What do you think?
Rate this book
The River
The impact of alcoholism on a New York family is described through the eyes of a young boy. The boy's journey through a series of traumatic experiences, family shelters, and foster homes illustrates the insidious mechanism of addiction and how it propagates from one generation to the next. His struggle to survive is a story of brokenness, heartache, and hope.
- GenresMemoirNonfiction
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 27, 2018
880 people are currently reading
983 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
August 3, 2020
Wow!
I read this book in one day, I could not put it down. I am crying tears of joy for Kevin who has overcome extreme trauma. His family dynamic and love for his family is touching and fascinating. I loved how Kevin told the story of how Patrick taught him how to read. I am also touched by the love and compassion the shelter provided him and his siblings. I am also thankful for the love and compassion his foster family provided. I am horrified of the abuse and neglect Kevin and his siblings suffered. I am so happy for Kevin and so happy he broke the cycle. Thank you for this book and sharing your life Kevin. I just lost my father who was an alcoholic and can relate to some of the family experiences and feelings. I also appreciate how Kevin shared how he was feeling while healing, it is an ongoing process. There is comfort knowing you are not alone. God bless. Outstanding book!
I read this book in one day, I could not put it down. I am crying tears of joy for Kevin who has overcome extreme trauma. His family dynamic and love for his family is touching and fascinating. I loved how Kevin told the story of how Patrick taught him how to read. I am also touched by the love and compassion the shelter provided him and his siblings. I am also thankful for the love and compassion his foster family provided. I am horrified of the abuse and neglect Kevin and his siblings suffered. I am so happy for Kevin and so happy he broke the cycle. Thank you for this book and sharing your life Kevin. I just lost my father who was an alcoholic and can relate to some of the family experiences and feelings. I also appreciate how Kevin shared how he was feeling while healing, it is an ongoing process. There is comfort knowing you are not alone. God bless. Outstanding book!
February 5, 2020
Good book
Kevin and his siblings went through stuff no child should go through but he pulled through and made something great of himself. This is a very good book.
Kevin and his siblings went through stuff no child should go through but he pulled through and made something great of himself. This is a very good book.
August 7, 2020
Triumph over incredible odds
I would recommend this author's story to anyone struggling to move forward in a world filled with chaos, addictions and personal doubt. What he did inspite of his childhood is remarkable. He truly did climb the mountain and plant his flag at the top after insurmountable odds. Also, there were significant others in his journey who never gave up on him. Foster parents need to read and understand their love can make or break a child. Kevin had one family , the Healy's who were incredibly supportive. And he had a horrific family that nearly destroyed him. Those kind of terrible foster care parents need to be under better scrutiny. Kevin rose from the dysfunction of his biological family to become a man whose future is now bright. I wish him well with his wife and son.
I would recommend this author's story to anyone struggling to move forward in a world filled with chaos, addictions and personal doubt. What he did inspite of his childhood is remarkable. He truly did climb the mountain and plant his flag at the top after insurmountable odds. Also, there were significant others in his journey who never gave up on him. Foster parents need to read and understand their love can make or break a child. Kevin had one family , the Healy's who were incredibly supportive. And he had a horrific family that nearly destroyed him. Those kind of terrible foster care parents need to be under better scrutiny. Kevin rose from the dysfunction of his biological family to become a man whose future is now bright. I wish him well with his wife and son.
March 17, 2023
! First half of the book was fine! Coulda cut out alot! !!!! Feel bad for the kids! But really , not a great memoir! Just a few more !!!!
March 10, 2021
Inspirational and well written memoir of an abused and neglected child who made a life of his own from dumpster donuts to success and security.
Breathtaking neglect, great courage and an admirable effort to protect his younger siblings are the themes of this memoir of an innocent and lovable child born into poverty and taking responsibility for himself and longing for normalcy and a hot bath and a normal family. He deserves the respect of the society that turned a blind eye. Here's hoping his tormentors in the classrooms and foster system read this and see how bad he makes them look as he tells of rising from brutal conditions to success because a few good people gave him the chance.
Breathtaking neglect, great courage and an admirable effort to protect his younger siblings are the themes of this memoir of an innocent and lovable child born into poverty and taking responsibility for himself and longing for normalcy and a hot bath and a normal family. He deserves the respect of the society that turned a blind eye. Here's hoping his tormentors in the classrooms and foster system read this and see how bad he makes them look as he tells of rising from brutal conditions to success because a few good people gave him the chance.
June 28, 2021
I Never leave reviews, but felt very compelled to do so. Not that I do not appreciate the story or work that went into it, I'm lucky if I have time to read!
I never write reviews for books I've read. I barely have time to read. It definitely is not that I do not appreciate the story of work that went into it. But this time I felt compelled to write. This story tugged the heartstrings, and was so heartfelt. When I got to the epilogue and read that he had left some things out, you can only imagine. I applaud him, and his siblings, and wish this were not the case for innocent children all over the world. I feel he was failed by more adults in official capacities for them not reporting what I'm sure they saw evidence of on these children.
I never write reviews for books I've read. I barely have time to read. It definitely is not that I do not appreciate the story of work that went into it. But this time I felt compelled to write. This story tugged the heartstrings, and was so heartfelt. When I got to the epilogue and read that he had left some things out, you can only imagine. I applaud him, and his siblings, and wish this were not the case for innocent children all over the world. I feel he was failed by more adults in official capacities for them not reporting what I'm sure they saw evidence of on these children.
October 21, 2022
phenomenal!!!
Kevin Weadock shares the story of his childhood through adulthood with a perfect balance of brutal honesty and hope and inspiration! He also does a beautiful job of seeing and communicating the goodness and humanity in many people who were both part of his story of abuse and part of his story of loving family. I find myself wondering, not for the first time, why some people are able to break the cycle of chaos in which they grow up and others perpetuate it. Weadock’s narrative makes me think perhaps it is the ability to hold the good with the bad— a necessary part of growing up that clearly so few of us achieve. I highly, highly recommend this book!
Kevin Weadock shares the story of his childhood through adulthood with a perfect balance of brutal honesty and hope and inspiration! He also does a beautiful job of seeing and communicating the goodness and humanity in many people who were both part of his story of abuse and part of his story of loving family. I find myself wondering, not for the first time, why some people are able to break the cycle of chaos in which they grow up and others perpetuate it. Weadock’s narrative makes me think perhaps it is the ability to hold the good with the bad— a necessary part of growing up that clearly so few of us achieve. I highly, highly recommend this book!
January 18, 2021
Abuse and addiction go hand in hand
It was difficult to read about what these kids lived through and endured. Especially in the foster homes where the abuse and neglect was so hard. Thank God for the Healy's who loved the kids and wanted them. Yet the children still wanted their parents. Its a shame what alcohol drugs addiction and neglect can do to one family. Glad to see the author turn his life around and be successful and happy. I wish he would have shared what happened with all of the siblings in the end. Perhaps another book to write?
It was difficult to read about what these kids lived through and endured. Especially in the foster homes where the abuse and neglect was so hard. Thank God for the Healy's who loved the kids and wanted them. Yet the children still wanted their parents. Its a shame what alcohol drugs addiction and neglect can do to one family. Glad to see the author turn his life around and be successful and happy. I wish he would have shared what happened with all of the siblings in the end. Perhaps another book to write?
June 29, 2020
Facts are scarier than fiction.
I gave this 5 stars because it highlights the emotional roller coaster an individual who has grown up in a dysfunctional situation rides every day. It also lends hope to people who are afraid of what's next and what they can do when they surrender to those outsiders.
Last, but not least, I think it gives others who have only heard the stories of alcoholism and abuse a glimpse into why we still love our family
I gave this 5 stars because it highlights the emotional roller coaster an individual who has grown up in a dysfunctional situation rides every day. It also lends hope to people who are afraid of what's next and what they can do when they surrender to those outsiders.
Last, but not least, I think it gives others who have only heard the stories of alcoholism and abuse a glimpse into why we still love our family
January 29, 2021
This book is seriously just the facts! I’ve never read a book with such little detail and emotional context to go with it. I still enjoyed it immensely but, I’m guessing, had it not been self-published, a good editor would have asked the author to stretch a little more, dig a little deeper, and communicate what was happening in his heart and not just his head. It definitely left me wanting more.
That said, this story of resilience and hope is absolutely worth the read.
That said, this story of resilience and hope is absolutely worth the read.
May 3, 2024
Raw, unflinching memoir about growing up under harrowing circumstances in New York in the "care" of his parents during the 1960s, then in shelters and foster homes, then finally in and out of periods with his birth family again. Rising above incredible abuse, poverty, and alcoholic parents, himself spiraling into years of abusing drugs and alcohol as a teen, Weadock finally throws off the shackles of his childhood to become a college graduate and husband with a successful career. Inspiring story of someone who chose to rise above his background.
December 23, 2020
Wonderful accomplishments. Inspiring!
Starts out interesting and continuously becomes more interesting, all the way to the end! I chose this rating for the wonderful accomplishments that Kevin Weacok achieved, after having had such a aimless unguided childhood! I was continuously awestruck by his determination to help others, and himself, while struggling to survive, and overcome so many obstacles! Where did you get the intuitiveness? I’d like to read the “fine tuned” version of the first twenty years! From the gutter to the grand. SINCERELY, Thanks, JC
Starts out interesting and continuously becomes more interesting, all the way to the end! I chose this rating for the wonderful accomplishments that Kevin Weacok achieved, after having had such a aimless unguided childhood! I was continuously awestruck by his determination to help others, and himself, while struggling to survive, and overcome so many obstacles! Where did you get the intuitiveness? I’d like to read the “fine tuned” version of the first twenty years! From the gutter to the grand. SINCERELY, Thanks, JC
February 7, 2021
A Throw Away Finds Love, Success, and Forgiveness!
Yet another memoir about a family that experiences neglect, abuse, mental illness, and addiction starting with illequiped parents, and the effects on the children. Some children persevere, while others succumb to the legacy of the parents. The author recounts his childhood experiences and those of his many siblings all the way to adulthood.
Yet another memoir about a family that experiences neglect, abuse, mental illness, and addiction starting with illequiped parents, and the effects on the children. Some children persevere, while others succumb to the legacy of the parents. The author recounts his childhood experiences and those of his many siblings all the way to adulthood.
March 17, 2021
From here to there
I was so inspired by the strength to get help whenever he needed it. This was such a touching story that so many children have to live a life like this on a daily basis. Kevin was so resourceful. Praise God that he found the love he always needed.Patti has to be a remarkable person.
I gave this book 5 stars because it held my attention and it was based on Kevin's life. Victory!
Amazing read!
I was so inspired by the strength to get help whenever he needed it. This was such a touching story that so many children have to live a life like this on a daily basis. Kevin was so resourceful. Praise God that he found the love he always needed.Patti has to be a remarkable person.
I gave this book 5 stars because it held my attention and it was based on Kevin's life. Victory!
Amazing read!
December 14, 2022
Family’s hard times
I wanted to hug each one of these kids. Such a tragedy that their parents had this disease. I wanted to hate them but what right did I have to label them. I think they loved their kids. I think Kevin set an example for the older members of the family to improve themselves by getting an education. Thank you Ke in for sharing your life with us. Take care of that baby boy! Merry Christmas.
I wanted to hug each one of these kids. Such a tragedy that their parents had this disease. I wanted to hate them but what right did I have to label them. I think they loved their kids. I think Kevin set an example for the older members of the family to improve themselves by getting an education. Thank you Ke in for sharing your life with us. Take care of that baby boy! Merry Christmas.
August 13, 2020
A warm, honest helpful book
Growing up with a family history of alcoholism and violence is a hard thing and this book have me a great insight into how lives can diverge ,yet showed me hope and that determination and a lot of hard work can help anyone achieve their goals. Inspiring!
Growing up with a family history of alcoholism and violence is a hard thing and this book have me a great insight into how lives can diverge ,yet showed me hope and that determination and a lot of hard work can help anyone achieve their goals. Inspiring!
November 30, 2020
The River
While reading this incredible journey I reflected on my on life with alcoholic father, mother was the binder that kept us together. The emotional connection that I fed though out brought both joy and tears. Thank you so much for sharing with us for life and keep your heart open.
While reading this incredible journey I reflected on my on life with alcoholic father, mother was the binder that kept us together. The emotional connection that I fed though out brought both joy and tears. Thank you so much for sharing with us for life and keep your heart open.
December 3, 2020
Addiction is disruptive
As the author so openly shares. Here is a success story of someone who has beaten the odds along with some others in his life. A quick read and you will find yourself engaged, however, I did think it jumped around a lot. I eventually got used to the style but it's almost like reading a journal.
As the author so openly shares. Here is a success story of someone who has beaten the odds along with some others in his life. A quick read and you will find yourself engaged, however, I did think it jumped around a lot. I eventually got used to the style but it's almost like reading a journal.
March 4, 2021
Amazing
I couldn’t get through this book fast enough. The lives of these children were at the hands of many people. I must say, always be positive and encourage children. Success comes from continuing to move forward despite all of life’s challenges. Awesome book. I highly recommend. ❤️
I couldn’t get through this book fast enough. The lives of these children were at the hands of many people. I must say, always be positive and encourage children. Success comes from continuing to move forward despite all of life’s challenges. Awesome book. I highly recommend. ❤️
May 3, 2021
Wonderful Ending
I could relate in so many ways, from the beatings to the ending when the eye contact with the newborn child. I missed out with having adults that cared as a child. What a difference that makes in becoming a truly productive adult! Praise God for the author! Both a tragic and beautiful story.
I could relate in so many ways, from the beatings to the ending when the eye contact with the newborn child. I missed out with having adults that cared as a child. What a difference that makes in becoming a truly productive adult! Praise God for the author! Both a tragic and beautiful story.
May 30, 2021
Well written
This book was well written. His parents should have stopped having children after the author and his siblings were removed. Some foster homes are good and some aren't, unfortunately he ended up in one that wasn't good. I remember my days of being abused and put into foster care them returned home only to be removed again. I feel his pain
This book was well written. His parents should have stopped having children after the author and his siblings were removed. Some foster homes are good and some aren't, unfortunately he ended up in one that wasn't good. I remember my days of being abused and put into foster care them returned home only to be removed again. I feel his pain
July 3, 2021
What a triumphant story,
This was a wonderful book. I'm amazed at the strength of Kevin's spirit. I'm also disgusted so many adults knew about your abuse and did nothing. God Bless, especially your "Foster" family they are what adults are supposed to do, love unconditionally. Thank you Kevin.
This was a wonderful book. I'm amazed at the strength of Kevin's spirit. I'm also disgusted so many adults knew about your abuse and did nothing. God Bless, especially your "Foster" family they are what adults are supposed to do, love unconditionally. Thank you Kevin.
September 19, 2021
Captivating life story of addiction and its affects on the family
Loved this book. Couldn't put it down. Wanted more about Kevin's life and all he overcame. It is a story of perseverance and coming out on the other side. It is a book that could offer hope to those whose families are in the grips of addition. Thank you Kevin Weadock
Loved this book. Couldn't put it down. Wanted more about Kevin's life and all he overcame. It is a story of perseverance and coming out on the other side. It is a book that could offer hope to those whose families are in the grips of addition. Thank you Kevin Weadock
October 6, 2021
Enjoyed
This is a very good read. I just like the way he told his story without harshness about his parents. It is a very moving book and it is worth reading to understand what a lot of foster kids go through. Very happy he was able to overcome his troubles and have a life he deserves.
This is a very good read. I just like the way he told his story without harshness about his parents. It is a very moving book and it is worth reading to understand what a lot of foster kids go through. Very happy he was able to overcome his troubles and have a life he deserves.
October 8, 2021
The River
Excellent read! Truly enjoyed the story I can relate to all characters as I've had very similar experiences in my own life and I'd recommend this to anyone who believes that all hope is lost Because it's not!If you read the story I know by the end of it you will believe that you can achieve anything that you put your mind to!
Excellent read! Truly enjoyed the story I can relate to all characters as I've had very similar experiences in my own life and I'd recommend this to anyone who believes that all hope is lost Because it's not!If you read the story I know by the end of it you will believe that you can achieve anything that you put your mind to!
April 16, 2022
A difficult report about difficult lives.
A story written like any I ha e read. It starts in a matter of factI way. No elaboration, just the facts. I started liking the style. The author gradually expanded his thoughts. Would be good read for high school age and up and those with growing up family problem and addiction problems..
A story written like any I ha e read. It starts in a matter of factI way. No elaboration, just the facts. I started liking the style. The author gradually expanded his thoughts. Would be good read for high school age and up and those with growing up family problem and addiction problems..
November 11, 2022
An emotional story.
The family is made up of alcoholic and abusive parents which leads to shelters and foster care. I cannot imagine the the abuse the children suffered. The trauma led the children to a path of self destruction with alcohol, stealing, LSD, cocaine, and alcohol abuse. Who will care and love these children?
The family is made up of alcoholic and abusive parents which leads to shelters and foster care. I cannot imagine the the abuse the children suffered. The trauma led the children to a path of self destruction with alcohol, stealing, LSD, cocaine, and alcohol abuse. Who will care and love these children?
November 15, 2022
Crazy story. Sad. I wish the editor removed his hundreds of exclamation points. I had a hard time getting past their over use and the writing was blunt. I wish he went into a better story teller mode at times. My heart goes out to this man. At the end, in the acknowledgments he said he didn’t write the really hard parts of his story and that made my jaw drop. It’s an amazing survival story.
December 22, 2022
Great story
I loved the positive outcome this book had. The only complaint was that there wasn’t much detail in each chapter! I feel like there could have been so much more he could have explained of his child hood. Each chapter being so quick, it was an easy read and kept me entrigued wondering what was happening next in bus life. Great book.
I loved the positive outcome this book had. The only complaint was that there wasn’t much detail in each chapter! I feel like there could have been so much more he could have explained of his child hood. Each chapter being so quick, it was an easy read and kept me entrigued wondering what was happening next in bus life. Great book.
February 21, 2023
Excellent read chronicling the life of a child of addicted parents
I loved that this book was so hard to read at times through tears. The poor children of these addicted parents. It always amazes me when they do so much better than their parents. Well, some of them anyways. It's definitely worth the read.
I loved that this book was so hard to read at times through tears. The poor children of these addicted parents. It always amazes me when they do so much better than their parents. Well, some of them anyways. It's definitely worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews