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Transformed: A Navy SEAL's Unlikely Journey from the Throne of Africa, to the Streets of the Bronx, to Defying All Odds
What are the odds? Statistics tell us that African American males who grow up in a single-parent household are nine times more likely to drop out of high school and twenty times more likely to end up in prison than any other demographic. But what would it take for one young man not only to rise above those statistics but also become a Navy SEAL, actor, entrepreneur, writer, and successful husband and father? In Transformed , Remi Adeleke takes you back to stories from his childhood, from living as Nigerian royalty to losing his father early in life and being stripped financially of everything by the Nigerian government. He delves into being raised by a single mother in the Bronx and doesn’t shy away from his illegal activities as a young man that threatened to derail his future. At every turn, including throughout his naval career, Adeleke found a way to overcome the odds, even when it didn’t make sense. His is an inspiring story of true personal transformation.
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Published May 14, 2019
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About the author
Remi Adeleke
2 books77 followersRemi Adeleke was born in western Africa, but following the death of his father, his mother, brother, and he relocated permanently to the Bronx in New York City. After years of making regrettable decisions, Remi joined the Navy in 2002 and later became a Navy SEAL.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
September 10, 2019
I wasn’t familiar with Remi Adeleke’s story prior to reading Transformed: A Navy SEAL’s Unlikely Journey from the Thrones of Africa, to the Streets of the Bronx, to Defying All Odds. To be honest, I hadn’t even heard of him. As the title notes, this book details Remi’s global journey beginning with early childhood in Nigeria, later moving to NY still as a child, and then becoming the man he is today: a veteran, an actor, a father, and a role model.
Remi’s resilience and determination is admirable. He overcame numerous obstacles and faced constant adversity yet triumphed repeatedly. He is unwavering in his beliefs but wasn’t always that way. Remi made many poor choices as a teenager and young adult. While reading Transformed, I often fluctuated between feeling sympathetic toward Remi’s decisions, given his circumstances, and frustrated with his decisions, feeling he should have known better. I also recognize it’s easy for me to pass judgment (unfairly), not having grown up in the same circumstances.
Parts of the book did feel long and unnecessary to the overall story, yet I recognize the subject is Remi’s personal journey. The dialogue, while kept in casual, conversational tone, often still felt scripted and/or drawn out. My overall enjoyment of Transformed was only slightly impacted by these two observations.
In his mid-20s, Remi was fortunate to meet a woman who gave him the help he needed to get on a positive path, beginning his journey in the U.S. Navy. I liked the stories Remi shared about his military training to become a SEAL, then his subsequent work, including the physical battles, mental challenges, and friendships he made during this time.
Even though he didn’t always make the smartest decisions, I enjoyed Remi’s progression and growth to become the person he is today. His story is inspirational, with many parts serving as a good reminder to hit pause the next time you think you’re having a bad day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson — W Publishing for providing an advance copy of Transformed in exchange for an honest review.
Remi’s resilience and determination is admirable. He overcame numerous obstacles and faced constant adversity yet triumphed repeatedly. He is unwavering in his beliefs but wasn’t always that way. Remi made many poor choices as a teenager and young adult. While reading Transformed, I often fluctuated between feeling sympathetic toward Remi’s decisions, given his circumstances, and frustrated with his decisions, feeling he should have known better. I also recognize it’s easy for me to pass judgment (unfairly), not having grown up in the same circumstances.
Parts of the book did feel long and unnecessary to the overall story, yet I recognize the subject is Remi’s personal journey. The dialogue, while kept in casual, conversational tone, often still felt scripted and/or drawn out. My overall enjoyment of Transformed was only slightly impacted by these two observations.
In his mid-20s, Remi was fortunate to meet a woman who gave him the help he needed to get on a positive path, beginning his journey in the U.S. Navy. I liked the stories Remi shared about his military training to become a SEAL, then his subsequent work, including the physical battles, mental challenges, and friendships he made during this time.
Even though he didn’t always make the smartest decisions, I enjoyed Remi’s progression and growth to become the person he is today. His story is inspirational, with many parts serving as a good reminder to hit pause the next time you think you’re having a bad day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson — W Publishing for providing an advance copy of Transformed in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2019
I "read" the book via Audible so really Remi read it to me. Since Remi is the subject, author and is an actor it was a very good combination to make the listening experience excellent. Those are simply features of an amazing story of transformation. Remi made me mad, laugh out loud, cry, anxious and exhilarated as I consumed his book. The constant obsticles and relationsionships that moved him forward and the overcoming of ego and pride to hammer humility into himself is inspiring. Many woman are champions in this book and a few men as well. There were moments that I wanted to ring Remi's neck and there were moments I wanted to kick him in the tail (kind of like my son), but this book was a delight because his mother's voice (from raising him) came through and Remi had what it takes to listen to her when it really mattered. I loved the book and thourghly enjoyed meeting Remi when he came through Atlanta in May.
April 11, 2021
I understand that this is a memoir about how he came from rough beginnings and “transformed” into a better person but holy crap, dude. This guys sense of self worth is totally off the charts. He went on about how awesome, popular and successful he is now and draws contrast by telling stories about what a complete jackass he was - especially to women - throughout his life. I didn’t get the sense that he actually feels remorse over any of it. It feels more like it gave him a good story to tell. There’s a touch of irony to him preaching about how egotistical he used to be while ending the book by saying he’s literally god’s gift to the people he crosses paths with. Maybe try writing a second edition with a real dose of humility, or get the editor to add it.
Two stars because it was written well enough that I finished.
Two stars because it was written well enough that I finished.
April 14, 2021
This is one of those books that I am not sure how it hit my reading list but it seems like it was meant to be. I connected with the author just because I respected his openness about what he went through in life and how he was a different person and at times one he didn't like. I can't imagine that I could bare myself like that in a book for public consumption. I know it is done all the time by authors but I appreciated this nonetheless. The book opened my mind to things that it had been closed to in the past and also made me want to challenge myself to be better.
June 23, 2020
This book tells an amazing story of tenacity, courage, and grit. I loved it! I wish this book had existed back when I was raising my boys through their formative years. I would have made certain they read it!
September 6, 2023
Inspirational
Very inspirational. You can do anything with hard work and believing in yourself. It's amazing how everything is intertwined. Recommended.
Very inspirational. You can do anything with hard work and believing in yourself. It's amazing how everything is intertwined. Recommended.
July 8, 2024
There is a lot to admire about his story, life and transformation as he found Jesus waiting for him at the cross. He went through so much and made so many bad decisions and yet found a landing spot to be a help to others besides serving our country valiantly. Thank you for your service, Remi and certainly best wishes as he continues to learn how to minister while be a husband and dad.
September 4, 2023
I saw Remi Adeleke on a television program and heard his story about another project on which he was working and that he was a Navy SEAL and wrote a book called Transformed and I went to add it to my Goodreads list as to read and realized I had already added it. I then looked to see if my local library had a copy and they did so I placed a hold and read it quickly.
I have read many, many books about Navy SEALs and most have much more combat elements to them and this one was more about Remi and his life and the mistakes he made and how a woman, Tiana Reyes, a Navy recruiter helped him get into the Navy and then about all the things that happened to help him become a Navy SEAL and all of them are inspirational. This is one of the most memorable books by and about a Navy SEAL I have read because it doesn't have as much combat and adrenaline rush about combat and rather about a young man making poor choices who turns his life and attitude around and goes on to serve others.
I highly recommend this book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I have read many, many books about Navy SEALs and most have much more combat elements to them and this one was more about Remi and his life and the mistakes he made and how a woman, Tiana Reyes, a Navy recruiter helped him get into the Navy and then about all the things that happened to help him become a Navy SEAL and all of them are inspirational. This is one of the most memorable books by and about a Navy SEAL I have read because it doesn't have as much combat and adrenaline rush about combat and rather about a young man making poor choices who turns his life and attitude around and goes on to serve others.
I highly recommend this book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
December 19, 2023
This was my first, I'm not joking when I say this, memoir I have ever read. I saw Remi Adeleke released a book called Chameleon, which is the first in a serialized thriller/action series, and it sounded like something I would really enjoy. However, I stumbled upon this book, Transformed, and it sounded so intriguing. Well, it was such a ride. I loved this even though at times Remi frustrated me to my core, but I can not even begin to imagine what his life was like growing up. So, I thank you, Remi, for opening my eyes and teaching me, showing me, and telling me your story. Highly recommend this book and also the audio book as it is read by Remi, himself.
September 20, 2023
In a true rags to riches story, Transformed, explains how Remi Adeleke mustered the strength to climb back to the top of the mountain after being dealt the most fascinating hand in cardholder history. From being born into Nigerian royalty to navigating a rigid upbringing in The Bronx to propelling to Navy Seal stardom (literally), Remi’s drive will inspire you to scale any goal no matter the path.
May 26, 2023
Amazing story of a life transformed by grace, humility and love. A fascinating window into the grueling BUDS training program of the Navy Seals as well as an inspiration to persevere in hope, seeing the potential in others and encouraging them to aspire to not be defined by their past or their struggles but by their choices now and the possibilities they still have in front of them.
November 24, 2020
What an amazing story and book! The writing style is well suited for such a story. Remi’s life and transformation is quite amazing!
December 8, 2020
An incredible story of a kid from Africa with a rough start in life, gone to America, through Navy Seals to an accomplished life
July 16, 2021
The story and the book was not what I had expected. The more I listened to the book the more I wanted to listen to it. Great story and I am glad I chose to pick it up and actually finish it.
March 12, 2020
Why is this book not a Movie already. The writings of Mr Remi, are so vivid & expressive, that this would translate so well on film. No interest, 1 way or the other in: Bronx life, or Navy Seals life, but became intrigued when I saw Mr Remi speak on a couple of talk shows. I immediately bought the book. And have since recommended it to all my family & friends (should be required reading- especially for Men-before I even finished) However, moments into reading, I am a avid reader; I find the book difficult to close for the night. The way his words are expressed; transcribed on paper, always has me, not wanting my reading to end. Thanks for the read, now please; Make that Movie. PS: Use a No Name, god-a- donis ( so we jace no expectation )! To play Mr Remi, & others
January 15, 2021
I have never heard of Remi Adeleke (I don't watch tv), but the cover and title caught my eye, so I decided to take a closer look. He opens the book with some sketchy actions on his part, but you can't help but be drawn into his story from the very beginning. His story starts in Nigeria, as the child of Nigerian royalty, where he lived in the lap of luxury. But with his father's sudden death, the government took everything, and his mother was forced to bring him and his brother back to her roots in the Bronx, where she did her best to make sure he and his brother got a good education and stayed away from the bad elements. Except he ended up getting into some unethical and illegal activities, including stealing from his own mother. But a Navy recruiter saw him and saw something IN him and decided to do what she could to get him into the Navy (even though his illegal activities would have prevented him from getting in). She spoke to the judge to expunge his record and get him in, and eventually, he made it into the Navy as a corpsman. But that was just the beginning of a very long journey he would take to eventually becoming the man that he is today. The style of the book is not exactly traditional, but it works extremely well here, especially being narrated in his own voice. Although he barely graduated from high school, he eventually learned all he could from books so that he could pass the various exams to get to where he did. Even after making it as a SEAL, he still hadn't come to be who he was meant to be and it took a crisis in his relational, emotional, spiritual, and psychological life to help him turn to God and completely turn his life around. I found this to be extremely honest and inspirational. He did not give himself a pass in anything and learned to take responsibility for his own actions. I highly recommend this book, even if you've never heard of him. I think it's a remarkable story of perseverance, grit, humility, and joy.
June 9, 2019
So months ago my sister told me that her friend was writing a book. I was like, well that's nice and moved on with my life. Then I was at her house and noticed in her, chaotically organized, office that she had the book, the audio book, and the e-book. I made a comment about it and she was all, "You read. You should read his book! It won't take you long. Look, here is my one claim to fame on page 139!" Well, it did take me long, but that is because I had 2 library books to read and I took a business trip. Okay, that is just a small background of how I came to read this book. Now for the actual review.
Wow. Remi was a bad, bad man. Props for putting your whole life out there for the world to critic with either open-mindedness or close-mindedness. At first I did not like how the book started. The opening chapter just felt out of place. Then as I got to chapter 3 I realized that it actually made sense why he opened the way he did. I found the book easy to read and very profound. It takes a lot of courage for someone to basically tell on themselves. Of course, I would hope he made amends for some of the things he had done in the past.
I would have liked for it to be just a bit longer. I felt the ending was just a bit abrupt. I didn't feel like the circle was complete. I have some unanswered questions. I know he will be in Dallas, TX on the 9th of June. So, maybe I can accost him there get my questions answered. I understand that the book is really about how he "transformed" into the person he is today. I just would have liked to read more about when he partnered with I Am Second and more about the multiple business adventures. Truly, that is my only critic. The book was an excellent read and I do hope he will continue to write more.
Wow. Remi was a bad, bad man. Props for putting your whole life out there for the world to critic with either open-mindedness or close-mindedness. At first I did not like how the book started. The opening chapter just felt out of place. Then as I got to chapter 3 I realized that it actually made sense why he opened the way he did. I found the book easy to read and very profound. It takes a lot of courage for someone to basically tell on themselves. Of course, I would hope he made amends for some of the things he had done in the past.
I would have liked for it to be just a bit longer. I felt the ending was just a bit abrupt. I didn't feel like the circle was complete. I have some unanswered questions. I know he will be in Dallas, TX on the 9th of June. So, maybe I can accost him there get my questions answered. I understand that the book is really about how he "transformed" into the person he is today. I just would have liked to read more about when he partnered with I Am Second and more about the multiple business adventures. Truly, that is my only critic. The book was an excellent read and I do hope he will continue to write more.
July 3, 2022
"None of life’s experiences are wasted."
Pop culture is not my thing, but I love memoirs. I therefore did not know when I purchased this one that Remi Adeleke was already known to much of America for his acting appearances in such projects as the latest Transformers film, the Plague Ship series, and commercials for Jockey. Hailed as “one of the most beautiful men that God ever created” by Today host Kathie Lee, he went from Nigerian royal to Bronx hustler, Navy Seal, actor, and author in a twenty-five-year span of his young life. The heart of the story, however, is his hard-won journey to become a special forces warrior, the elite of the elite, despite repeated failures along the way.
This testament to the power of hard work and determination then takes a spiritual turn two-thirds of the way into the narrative when he is born again becomes a preacher. Of course, in order for there to be a spiritual transformation, there must be transgression, and his is so big I almost quit listening. He’s a player with a capital P, but he addresses his sexual addiction with sincerity and convincing repentance.
At just over eleven hours, this memoir, narrated by the author, is visual, entertaining, and provocative. For a quick recap of his unlikely journey, watch this interview and photo montage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKJBt...
Pop culture is not my thing, but I love memoirs. I therefore did not know when I purchased this one that Remi Adeleke was already known to much of America for his acting appearances in such projects as the latest Transformers film, the Plague Ship series, and commercials for Jockey. Hailed as “one of the most beautiful men that God ever created” by Today host Kathie Lee, he went from Nigerian royal to Bronx hustler, Navy Seal, actor, and author in a twenty-five-year span of his young life. The heart of the story, however, is his hard-won journey to become a special forces warrior, the elite of the elite, despite repeated failures along the way.
This testament to the power of hard work and determination then takes a spiritual turn two-thirds of the way into the narrative when he is born again becomes a preacher. Of course, in order for there to be a spiritual transformation, there must be transgression, and his is so big I almost quit listening. He’s a player with a capital P, but he addresses his sexual addiction with sincerity and convincing repentance.
At just over eleven hours, this memoir, narrated by the author, is visual, entertaining, and provocative. For a quick recap of his unlikely journey, watch this interview and photo montage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKJBt...
March 13, 2021
Warning, this may be long!
I want to start off by saying I cried so many times during this book, raised my hand to the lord and shouted out Amen numerous times. I got chills and felt divine intervention working through his words. What a powerful message and amazing story. I am so glad everyone who crossed your path pushed you to write this.
Today is 365 days since I walked away from my job to go home for spring break. Little did I know it would be the start of a global pandemic and we would go into a full shit down. I sat in my house and had my whole perspective change and priorities become clearer. Today I left my house to drive 5 hours back to my job to receive my vaccine and pick up my items from my office because they want everyone physically back in their offices and I have stated I will not leave my family for a job or money again. If I can’t work from home I won’t be coming back. During the 5 hours up and 5 hours back I listened to this book and it lifted my spirits so highly. I felt every bit of triumphs, heartaches, despair, happiness and sheer joy.
Thank God for the human you are and for every human who had a hand in it as well.
This is a must read for every person who ever has struggled through wondering if they are enough, have made mistakes or wonders what their life’s purpose is!
I want to start off by saying I cried so many times during this book, raised my hand to the lord and shouted out Amen numerous times. I got chills and felt divine intervention working through his words. What a powerful message and amazing story. I am so glad everyone who crossed your path pushed you to write this.
Today is 365 days since I walked away from my job to go home for spring break. Little did I know it would be the start of a global pandemic and we would go into a full shit down. I sat in my house and had my whole perspective change and priorities become clearer. Today I left my house to drive 5 hours back to my job to receive my vaccine and pick up my items from my office because they want everyone physically back in their offices and I have stated I will not leave my family for a job or money again. If I can’t work from home I won’t be coming back. During the 5 hours up and 5 hours back I listened to this book and it lifted my spirits so highly. I felt every bit of triumphs, heartaches, despair, happiness and sheer joy.
Thank God for the human you are and for every human who had a hand in it as well.
This is a must read for every person who ever has struggled through wondering if they are enough, have made mistakes or wonders what their life’s purpose is!
June 10, 2020
“If you can learn to observe and connect with people, I’ve found that what’s on the outside will quickly disappear”- Remi Adeleke
Wow. I don't think I've read about a person overcoming the odds so many times. Remi's life journey constantly faced adversity and doubt only to rise above again and again...and AGAIN. Being black and from a foreign country puts a person trying to make it in America at a seemingly insurmountable disadvantage. Remi's story reminded me of my privilege, and left me eager to continue reading and learning from other Black authors.
What I loved: Remi acknowledged he felt lost without a father figure, discriminated against and hopeless at many moments. Throughout his life he faced extremely difficult crossroads and had no trouble admitting he made wrong choices. I loved that he vividly remembers every person that gave him a chance, or second chance, to prove himself. With those chances he truly TRANSFORMED his life into a Navy Seal, actor, husband and father. He is the ultimate role model.
What I didn't love: Honestly, not very much. I had to look up a lot of military acronyms but that did not take away from the story to me. I would love to hear more about his early life, but still enjoyed hearing his success story.
Wow. I don't think I've read about a person overcoming the odds so many times. Remi's life journey constantly faced adversity and doubt only to rise above again and again...and AGAIN. Being black and from a foreign country puts a person trying to make it in America at a seemingly insurmountable disadvantage. Remi's story reminded me of my privilege, and left me eager to continue reading and learning from other Black authors.
What I loved: Remi acknowledged he felt lost without a father figure, discriminated against and hopeless at many moments. Throughout his life he faced extremely difficult crossroads and had no trouble admitting he made wrong choices. I loved that he vividly remembers every person that gave him a chance, or second chance, to prove himself. With those chances he truly TRANSFORMED his life into a Navy Seal, actor, husband and father. He is the ultimate role model.
What I didn't love: Honestly, not very much. I had to look up a lot of military acronyms but that did not take away from the story to me. I would love to hear more about his early life, but still enjoyed hearing his success story.
June 24, 2019
This book started out a bit slowly. And it did drag a bit at times. But all in all it was a very interesting read. Remi started out life as a privileged prince living a life of luxury in Nigeria until his father died and his mother had to return to the US, almost penniless. She did have an apartment in the Bronx, so they were better off than many. Her perseverance and fortitude kept Remi out of gangs and in school. But it didn't keep him totally out of trouble. Remi describes his experiences selling drugs, cutting rap records and selling illegal phones until he finally gets wise and joins the service with the idea that he will become a Navy Seal. The recruiting angel he meets, the redeeming angels he meets, all lead him to his actual redeemer, Jesus. It's a powerful story of real redemption and transformation.
May 23, 2019
I could NOT book this book down! The author takes you on a rollercoaster ride FULL of emotions. EVERY emotion you can feel, I felt it. It truly transformed ME. I laughed, cried, felt frustrated, got nervous, everything. Remi's story makes you want to do something more with your gifts, to trust the process and that the people who come and go in your life truly play a role no matter how long they're IN your life. I also have an even greater appreciation for our military men and women and I come from a military family!
I was sad when I finished because I wanted MORE. Haven't read a book this good in a very long time! Must-read!
I was sad when I finished because I wanted MORE. Haven't read a book this good in a very long time! Must-read!
February 14, 2020
I had no clue who Remi was until I read this book... I had very mixed feeling about him while reading his story. At points he made me laugh, he made me cry, he made me want to throttle him for being so stupid and such an ass...
However I couldn’t put the book down, Remi has one hell of a moving story to tell. Maybe a little too preaching at time towards the later part of the book, but that’s just my personal POV, for other people it will be fine.
All up a good read, not a huge amount of “SEAL action” this is his life story not a war story. His time in the SEALs is a significant component of that story but it’s not the only aspect.
However I couldn’t put the book down, Remi has one hell of a moving story to tell. Maybe a little too preaching at time towards the later part of the book, but that’s just my personal POV, for other people it will be fine.
All up a good read, not a huge amount of “SEAL action” this is his life story not a war story. His time in the SEALs is a significant component of that story but it’s not the only aspect.
January 5, 2021
This human being is so extreme! He did everything to the fullest (great or not so great behaviors). To go from being royal, to growing up in a struggling household, to stealing, to playing victim to his ultimate goals is amazing. The way he tells the story in his own voice takes you to each portion and allows you to get in the scene with him. I appreciate his willingness to share the valleys and not just the peaks. I would encourage anyone to read this book and get on the "I can do anything" train.
July 14, 2021
Very inspiring, I'm sure, but poorly written.
It is one of those autobiographies that comes off sounding like those speeches at the Oscars where they have to be hustled offstage because they are trying to thank too many people. At one point, Adeleke just has this long list of people who come from the Bronx that he admires. He talks about how awesome his dad is, just like a five year old.
I'm sure this is a great story, and I really wanted to like this, but I did not have the time to wade through the shitty writing to find it.
Read 15%.
It is one of those autobiographies that comes off sounding like those speeches at the Oscars where they have to be hustled offstage because they are trying to thank too many people. At one point, Adeleke just has this long list of people who come from the Bronx that he admires. He talks about how awesome his dad is, just like a five year old.
I'm sure this is a great story, and I really wanted to like this, but I did not have the time to wade through the shitty writing to find it.
Read 15%.
September 9, 2019
I finished it in one day. This is one of the best books written by a seal I have ever read and I have read a lot of them.
What a man! He makes you laugh, he makes you cry and he makes you believe that there ARE angels among us.
He CAN write (thanks to his mom perhaps, from all those punishment when he was young). The last few chapters felt a bit rush. But I understood that he had to leave a bunch of stories out in order to get published.
What a man! He makes you laugh, he makes you cry and he makes you believe that there ARE angels among us.
He CAN write (thanks to his mom perhaps, from all those punishment when he was young). The last few chapters felt a bit rush. But I understood that he had to leave a bunch of stories out in order to get published.
February 7, 2023
This book was way below my expectations based on the reviews and rate of the book. There were not enough inspiring or interesting event happening in this book. I believe the book could be much shorter as at some point it became really boring to follow. I was hoping to get to better part of the book as going further but it didn't happen for me. All in all, I think it didn't have noticeable advantage to similar books in this genre.
May 23, 2021
“May you take my mistakes and use them as lessons.”
This is the truly inspiring story of a young thief turned Navy Seal turned pastor turned actor named Remi Adeleke and his amazing and transformative life story. Born into royalty in Nigeria, raised in poverty in the Bronx, Adeleke takes you through his journey from childhood hustler to decorated Navy Seal and beyond.
“I may not be able to transform the land of my birth, and I definitely won’t be able to transform the whole world, but I can influence those God places in front of me. And any little seed I can plant may be the one that generates the necessary transformation.”
I loved this honest and humble tale that leaves no stone unturned from Adeleke’s past. He shares his troubled youth stealing shoes, illegally selling phones, and even selling his mother’s engagement ring at a pawn shop. Then he catches an amazing break when a woman named Tiana Reyes goes out of her way to clear his record and enlist him in the military. The structure and dedication are just what he needed to begin to put his life back together.
Even when he makes it all the way to the top of the Navy Seals program, he still hits roadblocks along the way in the form of drinking, women, and an inability to swim! This story is all about perseverance, redemption, and a little divine intervention. If you’re looking for some inspiration, as well as a peek into what it takes to become a Navy Seal, this book is for you!
This story is really back heavy and I wish there was more about his involvement in ministry, his partnership with Iamsecond, and maybe more about what he's currently doing. The ending is somewhat abrupt. But his story is incredible and super inspiring, and the glimpse into what it takes to be a Navy Seal is eye opening!
Thank you to @thomasnelson @remiadeleke for sending this book to read + review, as well as @TLCBooktours for hosting the giveaway.
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This is the truly inspiring story of a young thief turned Navy Seal turned pastor turned actor named Remi Adeleke and his amazing and transformative life story. Born into royalty in Nigeria, raised in poverty in the Bronx, Adeleke takes you through his journey from childhood hustler to decorated Navy Seal and beyond.
“I may not be able to transform the land of my birth, and I definitely won’t be able to transform the whole world, but I can influence those God places in front of me. And any little seed I can plant may be the one that generates the necessary transformation.”
I loved this honest and humble tale that leaves no stone unturned from Adeleke’s past. He shares his troubled youth stealing shoes, illegally selling phones, and even selling his mother’s engagement ring at a pawn shop. Then he catches an amazing break when a woman named Tiana Reyes goes out of her way to clear his record and enlist him in the military. The structure and dedication are just what he needed to begin to put his life back together.
Even when he makes it all the way to the top of the Navy Seals program, he still hits roadblocks along the way in the form of drinking, women, and an inability to swim! This story is all about perseverance, redemption, and a little divine intervention. If you’re looking for some inspiration, as well as a peek into what it takes to become a Navy Seal, this book is for you!
This story is really back heavy and I wish there was more about his involvement in ministry, his partnership with Iamsecond, and maybe more about what he's currently doing. The ending is somewhat abrupt. But his story is incredible and super inspiring, and the glimpse into what it takes to be a Navy Seal is eye opening!
Thank you to @thomasnelson @remiadeleke for sending this book to read + review, as well as @TLCBooktours for hosting the giveaway.
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December 14, 2023
POWERFUL. This was easily book of the year for me. Transformed is honestly second to none, other than Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins and it genuinely deserves to be mentioned in the same sentence.
Remi’s story and style of storytelling is incredible and impactful. He clearly is a skilled writer and the audio version of his book was also an amazing experience with wonderful emotion poured in to make the listener feel like you are right there experiencing his life with him.
This book was above all in a word, Powerful. To hear how fair Remi came, how he did Transform into who he is today, is monumentally inspirational. This is a book I can definitely see myself listening to and reading again and again whenever I need to be reminded that I CAN do something I want to accomplish.
Thank you Remi, not only for your determination and effort that went into writing this book but your willingness to be comfortable to share your story with the world. And of course, thank you for your service. 🫡
Remi’s story and style of storytelling is incredible and impactful. He clearly is a skilled writer and the audio version of his book was also an amazing experience with wonderful emotion poured in to make the listener feel like you are right there experiencing his life with him.
This book was above all in a word, Powerful. To hear how fair Remi came, how he did Transform into who he is today, is monumentally inspirational. This is a book I can definitely see myself listening to and reading again and again whenever I need to be reminded that I CAN do something I want to accomplish.
Thank you Remi, not only for your determination and effort that went into writing this book but your willingness to be comfortable to share your story with the world. And of course, thank you for your service. 🫡
January 23, 2021
I thought this was a fantastic book. Remi Adeleke has lived 10 lives in my one life. This was a fantasic story about challanges and a young man's different responses to those challenges. Remi's story is compelling and I recommend this as a one time read. You will not be disappointed. I am glad it showed up on my "books you might like" feed. It is a well written autobiography about grit, determination, redemption and Divine intervention. Remi's journey is inspirational foe anyone.
I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
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