BlindSighted

by Rich Christiansen

An intimate and evocative memoir of identity and the definition of family. At the age of 53, successful entrepreneur and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon), Rich Christiansen discovers his ancestors aren't who he thought they were and that he and his brothers are only partly related. This reveal-during what was supposed to be a fun, "let's see where our family is from" DNA test-shatters Rich's perception of himself, his identity, and his parents, and tests his faith. It launches him on a search for healing, acceptance, and self-love.

297 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2024

About the author

Rich Christiansen is a globally-recognized thought leader, educator, mentor, parallel entrepreneur, and humanitarian. He assists people in fearlessly facing their dragons, making peace with them, and navigating the intricate mazes of their lives.

Reviews

[Literary Titan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blindsighted, by Rich Christiansen, transforms the simple curiosity of DNA testing into a profound exploration of lineage and faith. Christiansen embarks on a deep dive into his family's history, beginning with his immigrant grandparents, and along the way, he redefines his understanding of what family truly means. The journey he takes readers on is rich with intimate details, tracing his legacy and how it shaped him. What he discovers through his DNA test results, however, is far from what he expected.

This story is masterfully crafted. Christiansen's writing is precise, with every heartfelt word carefully placed to deliver a deeply engaging reading experience. The book is free from unnecessary details, maintaining a clear and focused narrative that comes together beautifully. It's an eloquent work that spans multiple generations, weaving together engaging stories that will resonate with many readers. Christiansen's talent for distilling vast amounts of research into a compelling and comprehensive narrative is particularly impressive. One standout section is the story of his father, John Christiansen, whose life is portrayed with rich and fascinating detail. The author’s passion is evident as he recounts his father's remarkable journey, overcoming blindness to become Beaver County's Attorney. This segment of the book is especially inspiring and showcases the depth of Christiansen's connection to his family's legacy.

Blindsighted is a remarkable journey through the complexities of family history and identity. Rich Christiansen's ability to blend personal stories with broader themes of faith and lineage makes this book both deeply personal and universally relatable. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersections of genealogy, personal discovery, and the enduring impact of family legacies. Whether you're drawn to stories of overcoming adversity or simply appreciate a well-crafted narrative, Blindsighted is a book that will leave a lasting impression.

[Kent White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and felt so inspired throughout it! This is a treasure and I hope you give it an opportunity if you are considering reading it. The stories are told with good humor and sincerity without being overly sentimental or manipulative. Truly a difficult balance when writing an autobiography. I look forward to reading it again and again!