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Midpoint: A Memoir
Midpoint: A Memoir is an immigrant woman’s story of perseverance and building a legacy future generations can be proud of.
Patricia Angeles is at the midpoint of the average human lifespan. Decades of experience, mistakes, love, and loss have led her to contemplate what anyone might when they’ve lived half their life. “What kind of legacy am I leaving behind? What do I want my friends and family to remember after I’m gone? What are the biggest life lessons I can impart while I’m still here?”
Through this collection of personal stories, Patricia attempts to assess her answers to these questions, and perhaps encourage others to do the same. Spanning from her childhood in Manila to her immigration and life in Los Angeles, these stories touch on her youth, her acclimation to American culture, her remarkable career in the world of banking, her thoughts on motherhood, the important people who made her who she is today, and major events that forever changed the trajectory of her life.
A raw, honest, poignant, and at times funny read, Patricia aims to inspire her readers to pursue happiness against all odds and to not settle for a life of mediocrity. Through the power of story, this book ultimately asks: What are we but the accumulation of our experiences?
Patricia Angeles is at the midpoint of the average human lifespan. Decades of experience, mistakes, love, and loss have led her to contemplate what anyone might when they’ve lived half their life. “What kind of legacy am I leaving behind? What do I want my friends and family to remember after I’m gone? What are the biggest life lessons I can impart while I’m still here?”
Through this collection of personal stories, Patricia attempts to assess her answers to these questions, and perhaps encourage others to do the same. Spanning from her childhood in Manila to her immigration and life in Los Angeles, these stories touch on her youth, her acclimation to American culture, her remarkable career in the world of banking, her thoughts on motherhood, the important people who made her who she is today, and major events that forever changed the trajectory of her life.
A raw, honest, poignant, and at times funny read, Patricia aims to inspire her readers to pursue happiness against all odds and to not settle for a life of mediocrity. Through the power of story, this book ultimately asks: What are we but the accumulation of our experiences?
- GenresMemoirNonfiction
166 pages, Paperback
Published October 22, 2022
1 person is currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
November 3, 2022
A beautiful and heart-wrenching memoir by Patricia Angeles is an ordinary book written in an ordinary way, which makes it extraordinary. This book is short but full of lessons, adventures, stories and some nostalgia. It’s an emotional yet interesting read because once you start devouring it, you simply can’t stop! Patricia’s writing style is simple and compelling. She has shared her life experiences from the beginning up until now that she has reached a midpoint in her life. She went through a lot of struggles, hurt and loss but she still kept on struggling to be a happy and successful person; which gives the readers of this book motivation to do something more than just sit around or leave everything to fate. She has set some strong examples and shared them through her writing.
November 9, 2022
Midpoint consists of various stories from the author's own life since a very young age. It discusses her struggles and everything she had to go through in her life. The writing is super simple and engaging. Although, it was something out of my comfort genre but I actually really enjoyed it. I bet everyone can find something relatable in the pages of this memoir.
December 23, 2022
Midpoint: A Memoir by Patricia Angeles beautifully illustrates what growing up as an elder millennial looked like for us all. The irony of the parallels between my American and her Philippine experience is shockingly similar and delightful. Beautifully written and compelling, this quick read memoir will make you laugh, think, and compare your experiences to someone you’ve never met, but now feels like a friend.
— Randi Harvey (TV Host, Game Show Host, Author, Senior Managing Editor of RH Publishing)
— Randi Harvey (TV Host, Game Show Host, Author, Senior Managing Editor of RH Publishing)
November 25, 2022
I’m certainly finishing this book more inspired, and ready to take more risks and tackle challenges in life. What I appreciated the most about 'Midpoint', is how easily relatable the narrative is. Sometimes, we are trained to validate only a certain kind of extreme experience—a natural tragedy, life-or-death accident, the loss of beloved people, the fall of fortune empires, addiction, terminal illnesses, etc. Truth is, living is hard in any of its forms, and we need to learn to validate those wounds that are common for all of us—our insecurities, our impulsive decisions, the fear for our loved ones, our frustration at work, recurrent illness, financial missteps, disappointments with family and friends… most of us can understand and relate to these day-to-day pain, which challenges our mental and physical health. If we don’t talk openly about it, though, we don’t suspect other people go through the same struggles as us—all we see is their seemly perfect and put-together lives. In this candid narrative, we can feel how much Patricia Angeles thrives to be the best version of herself, at the same time leaving a timeless declaration of love and maternal advice to her daughters. For me, just the fact the author had to affirm herself whilst moving to a different country—and then climbing the corporate ladder, finding love, and starting a family—is already a herculean milestone; but then, she goes above and beyond and reflects on her life to this point, sharing her valuable lessons with us readers. A recommended read!
June 27, 2023
"Midpoint: A Memoir" by Patricia Angeles is a deeply personal and introspective journey that invites readers to accompany the author on a profound exploration of self-discovery and growth. With remarkable vulnerability and poetic prose, Angeles takes us through the pivotal midpoint of their life, unveiling the complexities of identity, relationships, and the search for meaning.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Angeles' ability to convey the universal struggle of navigating through the uncertainties and challenges of adulthood. Through their vivid and emotive storytelling, readers are effortlessly drawn into the tapestry of Angeles' experiences, emotions, and reflections. Whether grappling with the intricacies of love and heartbreak, wrestling with the pressures of societal expectations, or pondering the nature of happiness and fulfillment, Angeles' introspection resonates on a deeply human level.
What sets "Midpoint" apart is Angeles' distinctive voice, which blends lyrical prose with raw honesty. Each sentence is carefully crafted, carrying a weight and beauty that lingers long after the page has been turned. Angeles masterfully paints vivid landscapes, both external and internal, immersing readers in the settings and emotions that shape their journey. The memoir's power lies not only in the events recounted but also in the poignant introspection that accompanies them.
Furthermore, Angeles' exploration of identity and self-discovery is a central theme that threads throughout the narrative. The author fearlessly confronts their own vulnerabilities and insecurities, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-acceptance and growth. The memoir serves as a reminder that the path to understanding oneself is often convoluted and filled with unexpected twists and turns, yet it is in these moments of uncertainty that true transformation can occur.
While "Midpoint" is a compelling and captivating memoir, there are instances where the pacing feels uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, a deeper exploration of some relationships and supporting characters could have further enriched the narrative.
Nevertheless, "Midpoint: A Memoir" is an evocative and thought-provoking book that will resonate with readers on a profound level. Angeles' courage to delve into the depths of their own experiences, thoughts, and emotions is commendable, and their ability to articulate the universal aspects of the human condition is remarkable. This memoir is a testament to the power of self-reflection, reminding us all of the importance of embracing our own unique journeys toward self- discovery.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Angeles' ability to convey the universal struggle of navigating through the uncertainties and challenges of adulthood. Through their vivid and emotive storytelling, readers are effortlessly drawn into the tapestry of Angeles' experiences, emotions, and reflections. Whether grappling with the intricacies of love and heartbreak, wrestling with the pressures of societal expectations, or pondering the nature of happiness and fulfillment, Angeles' introspection resonates on a deeply human level.
What sets "Midpoint" apart is Angeles' distinctive voice, which blends lyrical prose with raw honesty. Each sentence is carefully crafted, carrying a weight and beauty that lingers long after the page has been turned. Angeles masterfully paints vivid landscapes, both external and internal, immersing readers in the settings and emotions that shape their journey. The memoir's power lies not only in the events recounted but also in the poignant introspection that accompanies them.
Furthermore, Angeles' exploration of identity and self-discovery is a central theme that threads throughout the narrative. The author fearlessly confronts their own vulnerabilities and insecurities, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-acceptance and growth. The memoir serves as a reminder that the path to understanding oneself is often convoluted and filled with unexpected twists and turns, yet it is in these moments of uncertainty that true transformation can occur.
While "Midpoint" is a compelling and captivating memoir, there are instances where the pacing feels uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, a deeper exploration of some relationships and supporting characters could have further enriched the narrative.
Nevertheless, "Midpoint: A Memoir" is an evocative and thought-provoking book that will resonate with readers on a profound level. Angeles' courage to delve into the depths of their own experiences, thoughts, and emotions is commendable, and their ability to articulate the universal aspects of the human condition is remarkable. This memoir is a testament to the power of self-reflection, reminding us all of the importance of embracing our own unique journeys toward self- discovery.
May 14, 2023
Dear Readers,
I trust this note finds you well. A little confession: While I thoroughly enjoyed the writing process (as I knew I would), it took some guts and bravery to finally proceed with publication. On 10/22/2022, I threw caution to the wind and never looked back.
Midpoint: A Memoir for me is:
- A love letter to my girls
- A collection of life stories
- An homage to my Filipino culture & upbringing
- A trip back to memory lane
- A mishmash of unspoken thoughts
- An outlet for random musings
- An attempt to document bits and pieces of important memories in hopes they won’t fade into oblivion
- My most far-fetched dream come true
Whatever it may be to you - I only hope to inspire and delight.
Thank you for giving my book a chance and for supporting indie writers like me.
XOXO,
Patricia Angeles
I trust this note finds you well. A little confession: While I thoroughly enjoyed the writing process (as I knew I would), it took some guts and bravery to finally proceed with publication. On 10/22/2022, I threw caution to the wind and never looked back.
Midpoint: A Memoir for me is:
- A love letter to my girls
- A collection of life stories
- An homage to my Filipino culture & upbringing
- A trip back to memory lane
- A mishmash of unspoken thoughts
- An outlet for random musings
- An attempt to document bits and pieces of important memories in hopes they won’t fade into oblivion
- My most far-fetched dream come true
Whatever it may be to you - I only hope to inspire and delight.
Thank you for giving my book a chance and for supporting indie writers like me.
XOXO,
Patricia Angeles
November 23, 2022
A charming memoir written for the author's daughters and adoring readers who want to see her life through her eyes.
The title of the memoir, Midpoint by Patricia Angeles, struck me hard; it was as if the author had looked back at herself at her prime age. As an older daughter and granddaughter, Patricia was showered with love by her family. A childhood miracle saved her from surgery just when the doctor suggested it as a last resort. One of her best mischief buddies was her aunt Julia, who was like a sister to her.
The author argues that her free and adventurous childhood without the internet added to her creative nature. One time, under pressure to save her friendship, she made the bad choice to steal a neighbour’s fish, which died and was flushed down the toilet. Her father talked her into apologising to the owner. A childhood scar that left the author with a nearly burned right foot can be justified as the root cause of her helicopter parenting. As soon as she hit eight years of age, her creativity complemented her new talent of reading books. This plague of reading enchanted her to read whenever she could, and it became a part of her life. Her reading journey is viewed as an expedition from young adult novels to memoirs, as the book itself is a life journey. Her habit of writing and expressing herself grew stronger. Thus, it made her stronger to help the people around her with their papers and academics and finally get noticed by her crush.
The author also implies her father’s sense of humour to appeal to the readers. Furthermore, her family rules or advice from her father, such as reserving Sundays entirely as family days, laid strong foundations for the author's own family bonding. One can go to extreme measures to protect one's loved ones. She portrayed her mother as someone who would protect her child from mean kids in any way possible. Unlike her parents' relationship, she had to assert herself in her marriage. One such role model who taught her to speak up for herself was Lollie, an entrepreneur. She even described her first heartbreak and her parents' efforts to bring her back to life with the same zeal and energy as before. On a trip to Singapore with friends, she recovers and finally comes back home as cheerfully as possible.
At high school, with its diversity and categorization, it didn’t leave her much choice but to choose to be in the background. After high school, her true life journey began with her decision to study management, her immigration to the US and the issues she faced settling in, her professional life, exhausting pregnancies followed by depression, and a near-scam in publishing her book that left her with debt. This led her to decide upon things that only an adult could understand, but the author has described them for all ages.
It would be unfair to break the interest of the reader by continuing with the rest of the glimpses. So, I chose to leave it to the readers to further explore the book. Also, I was left in awe of the author’s knowledge of books and her spirit to heal from such depression.
For me, it was relatable, and since the events were based on actual events, the setting of the book was clear. The arrangement of the memories is the toughest part, which the author depicted efficiently with tools like relativity, humor, and morality.
As for the characters, though their names were changed to protect their privacy, the essence of the real-life character was still there, which made it an appealing read.
Though it was not my usual choice of genre, it was an enjoyable read as it was vividly depicted. Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your lifelong journey of fighting and loving with us!
The title of the memoir, Midpoint by Patricia Angeles, struck me hard; it was as if the author had looked back at herself at her prime age. As an older daughter and granddaughter, Patricia was showered with love by her family. A childhood miracle saved her from surgery just when the doctor suggested it as a last resort. One of her best mischief buddies was her aunt Julia, who was like a sister to her.
The author argues that her free and adventurous childhood without the internet added to her creative nature. One time, under pressure to save her friendship, she made the bad choice to steal a neighbour’s fish, which died and was flushed down the toilet. Her father talked her into apologising to the owner. A childhood scar that left the author with a nearly burned right foot can be justified as the root cause of her helicopter parenting. As soon as she hit eight years of age, her creativity complemented her new talent of reading books. This plague of reading enchanted her to read whenever she could, and it became a part of her life. Her reading journey is viewed as an expedition from young adult novels to memoirs, as the book itself is a life journey. Her habit of writing and expressing herself grew stronger. Thus, it made her stronger to help the people around her with their papers and academics and finally get noticed by her crush.
The author also implies her father’s sense of humour to appeal to the readers. Furthermore, her family rules or advice from her father, such as reserving Sundays entirely as family days, laid strong foundations for the author's own family bonding. One can go to extreme measures to protect one's loved ones. She portrayed her mother as someone who would protect her child from mean kids in any way possible. Unlike her parents' relationship, she had to assert herself in her marriage. One such role model who taught her to speak up for herself was Lollie, an entrepreneur. She even described her first heartbreak and her parents' efforts to bring her back to life with the same zeal and energy as before. On a trip to Singapore with friends, she recovers and finally comes back home as cheerfully as possible.
At high school, with its diversity and categorization, it didn’t leave her much choice but to choose to be in the background. After high school, her true life journey began with her decision to study management, her immigration to the US and the issues she faced settling in, her professional life, exhausting pregnancies followed by depression, and a near-scam in publishing her book that left her with debt. This led her to decide upon things that only an adult could understand, but the author has described them for all ages.
It would be unfair to break the interest of the reader by continuing with the rest of the glimpses. So, I chose to leave it to the readers to further explore the book. Also, I was left in awe of the author’s knowledge of books and her spirit to heal from such depression.
For me, it was relatable, and since the events were based on actual events, the setting of the book was clear. The arrangement of the memories is the toughest part, which the author depicted efficiently with tools like relativity, humor, and morality.
As for the characters, though their names were changed to protect their privacy, the essence of the real-life character was still there, which made it an appealing read.
Though it was not my usual choice of genre, it was an enjoyable read as it was vividly depicted. Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your lifelong journey of fighting and loving with us!
December 2, 2022
I finished reading this book in just one go, i felt the urge to know more further down about her life experiences as soon as I started reading it, the author has narrated it in a very fine way, the vocabulary is too good.
Many a incidents and phases of her life were relatable to me. She starts telling about her thirty eight years of life from the story her birth, how she was too fragile and light weight when she was born. She was the first child, later telling us about her childhood years and how she was most close to Julia, her father's sister, they both uses to prank on her brother together. Her experience of a family trip, and how she got a burn mark on her right leg there..
Her encounter with book and love towards them starts back when she was just eight year old, she dined getting a Barbie,and choose books.. and one after another she had the whole collection!! Along the way she shared with us the names of several popular and best writing authors.
I'll try some too among them all. And as we all know once you start to read, you feel the urge to check your hand too !! And she did the same... Her first official article was published when she was just fifteen ! Like .. so young !!
She talks about the bond she shared with her father, her mother, grandmother whom she called, 'Lollie'. She helped her get over first break-up. A trip to Singapore.. not everyone has such luck ! Isn't it?
The book also have the second part, in which she talks about her life when they moved to Los Angeles. She was reluctant to live their at first, but slowly everything became normal. She experienced several jobs, she got married, had three sweet children, shared her experience of being pregnant, being mother and how a lady faces several cons of giving birth and what all she goes through !
At last she presents to us the midpoint edition where she has share with us the top thirty eight notable adventures of her life.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot.. and the way I was hooked to reading it for straight two-three hours without a break !! Is how I can assure every reader out there that this book is just too much interesting, the author has done a brilliant way by narrating everything she has experienced.
Many a incidents and phases of her life were relatable to me. She starts telling about her thirty eight years of life from the story her birth, how she was too fragile and light weight when she was born. She was the first child, later telling us about her childhood years and how she was most close to Julia, her father's sister, they both uses to prank on her brother together. Her experience of a family trip, and how she got a burn mark on her right leg there..
Her encounter with book and love towards them starts back when she was just eight year old, she dined getting a Barbie,and choose books.. and one after another she had the whole collection!! Along the way she shared with us the names of several popular and best writing authors.
I'll try some too among them all. And as we all know once you start to read, you feel the urge to check your hand too !! And she did the same... Her first official article was published when she was just fifteen ! Like .. so young !!
She talks about the bond she shared with her father, her mother, grandmother whom she called, 'Lollie'. She helped her get over first break-up. A trip to Singapore.. not everyone has such luck ! Isn't it?
The book also have the second part, in which she talks about her life when they moved to Los Angeles. She was reluctant to live their at first, but slowly everything became normal. She experienced several jobs, she got married, had three sweet children, shared her experience of being pregnant, being mother and how a lady faces several cons of giving birth and what all she goes through !
At last she presents to us the midpoint edition where she has share with us the top thirty eight notable adventures of her life.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot.. and the way I was hooked to reading it for straight two-three hours without a break !! Is how I can assure every reader out there that this book is just too much interesting, the author has done a brilliant way by narrating everything she has experienced.
January 6, 2023
Midpoint: A Memoir by Patricia Angeles is a charming and comforting memoir written for her daughters, showcasing important and meaningful events in her life that shaped her into the person that she is today.
It is a beautifully written memoir that tells her story up to the midpoint in her life, at the age of 38: she illustrates the trials that she has overcome as an individual, and later, as a mother. Born in Manila, Philippines in 1984, she grew up in the golden years before technology and devices, where kids played outside from dawn until dusk, full of imagination and creativity. Illustrated in these formative years are events that shaped her and affected the adult that she grew into: from succumbing to peer pressure, battling body issues, social anxiety, and lacking clear life goals as a young adult. Patricia recollects all of these events and passes on life lessons from each of them, helping her daughters see deeper into her personality.
As a new mother myself, I particularly enjoyed the latter half of her memoir in which she retells the births of her three daughters, and the struggles she and her husband faced as new parents. I greatly appreciated the raw honesty she shared when speaking of the postpartum depression she struggled with, the medical issues childbirth caused, and the anxiety being a new parent causes. Her story felt so raw, so honest, that it inspired me to look back at my own life, and evaluate my own journey.
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your story with the world. In your memoir, you state that every story deserves to be told, and you wish to impart wisdom to others through the lessons you’ve learned in your life. A worthy goal in life, and with this memoir, I believe you have succeeded. All stories do deserve to be told, and I believe that you have imparted some wisdom to me, one woman to another, one mother to another, and I am richer for having read your story. As I near the midpoint of my life, I can only hope to be able to look back at my own life with such introspection and impart some valuable life lessons to my own child.
Reading Midpoint: A Memoir is a gift that you won’t regret, a journey that you will enjoy taking. I highly recommend this uplifting and inspiring work!
It is a beautifully written memoir that tells her story up to the midpoint in her life, at the age of 38: she illustrates the trials that she has overcome as an individual, and later, as a mother. Born in Manila, Philippines in 1984, she grew up in the golden years before technology and devices, where kids played outside from dawn until dusk, full of imagination and creativity. Illustrated in these formative years are events that shaped her and affected the adult that she grew into: from succumbing to peer pressure, battling body issues, social anxiety, and lacking clear life goals as a young adult. Patricia recollects all of these events and passes on life lessons from each of them, helping her daughters see deeper into her personality.
As a new mother myself, I particularly enjoyed the latter half of her memoir in which she retells the births of her three daughters, and the struggles she and her husband faced as new parents. I greatly appreciated the raw honesty she shared when speaking of the postpartum depression she struggled with, the medical issues childbirth caused, and the anxiety being a new parent causes. Her story felt so raw, so honest, that it inspired me to look back at my own life, and evaluate my own journey.
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your story with the world. In your memoir, you state that every story deserves to be told, and you wish to impart wisdom to others through the lessons you’ve learned in your life. A worthy goal in life, and with this memoir, I believe you have succeeded. All stories do deserve to be told, and I believe that you have imparted some wisdom to me, one woman to another, one mother to another, and I am richer for having read your story. As I near the midpoint of my life, I can only hope to be able to look back at my own life with such introspection and impart some valuable life lessons to my own child.
Reading Midpoint: A Memoir is a gift that you won’t regret, a journey that you will enjoy taking. I highly recommend this uplifting and inspiring work!
November 7, 2022
Ms. Angeles takes us on a well-written emotional, sentimental and sometimes rocky journey in a memoir from her birth when she miraculously overcame a congenital heart defect to the present time.
Meant to be directed to her three daughters to describe her life’s journey in a way she cannot during normal day to day interactions, we too share in the journey and are inspired.
The title refers to her assessment of her life’s path at what she considers the midpoint according to statistics. From Manila in her early years to finally emigrating to the United States we experience her life with the people who influenced and shaped her path toward her goals such as her strict father, her grandmother and Andre her life’s partner.
She describes with descriptive phrasing and imagery about leading a rather sheltered existence in the Philippines where she spent happy days with siblings and friends while developing an insatiable appetite for reading and a passion for writing, while always questioning the world around her.
An emotional farewell sets her on a new path as she and family emigrate to the United States. Not to her liking at first and yearning for home, she discovers that when she finally gets a chance for a short visit back there, it is not the same and actually yearns to go back to Los Angeles.
Moving from one non impressive job to another including a lackluster time selling at a hippy dippy women’s clothing store, donning a Curious George costume at a book job, and a head on clash with a bit of discrimination at another job, she finally changes directions, inspired by an ad her father gave her, and steps into the banking world for a more professional delve into the employment world.
Marriage and motherhood take center stage with all the joys and tribulations that go with it laid out in emotional and revealing details about three childbirths and the meaning of love. Ms. Angeles then steps back to assess her journey, its meaning, and looks forward.
This is an excellent read and I highly recommend it for its ability to inspire us to not give up on our goals and persevere, overcoming those inevitable roadblocks that are thrown in our way.
Meant to be directed to her three daughters to describe her life’s journey in a way she cannot during normal day to day interactions, we too share in the journey and are inspired.
The title refers to her assessment of her life’s path at what she considers the midpoint according to statistics. From Manila in her early years to finally emigrating to the United States we experience her life with the people who influenced and shaped her path toward her goals such as her strict father, her grandmother and Andre her life’s partner.
She describes with descriptive phrasing and imagery about leading a rather sheltered existence in the Philippines where she spent happy days with siblings and friends while developing an insatiable appetite for reading and a passion for writing, while always questioning the world around her.
An emotional farewell sets her on a new path as she and family emigrate to the United States. Not to her liking at first and yearning for home, she discovers that when she finally gets a chance for a short visit back there, it is not the same and actually yearns to go back to Los Angeles.
Moving from one non impressive job to another including a lackluster time selling at a hippy dippy women’s clothing store, donning a Curious George costume at a book job, and a head on clash with a bit of discrimination at another job, she finally changes directions, inspired by an ad her father gave her, and steps into the banking world for a more professional delve into the employment world.
Marriage and motherhood take center stage with all the joys and tribulations that go with it laid out in emotional and revealing details about three childbirths and the meaning of love. Ms. Angeles then steps back to assess her journey, its meaning, and looks forward.
This is an excellent read and I highly recommend it for its ability to inspire us to not give up on our goals and persevere, overcoming those inevitable roadblocks that are thrown in our way.
December 14, 2022
In Midpoint: A Memoir, author Patricia Angeles reveals many of the important moments in her life that helped shape the person she has become. The stories contained in this memoir help paint the picture of a woman growing up in the modern world. One of the reminders found throughout the book is how small the world has become and that there are more ways in which people are alike than different. Purchase Here.
Despite growing up in Manila, the majority of the tales from Patricia’s childhood could just as easily have been set somewhere in the United States. The stories contained within Midpoint: A Memoir mostly focus on growing up and finding your place in the world. The author makes it clear that while the book is meant to be an enjoyable read for anyone who picks it up, the audience at the forefront of her mind is her daughters. The stories aim to show that anything is possible while also demonstrating that things are not always easy and that everyone makes mistakes.
The snippets of Patricia’s life vary in tone. However, she carries a level of humor throughout the book. Refreshingly, she does not shy away from admitting to not being perfect, which is not always the case with autobiographies. Rather than ignore her mistakes, she highlights them and takes us through where she went wrong with the invaluable tool of hindsight. Throughout Midpoint: A Memoir, Patricia carries a feeling of good cheer. Whether writing about a funny story from her youth, or a trying time that left her shaken, it is clear that she realizes it all led her to the life she has now, which she wouldn’t trade for anything.
While almost anyone can find relatable material in many stories throughout this memoir, there are still moments when the unique challenges faced by an immigrant and a minority remind us that this small world we live in can be experienced very differently depending on your background. Midpoint: A Memoir is an easy read full of the short stories that make up a life. Patricia Angeles has a thoughtful and elegant way of writing that enables the reader to immerse themselves in her life, one tale at a time.
Despite growing up in Manila, the majority of the tales from Patricia’s childhood could just as easily have been set somewhere in the United States. The stories contained within Midpoint: A Memoir mostly focus on growing up and finding your place in the world. The author makes it clear that while the book is meant to be an enjoyable read for anyone who picks it up, the audience at the forefront of her mind is her daughters. The stories aim to show that anything is possible while also demonstrating that things are not always easy and that everyone makes mistakes.
The snippets of Patricia’s life vary in tone. However, she carries a level of humor throughout the book. Refreshingly, she does not shy away from admitting to not being perfect, which is not always the case with autobiographies. Rather than ignore her mistakes, she highlights them and takes us through where she went wrong with the invaluable tool of hindsight. Throughout Midpoint: A Memoir, Patricia carries a feeling of good cheer. Whether writing about a funny story from her youth, or a trying time that left her shaken, it is clear that she realizes it all led her to the life she has now, which she wouldn’t trade for anything.
While almost anyone can find relatable material in many stories throughout this memoir, there are still moments when the unique challenges faced by an immigrant and a minority remind us that this small world we live in can be experienced very differently depending on your background. Midpoint: A Memoir is an easy read full of the short stories that make up a life. Patricia Angeles has a thoughtful and elegant way of writing that enables the reader to immerse themselves in her life, one tale at a time.
December 20, 2022
Ah, my first memoir! As a younger audience of the book, I can only assume that my perspective on each chapter falls into a different jar. Upon reading, a number of sudden epiphanies and life-long lessons struck me, making the memoir feel more like a mother giving advice than an author simply telling her story and, in a way, a window allowing me a glimpse of how I would battle the difficulties of life.
When we imagine our future lives, we frequently picture ourselves as having achieved the perfect and leisurely life we desire. The common game plan is to: 1. Graduate high school with good grades. 2. Gain admission to your dream university. 3. Finish college. 4. Pursue your dream career. 5. Maintain financial stability and manage your lifestyle.
No wrong turns, no detours, no accidental steps—in fact, we don't even think of it. It was not until I finished the book that I realized that I never pondered on the "how" of achieving my goal of fulfilling my dreams. I've always been afraid of making mistakes—the thought of disapproval and embarrassment makes me shiver. But if there's anything I've learned from Midpoint, it's that those detours are what build and form our character and serve as inspiration to keep fighting for our future.
Life can be a bumpy road with unexpected twists and turns where you find yourself in the complete opposite direction of your destination, but that doesn't stop us from moving forward to smooth the pavement in front of us and strive to make our future a better place. Along with this, I've understood that it's not the materialistic items you've always desired or the high-paying positions you've held that define our journey, but rather the values and even the tiniest habits we acquire along the way.
Ninang, if you are reading this, congratulations on Midpoint! As a reader myself, I can relate to how exciting it is to publish a book of your own. I hope to see you soon! Stay safe, and I wish you all the merriest Christmas!
When we imagine our future lives, we frequently picture ourselves as having achieved the perfect and leisurely life we desire. The common game plan is to: 1. Graduate high school with good grades. 2. Gain admission to your dream university. 3. Finish college. 4. Pursue your dream career. 5. Maintain financial stability and manage your lifestyle.
No wrong turns, no detours, no accidental steps—in fact, we don't even think of it. It was not until I finished the book that I realized that I never pondered on the "how" of achieving my goal of fulfilling my dreams. I've always been afraid of making mistakes—the thought of disapproval and embarrassment makes me shiver. But if there's anything I've learned from Midpoint, it's that those detours are what build and form our character and serve as inspiration to keep fighting for our future.
Life can be a bumpy road with unexpected twists and turns where you find yourself in the complete opposite direction of your destination, but that doesn't stop us from moving forward to smooth the pavement in front of us and strive to make our future a better place. Along with this, I've understood that it's not the materialistic items you've always desired or the high-paying positions you've held that define our journey, but rather the values and even the tiniest habits we acquire along the way.
Ninang, if you are reading this, congratulations on Midpoint! As a reader myself, I can relate to how exciting it is to publish a book of your own. I hope to see you soon! Stay safe, and I wish you all the merriest Christmas!
December 20, 2022
In this short memoir, “Midpoint: A Memoir” by Patricia Angeles it is an incredible showcase of how a person’s life experiences shape their present and their future. Born and raised in Manila, Philippines she grew up just like any other kid in the 80’s by morphing into her favorite Power Ranger and blasting the soundtrack from ‘Now and Then’ while riding her bike through the breeze. Learning from what seemed like insignificant choices at the time when she was an adolescent, these choices come into play later in life. Playing huge factors in how she would navigate her future endeavors and possibilities. After moving to the United States in 2005 to pursue a higher education and a career, she also has faced several phases of life, such as starting a family and the loss of her identity. In writing this memoir while she is halfway through her life as she sees it, with the soul purpose of giving insight of who she is for her daughters, whom this book is so sweetly dedicated to.
I absolutely loved this book! It is such a fast read and I found myself relating and connecting to almost every experience Angeles wrote about and literally plastered a smile on my face. I’ve always enjoyed memoirs specifically because I find people fascinating and highly interesting. It allows oneself to ‘see’ things in a different light through other eyes and invite new and familiar emotions that spark the mind. To break down barriers and provoke fresh thought. I especially adored reminiscing about when we were younger growing up in the 80’s watching the same tv shows and movies. Angeles’s writing is honest and powerful when she speaks on how she navigated through adversity and manmade obstacles earning my respect and admiration.
I absolutely loved this book! It is such a fast read and I found myself relating and connecting to almost every experience Angeles wrote about and literally plastered a smile on my face. I’ve always enjoyed memoirs specifically because I find people fascinating and highly interesting. It allows oneself to ‘see’ things in a different light through other eyes and invite new and familiar emotions that spark the mind. To break down barriers and provoke fresh thought. I especially adored reminiscing about when we were younger growing up in the 80’s watching the same tv shows and movies. Angeles’s writing is honest and powerful when she speaks on how she navigated through adversity and manmade obstacles earning my respect and admiration.
October 26, 2022
Inspiring Memoir
An inspiring memoir of Patricia’s journey as an immigrant, a banker and a mother.
When I began to read the preface, I connected immediately with the author as I am also an immigrant from an island. I was completely absorbed in every chapter of this book, so much so that I could not put it down until I had finished it. You find yourself experiencing every emotion with the author, I smiled, I celebrated and was inspired as I read her story.
The book is separated into two sections, in the first section she talks about her childhood and teenage years in Manila. She shares her stories of her as a young child playing with her siblings and her aunt, and her writing yearbook blurbs for her friends and classmates.
In the second section of the book she talks about moving from The Philippines to Los Angeles as a young adult. She talks about her struggles to keep jobs and how she managed to secure a job in banking after receiving fantastic advice from a colleague. She goes on with sharing the story of her meeting her husband. I love that she shared all three of her childbirth experiences and how she reacted to each of them.
In the third section she lists all the travel adventures she’s had in her lifetime. It was very inspirational for me to read it. I consider myself as a wanderlust but I haven’t been anywhere just yet. Patricia’s story inspires me, telling me I still have more time to do all of that.
Thank you Patricia for sharing your life with the world and allowing us to celebrate the triumphs with you! You are AMAZING! I am so proud of you and the way you have conquered life thus far.
Highly Recommend!
An inspiring memoir of Patricia’s journey as an immigrant, a banker and a mother.
When I began to read the preface, I connected immediately with the author as I am also an immigrant from an island. I was completely absorbed in every chapter of this book, so much so that I could not put it down until I had finished it. You find yourself experiencing every emotion with the author, I smiled, I celebrated and was inspired as I read her story.
The book is separated into two sections, in the first section she talks about her childhood and teenage years in Manila. She shares her stories of her as a young child playing with her siblings and her aunt, and her writing yearbook blurbs for her friends and classmates.
In the second section of the book she talks about moving from The Philippines to Los Angeles as a young adult. She talks about her struggles to keep jobs and how she managed to secure a job in banking after receiving fantastic advice from a colleague. She goes on with sharing the story of her meeting her husband. I love that she shared all three of her childbirth experiences and how she reacted to each of them.
In the third section she lists all the travel adventures she’s had in her lifetime. It was very inspirational for me to read it. I consider myself as a wanderlust but I haven’t been anywhere just yet. Patricia’s story inspires me, telling me I still have more time to do all of that.
Thank you Patricia for sharing your life with the world and allowing us to celebrate the triumphs with you! You are AMAZING! I am so proud of you and the way you have conquered life thus far.
Highly Recommend!
November 16, 2022
Book name - Midpoint: A Memoir
Author - Patricia Angeles
Where do I begin...? Midpoint is a book that surprised me. From the moment I picked it up, I found it almost impossible to put it down. It is a beautiful memoir that is short, well-written, and thoroughly engaging.
The style is simple and nearly conversational, leaving you feeling as though you are reading the life story of a dear friend.
In her memoir, Angeles takes on many different roles, and as the reader, you are left feeling as though you have accompanied her on them. She begins as a child navigating the world, to an immigrant feeling as though she belongs to neither of her homes, a banker, a mother, and a human being who learns as she continues her journey. It was a pleasure to embark on them with her, and it was a journey that had me smiling, laughing, and feeling inspired as I drew toward the end.
She captures the nostalgia for our childhoods in such a way that it has you reflecting on your own, and thinking to yourself about some of the same trials you too underwent as you learned about the world. This is a book that I will undoubtedly read again, and encourage others to read as well.
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing this beautiful memoir with the world and allowing us to learn from, and gain inspiration from the life you have led thus far. Your daughters have so much to be proud of, as through reading this, I too am proud of you and everything you have achieved.
Author - Patricia Angeles
Where do I begin...? Midpoint is a book that surprised me. From the moment I picked it up, I found it almost impossible to put it down. It is a beautiful memoir that is short, well-written, and thoroughly engaging.
The style is simple and nearly conversational, leaving you feeling as though you are reading the life story of a dear friend.
In her memoir, Angeles takes on many different roles, and as the reader, you are left feeling as though you have accompanied her on them. She begins as a child navigating the world, to an immigrant feeling as though she belongs to neither of her homes, a banker, a mother, and a human being who learns as she continues her journey. It was a pleasure to embark on them with her, and it was a journey that had me smiling, laughing, and feeling inspired as I drew toward the end.
She captures the nostalgia for our childhoods in such a way that it has you reflecting on your own, and thinking to yourself about some of the same trials you too underwent as you learned about the world. This is a book that I will undoubtedly read again, and encourage others to read as well.
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing this beautiful memoir with the world and allowing us to learn from, and gain inspiration from the life you have led thus far. Your daughters have so much to be proud of, as through reading this, I too am proud of you and everything you have achieved.
October 26, 2022
At the beginning of the book, it’s written that all stories deserve to be told, I totally agree with that, I think Patricia's story is one of those that touches your heart, is full of life lessons that inspire you, and everyone should give it a try.
From her birth and the miracle that save her. Her childhood in Manila, the shows she watched with her brothers, her summer days that she enjoyed so much, family trips, discovering her passion for reading and writing, the first heartbreak, moving to the US, all those new changes, meet new people, the journey of motherhood and more adventures that remain to be lived.
The author describes with so much affection and emotion in each one of the pages, you manage to feel as if you were reading about a friend, I really felt that she and I shared many things in common, I think that we even have a very similar personality, reading is also my escape, traveling to different worlds through the pages, they’re my safe place. I want to leave a special mention to the chapter "Barbies vs. Books" was one of my favorites, to know the books that she has read, I wrote down several books of World War II that she mentions.
"Through it all, I learned that as long as there are books, I’ll make it out fine."
It was a pleasure to know a about Patricia’s life. She really inspires me.
From her birth and the miracle that save her. Her childhood in Manila, the shows she watched with her brothers, her summer days that she enjoyed so much, family trips, discovering her passion for reading and writing, the first heartbreak, moving to the US, all those new changes, meet new people, the journey of motherhood and more adventures that remain to be lived.
The author describes with so much affection and emotion in each one of the pages, you manage to feel as if you were reading about a friend, I really felt that she and I shared many things in common, I think that we even have a very similar personality, reading is also my escape, traveling to different worlds through the pages, they’re my safe place. I want to leave a special mention to the chapter "Barbies vs. Books" was one of my favorites, to know the books that she has read, I wrote down several books of World War II that she mentions.
"Through it all, I learned that as long as there are books, I’ll make it out fine."
It was a pleasure to know a about Patricia’s life. She really inspires me.
November 1, 2022
Midpoint: A Memoir by Patricia Angeles was a fantastic book. If you like memoirs, you will certainly love this one. Angeles writes this memoir almost as a love letter to her children so that they will know her as a person outside of motherhood. She begins with her birth and continues through childhood and adulthood. Angeles lived in different places including the Philippines and the United States. She does a wonderful job recalling her memories and experiences of both countries. She was able to convey the emotions, scenery, and so much more through her writing in a way that made her book an excellent read. While not everyone can relate to living in the Philippines or immigrating to America, Angeles stories and the lessons or themes they convey are certainly relatable to most.
While the memoir was fantastic and a very enjoyable read, the real gem of this book is Angeles’ writing. Her writing is phenomenal and is such a joy to read. The imagery and descriptions that the author utilizes in her book made me feel like I genuinely knew the people she was talking about and was right there with her through all of her experiences. It also makes it such an engaging read. I found myself hooked from the first page and didn’t want to put it down. If you love memoir, especially ones that are well-written, then this is a fantastic choice! You won’t regret buying this one immediately!
While the memoir was fantastic and a very enjoyable read, the real gem of this book is Angeles’ writing. Her writing is phenomenal and is such a joy to read. The imagery and descriptions that the author utilizes in her book made me feel like I genuinely knew the people she was talking about and was right there with her through all of her experiences. It also makes it such an engaging read. I found myself hooked from the first page and didn’t want to put it down. If you love memoir, especially ones that are well-written, then this is a fantastic choice! You won’t regret buying this one immediately!
November 13, 2022
I didn't notice how time flew by while reading this amazing book. I don't know why, but from the first lines, I was moved by the descriptions. The very style of writing, its colorfulness, and its uniqueness pierced the emotions. I sat for minutes over some of the phrases and pondered how my world was being turned upside down. It was the first thing that touched me, and after that, I started to get into the story of this woman. Just imagining the author describing her soul, and her emotions, made me feel a huge sense of empathy. She described everything in small stories, beginning with her early childhood and ending with the present. Each story had its own title, its own importance, and moral. Somewhere they were chapters of initiation into her family's traditions and culture, or into her turbulent teenage years, somewhere into her work, somewhere into her family, and somewhere into her suffering.
This detailed chronology helped me get fully into the author's feelings and her story, as if I had lived it myself, it couldn't help but be touched.
Honestly, I rarely read memoirs of, in fact, ordinary people. Reading this story made me think about how different everyone's lives are and how this book opened my eyes to life. Stories like this help you imagine life as it really is, rather than making up your own happiness outcome from fairy tales.
This detailed chronology helped me get fully into the author's feelings and her story, as if I had lived it myself, it couldn't help but be touched.
Honestly, I rarely read memoirs of, in fact, ordinary people. Reading this story made me think about how different everyone's lives are and how this book opened my eyes to life. Stories like this help you imagine life as it really is, rather than making up your own happiness outcome from fairy tales.
January 4, 2023
Midpoint by Patricia Angeles is an incredible collection of bite-sized stories from the perspective of a woman who has reached the “midpoint” of her life. From the beginning, the reader is taken behind the curtain of Patricia’s life. From a childhood in the Philippines, to finding herself as an adult in America, we get to hear all of life’s simple truths through the age-old practice of storytelling.
Patricia’s writing makes it feel impossible not to connect to her while reading. It felt like we were sitting in a coffee shop together, swapping life stories. Patricia feels like an old friend.
I loved her tales of childhood. They made me feel nostalgic and caused me to pause and reflect on my own days spent playing in the sun. I miss those days so much now.
A book written to give her children the chance to know their mom in a deeper way, I devoured this book in one sitting. It is small but it packs a punch! It gave such an encouraging reminder to chase our dreams relentlessly and always strive to do our best. This was the perfect book to start 2023 off with and I definitely do not regret reading it.
Thank you Patricia for the opportunity to read your story and get a deeper look into your life up to the Midpoint.
Patricia’s writing makes it feel impossible not to connect to her while reading. It felt like we were sitting in a coffee shop together, swapping life stories. Patricia feels like an old friend.
I loved her tales of childhood. They made me feel nostalgic and caused me to pause and reflect on my own days spent playing in the sun. I miss those days so much now.
A book written to give her children the chance to know their mom in a deeper way, I devoured this book in one sitting. It is small but it packs a punch! It gave such an encouraging reminder to chase our dreams relentlessly and always strive to do our best. This was the perfect book to start 2023 off with and I definitely do not regret reading it.
Thank you Patricia for the opportunity to read your story and get a deeper look into your life up to the Midpoint.
January 6, 2023
I am so impressed. This book is so empowering. It immortalized a mother’s unconditional love for her children. A book with a sense of gratitude towards life. This is so inspiring for it gives you a boost to pursue your dreams and never give up. Patricia showered us with her passion, enough to prove that nothing is impossible in chasing your dream.
This book showed the ups and downs of life, just like a rollercoaster ride. So many curves and loops, that molded the whole character of Patricia. Her endless discernment of the future leads her to where she is -her dream, her happiness, and her own family.
Midpoint seems like the climax of a story. It makes you reflect on the past but also provokes you to look at the future differently. It’s where realization transpires for this is the point of change. Seeing real happiness and the meaning of existence thru the eyes of our precious loved ones is priceless.
This memoir reminds all women and men, from all walks of life, that we create our dream, and we are our own heroes of our stories. We all have our own share of battles. And if we choose to survive the inevitable bitterness of fate then that makes a warrior of life. And Patricia is on the right path for she chooses to be a warrior of her own story – her life.
This book showed the ups and downs of life, just like a rollercoaster ride. So many curves and loops, that molded the whole character of Patricia. Her endless discernment of the future leads her to where she is -her dream, her happiness, and her own family.
Midpoint seems like the climax of a story. It makes you reflect on the past but also provokes you to look at the future differently. It’s where realization transpires for this is the point of change. Seeing real happiness and the meaning of existence thru the eyes of our precious loved ones is priceless.
This memoir reminds all women and men, from all walks of life, that we create our dream, and we are our own heroes of our stories. We all have our own share of battles. And if we choose to survive the inevitable bitterness of fate then that makes a warrior of life. And Patricia is on the right path for she chooses to be a warrior of her own story – her life.
November 9, 2022
↪It's a memoir of an immigrant woman, searching her way to building a legacy for future generations.
↪This is an amazing, inspiring, and heart-wrenching memoir of Patricia where she talked about her life's challenges and struggles.
↪The writer beautifully wrote about her pregnancies and the struggle she faced during the trimester of her second and third children and while having three daughters.
↪It was so inspiring the way she wrote about the career-oriented mother. How she balanced her life between her work and her family.
↪I love that part when she gave up and submitted her resignation letter but her manager ripped it into pieces and motivated her to give a second chance to herself and get back to work and how her manager became her mentor in it and make her a top performer.
↪It was the first memoir that I read and I must say I was so invested in it that I completed it in a single sitting. The writing was so fantastic and gripping that hooked me fully.
↪If you're a memoir reader, you must read it also if you never read any memoir then give it a read you would never regret.
↪This is an amazing, inspiring, and heart-wrenching memoir of Patricia where she talked about her life's challenges and struggles.
↪The writer beautifully wrote about her pregnancies and the struggle she faced during the trimester of her second and third children and while having three daughters.
↪It was so inspiring the way she wrote about the career-oriented mother. How she balanced her life between her work and her family.
↪I love that part when she gave up and submitted her resignation letter but her manager ripped it into pieces and motivated her to give a second chance to herself and get back to work and how her manager became her mentor in it and make her a top performer.
↪It was the first memoir that I read and I must say I was so invested in it that I completed it in a single sitting. The writing was so fantastic and gripping that hooked me fully.
↪If you're a memoir reader, you must read it also if you never read any memoir then give it a read you would never regret.
November 12, 2022
The love of a daughter and mother twinkles against a backdrop of fiercely joyful growth moments in this lightly earnest memoir by Patricia Angeles. Relatable moments and common nostalgia combine with a loving family dynamic and discovering one's passions through dedication, hard work, and healthy dose of gliding into opportunity.
A chronological flow and a good-sense of humor add to the general readability of journalistic lines. Enjoyment emanates from each new milestone breached, each new leap into the unknown yet highly anticipated next chapter. Follow the author following her passions to arrive at a reflective checkpoint on this forward journey called life.
From a foundation of family values to laying a foundation for one herself, from one deceased fish to another deceased fish in a gentle nod to memento mori, her journey comes full circle to a fresh round of possibility. To dream, to grow, to love; this is the life that Angeles espouses with each personal, surprisingly honest short tale of risk and reward.
Readers will find Angeles's example endearing and filled with encouraging practical wisdom.
A chronological flow and a good-sense of humor add to the general readability of journalistic lines. Enjoyment emanates from each new milestone breached, each new leap into the unknown yet highly anticipated next chapter. Follow the author following her passions to arrive at a reflective checkpoint on this forward journey called life.
From a foundation of family values to laying a foundation for one herself, from one deceased fish to another deceased fish in a gentle nod to memento mori, her journey comes full circle to a fresh round of possibility. To dream, to grow, to love; this is the life that Angeles espouses with each personal, surprisingly honest short tale of risk and reward.
Readers will find Angeles's example endearing and filled with encouraging practical wisdom.
November 13, 2022
It was such a joy reading Midpoint: A Memoire by Patricia Angeles. Written as a compilation of moments throughout her life, I was immediately drawn in from the beginning. Her stories take us from her childhood in Manila to being a young woman with an uncertain future in Los Angeles, to establishing an award-winning career and becoming a wife and mother.
Each story offers a glimpse into her journey and, combined with her writing style, evokes a range of emotions. I found myself laughing through her childhood memories of her family, feeling frustrated as she described her challenges early on in her career, and teary-eyed as she recounted the joys and heartaches of becoming a mother.
The recurring theme of finding one’s voice is a journey we can all appreciate, and the ending left me with a feeling of hope for the author and her daughters. I hope they will enjoy these stories as much as I did and smile when they read about the clever girl who used to outsmart her brothers, the young woman who recognized her value and stuck up for herself, and the resilient mother who found the courage to keep going when the zest for life was gone.
A great, uplifting read!
Each story offers a glimpse into her journey and, combined with her writing style, evokes a range of emotions. I found myself laughing through her childhood memories of her family, feeling frustrated as she described her challenges early on in her career, and teary-eyed as she recounted the joys and heartaches of becoming a mother.
The recurring theme of finding one’s voice is a journey we can all appreciate, and the ending left me with a feeling of hope for the author and her daughters. I hope they will enjoy these stories as much as I did and smile when they read about the clever girl who used to outsmart her brothers, the young woman who recognized her value and stuck up for herself, and the resilient mother who found the courage to keep going when the zest for life was gone.
A great, uplifting read!
January 16, 2023
Midpoint, A Memoir tells the story of Patricia Angeles’s journey from her childhood in Manila to her career success as a working mother in Los Angeles. As a working mother myself, her memoir encouraged me to persevere in my professional life, and not to settle for second-best.
Angeles takes us through the twists and turns of growing up - a stolen fish murdered, tween aliases, and how she got the scar on her foot. She discovers a love of literature, writing, and logic early on.
Her path leads her to a degree in business, and eventually to Los Angeles. She longs for her home and friends in the Philippines, but when she returns to visit she realizes with no small degree of loss that things cannot go back to how they were. Los Angeles becomes home.
Angeles recognizes that tradeoffs are unavoidable, but she doesn’t shave off the corners of ambition in order to fit snugly into expectations. She tells of the risks she’s taken, the ones that have paid off and the ones that didn’t. Through exceptional storytelling, this relatable weekend read speaks to the forces that nudge and shape a life, the decisions that lead us to happiness, and the relationships that hold us together.
Angeles takes us through the twists and turns of growing up - a stolen fish murdered, tween aliases, and how she got the scar on her foot. She discovers a love of literature, writing, and logic early on.
Her path leads her to a degree in business, and eventually to Los Angeles. She longs for her home and friends in the Philippines, but when she returns to visit she realizes with no small degree of loss that things cannot go back to how they were. Los Angeles becomes home.
Angeles recognizes that tradeoffs are unavoidable, but she doesn’t shave off the corners of ambition in order to fit snugly into expectations. She tells of the risks she’s taken, the ones that have paid off and the ones that didn’t. Through exceptional storytelling, this relatable weekend read speaks to the forces that nudge and shape a life, the decisions that lead us to happiness, and the relationships that hold us together.
October 26, 2022
My Oh My!!!! Where do I even start? Every once in a while, you come across a book or a memoir where the author promises to tell you about themselves, most of them fail at this, and some succeed, but not like this. Patricia Angeles tells her story in a way unlike anything I have ever seen before. She is bold to tell her things I would never discloses and tells it in a way that makes you turn pages and pages. Her style of writing is exceptional, even as she explains the decades of experience, and the way she talks about her love experience, you can feel every emotion, the excitement, the nerves and how it felt for her to love all those people. I loved every aspect of this book, from the way Patricia tells her story, to how the books make the reader ask themselves questions. What would I have done if I was in that situation? From that moment, you stop judging her and dive deep into her story. I ABSOLUTELY loved this book and I will DEFINITELY RECOMMEND this book to my friends.
November 23, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed Midpoint by Patricia Angeles! I saw myself in her story. Even though I was reading, I felt as though I was catching up with a friend.
This memoir truly helps myself to look back over my own life and connect the dots as to why and how I am the way I am. I can only imagine how her daughters will feel when they read this book. This memoir is refreshing.
The author walks you through navigating and figuring out how to move forward in your early adult years. I feel anyone who reads this will automatically relate and feel seen in some type of way.
The way the author embodies “feel the fear and do it anyway” is inspirational in itself.
I would definitely recommend this book to others. I loved how she has woven the moments of her life together. Her story really can aid in others looking and reflecting on who they are and why. Personally, I loved every bit of this book. The flow and pace is perfect.
This memoir truly helps myself to look back over my own life and connect the dots as to why and how I am the way I am. I can only imagine how her daughters will feel when they read this book. This memoir is refreshing.
The author walks you through navigating and figuring out how to move forward in your early adult years. I feel anyone who reads this will automatically relate and feel seen in some type of way.
The way the author embodies “feel the fear and do it anyway” is inspirational in itself.
I would definitely recommend this book to others. I loved how she has woven the moments of her life together. Her story really can aid in others looking and reflecting on who they are and why. Personally, I loved every bit of this book. The flow and pace is perfect.
January 17, 2023
I haven’t read many memoirs, though there has always been something that’s interested me when it comes to reading about other people’s lives. “Midpoint” by Patricia Angeles is a memoir that doesn’t disappoint! The way she presents the events of her life is entertaining and engaging, and it made me feel like I was sitting with a friend just talking about our experiences. For only being thirty-eight, Patricia has had a lot of experiences that I believe many people can learn from and/or relate to. She dedicates this book to her daughters, and I could only hope that others enjoy this story as much as I have. There seems to be the possibility of a second book, and I’ll be waiting for it to come out in future so I can see what other adventures this author will experience.
Like any book, there are highs and lows, but the underlying feeling of optimism and excitement for the future, as well as the beautiful prose, will keep you turning the page until the very end.
Like any book, there are highs and lows, but the underlying feeling of optimism and excitement for the future, as well as the beautiful prose, will keep you turning the page until the very end.
November 25, 2022
Midpoint is such an emotional yet beautiful memoir. The early life of Patrica Angeles was discussed. She had such a strong and very much inspiring character. She was a daughter, granddaughter, banker, and an absolute great mother.
The memoir was meant to be written for her three daughters to describe her life's journey in a way she could not, which is now being shared and inspired by us.
The title refers to her judgment of her life's path at what she considers the midpoint according to statistics.
It was a wonderful experience reading the memoir. It felt like it was written for me. I could connect with each and everything in the memoir. It has become so close to my heart.
This is an excellent read for the people who wants to get inspired. A person, especially a woman should read it.
Highly recommended!
The memoir was meant to be written for her three daughters to describe her life's journey in a way she could not, which is now being shared and inspired by us.
The title refers to her judgment of her life's path at what she considers the midpoint according to statistics.
It was a wonderful experience reading the memoir. It felt like it was written for me. I could connect with each and everything in the memoir. It has become so close to my heart.
This is an excellent read for the people who wants to get inspired. A person, especially a woman should read it.
Highly recommended!
November 25, 2022
It all started with the wish to show her daughters the different versions that make up their mother. But then, it became a memoir that sure will speak and inspire many more!
Midpoint, by Patricia Angeles, is one of those books that from the moment you start reading it, you can’t put it down. The memoir is composed of a number of stand-alone tales that end up telling us the story of a brave immigrant woman who against all the odds made it big in the bank industry while building a family of her own.
Was it something easy to do? It sure wasn’t!
But Patricia shares with us her vulnerabilities, her braveness, and, most importantly, she inspires us to really go for the things we love the most. I sure recommend this reading for everyone who likes a compelling voice and a well-written book!
I the end, the most extraordinary thing that we can do in life is honorig our true self!
Midpoint, by Patricia Angeles, is one of those books that from the moment you start reading it, you can’t put it down. The memoir is composed of a number of stand-alone tales that end up telling us the story of a brave immigrant woman who against all the odds made it big in the bank industry while building a family of her own.
Was it something easy to do? It sure wasn’t!
But Patricia shares with us her vulnerabilities, her braveness, and, most importantly, she inspires us to really go for the things we love the most. I sure recommend this reading for everyone who likes a compelling voice and a well-written book!
I the end, the most extraordinary thing that we can do in life is honorig our true self!
November 30, 2022
This book is touted as a memoir for the author’s children, something she created so that her daughters can know her in a different light from that of “mother” or “wife.” I think the collected memories in this book will allow them to do exactly that.
The writing is very good, and the descriptive imagery and phrasing took me to places I’ve never visited. The memories are short, small vignettes of moments over the course of the author’s life, telling of her childhood through to the phase of her life currently. I love that the book feels as if it is a conversation between two people. Some of the memories are nostalgic, with others that taught the author some life lesson. There are sad memories, happy memories, memories that speak of simple joy. I enjoyed that the author bared it all… the good, the bad, the ugly.
The writing is very good, and the descriptive imagery and phrasing took me to places I’ve never visited. The memories are short, small vignettes of moments over the course of the author’s life, telling of her childhood through to the phase of her life currently. I love that the book feels as if it is a conversation between two people. Some of the memories are nostalgic, with others that taught the author some life lesson. There are sad memories, happy memories, memories that speak of simple joy. I enjoyed that the author bared it all… the good, the bad, the ugly.
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