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A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments
"A powerful and heartfelt motivational work." ~ KIRKUS Reviews
"... a remarkable and inspiring read that shows just how much of an impact personal belief can have on one's life." ~ Next Generation Indie Book Awards
The multi-award winning memoir about finding possibility after a life-changing accident, A Fraction Stronger shows us how to navigate our darkest moments by setting and achieving high aspirational goals. It provides a reassuring guide as we strive to find meaning after disruption or foster hope after devastation. It inspires us to tackle adversity or complex change through the irrepressible grit of one task, one step, at a time.
Awards and recognition:
Recommended: KIRKUS Reviews 2023
5 Star Book: Chanticleer Reviews 2023
5 Star Seal: Readers' Favorite 2022
5 Star Review: Reader Views 2022
5 Star Review: The Book Commentary 2022
16 x Award Winner including Gold Medallist: Nonfiction Authors Association Book Awards 2022. Full list under Literary Awards.
In a split second, Mark Berridge’s life came crashing down. His bicycle understeered through a corner, the impact wrenching him over the handlebars and catapulting him headfirst into a stormwater drain. A large piece of dislodged vertebrae compressed his spinal cord, causing devastating nerve damage. The accident fractured Mark’s body and his identity. Fortunately, his helmet – though deeply crushed – protected his ability to think and retain valuable memories, allowing him to pursue every possible avenue in his physical recovery and beyond.
Mark spent more than six weeks in hospital and nine months in intensive rehabilitation. His sustained effort to regain mobility became an integral part of his new identity. A Fraction Stronger is Mark’s story, focused on the insight and inspiration that will guide you through life’s impossible moments. Mark shares how small actions, combined with determination to seek out possibility in the darkness, can light your way forwards.
"... a remarkable and inspiring read that shows just how much of an impact personal belief can have on one's life." ~ Next Generation Indie Book Awards
The multi-award winning memoir about finding possibility after a life-changing accident, A Fraction Stronger shows us how to navigate our darkest moments by setting and achieving high aspirational goals. It provides a reassuring guide as we strive to find meaning after disruption or foster hope after devastation. It inspires us to tackle adversity or complex change through the irrepressible grit of one task, one step, at a time.
Awards and recognition:
Recommended: KIRKUS Reviews 2023
5 Star Book: Chanticleer Reviews 2023
5 Star Seal: Readers' Favorite 2022
5 Star Review: Reader Views 2022
5 Star Review: The Book Commentary 2022
16 x Award Winner including Gold Medallist: Nonfiction Authors Association Book Awards 2022. Full list under Literary Awards.
In a split second, Mark Berridge’s life came crashing down. His bicycle understeered through a corner, the impact wrenching him over the handlebars and catapulting him headfirst into a stormwater drain. A large piece of dislodged vertebrae compressed his spinal cord, causing devastating nerve damage. The accident fractured Mark’s body and his identity. Fortunately, his helmet – though deeply crushed – protected his ability to think and retain valuable memories, allowing him to pursue every possible avenue in his physical recovery and beyond.
Mark spent more than six weeks in hospital and nine months in intensive rehabilitation. His sustained effort to regain mobility became an integral part of his new identity. A Fraction Stronger is Mark’s story, focused on the insight and inspiration that will guide you through life’s impossible moments. Mark shares how small actions, combined with determination to seek out possibility in the darkness, can light your way forwards.
- GenresNonfiction
216 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2022
7 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Mark Berridge
4 books3 followersA road cycling incident turned Mark’s world upside down by inflicting devastating spinal cord damage.
Mark summoned the same skill and talent he deployed in the corporate arena to formulate and execute the best possible physical recovery, only to face the battle of renegotiating his identity as both a corporate professional and as a husband and father.
Mark’s determination and conviction have been strengthened and his world view has greater clarity. Mark shares insights from his lived experience with signature humility which have immediate application in both our personal and our professional lives.
Mark summoned the same skill and talent he deployed in the corporate arena to formulate and execute the best possible physical recovery, only to face the battle of renegotiating his identity as both a corporate professional and as a husband and father.
Mark’s determination and conviction have been strengthened and his world view has greater clarity. Mark shares insights from his lived experience with signature humility which have immediate application in both our personal and our professional lives.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 21, 2022
A self-help book that offers a potent blend of powerful anecdotes, wisdom, and succor, “A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments” is an eloquent self-help memoir that follows the author’s road to recovery after a tragic bicycle accident. The events of March 10, 2019 changed the trajectory of his life as he was rushed to the hospital by paramedics. This disrupted his sense of identity and a range of emotions set in, loneliness and fear of setbacks, along with guilt that he was being a burden to his family, and doubt over whether he would fully recover.
Mark credits his recovery to his determination to foster and strengthen that vision, to fight for it when it was becoming distant, and his capacity to reframe his discouragement into a source of motivation, helping him persevere towards that vision. Just as the title suggests, he realized he “had to become a fraction stronger, then a fraction stronger again-repeatedly.” He asserts that one won’t get it right every moment every day but one can make it a habit to revert to, to keep you on that pathway to your vision.
The text occasionally shifts attention from Mark’s own story and builds inspiring anecdotes of those who had overcome or persevered through life-threatening situations and who inspired him during his recovery. One story that stands out is that of indigenous Australian musician Dr. G. Yunupingu, who was born on a remote Australian island known as Elcho. Born left-handed and blind, he could only access a right-handed guitar, which he could only play upside down. Nevertheless, this did not deter him from pursuing his music career and becoming part of the Australian band Yothu Yindi and co-founding the Saltwater band.
Mark’s cogent and five-star work is saturated with stirring and apt quotes, excerpts, and poems that amplify the information. Further, his reassuring and guiding tone, along with an easy and approachable language, makes this book easily consumable to the public. The author’s quiet triumphs and roadmap of self-discovery shine with unyielding grace. In the chapters, the author poses contemplative questions that allow readers to pause their reading and reflect on their journeys as well.
Indeed, one man’s success story can be another’s survival story. “A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments” by Mark Berridge is a profoundly transcendent book whose gentle nudges and drops of wisdom will be a great place to start for anyone seeking encouragement and motivation during these uncertain times.
Mark credits his recovery to his determination to foster and strengthen that vision, to fight for it when it was becoming distant, and his capacity to reframe his discouragement into a source of motivation, helping him persevere towards that vision. Just as the title suggests, he realized he “had to become a fraction stronger, then a fraction stronger again-repeatedly.” He asserts that one won’t get it right every moment every day but one can make it a habit to revert to, to keep you on that pathway to your vision.
The text occasionally shifts attention from Mark’s own story and builds inspiring anecdotes of those who had overcome or persevered through life-threatening situations and who inspired him during his recovery. One story that stands out is that of indigenous Australian musician Dr. G. Yunupingu, who was born on a remote Australian island known as Elcho. Born left-handed and blind, he could only access a right-handed guitar, which he could only play upside down. Nevertheless, this did not deter him from pursuing his music career and becoming part of the Australian band Yothu Yindi and co-founding the Saltwater band.
Mark’s cogent and five-star work is saturated with stirring and apt quotes, excerpts, and poems that amplify the information. Further, his reassuring and guiding tone, along with an easy and approachable language, makes this book easily consumable to the public. The author’s quiet triumphs and roadmap of self-discovery shine with unyielding grace. In the chapters, the author poses contemplative questions that allow readers to pause their reading and reflect on their journeys as well.
Indeed, one man’s success story can be another’s survival story. “A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments” by Mark Berridge is a profoundly transcendent book whose gentle nudges and drops of wisdom will be a great place to start for anyone seeking encouragement and motivation during these uncertain times.
August 17, 2022
This is an inspirational account of Mark's journey following a life-changing cycling accident. Faced with the most daunting physical and emotional challenges Mark digs deep inside himself to find an inner resource which enables him to re-configure his life. He writes in an honest and beautiful way inviting the reader to learn from his own lessons and those of others who have faced extreme life challenges.
It was humbling to read Mark's account and the lessons he details have wide applicability to life in general . I will be buying copies of this book to gift to several people as it offers so much and was a true privilege to read.
I am grateful for the advanced reader copy I received.
It was humbling to read Mark's account and the lessons he details have wide applicability to life in general . I will be buying copies of this book to gift to several people as it offers so much and was a true privilege to read.
I am grateful for the advanced reader copy I received.
June 7, 2023
One of the strengths of this book is the author's ability to capture the depth of his emotional and psychological struggles. He is unafraid to show his darkest moments and his honesty is both refreshing and compelling.
The book is also a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of having a support system. Berridge's journey is not as easy one but he is able to overcome his challenges with the help of his family, friends and healthcare professionals.
A truly inspirational book!
The book is also a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of having a support system. Berridge's journey is not as easy one but he is able to overcome his challenges with the help of his family, friends and healthcare professionals.
A truly inspirational book!
May 29, 2023
A Fraction Stronger by Mark Berridge is a haunting and encouraging tale of human resilience in the face of a tragic bike accident. Part memoir, part inspirational nonfiction, the book draws us into Berridge’s personal tale (and those of others he’s come into contact with) of trauma, despair, courage and resilience; and uses this hook to challenge us, the reader, to access our own places of pain and our resourcefulness. The phrase “never die wondering” stayed with me long after I finished reading the book.
This book was a gift of the author, who I had the pleasure of meeting at a Chanticleer International Book Award (where he was the Keynote speaker, and was their well-deserved Grand Winner in the Overcoming Adversity category). His book is as generous and big-hearted as he is, and I highly recommend for anyone looking for solace and encouragement in the face of a challenge. As someone who struggles with a rare genetic connective tissue disorder, I was heartened by many of the chapter quotes and questions he posed.
This book was a gift of the author, who I had the pleasure of meeting at a Chanticleer International Book Award (where he was the Keynote speaker, and was their well-deserved Grand Winner in the Overcoming Adversity category). His book is as generous and big-hearted as he is, and I highly recommend for anyone looking for solace and encouragement in the face of a challenge. As someone who struggles with a rare genetic connective tissue disorder, I was heartened by many of the chapter quotes and questions he posed.
March 18, 2022
Difficult to review this book. I can't do it justice. Mark's story is inspiring and beautifully written. Speaking as someone recovering from a serious health episode, the book came at exactly the right time for me. It's like self-help that's empathetic, practical and completely non-preachy. So, only read this book if you actually want a gentle guide to figuring out how you csn focus on your personal resilience. It's filled with stories of those who've done the same and provokes you to think how you can do the same.
February 17, 2022
A fraction stronger tell the story of incredible recovery, resilience and determination. The road to recovery detailed in this book gives us all hope and guidance for the tumultuous turns our life can take.
November 22, 2022
🫀There are very few books that make us feel blessed and grateful, this is one of them! This has to be my most favourite and powerful books of the month, it’s so so impactful, heartfelt and strong that I actually re gained so much of my lost confidence and my will to discover all the opportunities I could ever have. This book gave a new meaning to my life and I feel so overwhelmed after reading it.
It’s not just inspiring but also something that taught me to find a color spot in black and white, a fireflies in the darkest hour and how everything can change in a fraction of second.
A story that teaches hope, patience and the way to develop the will to keep going, because someone said if you feel you’re going through hell then keep going because why would you wanna stop in hell!
The writing is easy and well polished and more than that I feel it’s extremely heart felt and emotional, I’m so proud of the author for everything and also it’s not so easy to share the story so raw all over again and go through the pain but the journey that leads light is always beautiful.
This is definitely a book that can be read by absolutely anyone, one should definitely pick it up if you wish to read something that will change your life for good! Go for it. Highly recommended.
Rating: 4.5⭐️
September 21, 2022
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: A Fraction Stronger
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Mark Berridge
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
'A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments' written by Mark Berridge is an inspirational read. This book takes readers on the journey of Mark's life. Recovering after a bike accident was difficult and full of challenges but from day one Mark was determined to recover by becoming a fraction stronger.
With this book, readers' eyes will be opened. Instead of choosing fear, they will learn to embrace uncertainty as the world is full of possibilities if we choose to explore. Because of Mark's corporate experience, he was aware of how to cope with complexity and disruption.
This book has other stories too in addition to Mark's story. Reading about so many brave people inspired me to put my fears behind me. One could learn a lot from Mark's story. It motivates the readers not to be stressed or disheartened during the difficult times in life. Mark's storytelling skills are fantastic. I am glad to get a chance to read his story. It's an insightful and inspiring read.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Mark Berridge
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
'A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments' written by Mark Berridge is an inspirational read. This book takes readers on the journey of Mark's life. Recovering after a bike accident was difficult and full of challenges but from day one Mark was determined to recover by becoming a fraction stronger.
With this book, readers' eyes will be opened. Instead of choosing fear, they will learn to embrace uncertainty as the world is full of possibilities if we choose to explore. Because of Mark's corporate experience, he was aware of how to cope with complexity and disruption.
This book has other stories too in addition to Mark's story. Reading about so many brave people inspired me to put my fears behind me. One could learn a lot from Mark's story. It motivates the readers not to be stressed or disheartened during the difficult times in life. Mark's storytelling skills are fantastic. I am glad to get a chance to read his story. It's an insightful and inspiring read.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
September 21, 2022
A Fraction Stronger
By
Mark Berridge
Review:
Mark Berridge's "A Fraction Stronger" is a memoir that is written beautifully. On 10 Mar 2019, when Mark was biking with his friends, he wouldn't have thought in his wildest dreams that something like this could happen. His bike crash accident compressed two of his vertebrae.
Reading Mark's story taught me about the power of persistence, believing in yourself, self-love, etc. Support from family and friends means a lot during the recovery.
There are so many angels or helpful people around us. We should allow them to help us. There is no shame in taking help from someone. Also, overcoming adversity requires us to put great effort but it will be worth it. Mark's story has proved that.
I love reading memoirs and this is one of the best memoirs that I have read this year. This book teaches us to be stronger and our way of thinking has an important role in that. I realised how challenging life could be. It inspired me not to worry too much in difficult times.
Rating: 5/5
By
Mark Berridge
Review:
Mark Berridge's "A Fraction Stronger" is a memoir that is written beautifully. On 10 Mar 2019, when Mark was biking with his friends, he wouldn't have thought in his wildest dreams that something like this could happen. His bike crash accident compressed two of his vertebrae.
Reading Mark's story taught me about the power of persistence, believing in yourself, self-love, etc. Support from family and friends means a lot during the recovery.
There are so many angels or helpful people around us. We should allow them to help us. There is no shame in taking help from someone. Also, overcoming adversity requires us to put great effort but it will be worth it. Mark's story has proved that.
I love reading memoirs and this is one of the best memoirs that I have read this year. This book teaches us to be stronger and our way of thinking has an important role in that. I realised how challenging life could be. It inspired me not to worry too much in difficult times.
Rating: 5/5
September 21, 2022
"A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments" penned by the author Mark Berridge is a must read.
On 10 Mar 2019, Mark's life turned upside down. His bicycle under steered through the corner and he fell into a stormwater drain. Mark's left shoulder, wrist, three ribs, etc were fractured but luckily because of the quality helmet that he was wearing, his ability to think and retain valuable memories wasn't affected.
This book inspires the readers to focus on getting up after the fall. We should be courageous to tackle our fears and embrace uncertainty.
After reading this book, I realised that I am not courageous but now I have chosen to be a fraction stronger everyday. This book is written very well. I appreciate Mark for sharing his journey with us and inspiring us. After reading this book, I realised how much love and support from others could make a difference in someone's life. So, we should be helpful and kind to others and ourselves. Go for it. It's a book worth reading.
On 10 Mar 2019, Mark's life turned upside down. His bicycle under steered through the corner and he fell into a stormwater drain. Mark's left shoulder, wrist, three ribs, etc were fractured but luckily because of the quality helmet that he was wearing, his ability to think and retain valuable memories wasn't affected.
This book inspires the readers to focus on getting up after the fall. We should be courageous to tackle our fears and embrace uncertainty.
After reading this book, I realised that I am not courageous but now I have chosen to be a fraction stronger everyday. This book is written very well. I appreciate Mark for sharing his journey with us and inspiring us. After reading this book, I realised how much love and support from others could make a difference in someone's life. So, we should be helpful and kind to others and ourselves. Go for it. It's a book worth reading.
December 7, 2022
A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief And Possibility In life’s Impossible Moments is an amazing motivational self help book. In this book Mark has shared his personal story of him of his life changing accident. Read book to know all.
I really love the concept and the way author has narrated it and shared his ideas and experience in it. Just read this book and run experiment into your real life through this books concepts. This book will also act as a guide for you.
Vocabulary of the book is very good and the language of the book is also very easy so even if you're a beginner reader you can read it easily.
Author has narrated this story very nicely and writing style is also pretty good and error free.
Title of the book is very nice and it's a highlight for me.
The cover of the book is highlight for me and It's simple but still looks amazing.
Overall it's an amazing read and I highly recwommend this book to all the readers out there.
I really love the concept and the way author has narrated it and shared his ideas and experience in it. Just read this book and run experiment into your real life through this books concepts. This book will also act as a guide for you.
Vocabulary of the book is very good and the language of the book is also very easy so even if you're a beginner reader you can read it easily.
Author has narrated this story very nicely and writing style is also pretty good and error free.
Title of the book is very nice and it's a highlight for me.
The cover of the book is highlight for me and It's simple but still looks amazing.
Overall it's an amazing read and I highly recwommend this book to all the readers out there.
May 5, 2023
Reading this book was quite an emotional rollercoaster, albeit a great one!
The author takes you through his struggle of a biking accident that leads to surgery and months of hard-fought recovery.
I'm a bit of a paranoid person who deals with hypochondria, but I was surprisingly able to get through this book because of just how powerful and helpful I found the inspiration and encouragement in each chapter.
The author goes through many stories from people around him, or people he had heard of that also suffered some physical ailment. He describes how these people's stories helped lift his spirits in his own time of need and how their lives can be inspiration for everyone.
At the end of most chapters there is a section with a few questions to help you reflect and challenge yourself to become a fraction stronger, which I thought was a wonderful touch.
Definitely give this book a try, especially if you're like me and need a boost of motivation from time to time!
The author takes you through his struggle of a biking accident that leads to surgery and months of hard-fought recovery.
I'm a bit of a paranoid person who deals with hypochondria, but I was surprisingly able to get through this book because of just how powerful and helpful I found the inspiration and encouragement in each chapter.
The author goes through many stories from people around him, or people he had heard of that also suffered some physical ailment. He describes how these people's stories helped lift his spirits in his own time of need and how their lives can be inspiration for everyone.
At the end of most chapters there is a section with a few questions to help you reflect and challenge yourself to become a fraction stronger, which I thought was a wonderful touch.
Definitely give this book a try, especially if you're like me and need a boost of motivation from time to time!
June 14, 2023
One of the best self help book I have read so far. "A Fraction Stronger...." by Mark Berridge is a heart touching, heart warming and superbly inspiring book.
Plot is based upon personal journey of the author himself of fighting with trauma, despair and helplessness after a spine damaging accident. The title of the book is so apt as it reflects the protagonist's small steps towards facing his challenges and struggles with his sheer grit, determination and perseverance and becoming a fraction stronger with each such battle. The plot, the central character and impactful writing make journey of the author a journey of reader himself. His challenges and vulnerabilities become your own and his strength becomes your strength.
This is one of those books which you will read again and again and cherish it for a long time.
Plot is based upon personal journey of the author himself of fighting with trauma, despair and helplessness after a spine damaging accident. The title of the book is so apt as it reflects the protagonist's small steps towards facing his challenges and struggles with his sheer grit, determination and perseverance and becoming a fraction stronger with each such battle. The plot, the central character and impactful writing make journey of the author a journey of reader himself. His challenges and vulnerabilities become your own and his strength becomes your strength.
This is one of those books which you will read again and again and cherish it for a long time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2022
A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments is an amazing motivational self help book. It's an very intriguing book which kept you hooked with it throughout the end of it. There is no way back once you start reading it.
the language of the book is also very easy so even if you're a beginner reader you can read it easily and the vocabulary of the book is also very good
Title of the book is very nice and it's a highlight for me.
writing style is also pretty good and error free.
The cover of the book is also very good and i really loved it. It really grab your attention on first look.
it's an amazing read and I really loved it. I highly recommend this book to all the young readers.
the language of the book is also very easy so even if you're a beginner reader you can read it easily and the vocabulary of the book is also very good
Title of the book is very nice and it's a highlight for me.
writing style is also pretty good and error free.
The cover of the book is also very good and i really loved it. It really grab your attention on first look.
it's an amazing read and I really loved it. I highly recommend this book to all the young readers.
May 21, 2023
The author opens up the book with a split-second decision he had to make, when out riding with his cycling group, and he loses control of his bike. The story continues with his recovery and how, when fear is staring him in the eye, how he changed his mindset to have hope.
He draws on stories of others and their struggles and what he's learned from each of them, and how the reader can be encouraged from not only these stories and his but how we can look around us and find hope in things we have overcome. Overall, I needed this story, to change my mindset when things are hard or don't go according to plan. I highly recommend this book!
He draws on stories of others and their struggles and what he's learned from each of them, and how the reader can be encouraged from not only these stories and his but how we can look around us and find hope in things we have overcome. Overall, I needed this story, to change my mindset when things are hard or don't go according to plan. I highly recommend this book!
November 15, 2022
In the interest of full disclosure, I have to confess that this is the story of a friend of mine. He has been through a very difficult time after a bad bicycle accident and the story of his rehabilitation is quite inspiring. A really good example of what people are capable of when faced with great adversity. Quite an uplifting read, even considering my bias.
October 18, 2023
Miracles happen sometimes and Mark’s story is as close as one comes. Recovering from a horrific accident is one major hurdle, then finding the courage and focus to put the lessons learned into words is another thing!!
Relatable and well written. His numerous awards show that.
I highly recommend to someone wanting inspiration and a guide for doing hard things in life.
Relatable and well written. His numerous awards show that.
I highly recommend to someone wanting inspiration and a guide for doing hard things in life.
August 13, 2022
An absolutely cracking read. Mark shares reflections from his experience of recovering from an identity-alterating accident, lessons that we can all apply to our own life challenges.
April 21, 2023
An inspiring account of coming back from a life changing injury. Words of wisdom and inspiration.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
July 4, 2024
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: A Fraction Stronger
Author: Mark Berridge
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 4/5
Of the 15 readers:
14 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
14 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘subject knowledge’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘clarity of message’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
14 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“This is such an inspiring story. I loved how it was written and how accessible it was. I would recommend this to anybody who enjoys a ‘real’ story.” Male reader, aged 55
“This is not only a well-written autobiography, it’s also informative in terms of striving to be the best you can be. I was so impressed by the author; not only in what he did with his life, but also his ability to share it with others.” Female reader, aged 38
“This is a story about perseverance; about never giving up. Mark’s strength flows from every page. I very much enjoyed following him on his journey.” Female reader, aged 39
“The message of this story is simple: when life hands you lemons, make lemonade. A fascinating read and thoroughly enjoyable.” Male reader, aged 29
To Sum It Up:
‘A thought-provoking and highly motivational memoir. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
3rd July 2024
TITLE: A Fraction Stronger
AUTHOR: Mark Berridge
Star Rating: 5
‘Well-written, accessible, and hugely inspirational. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I think the best way to describe this book (in a single word anyway) is inspirational. It’s the story of the author's recovery from a terrible cycling accident but, unlike many books of this nature, it's not just a ‘tell all’ of what happened to him; it’s also a self-help book offering advice to others on how to make lemonade from lemons.
There are a number of aspects to this book I particularly enjoyed. Firstly, the writing style is very accessible, the author capable of putting over his POV in a way that's not only easy to understand but also compelling. Secondly, I loved how the author delved into so many different subjects, from how kept his spirit up during his long time in hospital to how you can challenge yourself to be the best you can be. Thirdly, I love the central message; how, when challenged, you have to find a way of meeting that challenge. It's a good message; a strong message, the sort I think many readers will benefit from.
So, if you happen to be on the lookout for an inspirational self-help book from an author who's been through the grinder, this is for you. I think, like me, most readers will enjoy rooting for him whilst, at the same time, storing away the helpful tips he offers.
‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
Title: A Fraction Stronger
Author: Mark Berridge
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 4/5
Of the 15 readers:
14 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
14 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘subject knowledge’.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘clarity of message’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
14 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“This is such an inspiring story. I loved how it was written and how accessible it was. I would recommend this to anybody who enjoys a ‘real’ story.” Male reader, aged 55
“This is not only a well-written autobiography, it’s also informative in terms of striving to be the best you can be. I was so impressed by the author; not only in what he did with his life, but also his ability to share it with others.” Female reader, aged 38
“This is a story about perseverance; about never giving up. Mark’s strength flows from every page. I very much enjoyed following him on his journey.” Female reader, aged 39
“The message of this story is simple: when life hands you lemons, make lemonade. A fascinating read and thoroughly enjoyable.” Male reader, aged 29
To Sum It Up:
‘A thought-provoking and highly motivational memoir. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
3rd July 2024
TITLE: A Fraction Stronger
AUTHOR: Mark Berridge
Star Rating: 5
‘Well-written, accessible, and hugely inspirational. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I think the best way to describe this book (in a single word anyway) is inspirational. It’s the story of the author's recovery from a terrible cycling accident but, unlike many books of this nature, it's not just a ‘tell all’ of what happened to him; it’s also a self-help book offering advice to others on how to make lemonade from lemons.
There are a number of aspects to this book I particularly enjoyed. Firstly, the writing style is very accessible, the author capable of putting over his POV in a way that's not only easy to understand but also compelling. Secondly, I loved how the author delved into so many different subjects, from how kept his spirit up during his long time in hospital to how you can challenge yourself to be the best you can be. Thirdly, I love the central message; how, when challenged, you have to find a way of meeting that challenge. It's a good message; a strong message, the sort I think many readers will benefit from.
So, if you happen to be on the lookout for an inspirational self-help book from an author who's been through the grinder, this is for you. I think, like me, most readers will enjoy rooting for him whilst, at the same time, storing away the helpful tips he offers.
‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
April 21, 2023
Mark Berridge's first book A Fraction Stronger has an effect long after the crispness of its pages falls away from your hands. It's a frank outline of a personal trauma laid bare for the world to see. It is beautiful, moving, celebratory and defining in so many ways.
It could be easy to pigeon hole this into a self help/reflection text, yet as you're drawn into Mark's story, it is evident this book is so much more. You feel like a trusted confidant, part of his inner sanctum.
As a social Sunday rider with a (not so extensive) accident under my belt, this book sometimes hit very close to home. I think that extends to anyone with experience in an ED and subsequent out patient visits whether physical or not. Drawing inspiration, courage and strength from previously untapped resources.
I found Mark's courage inspirational, though I'm sure he didn't realise at the time how valuable his 'desire to ‘give back’ – to help others like me wade through the challenges of dealing with change and trauma' would be to so many reading his words.
Underpinning Marks entire journey is reflection and what was so poignant for me was that, in Marks words, '...perhaps a certain reflection will just rest with you – reside in you as an ember, ready to be rekindled in your moment of need.' This moment of need doesn't need to be life changing. It could be life affirming. Yet whatever it is to you, rekindling those embers today can determine your future.
It could be easy to pigeon hole this into a self help/reflection text, yet as you're drawn into Mark's story, it is evident this book is so much more. You feel like a trusted confidant, part of his inner sanctum.
As a social Sunday rider with a (not so extensive) accident under my belt, this book sometimes hit very close to home. I think that extends to anyone with experience in an ED and subsequent out patient visits whether physical or not. Drawing inspiration, courage and strength from previously untapped resources.
I found Mark's courage inspirational, though I'm sure he didn't realise at the time how valuable his 'desire to ‘give back’ – to help others like me wade through the challenges of dealing with change and trauma' would be to so many reading his words.
Underpinning Marks entire journey is reflection and what was so poignant for me was that, in Marks words, '...perhaps a certain reflection will just rest with you – reside in you as an ember, ready to be rekindled in your moment of need.' This moment of need doesn't need to be life changing. It could be life affirming. Yet whatever it is to you, rekindling those embers today can determine your future.
Read
March 21, 2022Do you wonder why it is that we humans must go through adversity to appreciate what is truly important to us and how strong we can be?
Mark Berridge could be yet another cycling statistic we never hear about. Instead he has written his experiences down in detail so we can understand the impact of a split second.
Mark is one of the thousands who end up in hospital after a cycling accident each year in Australia. Most the result of a collision with another vehicle. For Mark it was a loss of steering on a corner that had him thrown headfirst into a drain.
Healing Narrative is a form of writing therapy known to be very effective to support recovery from a wide range of trauma. This book is Mark’s reflection on his seven week treatment and nine month rehabilitation, and insight how he developed the resilience to keep going no matter how dark things got.
He drew strength from those who have prevailed before him and by accepting help from friends, and sometimes strangers.
I was most drawn to Marks detailed description of his treatments and the tough moments he face as his medical team got him up and moving what seemed like inhuman haste after his ops. Reading these highlights that no matter how bad things seem there is always a path forward you can take. Even if it is a fraction at a time.
Thanks for sharing your story Mark and for shedding light on a process that I hope none of your readers ever experience.
And a reminder that the most expensive helmet in the store could be the best insurance policy of all.
Mark Berridge could be yet another cycling statistic we never hear about. Instead he has written his experiences down in detail so we can understand the impact of a split second.
Mark is one of the thousands who end up in hospital after a cycling accident each year in Australia. Most the result of a collision with another vehicle. For Mark it was a loss of steering on a corner that had him thrown headfirst into a drain.
Healing Narrative is a form of writing therapy known to be very effective to support recovery from a wide range of trauma. This book is Mark’s reflection on his seven week treatment and nine month rehabilitation, and insight how he developed the resilience to keep going no matter how dark things got.
He drew strength from those who have prevailed before him and by accepting help from friends, and sometimes strangers.
I was most drawn to Marks detailed description of his treatments and the tough moments he face as his medical team got him up and moving what seemed like inhuman haste after his ops. Reading these highlights that no matter how bad things seem there is always a path forward you can take. Even if it is a fraction at a time.
Thanks for sharing your story Mark and for shedding light on a process that I hope none of your readers ever experience.
And a reminder that the most expensive helmet in the store could be the best insurance policy of all.
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