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Trailer Park Parable: A Memoir of How Three Brothers Strove to Rise Above Their Broken Past, Find Forgiveness, and Forge a Hopeful Future
#17 on the PW Bestseller Trade Paper Frontlist
Growing up amid addiction and chaos in a Minnesota trailer park, Tyler Zed and his two brothers broke the cycle of abuse and forged a different path.
“Attempted murder victim told the Brainerd Dispatch she believes her sixteen-year-old son saved her.”
This is the news article detailing the event that would drastically change Tyler Zed’s life and that of his family forever.
Growing up in a small town in Minnesota, Tyler and his two brothers filled their days with chaotic fun, from playing hockey to building forts to making their own home movies. The household was also full of addiction and abuse that ultimately led to their father attempting to murder their mother on Christmas Eve 2007.
Trailer Park Parable follows Tyler and his family before Christmas Eve 2007, the events leading to that night, and the years afterward. It trails the boys as they deal with varying degrees of PTSD and their own battles with addiction, before they eventually turned their creative coping mechanisms, like their YouTube channels, into million-subscriber successes.
From living in a trailer park to running a multi-million-dollar business, Trailer Park Parable highlights a true, American-dream story, countering a popular narrative that tells us you may as well not even try, the system is rigged against you.
Growing up amid addiction and chaos in a Minnesota trailer park, Tyler Zed and his two brothers broke the cycle of abuse and forged a different path.
“Attempted murder victim told the Brainerd Dispatch she believes her sixteen-year-old son saved her.”
This is the news article detailing the event that would drastically change Tyler Zed’s life and that of his family forever.
Growing up in a small town in Minnesota, Tyler and his two brothers filled their days with chaotic fun, from playing hockey to building forts to making their own home movies. The household was also full of addiction and abuse that ultimately led to their father attempting to murder their mother on Christmas Eve 2007.
Trailer Park Parable follows Tyler and his family before Christmas Eve 2007, the events leading to that night, and the years afterward. It trails the boys as they deal with varying degrees of PTSD and their own battles with addiction, before they eventually turned their creative coping mechanisms, like their YouTube channels, into million-subscriber successes.
From living in a trailer park to running a multi-million-dollar business, Trailer Park Parable highlights a true, American-dream story, countering a popular narrative that tells us you may as well not even try, the system is rigged against you.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2024
83 people are currently reading
5262 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
August 6, 2024
Being a "Content Creator" [ 🤮 ] does not magically make one a talented writer.
February 4, 2024
"Trailer Park Parable" is a suspenseful memoir showing how three brothers with fun dreams moved through traumatic events, grew beyond those events, and have set themselves up for success and breaking the cycle of abuse.
Having lived with an alcoholic, predatory narcissist for several years in the late 2000s, I found myself cringing when Tyler (Desmond) wrote of walking on eggshells around an alcoholic, abusive father, but I also found myself relieved each time he cut away from an uncomfortable scene as if reminding the reader, hey, we got out of that...we survived and thrived. And that was a fantastic message to receive from this memoir.
Tyler bared his soul in this book, sharing in flashbacks and flash forwards (with very helpful and very necessary timestamps above the chapters and scenes) how he and his brothers experienced childhood and young adulthood. He discusses his dip into college life and the thought processes behind the decision to enter the Air Force. A look at basic training gives us even more insight into how Tyler learned discipline and perseverance.
What I found most hopeful and positive from this book (aside from the fact this family survived an abuse patriarch's addiction and actions) is the concept of forgiveness I read on page 124, where Tyler recognizes his father DID offer something positive from time to time and shares that with us/the reader in: "It is the best lesson Dad instilled in me. 'Sometimes you have to do things you don't want to.' It seems contrary to what kids are taught today...Today we are not supposed to feel any amount of discomfort or anxiety, at least that's what we're told. If you're nervous or have an ounce of anxiety about work or your upcoming family event or anything at all, then something must be wring with you and you need a pill for it...'Put one foot in front of the other. Have confidence in yourself and the work you have done to be a good wrestler, and everything will work out how it's supposed to. You can do this,' Dad would say...And he was right about it. To this day, I use those lessons to help me push through things, and it works."
That message resonated with me on a few levels, reminding me of phrases my band director would encourage us with back in high school. I'm so glad Tyler shared that positive, inspiring message he learned from a parent, and I'm so glad I pre-ordered this book to read and share with my channel.
Having lived with an alcoholic, predatory narcissist for several years in the late 2000s, I found myself cringing when Tyler (Desmond) wrote of walking on eggshells around an alcoholic, abusive father, but I also found myself relieved each time he cut away from an uncomfortable scene as if reminding the reader, hey, we got out of that...we survived and thrived. And that was a fantastic message to receive from this memoir.
Tyler bared his soul in this book, sharing in flashbacks and flash forwards (with very helpful and very necessary timestamps above the chapters and scenes) how he and his brothers experienced childhood and young adulthood. He discusses his dip into college life and the thought processes behind the decision to enter the Air Force. A look at basic training gives us even more insight into how Tyler learned discipline and perseverance.
What I found most hopeful and positive from this book (aside from the fact this family survived an abuse patriarch's addiction and actions) is the concept of forgiveness I read on page 124, where Tyler recognizes his father DID offer something positive from time to time and shares that with us/the reader in: "It is the best lesson Dad instilled in me. 'Sometimes you have to do things you don't want to.' It seems contrary to what kids are taught today...Today we are not supposed to feel any amount of discomfort or anxiety, at least that's what we're told. If you're nervous or have an ounce of anxiety about work or your upcoming family event or anything at all, then something must be wring with you and you need a pill for it...'Put one foot in front of the other. Have confidence in yourself and the work you have done to be a good wrestler, and everything will work out how it's supposed to. You can do this,' Dad would say...And he was right about it. To this day, I use those lessons to help me push through things, and it works."
That message resonated with me on a few levels, reminding me of phrases my band director would encourage us with back in high school. I'm so glad Tyler shared that positive, inspiring message he learned from a parent, and I'm so glad I pre-ordered this book to read and share with my channel.
April 18, 2024
I kept giving this book additional chances to get better and it never did. It was the author’s toxic masculinity, fat phobia, disregard for mental health, and just lack of insight was really concerning. Two of his projects he touted throughout the book were just parodies or rewrites of ideas other people had already had. I did not know who he was before this book, and the am truly happy that my life has been devoid of his presence before this. The book describes the family life and trauma that he navigate throughout his life, but even giving him grace for what he has gone through can’t forgive the views he shared in this book
April 3, 2024
I really feel for what these kids went through but...the way the author talks about and speculates about other people is often devoid of empathy and he comes off a little arrogant and obnoxious. Despite his total disdain for higher education, he sounds like a lot of the guys I met in college who I wanted to fake sick to avoid conversations with. I do think he tried to do something interesting narratively by shuffling readers through his memories. Unfortunately, the tactic kind of failed and mostly just felt disorganized.
January 31, 2024
As a fan of Tyler Zed, I was intrigued by the fact he authored a book. I applaud his work. The story is captivating. He chose to share his personal trauma and the different coping mechanisms his family utilized to survive, and that his faith found him even at his lowest times. Very compelling.
May 12, 2025
I read through this on a plane from Atlanta to Dallas, and I really enjoyed it. I’ve been watching Zeducation since 2020, and when he started promoting this book I couldn’t find it anywhere near where I lived. But thankfully my mom helped me find it at our local Barnes and Noble one day and it’s been sitting on my shelf ever since. I find it very difficult to read for long periods of time, so the fact that I was able to read this from cover to cover on one flight is an achievement in and of itself.
Tyler’s story really resonated with me. I grew up in small-town North Carolina and was an idealistic kid who made movies and scripts with friends, and always wanted to find the next story to tell. I also dealt with a dad who was hard on me, nowhere near as bad or abusive as Tyler’s, but enough to where I did feel resentment towards him regularly because it always felt like nothing I did was good enough. I found myself putting myself in his shoes throughout the book and comparing it to my own life. Definitely made me more thankful that I didn’t have to deal with what he did.
The final message of the book is one of forgiveness. In an age where the internet makes sure no one will ever forget a thing you do, forgiveness seems to be a virtue that is just completely ignored. We have modern internet lynch mobs being formed because someone said or did something bad or uncouth in the past, and while crimes and sins don’t come without consequences, we must always remember that humans make mistakes. There are people out there who are genuinely evil, make no mistake, but our society seems to want to group everybody who does something wrong in that group.
All this to say, I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend it.
Tyler’s story really resonated with me. I grew up in small-town North Carolina and was an idealistic kid who made movies and scripts with friends, and always wanted to find the next story to tell. I also dealt with a dad who was hard on me, nowhere near as bad or abusive as Tyler’s, but enough to where I did feel resentment towards him regularly because it always felt like nothing I did was good enough. I found myself putting myself in his shoes throughout the book and comparing it to my own life. Definitely made me more thankful that I didn’t have to deal with what he did.
The final message of the book is one of forgiveness. In an age where the internet makes sure no one will ever forget a thing you do, forgiveness seems to be a virtue that is just completely ignored. We have modern internet lynch mobs being formed because someone said or did something bad or uncouth in the past, and while crimes and sins don’t come without consequences, we must always remember that humans make mistakes. There are people out there who are genuinely evil, make no mistake, but our society seems to want to group everybody who does something wrong in that group.
All this to say, I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend it.
March 1, 2024
What an incredible story! This family’s journey is told with heartfelt honesty and inspirational positivity. Tyler is already one of my favorite content creators, but knowing his story makes him all the more likable!
July 7, 2024
Good book. He writes in a flashback format at the beginning, which is hard to get used to initially, but overall I like the message. It has some inspirational and thought provoking parts.
July 21, 2024
Did not finish. Read nearly half and it never caught my interest
February 3, 2025
This memoir was worth reading. I did have a little trouble initially with the flashback format but once I stopped focusing on the dates and just read the book, I was fine with the flow. I always applaud someone following their dreams - especially through tough circumstances.
March 3, 2024
My husband enjoys watching zeducation on YouTube and I like reading biographies so my curiosity was piqued by this new release. I knew from my exposure to Tyler zed (aka Desmond Janezic) that he can be a bit coarse at times but is very conservative politically. His background in the military among other things explains much of that coarseness. His family life was heavy and hard. Violence and abuse a big part of it. I kept hoping for full redemption but unfortunately, despite learning forgiveness, I felt like the hope was a bit misplaced. He mentions finding his anchor/purpose in his marriage and daughter. While both good things, any purpose apart from Christ will not fully satisfy. He talks briefly about his faith but the significance of Christs work in a believers life is not the primary message.
The book bounces between 3-4 different time periods in the authors life. I didn’t feel like this worked overly well as it often grew confusing with no natural transition between them.
The book bounces between 3-4 different time periods in the authors life. I didn’t feel like this worked overly well as it often grew confusing with no natural transition between them.
February 12, 2024
I enjoy the author's content on Youtube, and I like a good memoir so I gave this a shot. I wanted to at least like this book but sadly I can't. I find the story in general interesting but the writing was poor. There was a lot of bouncing around, and the writing was very casual, almost like how he talks vs storytelling. I feel like it lacked substance. I couldn't wait to finish this book because I just wanted to be done with it. His video content is clearly his specialty.
Read
January 2, 2026This book could have used some further editing. I think a usage dictionary might have helped the author with some of the syntax issues, but a good editor definitely should have been able to catch the problems. I probably wouldn't have finished this—or even picked it up—if it weren't for the fact that I've followed the author's comedic commentary online for years. Still, it was an interesting enough read, especially the military stuff, so I do hope Zed continues writing—but I also hope he gets better help with both line-editing and general content/structure issues.
February 4, 2024
Great read!
February 28, 2024
Very relatable to me! My wife and I read it together and it was a roller coaster of ups and downs, funny and sad. Sad because I know how many of us can relate to his story! Thanks Zed!
January 31, 2024
Really well written and engaging. I finished in one sitting and enjoyed the storytelling. It takes guts to reveal one’s pain and this guy did it with dignity. I would love to read more from him. I’m off to keep working on my own ‘dream room’.
February 22, 2024
I don’t normally read memoirs. Like, I never read them. But when a memoir is released and some of the characters in the book are your friends, you buy it and read it. Not only because you want to support them, but because they were brave enough to tell their story to the world.
You never really know what someone has been through in their lives. You may think you know, but do you really?
Trailer Park Parable is the story of three brothers growing up poor, living with addiction, abuse, and chaos. This is also a story of perseverance, dreams, and how they broke the cycle with the support of family and great mentorship. This is a great example of how to rise above, believe in yourself, and no matter what, make your dreams come true.
A note to the author: Tyler, thank you for telling your story. I have great respect for you for sharing your life with others. The only disappointment I had while reading this is that you didn’t provide a complete dialogue of the shopping cart incident. LOL
You never really know what someone has been through in their lives. You may think you know, but do you really?
Trailer Park Parable is the story of three brothers growing up poor, living with addiction, abuse, and chaos. This is also a story of perseverance, dreams, and how they broke the cycle with the support of family and great mentorship. This is a great example of how to rise above, believe in yourself, and no matter what, make your dreams come true.
A note to the author: Tyler, thank you for telling your story. I have great respect for you for sharing your life with others. The only disappointment I had while reading this is that you didn’t provide a complete dialogue of the shopping cart incident. LOL
March 17, 2024
My husband and I have been watching Zeducation from the beginning. I loved reading this memoir. Some people have complained about the writing style, how it jumps back and forth, if you’ve read a lot of memoirs this is a typical writing style and I understand the reason for doing it. I like that it was written this way. I love the story of triumph over a bad situation. Young people need to read this book and see that you don’t have to be a victim of your upbringing.
August 4, 2024
Brainerd author here! I knew “Tyler Zed” growing up as a phenomenal athlete and sweet soul. I’m heart-broken for the trauma he and his family (what a strong mama!) have endured - but proud of him for building a career filled with laughter out of it. I just recently learned about his book and was very impressed not only because he shared such a personal experience but it was respectfully and well written.
November 3, 2024
DNF. Maybe stick to podcasting, and lose the broad statements like “the army is too soft” nowadays and the toxic masculinity of “stop being a pu$$y”.
April 13, 2025
I came into this book without any knowledge about its content nor its the author.
I picked it up while on vacations and read through it in just a few days with enjoyment and curiosity.
I found the book interesting, I liked how it felt like a diary, and I felt I connected emotionally with the author (and his brothers) through the mishaps they lived.
On the author's ideology, I disagree with some of his views, such as an university education is not worth.
This may apply to the author's geographical USA-centric reality, where education high costs and debt make it an impossibility.
However, in developed countries (such as the ones in Europe), a good education doesn't mean struggling the rest of the life with debt and, more often than not, graduates finish their degrees with a sense of realization, motivation to pursue a career, and an adaptable skillset ready for professional life either on the same sector as their degree or in another sector (as degrees give them the tools to adapt to different challenges).
I don't have the same inclination as the author for religion and conservatism, but I enjoyed being exposed to points of view that were different from my preconceptions.
The books is interesting, is not too long, it provides a good heartfelt read for a calm weekend.
Once I finished the book, I got curious with the author's post-military career of being an online content creator.
Upon checking his Youtube channel, unfortunately, I got disappointed with the type of content he has created for several years.
Whereas the book is somehow serious and dramatic at parts, it is frequently intelligently humorous as well.
His Youtube videos, however, are not very intelligent nor original; the format is mostly that of reacting to online media he found online, with his words often promoting division (politically) and at times even being offensive to the subjects shown in the videos.
Recommendation: read the book, avoid the Youtube channel.
I picked it up while on vacations and read through it in just a few days with enjoyment and curiosity.
I found the book interesting, I liked how it felt like a diary, and I felt I connected emotionally with the author (and his brothers) through the mishaps they lived.
On the author's ideology, I disagree with some of his views, such as an university education is not worth.
This may apply to the author's geographical USA-centric reality, where education high costs and debt make it an impossibility.
However, in developed countries (such as the ones in Europe), a good education doesn't mean struggling the rest of the life with debt and, more often than not, graduates finish their degrees with a sense of realization, motivation to pursue a career, and an adaptable skillset ready for professional life either on the same sector as their degree or in another sector (as degrees give them the tools to adapt to different challenges).
I don't have the same inclination as the author for religion and conservatism, but I enjoyed being exposed to points of view that were different from my preconceptions.
The books is interesting, is not too long, it provides a good heartfelt read for a calm weekend.
Once I finished the book, I got curious with the author's post-military career of being an online content creator.
Upon checking his Youtube channel, unfortunately, I got disappointed with the type of content he has created for several years.
Whereas the book is somehow serious and dramatic at parts, it is frequently intelligently humorous as well.
His Youtube videos, however, are not very intelligent nor original; the format is mostly that of reacting to online media he found online, with his words often promoting division (politically) and at times even being offensive to the subjects shown in the videos.
Recommendation: read the book, avoid the Youtube channel.
March 22, 2024
Well, while I wasn’t expecting to read this book, or a book like it, I am glad I did, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This book is a story of brotherhood, and triumph over the suffocating results of addiction in a family. Read to follow the story of a young man, and his personal struggles through an unfortunate upbringing, as he learns to cope, grow, and forgive, through relationships and creativity.
At the bottom of this review, you will find a small content rating, and above that, my personal thoughts.
I loved reading this book for many reasons, one of them being Desmond’s relationship with his brothers. Because I have brothers as well, his emotions toward them, and his experiences deeply touched me. I must confess, when I read of Deev, and his bout with addiction, I found myself thinking about how I would feel if God forbid, my brother faced addiction. Overall, the lessons on life Desmond shares, as well as his growth and understanding were very inspiring to me and aided my outlook on purpose and personal goals.
Additionally, I enjoyed the writing in this book. The style is simple and straight forward, with a nice touch of personality. I also liked how dates were at the beginning of every chapter.
Sexual content includes: Mention of women being raped, though this is not at all described, just mentioned. One character tells another of a graphic murder involving the removal of genitals. One character mentions his being interested in girls, and later discusses his dating experience, though there is nothing sexual or explicit discussed.
Profanity includes :Pu***, Da**, G** Da**, Ass, Hell, Di**, F***, Mother f*****.
LGBT+: Not present.
April 22, 2025
My original purpose in reading this book was to learn more about one family’s life living in a trailer park in Minnesota, based on the title. I plan on writing about my own experience living in a trailer park in Oklahoma during the 1980s and 1990s, so I was curious to see what information was included in this book and if any of the experiences were similar to mine. Thankfully, my own experience was a positive one, especially compared to Tyler Zed’s (pseudonym).
The book opens with an episode of violence on page one, a foreshadowing of the drama to come due to one family’s member’s addiction to drugs and alcohol. The event occurred on Christmas Eve, 2007. This event comes the central focus of the book which is told in a non-linear fashion which might be a problem for some readers who may be more accustomed to a memoir presented in chronological order.
As Tyler explains, he and his brothers often felt like they were “walking on eggshells” at home, just waiting for the next explosive event to occur. The only time the boys could escape from the stress and tension was through creative pursuits on their computers.
As I read this book, I couldn’t help but wonder how many of my own former students might have experienced similar acts of violence and drama in their homes, essentially “sleepwalking” through school and waiting for their own moment of escape from their chaotic home lives.
I would recommend this book to all teachers, school counselors, social workers, attorneys, legal staff members, and others who work with or volunteer to help young people. It’s a story you won’t soon forget.
The book opens with an episode of violence on page one, a foreshadowing of the drama to come due to one family’s member’s addiction to drugs and alcohol. The event occurred on Christmas Eve, 2007. This event comes the central focus of the book which is told in a non-linear fashion which might be a problem for some readers who may be more accustomed to a memoir presented in chronological order.
As Tyler explains, he and his brothers often felt like they were “walking on eggshells” at home, just waiting for the next explosive event to occur. The only time the boys could escape from the stress and tension was through creative pursuits on their computers.
As I read this book, I couldn’t help but wonder how many of my own former students might have experienced similar acts of violence and drama in their homes, essentially “sleepwalking” through school and waiting for their own moment of escape from their chaotic home lives.
I would recommend this book to all teachers, school counselors, social workers, attorneys, legal staff members, and others who work with or volunteer to help young people. It’s a story you won’t soon forget.
December 3, 2024
Trailer Park Parable by Tyler Zed is an incredibly raw and gripping memoir that paints a vivid picture of resilience and hope amidst the harsh realities of addiction, abuse, and trauma. Growing up in a chaotic Minnesota trailer park, Tyler’s story highlights both the innocence of childhood adventures and the darker truths of domestic violence that shaped his family’s path.
What struck me most about this book was how seamlessly Zed layered past and present, tying haunting memories to moments of reflection and growth. The way he recounted the events leading up to Christmas Eve 2007—the night his father attempted to murder his mother—was both heartbreaking and captivating. Despite the horrors he and his brothers endured, the story doesn’t stay stuck in the past. Instead, it offers a powerful narrative of overcoming trauma, finding creative outlets, and ultimately breaking the cycle of abuse.
I found it particularly inspiring to see how Tyler and his brother Deev turned their painful experiences into something meaningful. Their ability to channel their struggles into successful YouTube channels and a thriving business is nothing short of remarkable. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s ability to heal and transform even the deepest scars.
If you’re looking for a story that will leave you reflecting on the strength of the human spirit long after you’ve turned the last page, Trailer Park Parable is a must-read. Tyler’s journey is proof that even in the darkest circumstances, hope and determination can light the way forward.
What struck me most about this book was how seamlessly Zed layered past and present, tying haunting memories to moments of reflection and growth. The way he recounted the events leading up to Christmas Eve 2007—the night his father attempted to murder his mother—was both heartbreaking and captivating. Despite the horrors he and his brothers endured, the story doesn’t stay stuck in the past. Instead, it offers a powerful narrative of overcoming trauma, finding creative outlets, and ultimately breaking the cycle of abuse.
I found it particularly inspiring to see how Tyler and his brother Deev turned their painful experiences into something meaningful. Their ability to channel their struggles into successful YouTube channels and a thriving business is nothing short of remarkable. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s ability to heal and transform even the deepest scars.
If you’re looking for a story that will leave you reflecting on the strength of the human spirit long after you’ve turned the last page, Trailer Park Parable is a must-read. Tyler’s journey is proof that even in the darkest circumstances, hope and determination can light the way forward.
December 24, 2025
My Slightly Sarcastic But Ultimately Honest Book Rating System:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 Stars): This book achieved legendary status in my personal library. I will likely reread it until the pages fall out (or my e-reader spontaneously combusts). Consider this my enthusiastic endorsement – you should probably read it unless you actively dislike joy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 Stars): A truly excellent read! I enjoyed it immensely and would heartily recommend it to fellow bookworms. You might even catch me subtly pushing it into their hands.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 Stars): Yep, it was a book I read. I turned the pages, absorbed the words, and emerged...unchanged. It was a pleasant enough journey, like a scenic detour that you wouldn't necessarily take again, but didn't regret.
⭐️⭐️ (2 Stars): This book existed. I finished it. That's about the highest praise I can offer. If you're looking for something truly captivating, maybe keep scrolling. This one's more of an "it filled the silence" kind of experience.
⭐️ (1 Star): Oh dear. This book and I did not get along. It was a literary tumbleweed in the vast desert of good books. Consider this a strong "do not recommend," unless you're conducting research on what not to do in storytelling.
Disclaimer: My enjoyment of the narrator is based on my listening speed. I only leave 5 stars for books I've read/listened to or will read/listen to multiple times. If you like this review please consider giving it a Helpful Vote below.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 Stars): This book achieved legendary status in my personal library. I will likely reread it until the pages fall out (or my e-reader spontaneously combusts). Consider this my enthusiastic endorsement – you should probably read it unless you actively dislike joy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 Stars): A truly excellent read! I enjoyed it immensely and would heartily recommend it to fellow bookworms. You might even catch me subtly pushing it into their hands.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 Stars): Yep, it was a book I read. I turned the pages, absorbed the words, and emerged...unchanged. It was a pleasant enough journey, like a scenic detour that you wouldn't necessarily take again, but didn't regret.
⭐️⭐️ (2 Stars): This book existed. I finished it. That's about the highest praise I can offer. If you're looking for something truly captivating, maybe keep scrolling. This one's more of an "it filled the silence" kind of experience.
⭐️ (1 Star): Oh dear. This book and I did not get along. It was a literary tumbleweed in the vast desert of good books. Consider this a strong "do not recommend," unless you're conducting research on what not to do in storytelling.
Disclaimer: My enjoyment of the narrator is based on my listening speed. I only leave 5 stars for books I've read/listened to or will read/listen to multiple times. If you like this review please consider giving it a Helpful Vote below.
May 19, 2024
I don't watch Zeducation (yet, anyway) but my dad is a big fan of the YouTube channel. He said this was one of the few books he has read in a long time. So, naturally, I had to get my hands on a copy.
I thought this was well done. The timeline was surprisingly easy to follow, even though it skipped around a bit. It had a natural flow, storytelling feel, and unique voice.
The author is only a few years older than me so it was something new to read a memoir like this and be brought back to the same time that related to my own age. Can't quite explain that but it was interesting. I could relate to the dream of making stories, having an audience, being creative. Those memories of playing with those few close friends, putting together your thoughts, making videos, playing in the trees.
Many of his life experiences, though, are rough. I can't imagine how hard it must've been to try to put all the thoughts together to write a book. He did a great job.
Also, I am surprised how little YouTube is even mentioned in it. It doesn't feel like a YouTuber just wrote a book because they are a YouTuber. It is more like someone who has such a creative spirit that not only does he run a YouTube channel, but he is a writer as well.
Those last few chapters did get to me and I will say I teared up.
I would like to read more by this author.
I thought this was well done. The timeline was surprisingly easy to follow, even though it skipped around a bit. It had a natural flow, storytelling feel, and unique voice.
The author is only a few years older than me so it was something new to read a memoir like this and be brought back to the same time that related to my own age. Can't quite explain that but it was interesting. I could relate to the dream of making stories, having an audience, being creative. Those memories of playing with those few close friends, putting together your thoughts, making videos, playing in the trees.
Many of his life experiences, though, are rough. I can't imagine how hard it must've been to try to put all the thoughts together to write a book. He did a great job.
Also, I am surprised how little YouTube is even mentioned in it. It doesn't feel like a YouTuber just wrote a book because they are a YouTuber. It is more like someone who has such a creative spirit that not only does he run a YouTube channel, but he is a writer as well.
Those last few chapters did get to me and I will say I teared up.
I would like to read more by this author.
June 11, 2024
My husband is a huge fan of Zeducation YouTube channel. Especially the laugh you lose Sundays. I generally am in the room when it’s being watched and I find the humor hilarious. When I saw he wrote a book about his life I had to read it. I wanted to know more about this man’s life. Someone who is handling the harshness of this world through humor.
The book opened my eyes to the man behind the screen. I knew he was in the Air Force but wow his life as a kid and everything that happened with his family. Good job keeping a head on your shoulders.
The story was uplifting at the end and relatable to so many people who are lost in their career paths. Loved hearing how he met his wife and started his family like he always wanted. You can just tell the love he has and the excitement to be a father. I hope he continues to find his path to God and keep seeking Him through his trails through life. Nothing is a coincidence and his story really tells that. I understand being angry with God but there is always a plan and a bigger picture you probably won’t know about until it unfolds.
Also The Shack was indeed a good movie and I had similar movie open my eyes but it was Eat. Pray. Love for me.
Praying he continues to have success and live a happy life following his dream.
The book opened my eyes to the man behind the screen. I knew he was in the Air Force but wow his life as a kid and everything that happened with his family. Good job keeping a head on your shoulders.
The story was uplifting at the end and relatable to so many people who are lost in their career paths. Loved hearing how he met his wife and started his family like he always wanted. You can just tell the love he has and the excitement to be a father. I hope he continues to find his path to God and keep seeking Him through his trails through life. Nothing is a coincidence and his story really tells that. I understand being angry with God but there is always a plan and a bigger picture you probably won’t know about until it unfolds.
Also The Shack was indeed a good movie and I had similar movie open my eyes but it was Eat. Pray. Love for me.
Praying he continues to have success and live a happy life following his dream.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2025
I have been watching Zeducation for a while now and I often saw this book on the shelf behind him. I was very confused the first time because his name was on it lol I don't watch his videos in order, just whatever pops up on the home page, so I somehow missed the videos where he promoted his book.
I had to wait for like a week and a half on Libby because they only had one copy, but it was worth the wait! I never could have imagined all the hell this man went through, especially considering how cheery he appears in his video. I want to feel bad for him, but... I believe he wouldn't want that.
He went through hell. He suffered. He survived. I don't think he shared his story for sympathy or for people to feel bad for him. I think he shared it as a kind of "I survived this so you can, too!" I think he wanted to encourage people not to give up, no matter how fecked up your life is.
As someone who suffers from a severe anxiety disorder, I was very weary whenever he mentioned mental health, especially in regards to medication. I felt so much better when he said, "there are some people who need them." It was comforting, in a way. Reassuring. I know he would be the first to say that his opinion shouldn't matter because I don't know him and he's completely right. I still felt better, though lol
I had to wait for like a week and a half on Libby because they only had one copy, but it was worth the wait! I never could have imagined all the hell this man went through, especially considering how cheery he appears in his video. I want to feel bad for him, but... I believe he wouldn't want that.
He went through hell. He suffered. He survived. I don't think he shared his story for sympathy or for people to feel bad for him. I think he shared it as a kind of "I survived this so you can, too!" I think he wanted to encourage people not to give up, no matter how fecked up your life is.
As someone who suffers from a severe anxiety disorder, I was very weary whenever he mentioned mental health, especially in regards to medication. I felt so much better when he said, "there are some people who need them." It was comforting, in a way. Reassuring. I know he would be the first to say that his opinion shouldn't matter because I don't know him and he's completely right. I still felt better, though lol
February 14, 2024
If I could have given this book 10 stars I would have. I'm not just saying that because I've been a fan of Zeducation since the beginning of his channel. I'm saying it because this is such a great story about three brothers just trying to survive.
I have to admit, I teared up several times while reading this book. As a mom myself, I was heartbreaking to me to read about how much trauma these boys were subjected to. To have to walk on eggshells around a parent is one of the worst things a kid can experience. His mother was a source of strength for her boys despite the husband's abuse. All three boys grew up to overcome so much. Through trials and rough patches, they have managed to rise above and create an amazing life for themselves.
This is definitely a story worth reading. If you have ever known anyone who has lived in an abusive household, then you know what it's like. But it also gives a glimpse into the fact that you never truly know whats going on in some households. It also shows that you can go through hell and come out on the other side and still have a good life. I love that he and his brother Deev, felt like they could share this story with us. It makes me love their channels even more. We never miss an episode of Zeducation or Deev.
All in all, to me, this is a must-read book. It definitely one that I will be recommending to friends and family. There was only one question that I didn't see answered: what happened to the dad after he got out? I also love that he felt comfortable enough to share how he came up with the name for his channel. He definitely looks like a Tyler. Thank you, Tyler Zed, for sharing your story and I look forward to seeing where you go from here.
I have to admit, I teared up several times while reading this book. As a mom myself, I was heartbreaking to me to read about how much trauma these boys were subjected to. To have to walk on eggshells around a parent is one of the worst things a kid can experience. His mother was a source of strength for her boys despite the husband's abuse. All three boys grew up to overcome so much. Through trials and rough patches, they have managed to rise above and create an amazing life for themselves.
This is definitely a story worth reading. If you have ever known anyone who has lived in an abusive household, then you know what it's like. But it also gives a glimpse into the fact that you never truly know whats going on in some households. It also shows that you can go through hell and come out on the other side and still have a good life. I love that he and his brother Deev, felt like they could share this story with us. It makes me love their channels even more. We never miss an episode of Zeducation or Deev.
All in all, to me, this is a must-read book. It definitely one that I will be recommending to friends and family. There was only one question that I didn't see answered: what happened to the dad after he got out? I also love that he felt comfortable enough to share how he came up with the name for his channel. He definitely looks like a Tyler. Thank you, Tyler Zed, for sharing your story and I look forward to seeing where you go from here.
February 1, 2024
The inspiring life of an ordinary guy
My husband and I have subscribed to Zeducation for a few years. We never miss an episode. I've been waiting for his book to come out ever since he started promoting it. His book is not a disappointment. His story is so like many others. A loving Mom and close extended family. A father who is an addict, the monster in the room that so many people tip-toe around. Des/ Tyler, like many of us, finds mentors and sign posts along the way to help him grow and heal from his trauma and dysfunctional upbringing. His loyalty to his brothers is wonderful. I have a new respect for Deev. He has been thru hell and is standing tall and walking true with his brothers. Thanks for sharing your story guys!
My husband and I have subscribed to Zeducation for a few years. We never miss an episode. I've been waiting for his book to come out ever since he started promoting it. His book is not a disappointment. His story is so like many others. A loving Mom and close extended family. A father who is an addict, the monster in the room that so many people tip-toe around. Des/ Tyler, like many of us, finds mentors and sign posts along the way to help him grow and heal from his trauma and dysfunctional upbringing. His loyalty to his brothers is wonderful. I have a new respect for Deev. He has been thru hell and is standing tall and walking true with his brothers. Thanks for sharing your story guys!
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