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Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood
In 2013, Ticcoa Leister was poised to follow her dreams by attending graduate school at Gallaudet University in pursuit of a Master's degree in American Sign Language and Deaf Culture. She was confident that she was on the right path as she gathered her courage to bravely step outside the boundaries of her small hometown in South Carolina. But someone she trusted disagreed, and delivered a devastating blow to her plans. As Ticcoa fought to recover her resolve to serve the Deaf community, the person she clung to the most received catastrophic news of their own.
Unbound is the story of how sisterhood — biological or otherwise — brings freedom in the midst of fear to its author and, indeed, can do so for us all.
Unbound is the story of how sisterhood — biological or otherwise — brings freedom in the midst of fear to its author and, indeed, can do so for us all.
120 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2020
11 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 29, 2020
This was a wonderful book about emotional and spiritual growth that left me in tears. Bad things shouldn't happen to good people but they do. Reading about these times is never easy and I'm sure writing about them is more difficult still, but the author does a great job of capturing these moments in a way that inspires bravery. I'm thankful the author choose to be brave and really experience life, inspite of the emotional and mental struggles that haunted her.
October 5, 2020
I feel like I should preface my review with: I am not a practicing Christian, though I am culturally Christian in a very loose sense. Normally, this is not a book I would have selected as I often find similar books a little preachy. That being said, I powered through Unbound in just under 3 hours and I could not put it down. The only thing keeping me from giving this book all 5 stars is that I love to share books with my friends I don't think many would have the same appreciation for this particular story.
Going into Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood I didn't know what to expect other than a small window in Ticcoa's life. What I found was a story of familiar sounding depression, dreams put off, and the deep friendships formed through the internet. Life long friendships formed through digital conversations and shared interests (or shared rejection in the case of #the4500) was something that struck deep with me as I read about it. Reading about the formation of those friendships is what kept me reading. And in all honesty the slight amusement that I virtually-met Ticcoa and therefore heard of her book kept me going as well. There were parts that made me want to reach through the screen and give Ticcoa a hug as well as ones that made me snort-laugh and scare my cat.
Going into Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood I didn't know what to expect other than a small window in Ticcoa's life. What I found was a story of familiar sounding depression, dreams put off, and the deep friendships formed through the internet. Life long friendships formed through digital conversations and shared interests (or shared rejection in the case of #the4500) was something that struck deep with me as I read about it. Reading about the formation of those friendships is what kept me reading. And in all honesty the slight amusement that I virtually-met Ticcoa and therefore heard of her book kept me going as well. There were parts that made me want to reach through the screen and give Ticcoa a hug as well as ones that made me snort-laugh and scare my cat.
October 6, 2020
I’ve been following Ticcoa on various platforms for a while, and I love her writing.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - I finished it in two sessions!
I would like to say words to Pastor C, but I fear he is but one of many. He so very nearly destroyed a life without so much as a backwards glance!
I’m also an admirer of Anna LeBaron, and reading about her great, giving heart was a joy!
My heart ached for Ticcoa’s sadness, I shed tears with her incredible sad loss and cheered her on to be brave and bold an embrace her glorious future.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - I finished it in two sessions!
I would like to say words to Pastor C, but I fear he is but one of many. He so very nearly destroyed a life without so much as a backwards glance!
I’m also an admirer of Anna LeBaron, and reading about her great, giving heart was a joy!
My heart ached for Ticcoa’s sadness, I shed tears with her incredible sad loss and cheered her on to be brave and bold an embrace her glorious future.
October 30, 2020
I started and finished this book today. The author drew me in with her personal story and I couldn’t put it down. She’s gifted in portraying her grief with beautiful language that makes it palpable, and I found myself welling up with tears several times. She also conveys her bravery and strength as she walks through her grief, as she comes out of her shell, as she leans on others, and as she allows herself to grow. Her journey to becoming Unbound is worth the read.
*I received an early digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This book is not yet available for sale.
*I received an early digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This book is not yet available for sale.
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November 16, 2020This book is a powerful story of what can happen when someone finds their brave. Ticcoa takes on a journey of coming out of darkness, mostly caused by the Church, and into the marvelous light of a sisterhood. She shares her pain and struggles with authenticity. As you read, you will be angry, elated, sad, hopeful, uplifted. It's a beautiful story of struggle and triumph.
October 5, 2020
This book shows how an ordinary life with great Faith can lead to extraordinary things! Ticcoa is so honest about her struggles and the effect someone else’s opinions can have on our lives. She pulls herself up and puts her heart and soul out there in real life and in the retelling in this book. It’s a great read that will help all of become more unbound.
I was lucky enough to get to read an advance copy of the book.
I was lucky enough to get to read an advance copy of the book.
October 5, 2020
UNBOUND is a beautiful book full of HEART, Vulnerability, TRUST, friendship, BRAVERY, overcoming obstacles and more! An inviting read, easy to follow; with so much heart expressed on every page. I felt the journey written was so personal; as if I were right there too! Having a tissue nearby isn't a bad thing! :-)
It was an honor to get to read (a digital copy) as it is not yet available for purchase.
It was an honor to get to read (a digital copy) as it is not yet available for purchase.
October 5, 2020
Inspiring and enjoyable. It’s always a gift to be trusted with and invited into one’s story - even more so when shared with vulnerability and grace.
November 15, 2020
I had the incredible fortune of being chosen to receive an advance reader copy of this book. It is extremely well written and so very relatable. Through the course of her story, I felt like I was part of the author's journey to unleashing all the potential the reader can see in her from the beginning. I found myself excited for her goals, angry at the obstacles that were unjustly put in her path, in awe of the amazing relationships she forged, and ultimately inspired by the strength and drive she possesses throughout.
October 4, 2020
Unbound brought tears to my eyes and soul. Through telling her story of change-and never leaving the way she arrived-Ticcoa took me on a journey of discovery. Finding her place in this world-her purpose. I hope for a sequel one day.
I am grateful to have read an advanced copy.
I am grateful to have read an advanced copy.
November 2, 2020
Not only was Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood good reading, it touched my heart and made me cry. I didn't cry at the sad parts -- I cried at the end where Ticcoa speaks directly to the reader and her words were exactly what I needed to hear at this point in my spiritual and emotional journey.
Should you choose to read this book, you'll see vulnerability and authenticity displayed in the retelling of a journey of growth, healing, and resilience. You'll see how a person can begin to accept grace from others and learn how to apply it to self. You'll see how the Holy Spirit can move in small AND in large ways, and how He can use the love and acceptance of others to do so whether they are strangers, internet friends, family, friends, or "chosen family." You'll see loyalty, faithfulness, and emotional hard work, and be blessed in the process.
Should you choose to read this book, you'll see vulnerability and authenticity displayed in the retelling of a journey of growth, healing, and resilience. You'll see how a person can begin to accept grace from others and learn how to apply it to self. You'll see how the Holy Spirit can move in small AND in large ways, and how He can use the love and acceptance of others to do so whether they are strangers, internet friends, family, friends, or "chosen family." You'll see loyalty, faithfulness, and emotional hard work, and be blessed in the process.
November 18, 2020
A beautiful tragedy turned into a transparent journey of growth; Ticcoa's raw message of heartache, being stuck and frozen in a funk is inspiring. Her revival began in a time where things were still not easy in her life and continues as she navigated her way into a life she wasn't expecting. This book often times feels like the reader is getting a sneak peak into the writer's own private journal, the breakdown of what she was feeling and thinking as life was happening pulls you in to her day to day living through struggles but also brings you into the growth she experienced. This book gives hope. Live is unexpected and we must loosen those bindings that sometimes feel constricting and limiting. Live your life unbound!!!
October 12, 2020
Such an amazing triumph. Beautifully written. Such a heart story inside and out. Hope to all that there is another side there is hope,love, faith all the things. Loved it.
October 28, 2020
Ticcoa’s story inspires me to pursue living into what energizes and excites me!
October 25, 2020
A compelling memoir about struggle and progress. This book chronicles a life that is still being lived, so the triumph is yet to come, but it is an honest telling of challenges, set-backs, and victories along the way. The well-written prose was easy to read and kept me coming back for more. I felt like I actually got to know everyone in the book and found myself rooting for the author.
November 17, 2020
To trust the world with your story is hard, and Ticcoa Leister has done it bravely and without apology. If you've ever felt shattered by grief, wondered about your own path or purpose, or fought with anxiety or depression, you should read this book!
October 28, 2020
This book touched my heart for many reasons. This a beautiful story of hardships, friendship, perseverance, and self discovery. I laughed, I cried, I couldn’t put it down. When I say I cried, I sobbed through many of the pages, not because it’s a sad read, but because I related so intimately to many of her experiences. What I wasn’t expecting, was to finish the book and feel cleansed; like my brain and my heart let a lot of things go that I didn’t realize I was holding on to. It wasn’t just a book for me, it was a realization that we are not alone. We’re all on a journey, some are similar, each is unique - but all can benefit from remembering that “you’re not going back the way you came.”
October 20, 2020
Words are powerful. They can lift you up or crush you. Ticcoa’s story is a testament to the pain, but also the pure joy of belonging to a group, whether family, church or a tribe of fierce women. I was wrapped up in Ticcoa’s personal story and am proud to have received an advance copy. I recommend reading her book.
October 22, 2020
Ticcoa Leister's debut is like reading the diary of a great friend who wants you to know her more deeply. I was drawn in quickly to her story and wanted to see how it would progress. Bravo to Ticcoa's bravery and for finding a path forward in spite of the roadblocks and setbacks.
November 1, 2020
“...for such a time as this” Esther 4:14
The year 2020 is one for the History books, marked by the terms sheltering in place, social distancing and remembered by the endless number of Zoom meetings. What does this have to do with Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood? This book is for such a time as this! In a year when a pandemic has isolated us, ramped up everyone’s struggle with mental health and left us only able to connect online - Ticcoa’s book shows us the power of the World Wide Web and the sisterhood that can be found within it, when used for the good and the betterment of all.
Whether it’s having experienced conflicting insight, doubting ones abilities, uncertainties over whether or not we’ve heard God correctly, slashed or unfulfilled dreams, overcoming obstacles and loss - Ticcoa’s story is one that is relatable to all. You will find yourself within these pages, being reminded that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). This book is proof that God uses us to be beacons of light and encouragement to others, if our ears are tuned to Him and we are willing to walk in obedience.
Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood is a read quick that you won’t want to put down! As the debut novel from Ticcoa Leister, I am excited to see what the future holds for this outstanding advocate for the ASL community and writer!
The year 2020 is one for the History books, marked by the terms sheltering in place, social distancing and remembered by the endless number of Zoom meetings. What does this have to do with Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood? This book is for such a time as this! In a year when a pandemic has isolated us, ramped up everyone’s struggle with mental health and left us only able to connect online - Ticcoa’s book shows us the power of the World Wide Web and the sisterhood that can be found within it, when used for the good and the betterment of all.
Whether it’s having experienced conflicting insight, doubting ones abilities, uncertainties over whether or not we’ve heard God correctly, slashed or unfulfilled dreams, overcoming obstacles and loss - Ticcoa’s story is one that is relatable to all. You will find yourself within these pages, being reminded that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). This book is proof that God uses us to be beacons of light and encouragement to others, if our ears are tuned to Him and we are willing to walk in obedience.
Unbound: A Story of Freedom and Sisterhood is a read quick that you won’t want to put down! As the debut novel from Ticcoa Leister, I am excited to see what the future holds for this outstanding advocate for the ASL community and writer!
October 27, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. Ticcoa writes clearly, while keeping your attention. You get so connected to her by reading her story. Personally, I related so much to it, but even if you can't relate, I think you would enjoy the book. It is a quick read, and so hard to put down. It had me in tears a few times.
October 16, 2020
I am Ticcoa's mom and this book was incredibly eye-opening, I never realized the depression that Ticcoa sunk into... I wish I had paid closer attention.
Be prepared to be confronted, convicted, encouraged and uplifted. In the words from her sister's favorite movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang... "Up from the ashes of disaster, grow the roses of success"... I've just finished reading what looks to be a resounding success! Congratulations Ticcoa. Proud to be able to read an advance copy as part of the launch group.
Be prepared to be confronted, convicted, encouraged and uplifted. In the words from her sister's favorite movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang... "Up from the ashes of disaster, grow the roses of success"... I've just finished reading what looks to be a resounding success! Congratulations Ticcoa. Proud to be able to read an advance copy as part of the launch group.
October 19, 2020
Leister pens an engaging story of personal growth and the power of friendship in her life.
I received an advanced review copy of this book from the author--all opinions are my own.
I received an advanced review copy of this book from the author--all opinions are my own.
November 4, 2020
The author’s recounting of two watershed moments in her life are well written. This book is a quick read and will leave you hoping for a follow up soon.
October 21, 2020
Ticcoa Leister reminds us through Unbound that we are all made to need community. Her story is one that reminds us we all need to rely on each other to lead us towards freedom. And we find that freedom through vulnerability - in being known and knowing others too. This was a quick read for me. It's 4 out of 5 stars because it felt like something was still missing from the story. I've been sitting on writing this review for a few weeks as I've been trying to put my finger on it. I still can't quite put my finger on it.
This story is deeply personal and explores some very tough topics.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. This review is my own, honest opinion.
This story is deeply personal and explores some very tough topics.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. This review is my own, honest opinion.
October 29, 2020
This was a beautiful story about how community really can make a difference in someone's life. This book made me laugh out loud, and cry and it was one I could not put down, no matter how tired I was. What an incredible story of redemption and how even on some of our worst and darkest days, God's got our back.
November 1, 2020
Life changing!
I started reading this morning and couldn't stop until I finished this book. It was like sitting down with a friend and sharing life stories. But even more so, it reminded me that I am UNBOUND. This was just the motivation I needed to DO those things that I've always said I would do "someday"
I started reading this morning and couldn't stop until I finished this book. It was like sitting down with a friend and sharing life stories. But even more so, it reminded me that I am UNBOUND. This was just the motivation I needed to DO those things that I've always said I would do "someday"
November 5, 2020
Good for the soul
This was a great read. I followed along on Ticcoa’s journey and cried for her loss. It was so easy with her writing style to feel like you were there with her on the good and bad days. Her ability to step out of her comfort zone, even if just a little bit, is inspiring.
This was a great read. I followed along on Ticcoa’s journey and cried for her loss. It was so easy with her writing style to feel like you were there with her on the good and bad days. Her ability to step out of her comfort zone, even if just a little bit, is inspiring.
February 1, 2025
Life is messy and hard and complicated. I really enjoyed this book and how Ticcoa told her story with humor and grace. Would definitely recommend this book.
November 16, 2020
More details to follow.
Recommended for public libraries and small group discussions.
Recommended for public libraries and small group discussions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews