What do you think?
Rate this book
Keep Going: The Art of Perseverance
Grandfather says this: “In life there is sadness as well as joy, losing as well as winning, falling as well as standing, hunger as well as plenty, bad as well as good. I do not say this to make you despair, but to teach you…that life is a journey sometimes walked in light and sometimes in shadow.”
Grandfather says this: “Keep going.”
These thought-provoking lessons, passed down by the author’s own Lakota grandfather, will inspire the hundreds of thousands who already know his work—and will tap into the market that has embraced such books as Oriah Mountain Dreamer’s The Invitation.
When a young man’s father dies, he turns to his sagacious grandfather for comfort. Together they sit underneath the family’s cottonwood tree, and the grandfather shares his perspective on life, the perseverance it requires, and the pleasure and pain of the journey. Filled with dialogue, stories, and recollections, each section focuses on a portion of the prose poem “Keep Going” and provides commentary on the text.
Readers will draw comfort, knowledge, and strength from the Grandfather’s wise words—just as Marshall himself did.
Grandfather says this: “Keep going.”
These thought-provoking lessons, passed down by the author’s own Lakota grandfather, will inspire the hundreds of thousands who already know his work—and will tap into the market that has embraced such books as Oriah Mountain Dreamer’s The Invitation.
When a young man’s father dies, he turns to his sagacious grandfather for comfort. Together they sit underneath the family’s cottonwood tree, and the grandfather shares his perspective on life, the perseverance it requires, and the pleasure and pain of the journey. Filled with dialogue, stories, and recollections, each section focuses on a portion of the prose poem “Keep Going” and provides commentary on the text.
Readers will draw comfort, knowledge, and strength from the Grandfather’s wise words—just as Marshall himself did.
144 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2006
64 people are currently reading
886 people want to read
About the author
Joseph M. Marshall III
28 books360 followersJoseph M. Marshall III was born and raised on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation and holds a PhD from the reservation university, which he helped to establish. The award-winning author of ten books, including Hundred in the Hand, The Lakota Way, and The Journey of Crazy Horse, he has also contributed to various publications and written several screenplays. His first language is Lakota, he handcrafts traditional Lakota bows and arrows, and he is a specialist in wilderness survival. Marshall's work as a cultural and historical consultant can be seen and heard in the Turner Network Television and Dreamworks epic television miniseries Into the West. "
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
January 23, 2013
This is, by far, the best book I've ever listened to. Hearing Joseph Marshall read his book was so incredibly comforting and touching that I can't possibly express my full gratitude. If you have children, read this to learn stories to tell them when they ask why life is so hard sometimes. If you miss your grandparents, read this to feel close to them. If you feel lost or ready to give up, read this to help you make the next step.
I've very rarely finished an audiobook thinking, 'I will listen to this again and again,' but here I am thinking just that. I hope you will share my enthusiasm.
I've very rarely finished an audiobook thinking, 'I will listen to this again and again,' but here I am thinking just that. I hope you will share my enthusiasm.
December 29, 2008
This is a wonderful book to read, especially in today's tough times. The story is beautifully told and hopeful, which is what we all need at times -- hope.
July 24, 2025
Chock full of advice to absorb, remember and live by. "When we find ourselves overwhelmed by a situation, we too often think that small effort os the same as no effort. We don't realize that the difference between a small effort and no effort can be gigantic. It may be the difference between winning and losing." p 103
December 19, 2024
Encouraging messages. I think I'm just too jaded for this type of content heheeeeee.
July 5, 2024
Native wisdom about balance, persistence and life, shared through beautiful storytelling from a Grandfather to his grieving son. Engaging, thoughtful, inspired and well written and edited.
December 6, 2012
"Life, we think, measures us by how well we've succeeded or how miserably we have failed. On the other hand, perhaps life doesn't measure us at all, at least not in the same ways we measure over-selves."
Life only can be learned not be taught.
Life only can be learned not be taught.
October 31, 2020
If only we all had an Old Hawk to sit under an ancient chestnut tree with and take advisements and learn of our family line. Life lessons galore, the most simple one being to keep going no matter the trials, is firm in it's roots and prevails most other lessons of life. Wise words I was blessed to have read, thank you Joseph for sharing.
March 15, 2018
A simple read with important truths regarding life.
January 17, 2020
Loved this book! "Keep Going"
Read
March 11, 2023My mom gave me this book after my dad died. Also good medicine for me this week while writing my dad's obituary.
June 13, 2020
Keep Going. A simple message, a simple book.
"If knowledge is strength of mind, then wisdom is the strength of the soul."
Native American wisdom is, to me, some of the greatest there is. I read this twice, skimmed it once more, and appreciated it more each time. I think anyone who reads this can find some wisdom that resonates in these pages. These are some of the things that I appreciated.
The understanding of reality and balance:
"There is love to overcome hate; generosity can diminish greed; truthfulness can reveal lies in the same way the wind dries the flood and rains end the drought."
"Without sadness we would not yearn for joy, and strive to find it, and treasure it when it comes. It is also a fact that neither sadness or joy is with us constantly. And how often one or the other is part of our journey is not always within our control."
Both good times and bad are part of the reality.
"Difficult experiences, whether they are sadness, loss, hunger, poverty, illness, or death, rarely occur because you invited them into your life. But when life does place hardship in your path it always offers a chance to learn strength."
"Life is a journey sometimes walked in light, sometimes in shadow."
"Remember that anything that causes the shadow is smaller than the source of the light."
Keep going.
Compassion:
"Anyone who does not exercise compassion is ignorant of the reality that everyone needs it at some time in life; or we forget that someone has blessed us with compassion at a time when we needed it.
That is the smallness of arrogance. It is a disease of the soul. It can be highly contagious. Ignorance is its carrier. It avenges the souls of those who think there is no reality beyond themselves.
"Those who suffer from the smallness of arrogance think that ill fortune is the fault of those who suffer it; that good fortune is a privilege that belongs to them. Whatever path you take, Grandson, do not succumb to arrogance and endanger your soul. "
The tempering process:
"sometimes we are suddenly immersed in a crisis, or an event that- if we use it- can make us stronger. But that tempering process means that it is necessary to deal with the hard facts of disappointment, sadness, and grief. Part of that process is not to deny those feelings. No one embraces disappointment, sadness, or grief, but neither should we deny ourselves the necessity of experiencing the entire array of human emotions. When our spirit tells us it is time to weep, we should weep."
"Grieving is part of the tempering process."
Endurance. Adversity.
"Rising to face the storm once again may seem foolish, perhaps even self-destructive. But I like to think that in some corner of our spirit there is a spark of defiance. That may be how storms teach us to be strong, by awakening that spark of defiance.
"Standing up to the storm, no matter how many times it blows us down, should teach us that we don't need to be as powerful as the storm to defy it. We only need to be strong enough to stand. Whether we stand shaking in fear or shaking our fist, as long as we stand, we are strong enough."
I liked some of the stories more than others. My favorite is the Three Suitors, about finding the strength and spirit to try one more time, even though all you can do is fall on your face.
"We will always serve ourselves best to take one more step.."
"Every step is a spark that defies the darkness of despair."
"Defy the darkness."
On the great strength in the ability to laugh: "Laughing and weeping should both have a place in our lives."
The NEXT step.
"The most important step isn't the first step or last step, but the steps inbetween... the "next step." Keep going.
Not the length of your stride or the number of steps, only that you take the steps, one after another."
Perseverance in the form of hope:
"Hope is always one more step. There will always be those of us who will succumb to hopelessness, and those who act on hope. I like to believe that most of the time hope will make a difference. "
Keeping hope alive is to know how to keep going.
"If knowledge is strength of mind, then wisdom is the strength of the soul."
Native American wisdom is, to me, some of the greatest there is. I read this twice, skimmed it once more, and appreciated it more each time. I think anyone who reads this can find some wisdom that resonates in these pages. These are some of the things that I appreciated.
The understanding of reality and balance:
"There is love to overcome hate; generosity can diminish greed; truthfulness can reveal lies in the same way the wind dries the flood and rains end the drought."
"Without sadness we would not yearn for joy, and strive to find it, and treasure it when it comes. It is also a fact that neither sadness or joy is with us constantly. And how often one or the other is part of our journey is not always within our control."
Both good times and bad are part of the reality.
"Difficult experiences, whether they are sadness, loss, hunger, poverty, illness, or death, rarely occur because you invited them into your life. But when life does place hardship in your path it always offers a chance to learn strength."
"Life is a journey sometimes walked in light, sometimes in shadow."
"Remember that anything that causes the shadow is smaller than the source of the light."
Keep going.
Compassion:
"Anyone who does not exercise compassion is ignorant of the reality that everyone needs it at some time in life; or we forget that someone has blessed us with compassion at a time when we needed it.
That is the smallness of arrogance. It is a disease of the soul. It can be highly contagious. Ignorance is its carrier. It avenges the souls of those who think there is no reality beyond themselves.
"Those who suffer from the smallness of arrogance think that ill fortune is the fault of those who suffer it; that good fortune is a privilege that belongs to them. Whatever path you take, Grandson, do not succumb to arrogance and endanger your soul. "
The tempering process:
"sometimes we are suddenly immersed in a crisis, or an event that- if we use it- can make us stronger. But that tempering process means that it is necessary to deal with the hard facts of disappointment, sadness, and grief. Part of that process is not to deny those feelings. No one embraces disappointment, sadness, or grief, but neither should we deny ourselves the necessity of experiencing the entire array of human emotions. When our spirit tells us it is time to weep, we should weep."
"Grieving is part of the tempering process."
Endurance. Adversity.
"Rising to face the storm once again may seem foolish, perhaps even self-destructive. But I like to think that in some corner of our spirit there is a spark of defiance. That may be how storms teach us to be strong, by awakening that spark of defiance.
"Standing up to the storm, no matter how many times it blows us down, should teach us that we don't need to be as powerful as the storm to defy it. We only need to be strong enough to stand. Whether we stand shaking in fear or shaking our fist, as long as we stand, we are strong enough."
I liked some of the stories more than others. My favorite is the Three Suitors, about finding the strength and spirit to try one more time, even though all you can do is fall on your face.
"We will always serve ourselves best to take one more step.."
"Every step is a spark that defies the darkness of despair."
"Defy the darkness."
On the great strength in the ability to laugh: "Laughing and weeping should both have a place in our lives."
The NEXT step.
"The most important step isn't the first step or last step, but the steps inbetween... the "next step." Keep going.
Not the length of your stride or the number of steps, only that you take the steps, one after another."
Perseverance in the form of hope:
"Hope is always one more step. There will always be those of us who will succumb to hopelessness, and those who act on hope. I like to believe that most of the time hope will make a difference. "
Keeping hope alive is to know how to keep going.
May 5, 2025
Overall pretty mid but it has a couple nice stories in there. It’s just too cliche with the “just take one more step”, “never give up” type messaging. But I can see how this would be very helpful to someone in a specific chapter of their life.
October 31, 2014
Written very simply, the stories and lessons shared in this little volume are good reminders of things which should be obvious but somehow are not. There are points where the layers get lost, one in particular about a village facing a flood comes to mind. The focus on was on the the taking of each step to save the village, but glosses over was that some people there were too pessimistic to help. That seemed to cry out for more to be said, how did they react to the partial success: did they see the failure? did they see that with their help it would have been better? were they welcomed back when they returned? That one little tale was designed to tell one lesson, but could have contained so much more.
Interspersed among the stories and lessons being shared are little tidbits of the life of the two main characters, even the major parts being thrown in almost as afterthoughts, allowing the two to be anyone even after those details come out, adding an element of universality.
"It is true that wealth buys power and influence, but it does not buy morality, or kindness, or compassion. The pursuit of wealth can blind us to the fact that all of us, rich or poor, can be generous with our time, love, kindness, and compassion. Those virtues, and many more, we can all have in unlimited supply... Anyone who does not exercise compassion is ignorant of the reality that everyone needs it at some time in life; or we forget that someone has blessed us with compassion at a time when we needed it. That is the smallness of arrogance. It is a disease of the soul. It can be highly contagious. Ignorance is its carrier. It ravages the souls of those who think there is no reality beyond themselves."
"But the most important word is *can*. Whatever doesn't kill you *can* make you stronger."
"In truth, we begin dying the day we are born."
"If you visit just about any cemetery in this country, you see that this society denies death."
Interspersed among the stories and lessons being shared are little tidbits of the life of the two main characters, even the major parts being thrown in almost as afterthoughts, allowing the two to be anyone even after those details come out, adding an element of universality.
"It is true that wealth buys power and influence, but it does not buy morality, or kindness, or compassion. The pursuit of wealth can blind us to the fact that all of us, rich or poor, can be generous with our time, love, kindness, and compassion. Those virtues, and many more, we can all have in unlimited supply... Anyone who does not exercise compassion is ignorant of the reality that everyone needs it at some time in life; or we forget that someone has blessed us with compassion at a time when we needed it. That is the smallness of arrogance. It is a disease of the soul. It can be highly contagious. Ignorance is its carrier. It ravages the souls of those who think there is no reality beyond themselves."
"But the most important word is *can*. Whatever doesn't kill you *can* make you stronger."
"In truth, we begin dying the day we are born."
"If you visit just about any cemetery in this country, you see that this society denies death."
October 19, 2012
A friend gave me this book and then gently kept harping at me until I read it. After a particularly difficult day, I grabbed the book in a bit of huff and read it in two sittings.
The book consists of a conversation between a native american man and his grandfather. It is actually true stories compiled into one running conversation.
The crux of the matter is that without pain and sorrow, there cannot be happiness. The only way to proceed in life is to keep going - which is the central message of the book. Sometimes you go alone and sometimes with others but you always keep going.
There is something for everyone to relate to but the words that resonated with me were the following:
" A river begins its journey quietly as a small stream, usually in some obscure place. But it is a seeker determined to find its way. It does not know how to yield to obstacles, which can deter it for a time but cannot stop it. In a good season, a river grows and gathers strength from melting snows. Spring and summer rains also send down their encouragement. However, a bad season with less snow and rain may slow its flow to a mere trickle at times.
Nevertheless, the river inexorably follows the path it has made for itself, or it carves a new course if necessary. It is unstoppable.
A river can be wide or narrow, shallow or deep, swift or slow. But of all its characteristics, two are most distinctive: It creates its own path and it flows relentlessly. So long as there is winter snow in the mountains, spring rains and gravity, rivers will flow, they will persevere."
I am in the process of carving a new path, and I have slowed to a mere trickle, and I am alone but I am a seeker. And still I flow.
Lesson learned. Thanks for making me read the book.
The book consists of a conversation between a native american man and his grandfather. It is actually true stories compiled into one running conversation.
The crux of the matter is that without pain and sorrow, there cannot be happiness. The only way to proceed in life is to keep going - which is the central message of the book. Sometimes you go alone and sometimes with others but you always keep going.
There is something for everyone to relate to but the words that resonated with me were the following:
" A river begins its journey quietly as a small stream, usually in some obscure place. But it is a seeker determined to find its way. It does not know how to yield to obstacles, which can deter it for a time but cannot stop it. In a good season, a river grows and gathers strength from melting snows. Spring and summer rains also send down their encouragement. However, a bad season with less snow and rain may slow its flow to a mere trickle at times.
Nevertheless, the river inexorably follows the path it has made for itself, or it carves a new course if necessary. It is unstoppable.
A river can be wide or narrow, shallow or deep, swift or slow. But of all its characteristics, two are most distinctive: It creates its own path and it flows relentlessly. So long as there is winter snow in the mountains, spring rains and gravity, rivers will flow, they will persevere."
I am in the process of carving a new path, and I have slowed to a mere trickle, and I am alone but I am a seeker. And still I flow.
Lesson learned. Thanks for making me read the book.
September 13, 2016
I love this author and especially audiobooks--he narrates his books himself and has such a voice that is so rich and sounds so authentic. Listening to native American stories abroad--living in the UAE, away from the US--has been comforting. Listening to native American stories in the US could also be comforting and enlightening. Such grounded, timeless wisdom for individuals, for society. Collections of human lessons are beautiful and useful both.
Now as I confront brain cancer, I looked for a book I could read before bed to wind down, stop my gears from turning, quiet my anxiety and desire to furiously read and learn more about what I can do to get rid of this cancer and never let it return. I picked up a few books by Paolo Coelho I hadn't read yet, and I remembered Joseph Marshall and found this book. What a great book. Easy to rjust open up and let Marshall tell you stories and deep lessons for dealing with hardship and even making sense of it, taking pride in it, learning from it and pushing through it to gain all the positive that comes from it. Things have been going very well for me through treatment after surgery, which I'm grateful for, but they won't always be. When times are hard, I will keep going and this book will be a big, strong foundation for me to rely on for strength for hope, for standing and facing the storm, and for taking one more step. Always one more step.
Now as I confront brain cancer, I looked for a book I could read before bed to wind down, stop my gears from turning, quiet my anxiety and desire to furiously read and learn more about what I can do to get rid of this cancer and never let it return. I picked up a few books by Paolo Coelho I hadn't read yet, and I remembered Joseph Marshall and found this book. What a great book. Easy to rjust open up and let Marshall tell you stories and deep lessons for dealing with hardship and even making sense of it, taking pride in it, learning from it and pushing through it to gain all the positive that comes from it. Things have been going very well for me through treatment after surgery, which I'm grateful for, but they won't always be. When times are hard, I will keep going and this book will be a big, strong foundation for me to rely on for strength for hope, for standing and facing the storm, and for taking one more step. Always one more step.
January 30, 2014
I discovered this little book in our collection the other day as I was poking through our basement books as I often do, just to remind myself of what is there. I didn't remember buying it, or even seeing it there before, but as my family is going through some difficulties right now it seemed that it may have appeared in front of me for a reason. I chose to honor the sign, if that's what it was, and give it a read.
This is a gentle, down to earth book of encouragement. It does not sugar coat reality but instead emphasizes the duality of all aspects of life and the importance of taking another step, no matter how weary you are, or how small that step is. Life is difficult, and those steps will be hard, but you must keep going, and in facing down those storms, you will gain strength.
This is a gentle, down to earth book of encouragement. It does not sugar coat reality but instead emphasizes the duality of all aspects of life and the importance of taking another step, no matter how weary you are, or how small that step is. Life is difficult, and those steps will be hard, but you must keep going, and in facing down those storms, you will gain strength.
July 27, 2021
I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! My dad passed away in May of 2015. In May of 2016 while on a girls trip to West Yellowstone a friend of mine told me about this book after a conversation, which ended in tears, about my dad's passing. I ordered it on the spot that day. It arrived 3 days later after I had gotten a call saying my friend had been hit by a car and killed. I recommend this book to anyone who has ever lost someone and is struggling. Matter a fact I have bought many copies of this book and gave them to people I feel would benefit from it. It made my heart hurt a little less. Like I said I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!
July 17, 2025
편안한 문체지만 중요한 내용을 담고 있다.
좀 어렸을때 이 책을 접했더라면 큰 감동과 위로가 되었을 것이다.
좀 어렸을때 이 책을 접했더라면 큰 감동과 위로가 되었을 것이다.
November 23, 2022
I don’t even know where to start with this book. It moved me; it spoke to me beyond words – it touched my heart and stirred me to think, reflect and plan. I was so moved after just two chapters, that I ordered 4 hard copies (my original purchase was via e-book).
Only 80 printed pages, this book is LONG on wisdom and short on nothing. A young Indian boy who has recently lost his father, asks his Grandfather, “Why is life so hard?” With wisdom achieved only through a mature heart that has felt all emotions known to man, the Grandfather imparts words of wisdom, analogies and metaphors to help the young (and old) navigate this journey we call life. I gleaned such personal enrichment from this book and I know it is one that I will pick up and read again and again, many times in my lifetime. It addresses overcoming fears, adversities and the will to keep going – one step at a time.
I purchased extra copies for a granddaughter who is graduating this year and facing (but not really addressing) fears of stepping out of a parental comfort zone and walking without a crutch. I purchased a copy for my daughter-in-law who has experienced things in her childhood that are hard to forgive and to let go of in hopes that she can realize that when we hold on to our history, we do so at the expense of our destiny. I bought a copy for a friend who is now 10 years divorced from a 30-year marriage, 2 years out of breast cancer recovery, finds herself an empty nester and stepping back into employment after 2 years of being at home. I bought me my own copy to help encourage and give strength as I walk this journey of Alzheimer’s with my husband of 47 years that I might not lose sight of the goal – to bring some kind of comfort to the man who holds the key to my heart – whether he remembers me or not.
This is a book for all ages – young or old. We ALL need validation and reaffirmation that life goes on, whether we choose to be a part of the walking masses or sit on the roadside and watch the parade pass. The hard part is choosing to take a step each day. The easy part is choosing to take a step each day, because after that first step – the next one doesn’t seem so hard. The most important thing is to KEEP GOING.
Only 80 printed pages, this book is LONG on wisdom and short on nothing. A young Indian boy who has recently lost his father, asks his Grandfather, “Why is life so hard?” With wisdom achieved only through a mature heart that has felt all emotions known to man, the Grandfather imparts words of wisdom, analogies and metaphors to help the young (and old) navigate this journey we call life. I gleaned such personal enrichment from this book and I know it is one that I will pick up and read again and again, many times in my lifetime. It addresses overcoming fears, adversities and the will to keep going – one step at a time.
I purchased extra copies for a granddaughter who is graduating this year and facing (but not really addressing) fears of stepping out of a parental comfort zone and walking without a crutch. I purchased a copy for my daughter-in-law who has experienced things in her childhood that are hard to forgive and to let go of in hopes that she can realize that when we hold on to our history, we do so at the expense of our destiny. I bought a copy for a friend who is now 10 years divorced from a 30-year marriage, 2 years out of breast cancer recovery, finds herself an empty nester and stepping back into employment after 2 years of being at home. I bought me my own copy to help encourage and give strength as I walk this journey of Alzheimer’s with my husband of 47 years that I might not lose sight of the goal – to bring some kind of comfort to the man who holds the key to my heart – whether he remembers me or not.
This is a book for all ages – young or old. We ALL need validation and reaffirmation that life goes on, whether we choose to be a part of the walking masses or sit on the roadside and watch the parade pass. The hard part is choosing to take a step each day. The easy part is choosing to take a step each day, because after that first step – the next one doesn’t seem so hard. The most important thing is to KEEP GOING.
December 19, 2020
So much of Grandfather's advice is obvious, but being human, sometimes a gentle reminder can help us back onto the path of a well-lived life. I liked the layout... the advice, often followed by a short, simple story that helps me remember the advice. A couple of stories that really made an impression on me were the following: the one of the women decorating their grey blankets to answer their own questions about the direction their life took, and the one about the women who led the village into protecting the town from severe flooding leading by example with a single rock.
There were several quotes that I want to share. The first is this:
"It is true that wealth buys power and influence, but it does not buy morality, or kindness, or compassion.... Anyone who does not exercise compassion is ignorant of the reality that everyone needs it at some time in life; or we forget that someone blessed us with compassion at a time when we needed it. That is the smallness of arrogance. It is a disease of the soul. It can be highly contagious. Ignorance is its carrier. It ravages the souls of those who think there is no reality beyond themselves. Those who suffer from the smallness of arrogance think that ill fortune is the fault of those who suffer it; that good fortune is a privilege that belongs to them."
Another talked about leadership and how we the people should choose a leader based on his past deeds, not upon his promises. Also, the more one promises, often the less able he or she is likely to deliver on that promise!
A third quote I liked was this: "If knowledge is strength of mind, then wisdom is the strength of the soul."
I am giving this book to my friend to read so that we may discuss it. That is one reason it gets four stars. I would have given it five but sometimes it seemed depressingly repetitive as Grandfather reiterates over and over again how we have to suffer to appreciate joy.
There were several quotes that I want to share. The first is this:
"It is true that wealth buys power and influence, but it does not buy morality, or kindness, or compassion.... Anyone who does not exercise compassion is ignorant of the reality that everyone needs it at some time in life; or we forget that someone blessed us with compassion at a time when we needed it. That is the smallness of arrogance. It is a disease of the soul. It can be highly contagious. Ignorance is its carrier. It ravages the souls of those who think there is no reality beyond themselves. Those who suffer from the smallness of arrogance think that ill fortune is the fault of those who suffer it; that good fortune is a privilege that belongs to them."
Another talked about leadership and how we the people should choose a leader based on his past deeds, not upon his promises. Also, the more one promises, often the less able he or she is likely to deliver on that promise!
A third quote I liked was this: "If knowledge is strength of mind, then wisdom is the strength of the soul."
I am giving this book to my friend to read so that we may discuss it. That is one reason it gets four stars. I would have given it five but sometimes it seemed depressingly repetitive as Grandfather reiterates over and over again how we have to suffer to appreciate joy.
June 10, 2018
A contrast to many self-help or inspirational books, this one lands, not as a revelation, but as a challenge that is also somehow comforting. A wise little book. Marshall recreates a long conversation with his grandfather as taking place between two fictional characters. There are a few good pull quotes that would go well on a meme; but mostly you want to settle in for each of the stories Grandfather tells in their entirety. Grief, pain, and disappointment don't yield to quick fixes, but to good, wise, trusted company and perseverance. There are echoes of the Stoics here, and of The Road Less Traveled. Marshall's tradition is Native American/Lakota, so he and his grandparents, who raised him, have known long, intractable sorrows. Most of the stories are from his own tradition, but there is one from the Celts, and as an German-Irish American, I found no cultural impediments to appreciating the wisdom he shared. This is an excellent book for those dealing with grief and loss. It is also for those who are sick or unfortunate and need encouragement grounded in knowing that life is hard, that trying does not guarantee winning, and that the ability to persevere often depends on the support we have from, or can give to, friends and family.
November 13, 2020
This book was so amazingly powerful to read. I read this book at a time when I was really struggling with school, family, and friends. In the beginning there is so many teachings, about how you have to “keep going” no matter how tired you may be. With each teaching in this book, there is a story to go with it, I think that is why I loved this book so much. Sometimes as human beings we want to give up when the going gets tough, this book taught me that when times are hard, it makes you stronger as long as you keep going. I can connect with the characters and how they feel, and some of the stories that go along with it. In the story, the main character Jeremy is having a really hard time so he turns to his grandpa for help. I can relate to that so much because the elders are the ones with the most knowledge and life experience. This book helped put into perspective that I have to take that last step to the top of the hill, and I will have made it. When I finished This book I felt as If all of my troubles that I was feeling went away. I cant even put into words the sense of empowerment I now feel. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who needs a little break from the troubles life throws at us, and just sit back and relax and let these words take your mind off of things.
July 21, 2024
The book is structured around the central theme of persistence, emphasizing the importance of maintaining forward momentum even in the face of adversity. Marshall draws heavily on his Native American heritage, weaving in profound lessons from his cultural background that resonate deeply with universal human experiences. This cultural infusion not only enriches the narrative but also provides a unique perspective on resilience and strength.
Marshall’s writing is both eloquent and accessible, making complex ideas relatable and easy to digest. He shares personal stories that are heartfelt and moving, illustrating his points with authenticity and emotional depth. These stories serve as powerful examples of how one can overcome obstacles and keep moving forward, no matter how daunting the challenges may seem.
Another notable aspect of the book is its emphasis on community and interconnectedness. Marshall highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and positive influences, and he underscores the role of community in fostering resilience. This focus on collective strength is a refreshing reminder of the power of human connection in overcoming life's hurdles.
Marshall’s writing is both eloquent and accessible, making complex ideas relatable and easy to digest. He shares personal stories that are heartfelt and moving, illustrating his points with authenticity and emotional depth. These stories serve as powerful examples of how one can overcome obstacles and keep moving forward, no matter how daunting the challenges may seem.
Another notable aspect of the book is its emphasis on community and interconnectedness. Marshall highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and positive influences, and he underscores the role of community in fostering resilience. This focus on collective strength is a refreshing reminder of the power of human connection in overcoming life's hurdles.
August 14, 2019
Một câu chuyện thuật lại do tác giả. Đó chỉ là một cuộc trò chuyện người ông với cháu của mình. Trông câu chuyện ấy, Không đơn thuần chỉ có đúng lời thoại của hai người mà còn kèm theo những câu chuyện về sự cố gắng của một con người, sự kiên trì không từ bỏ và những giá trị sống khác trong quyển sách này.
_ Trong cuộc sống, dẫu có gian nan, thử thách nhưng cũng có sự thành công dành cho con người kiên trị, không từ bỏ. Tuy cũng có thất bại, nhưng lại là một bài học lớn dành cho mỗi con người muốn thành công vững bền. Cuộc sống trong ta cũng có nhưng lúc đau buồn, bi thương, mất mát. Trên những cái đau khổ đó, cũng luôn có những lúc vui buồn bù đắp lại. Những thử thách này dắp vun lên một con người tạo cho họ sự chính chắn hơn, dám đối mặt với mọi hoàn cảnh.
Thật sự, trong cuốn sách này ngắn, nhưng giá trị rất nhiều.
Càng nghẫm, càng thấy cuộc sống thật sự là một món quà tuyệt vời nhất từ thượng đế ban cho mỗi con người chúng ta
_ Trong cuộc sống, dẫu có gian nan, thử thách nhưng cũng có sự thành công dành cho con người kiên trị, không từ bỏ. Tuy cũng có thất bại, nhưng lại là một bài học lớn dành cho mỗi con người muốn thành công vững bền. Cuộc sống trong ta cũng có nhưng lúc đau buồn, bi thương, mất mát. Trên những cái đau khổ đó, cũng luôn có những lúc vui buồn bù đắp lại. Những thử thách này dắp vun lên một con người tạo cho họ sự chính chắn hơn, dám đối mặt với mọi hoàn cảnh.
Thật sự, trong cuốn sách này ngắn, nhưng giá trị rất nhiều.
Càng nghẫm, càng thấy cuộc sống thật sự là một món quà tuyệt vời nhất từ thượng đế ban cho mỗi con người chúng ta
May 12, 2022
I give the Book 4 stars instead of three because it surprised me. The tone at the beginning I really didn’t think I was going to be interested in it. As an indigenous person myself I was excited to see an indigenous author. Then when it played into the realistic but well-known trope of giving advice through storytelling I was a bit disappointed. Not because this isn’t realistic. But because I was hoping for different representation. But I gave the book a chance and it did not disappoint. You can tell the author is truly a storyteller because I was sucked right in and held attentive the whole time. I loved hearing that this was based off of his own grandfather. I gleaned lessons from the stories that pertain to where I am now. I am a storyteller myself and I loved hearing how these stories were told.
May 17, 2022
A young man asks questions of about the nature of life and living. His grandfather shares stories of their people as a way of providing answers - or at least the starting place of answers. The stories are loosely based off of ones that Marshall himself heard a boy from his own grandfather.
For me, the various messages of to hold on, to keep going, and to preserver were comforting. The comfort in large part because it is coming from a people who have been lied to and cheated, who have seen the genocide of European illness and forced boarding school, and yet preserver. Marshall most certainly comes from a place of deep credibility - and an amazing storyteller - to give this work weight.
Also, at the end of the audio, there's an interview of Marshall, which is fascinating in its own right.
For me, the various messages of to hold on, to keep going, and to preserver were comforting. The comfort in large part because it is coming from a people who have been lied to and cheated, who have seen the genocide of European illness and forced boarding school, and yet preserver. Marshall most certainly comes from a place of deep credibility - and an amazing storyteller - to give this work weight.
Also, at the end of the audio, there's an interview of Marshall, which is fascinating in its own right.
April 6, 2021
So I first read this book before my depression hit or at least before the slog of getting out of it wore me down mentally. I really liked it then & I've thought to re-read it several times, but haven't until now. While before I saw it as you know a good lesson to as the title "Keep Going" now it was revolutionary to me. I cried basically throughout this reading. More than anything else it's a celebration of perseverance, of despite how tough things are, we still do our best, even if it's just a little bit, that little bit is something to be celebrated. I can't put this as eloquent as the author, I recommend anyone having such struggles whether it be depression, disability, or something else to read it. It's amazing.
June 22, 2022
Joseph Martin puts into words such wisdom that any reader who has grandparents or elders in their lives can attest to. His simplistic style of writing exhibits great Lakota wisdom and the innately human desire to press on in the face of life’s adversity and challenges.
The only reason I rated this 3 stars is due to the fact that for me personally, though the words speak truth and wisdom, they didn’t necessarily impede their meanings on my mind and soul simply because I don’t require their guidance at this stage in my life. Though I’ve experienced tiresome tribulations in my life, times where I’m sure I could’ve greatly benefitted form this book, it didn’t necessarily speak to me in the way that I’m sure the words are accustomed to. All in all, a good, quick read.
The only reason I rated this 3 stars is due to the fact that for me personally, though the words speak truth and wisdom, they didn’t necessarily impede their meanings on my mind and soul simply because I don’t require their guidance at this stage in my life. Though I’ve experienced tiresome tribulations in my life, times where I’m sure I could’ve greatly benefitted form this book, it didn’t necessarily speak to me in the way that I’m sure the words are accustomed to. All in all, a good, quick read.
January 2, 2017
Joseph M. Marshall III is an excellent writer and listening to him read his book through audio is one of the best ways to read his books! I find a great deal of wisdom in the books I've read so far and this one is definitely one of them. There are nuggets in hear of advice you will want to keep in your back pocket.
I found the way the story was set up a little contrived - a grandfather talking to his grandson. I think I would have preferred to have him tell of his experience with his grandfather. For this reason it gets 3 stars, otherwise the content is 4 star quality! Nonetheless, the book is appreciated and I think it's worth a read!
I found the way the story was set up a little contrived - a grandfather talking to his grandson. I think I would have preferred to have him tell of his experience with his grandfather. For this reason it gets 3 stars, otherwise the content is 4 star quality! Nonetheless, the book is appreciated and I think it's worth a read!
May 7, 2024
"Strength is the child of effort and pain."
I have a soft spot for books narrated by the author. Keep Going by Joseph M Marshall III is an exceptional self-narration, cadence and intonation matching to the story-telling aspect.
With brief chapters, I found myself pausing intermittently to chew over each story being told and the implications on my own life. A reminder to reframe our experiences as neither good nor bad, they just are. That we take away strength and growth from the moments of difficulty.
The last 1/4 of the book is slight autobiographical interview with the author, gaining more insight into the life of Joseph growing up and Lakota storytelling culture.
I have a soft spot for books narrated by the author. Keep Going by Joseph M Marshall III is an exceptional self-narration, cadence and intonation matching to the story-telling aspect.
With brief chapters, I found myself pausing intermittently to chew over each story being told and the implications on my own life. A reminder to reframe our experiences as neither good nor bad, they just are. That we take away strength and growth from the moments of difficulty.
The last 1/4 of the book is slight autobiographical interview with the author, gaining more insight into the life of Joseph growing up and Lakota storytelling culture.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews