his life circle. Growing up in the small farm town of Newark, Md., I shared the same experience of poverty, hard work, disappointments, and overwhelming challenges. Yet, as Hondo expressed in his book, there were many fun and games. I gathered much inspiration from Hondo’s love of family which played a significant part in his success. Overall, reading “Defying Expectations”, allowed me to relive the good old days and because our experiences were somewhat similar I felt as though I was reflecting through Albin’s eyes. The author did a superb job explaining importance of family values, self-esteem, perseverance, and commitment. Great book and a must read. Read more
Mike
This book is truly inspirational Growing up having Hondo as a mentor, coach and Freind I never really realized everything he has been through. That is what makes his story so great and for him to be such a wonderful person. The book is an awesome read for everyone of all ages and teaches life lessons along with it. Highly recommend! Read more
Joanna
Loved this book! Such a great history of the authors personal experiences on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in the 60's and 70's! Loved this book! It made me laugh out loud and tear up several times throughout. I highly recommend it. Read more
Bryan
A must read for young people!!! I read it cover to cover. It was informative, insightful, and a true rags to riches testimony. Great job! Read more