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Book details
  • Genre:SPORTS & RECREATION
  • SubGenre:Basketball
  • Language:English
  • Pages:230
  • eBook ISBN:9781667852928
  • Paperback ISBN:9781667852911

Defying Expectations

Family, Sports & Recreation

by Al “Hondo” Handy

View author's profile page

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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.
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!
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.

Book Reviews

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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
Bunky
Defying Expectations This is a wonderful read. Short and sweet chapters walking you through what it was like growing up in an era of early racial integration in Worcester County Maryland, and how hard work, dedication and putting yourself out there can help you achieve your goals, no matter what odds are stacked against you. Coach Handy was a role model for me early on and it was great to read about his path to success, as he touched so many lives. Highly recommend! Read more
Tristo
Defying Expectations I enjoyed reading the prospective of a pillar in the community that I grew up in. The lives Hondo has impacted not only in sports but in life is astounding. This book is a must read! Read more
Joyce
Defying Expectations I really enjoyed this book. His journey can relate to a lot of people, not just young athletes. No matter what you do in life, it pays to treat others the way you want to be treated. This was a heartfelt book that I would definitely recommend to anyone to purchase. Joyce Jones Read more
MJ
Defying Expectations Just inspiring to hear Hondo describe his exceptional journey in his own words. Uplifting to hear him share motivation that is beneficial for all readers. Thanks you Hondo, for sharing your amazing story. Read more
Cendra
Defying Expectations Very positive book from a great role model. After reading this book it motivates me to do whatever I put my mind to and don't give up. Read more
Ivory
Defying Expectations This is the best book I've read about our hometown hero and this he overcame to become the great person he is today Read more
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