Undefeated: Overcoming Prejudice with Grace and Courage

by Stifyn Emrys

"Undefeated" is a collection of stories about individuals who have triumphed in the face of prejudice. Dismissed because of their religion, demeaned because of their gender, or persecuted for their race, these are individuals from a variety of backgrounds. A Christian in one nation's majority may be persecuted in another land. The same applies to a Jew or a Pagan. What of the atheist and transgender individuals? Their stories are drawn from past and present, from the realms of history, sports and politics. They show that bigotry, a false attitude based on false distinctions, in reality knows no bounds ... but neither does the human spirit. Join the author on a journey through a diverse spectrum of stories that spotlight our shared humanity and celebrate the courage of women and men who sought to defend it.

Genres: Philosophy

224 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

Stifyn Emrys has written on subjects as diverse as history, religion, politics and language. He has served as an editor for fiction and non-fiction projects, and his first book, "The Gospel of the Phoenix," a new perspective on the life of Jesus, was published in July 2012. A first anniversary Special Edition has been published, including 60 pages of author commentary, classic illustrations and reformatted text for easier reading.

He has published seven subsequent works:

1) "Requiem for a Phantom God," a critique of monotheism.
2) "The Phoenix Principle," an examination the role Pagan folklore and political intrigues played in the development of Western religion.
3) "Undefeated," a series of vignettes focusing on individuals who have triumphed over bullying, bigotry and oppression.
4) "Feathercap," a new fairytale for children and adults.
5) "Identity Break," the first installment in a new "Identity Quest" YA/science fiction/adventure series and the author's first novel.
6) "Artifice," a novella in the "Identity Quest" series.
7) "The Way of the Phoenix," a collection of original fables, proverbs and parables.

The author has lectured occasionally on the pagan origins of Christianity and continues to research the development of religious traditions. He has worked as an editor, columnist, educator and reporter. He is currently working on his first novel. He lives in California with his wife, stepson, one cat and one dog.

Reviews

[Tracy Adkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me smile!

I was having a bad day so I thought I'd read some of this book, which I'd picked up last month. The stories made me sad, angry, happy and cry, all at the same time. Reading about how these people were able to go for their dreams in spite of some terrible things happening to them, has made me stronger and more determined to reach my dreams. It's made me realize that I can. After reading this book I have hope for myself again. Thank you, Mr. Emrys!

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Positive, heartwarming short stories across a wide range of life discussing people overcoming prejudice, pain, and ignorance and coming out the stronger for it. Well-written, light read that makes one "Hurrah!" for what was fought and overcome.

[Samaire Wynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved these stories of triumph over adversity. They are short enough that you can read them here and there, whenever you have 10 minutes to spare. All put together, they make a great feel-good book I love. I keep picking it up again and again to re-read some of my favorite vignettes.
Similar to a "Chicken Soup" book, only better!!!
Highly recommend!

[Darlene Ferland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I deeply intense read . . . disturbing yet giving hope for unity without prejudice . . . It is the type of book that can be put down because sometimes you do have to step back and take a deep breath. It is really for anyone. . .

[N.E. White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring, interesting, short summaries of people who have overcome adversity. The author people from a variety of backgrounds, though it felt to me there were quite a few sport stories. Regardless, each person overcame incredible odds in order to succeed.

Overall, I enjoyed the summaries, but would have liked a more intimate portrait of some. I would recommend this book to anyone seeking casual, but personal, inspirational stories.