What do you think?
Rate this book
Traces of the Shadow
Stuart Gunn knew two things were certain in his life--that he would be a professional drummer and that he would find true love. What he didn't know was the path he would take to get there, because you can never be certain where the hand of fate might lead, whether it's real and in-your-face or something ethereal.
Life can come at you pretty fast and change you in ways you never imagined. From the innocence of childhood to the budding young man, this story based on true events captures the essence of a boy trying to find himself in the midst of the shadows of life when everything seems impossible to figure out.
Life can come at you pretty fast and change you in ways you never imagined. From the innocence of childhood to the budding young man, this story based on true events captures the essence of a boy trying to find himself in the midst of the shadows of life when everything seems impossible to figure out.
320 pages, Paperback
Published November 7, 2018
2 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 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 7, 2018
This book was based on the childhood and teen years of Stuart Gunn and the bumpy ride--metaphorically AND literally--he took to find himself. I found the story easy to relate to as many of us have those defining moments--when childhood innocence is lost, dealing with peer pressure and experiencing your first love. Actually, a lot of what happened to Stuart mirrored some of my own experiences growing up. I won't wreck the ending, but I found myself on an emotional roller coaster and I may or may not have cried, haha. All writers have their strengths and weaknesses. While the book wasn't flawless, Stuart's ability to use foreshadowing, his metaphors, his poetic descriptions of setting and his raw honesty were strengths I enjoyed. The book took me back to my own teen years and made them come alive again and got me excited to work on a memoir of my own.
February 21, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this story about a young man trying to find himself and his place in this world. It took me back to my teen years and reminded me of the trials and joys of being young. The author tackles some tough issues from his past with honesty, emotion and humor. Definitely worth reading and I highly recommend it.
June 20, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn offers a gripping portrayal of a young man's journey through the complexities of adolescence and beyond. Gunn's narrative, based on true events, delves deep into the challenges faced by the protagonist as he navigates through the shadows of life. From the innocence of childhood to the turbulent years of youth, the story resonates with authenticity, capturing both the highs and lows of growing up.
The book doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of the protagonist's experiences, including drug use and its consequences. Despite not condoning his actions, there's a certain satisfaction in witnessing his resilience amidst adversity. Gunn's writing is intense and emotive, drawing readers into the protagonist's world and eliciting a range of emotions.
"Traces of the Shadow" is a poignant reminder that life's journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns, and through it all, we find moments of self-discovery and growth. Gunn's honest portrayal makes this book a compelling read for anyone reflecting on their own path through life's shadows.
The book doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of the protagonist's experiences, including drug use and its consequences. Despite not condoning his actions, there's a certain satisfaction in witnessing his resilience amidst adversity. Gunn's writing is intense and emotive, drawing readers into the protagonist's world and eliciting a range of emotions.
"Traces of the Shadow" is a poignant reminder that life's journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns, and through it all, we find moments of self-discovery and growth. Gunn's honest portrayal makes this book a compelling read for anyone reflecting on their own path through life's shadows.
June 19, 2024
Stuart Gunn's memoir, "Traces of the Shadow," vividly captures the essence of his upbringing in Grandview, Utah, a serene town nestled amidst the foothills of central Utah. Gunn paints a nostalgic picture of his childhood, where expansive fruit orchards and endless hayfields served as the backdrop for youthful adventures and explorations. His descriptions evoke a sense of tranquility and freedom that resonates with anyone who has experienced small-town life.
As the neighborhood gradually expands with new houses, Gunn skillfully portrays the changes and challenges that come with growth, both in physical surroundings and in personal experiences. His narrative reflects on the evolving landscape of his formative years, blending fond memories with the inevitable transformations of a developing community.
I had a lot of fun reading about Stuart's narrative, and together with his friends, they made an unforgettable journey in their lives even at their young age. Charged with youthfulness and wholesomeness, this book is worth every moment of your time.
As the neighborhood gradually expands with new houses, Gunn skillfully portrays the changes and challenges that come with growth, both in physical surroundings and in personal experiences. His narrative reflects on the evolving landscape of his formative years, blending fond memories with the inevitable transformations of a developing community.
I had a lot of fun reading about Stuart's narrative, and together with his friends, they made an unforgettable journey in their lives even at their young age. Charged with youthfulness and wholesomeness, this book is worth every moment of your time.
June 20, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn is an emotional roller coaster ride through the highs and lows of growing up. Gunn skillfully captures the essence of youth with its laughter, tears, and everything in between. As Stuart navigates his childhood and teenage years, readers are treated to a poignant exploration of life's complexities.
The book doesn't shy away from the tough moments, portraying them with raw honesty that tugs at the heartstrings. Gunn's storytelling prowess shines through as he seamlessly blends humor and heartache, creating a narrative that feels both familiar and deeply personal. Without giving away the ending, Gunn leaves readers with a sense of reflection and closure, hinting at a resolution that lingers long after the final page.
"Traces of the Shadow" is not just a memoir; it's a testament to resilience, growth, and the universal quest for identity. Anyone who has experienced the whirlwind of emotions that comes with adolescence will find themselves nodding along and reminiscing about their own journey.
The book doesn't shy away from the tough moments, portraying them with raw honesty that tugs at the heartstrings. Gunn's storytelling prowess shines through as he seamlessly blends humor and heartache, creating a narrative that feels both familiar and deeply personal. Without giving away the ending, Gunn leaves readers with a sense of reflection and closure, hinting at a resolution that lingers long after the final page.
"Traces of the Shadow" is not just a memoir; it's a testament to resilience, growth, and the universal quest for identity. Anyone who has experienced the whirlwind of emotions that comes with adolescence will find themselves nodding along and reminiscing about their own journey.
June 21, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn invites readers on a nostalgic journey through the tumultuous yet transformative years of childhood and adolescence. Like many, I found myself deeply immersed in Stuart's narrative, as he navigates the delicate balance between innocence and experience. His portrayal of lost innocence, the pressures of peer dynamics, and the discovery of first love resonates profoundly, evoking memories of my own coming-of-age challenges.
Gunn's ability to intertwine universal themes with personal anecdotes makes this memoir both relatable and poignant. I found myself reminiscing about similar moments from my youth, where every triumph and stumble felt like a rite of passage. While the book isn't flawless, Stuart Gunn's skillful use of foreshadowing, metaphorical language, and candid reflections adds depth to the storytelling. "Traces of the Shadow" doesn't just recount a personal journey; it prompts readers to reflect on their own paths to self-discovery, making it a compelling read for anyone nostalgic for the complexities of youth.
Gunn's ability to intertwine universal themes with personal anecdotes makes this memoir both relatable and poignant. I found myself reminiscing about similar moments from my youth, where every triumph and stumble felt like a rite of passage. While the book isn't flawless, Stuart Gunn's skillful use of foreshadowing, metaphorical language, and candid reflections adds depth to the storytelling. "Traces of the Shadow" doesn't just recount a personal journey; it prompts readers to reflect on their own paths to self-discovery, making it a compelling read for anyone nostalgic for the complexities of youth.
June 21, 2024
Pleasantly surprised! Friendship is important in life. This book epitomizes friendship, where one learns to love someone other than family members. Additionally, it teaches how to be yourself in front of others.
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn takes readers on a hilarious journey through the ups and downs of life. I love the scene where Stuart and his partner-in-crime, Trent Flinders, masterminded daring escapades that redefine the meaning of mischief. From staging epic action figure battles with explosive M-80s to dodging imaginary bullets behind wooden pallets, their antics are as thrilling as they are side-splitting. This and more!
Gunn's storytelling prowess shines as he recounts a moment of panic when they believed the cops were on their tail, only to realize it was a case of mistaken identity. The sheer absurdity and innocence of their escapades capture the essence of carefree youth in a small town.
Gunn's ability to blend humor with heartfelt reminiscence makes this memoir a delightful read for anyone who cherishes the wild days of youth.
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn takes readers on a hilarious journey through the ups and downs of life. I love the scene where Stuart and his partner-in-crime, Trent Flinders, masterminded daring escapades that redefine the meaning of mischief. From staging epic action figure battles with explosive M-80s to dodging imaginary bullets behind wooden pallets, their antics are as thrilling as they are side-splitting. This and more!
Gunn's storytelling prowess shines as he recounts a moment of panic when they believed the cops were on their tail, only to realize it was a case of mistaken identity. The sheer absurdity and innocence of their escapades capture the essence of carefree youth in a small town.
Gunn's ability to blend humor with heartfelt reminiscence makes this memoir a delightful read for anyone who cherishes the wild days of youth.
June 19, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn delves deep into the personal odyssey of a young man driven by dual aspirations: to achieve fame as a professional drummer and to discover enduring love. Gunn's narrative skillfully navigates the twists and turns of life's unpredictability, where certainties meet the enigmatic hand of fate. Through his journey, Gunn portrays the universal theme of grappling with uncertainty, blending real-life encounters with the mysterious forces that shape destiny.
Gunn's storytelling resonates with authenticity, capturing the essence of youthful ambition and the quest for identity amidst life's shadows. His introspective exploration offers readers a poignant reminder that personal growth often emerges from navigating the unexpected. "Traces of the Shadow" not only chronicles Gunn's pursuit of dreams but also serves as a compelling reflection on the resilience required to confront life's uncertainties head-on.
Gunn's storytelling resonates with authenticity, capturing the essence of youthful ambition and the quest for identity amidst life's shadows. His introspective exploration offers readers a poignant reminder that personal growth often emerges from navigating the unexpected. "Traces of the Shadow" not only chronicles Gunn's pursuit of dreams but also serves as a compelling reflection on the resilience required to confront life's uncertainties head-on.
June 19, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn is a heartfelt journey from childhood innocence to the challenges of becoming an adult. Based on true events, the book explores Gunn's quest to find himself amid life's twists and turns.
The story unfolds with Gunn's dreams of becoming a professional drummer and finding true love, but life doesn't follow a straight path. It's filled with unexpected events and uncertainties that shape Gunn's growth and resilience.
Gunn's narrative captures the essence of personal discovery, showing how he navigates through life's shadows and learns from its complexities. It's a genuine portrayal of overcoming obstacles and finding one's place in the world.
"Traces of the Shadow" is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and evolve. Gunn's storytelling is sincere and engaging, making this book a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into life's journey.
The story unfolds with Gunn's dreams of becoming a professional drummer and finding true love, but life doesn't follow a straight path. It's filled with unexpected events and uncertainties that shape Gunn's growth and resilience.
Gunn's narrative captures the essence of personal discovery, showing how he navigates through life's shadows and learns from its complexities. It's a genuine portrayal of overcoming obstacles and finding one's place in the world.
"Traces of the Shadow" is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and evolve. Gunn's storytelling is sincere and engaging, making this book a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into life's journey.
June 20, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn captivates with its masterful storytelling and poignant reflections on youth. Gunn's writing style shines through with compelling foreshadowing, evocative metaphors, and poetic descriptions that bring the setting to life. His raw honesty adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to empathize with Stuart's journey of self-discovery.
Gunn's adept use of foreshadowing keeps readers engaged, while his metaphors and vivid descriptions create a rich tapestry of memories and emotions. Whether he's recounting moments of innocence lost or navigating the complexities of first love, Gunn's narrative resonates with authenticity and relatability.
The tidy ending of the plot gives the denouement it deserves. And even after everything falls into place, the adventure continues. Stuart is a fine author and he surely knows how to be a teen. I’m looking forward to more of his masterpieces.
Gunn's adept use of foreshadowing keeps readers engaged, while his metaphors and vivid descriptions create a rich tapestry of memories and emotions. Whether he's recounting moments of innocence lost or navigating the complexities of first love, Gunn's narrative resonates with authenticity and relatability.
The tidy ending of the plot gives the denouement it deserves. And even after everything falls into place, the adventure continues. Stuart is a fine author and he surely knows how to be a teen. I’m looking forward to more of his masterpieces.
June 21, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn is not just a memoir but a catalyst for introspection and inspiration. Gunn's poignant narrative of his childhood and teenage years resonates deeply, evoking nostalgia and reflection in readers who have also navigated the trials of adolescence. His honest portrayal of personal growth and the complexities of youth prompts readers to revisit their own coming-of-age experiences.
The memoir's authenticity and relatability are its greatest strengths, encouraging readers to consider documenting their own stories. Gunn's journey serves as a reminder that every life is filled with moments of triumph and turmoil, and that capturing these experiences can be both cathartic and empowering.
It inspires readers to embrace their past, celebrate their journey, and perhaps even embark on their own memoir-writing adventures. This book comes highly recommended by me.
The memoir's authenticity and relatability are its greatest strengths, encouraging readers to consider documenting their own stories. Gunn's journey serves as a reminder that every life is filled with moments of triumph and turmoil, and that capturing these experiences can be both cathartic and empowering.
It inspires readers to embrace their past, celebrate their journey, and perhaps even embark on their own memoir-writing adventures. This book comes highly recommended by me.
June 21, 2024
I have always believed that a book is an outer manifestation of its writer’s innermost being, and "Traces of the Shadow," by Stuart Gunn perfectly lives up to this saying.
Stuart Gunn offers a heartfelt portrayal of family dynamics and childhood friendships in the small town of Grandview, Utah. As the fifth of seven siblings, Gunn shares poignant glimpses into his upbringing, highlighting the camaraderie and occasional mischief that characterized life with four brothers and two sisters.
I love Gunn's narrative and his enduring bond with Trent Flinders, his childhood neighbor and first best friend. Their inseparable companionship forms a cornerstone of Gunn's reminiscences, illustrating the joy and adventures they shared amidst the backdrop of expanding neighborhoods and evolving landscapes.
Stuart Gunn pours out his whole heart into writing this masterpiece and it truly shows in the way his words and his life's journey held so much impact.
Stuart Gunn offers a heartfelt portrayal of family dynamics and childhood friendships in the small town of Grandview, Utah. As the fifth of seven siblings, Gunn shares poignant glimpses into his upbringing, highlighting the camaraderie and occasional mischief that characterized life with four brothers and two sisters.
I love Gunn's narrative and his enduring bond with Trent Flinders, his childhood neighbor and first best friend. Their inseparable companionship forms a cornerstone of Gunn's reminiscences, illustrating the joy and adventures they shared amidst the backdrop of expanding neighborhoods and evolving landscapes.
Stuart Gunn pours out his whole heart into writing this masterpiece and it truly shows in the way his words and his life's journey held so much impact.
June 19, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn is a reflective journey that delves deep into the transformative years of adolescence. Gunn, drawing from personal experience and tragedy.
Gunn's reflective conclusion underscores the rapid changes and unexpected twists that define life's trajectory. His memoir not only chronicles personal evolution but also resonates with broader themes of resilience and self-discovery amidst adversity. Through poetic prose and candid storytelling, Gunn invites readers to contemplate their own paths, finding solace and inspiration in the shared human experience.
Personally, this book will deeply resonate with readers in the most thrilling of ways. I appreciate how the author shares the most unforgettable moments of his life, which can serve as valuable lessons for others.
Gunn's reflective conclusion underscores the rapid changes and unexpected twists that define life's trajectory. His memoir not only chronicles personal evolution but also resonates with broader themes of resilience and self-discovery amidst adversity. Through poetic prose and candid storytelling, Gunn invites readers to contemplate their own paths, finding solace and inspiration in the shared human experience.
Personally, this book will deeply resonate with readers in the most thrilling of ways. I appreciate how the author shares the most unforgettable moments of his life, which can serve as valuable lessons for others.
June 20, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn dives deep into the tumultuous journey of adolescence, tackling themes of friendship, teenage angst, and the harsh realities of drug use, depression, and suicide. Gunn's narrative unfolds as a poignant coming-of-age story, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by young adults.
Set against the backdrop of high school life, Gunn skillfully captures the complexities of relationships and the allure of the drug culture prevalent among teens. His exploration of personal aspirations, particularly in music, adds a layer of depth to the narrative, showcasing the protagonist's journey of self-discovery amidst adversity.
Gunn's writing is emotive and heartfelt, drawing readers into the protagonist's struggles and triumphs. This book is a compelling read for anyone navigating the complexities of growing up.
Set against the backdrop of high school life, Gunn skillfully captures the complexities of relationships and the allure of the drug culture prevalent among teens. His exploration of personal aspirations, particularly in music, adds a layer of depth to the narrative, showcasing the protagonist's journey of self-discovery amidst adversity.
Gunn's writing is emotive and heartfelt, drawing readers into the protagonist's struggles and triumphs. This book is a compelling read for anyone navigating the complexities of growing up.
June 20, 2024
"Traces of the Shadow" by Stuart Gunn is a heartfelt exploration of youth, identity, and the journey to self-discovery. Gunn's memoir transports readers back to the turbulence of adolescence, where he candidly navigates the highs and lows of growing up. Through his honest and humorous storytelling, Gunn tackles challenging personal experiences with grace, inviting readers to empathize with his journey.
The book resonates with authenticity as Gunn confronts tough issues from his past, offering insights into the universal struggles of finding one's place in the world. His narrative is both poignant and relatable, capturing the essence of teenage years filled with trials and joys.
Overall, "Traces of the Shadow" is one that I would read again in a few months and still be continually enthralled. Kudos Stuart Gunn for giving us a great nostalgic story.
The book resonates with authenticity as Gunn confronts tough issues from his past, offering insights into the universal struggles of finding one's place in the world. His narrative is both poignant and relatable, capturing the essence of teenage years filled with trials and joys.
Overall, "Traces of the Shadow" is one that I would read again in a few months and still be continually enthralled. Kudos Stuart Gunn for giving us a great nostalgic story.
June 21, 2024
In "Traces of the Shadow," Stuart Gunn's memoir takes a surprising turn with a poignant and impactful event amidst the mischief and laughter of childhood in Grandview. This somber moment contrasts sharply with the lighthearted escapades earlier in the book, revealing the complexities of life even in a small town.
Gunn's ability to blend humor with introspection shines through as he reflects on the profound impact of this event on his younger self and the neighborhood. The narrative shifts gears gracefully, offering readers a deeper insight into the realities that shape our lives beyond the realm of youthful adventures. Despite the serious tone, Gunn's storytelling remains engaging and heartfelt, ensuring that "Traces of the Shadow" continues to resonate long after the final page is turned.
This book makes teens and parents bond together and talk about life.
Gunn's ability to blend humor with introspection shines through as he reflects on the profound impact of this event on his younger self and the neighborhood. The narrative shifts gears gracefully, offering readers a deeper insight into the realities that shape our lives beyond the realm of youthful adventures. Despite the serious tone, Gunn's storytelling remains engaging and heartfelt, ensuring that "Traces of the Shadow" continues to resonate long after the final page is turned.
This book makes teens and parents bond together and talk about life.
December 9, 2018
I thought this was a great read. I couldn’t put it down. I also thought the author did an amazing job with the details. I would have given it 5 stars, but there were a few flaws that I found a little unbelievable for being based on true events, but a good story nonetheless.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews