If you ask people about their earliest memories, most will recall holidays and family parties. But for Arthur, many of his earliest memories include going with his parents to regular hospital visits and staying overnight for blood transfusions. These treatments have been a frequent part of his life since birth because he has beta-thalassemia major: a rare genetic disorder that reduces his body's ability to produce enough healthy red blood cells. When reaching adolescence, most teenagers want more freedom, independence and control in their lives. For Arthur, it was the opposite, as he discovered that his lifespan would only last up to adulthood. After becoming an adult, Arthur was waiting for his death. It was at the eleventh hour, at the age of twenty-one, when Arthur was introduced to a miracle treatment, but only after the damage of iron overload from all the blood transfusion was done to his body. Grateful to be given a chance to survive for a few more years, Arthur decided to do something with his life; to get married, buy a house and also to have children, knowing he had no prospect of any future for himself.

In 'The Iron Boys on the Ore Boats; or, Roughing It on the Great Lakes' by James R. Mears, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the Great Lakes as they follow the adventures of the Iron Boys. The book is written in a fast-paced and engaging manner, with vivid descriptions of life on the ore boats and the challenges faced by the young protagonists. Set in the early 20th century, the novel provides a fascinating glimpse into the industrial world of that time, showcasing the hard work and camaraderie among the boat crews. Mears effectively captures the rugged beauty of the Great Lakes through his descriptive writing, making the setting come alive for readers. James R. Mears, a former sailor on the Great Lakes, brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge and experience to his writing. His intimate understanding of life on the ore boats shines through in the authentic portrayal of the characters and their experiences. Mears' passion for the Great Lakes and its history is evident in every page of this book, making it a must-read for anyone interested in maritime adventures and historical fiction.

In 'The Iron Boys in the Steel Mills; or, Beginning Anew in the Cinder Pits' by James R. Mears, the reader is taken on a journey through the harsh realities of life in the steel mills of America during the late 19th century. Mears' writing style is vivid and evocative, painting a stark picture of the dangerous working conditions and the struggles faced by the young boys employed in the mills. The novel is a gritty portrayal of the industrial revolution and its impact on society, with themes of resilience and hope woven throughout the narrative. The dialogues and descriptions bring to life the gritty world of the steel mills, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction.

In 'The Iron Boys as Foremen; or, Heading the Diamond Drill Shift' by James R. Mears, readers are transported into the industrial setting of the late 19th century, where a group of young boys take on the responsibilities of foremen in a diamond drill shift. The book is written in a straightforward, yet descriptive style that captures the grittiness and determination of the characters as they navigate the challenges of a demanding work environment. Mears' attention to detail in depicting the workings of the drill shift adds depth to the narrative, making it both informative and engaging for readers interested in historical fiction set in the industrial era. The author's focus on the role of young boys as foremen sheds light on the harsh realities faced by children during that time period, highlighting themes of resilience and perseverance amidst adversity. James R. Mears, a prolific writer of juvenile fiction during the late 19th century, drew inspiration from his own experiences as a young laborer in industrial settings. His firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by young workers informs the authenticity of the characters and settings in 'The Iron Boys as Foremen'. This personal connection adds layers of depth and insight to Mears' storytelling, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and social issues addressed in the book. I highly recommend 'The Iron Boys as Foremen; or, Heading the Diamond Drill Shift' to readers who enjoy immersive historical fiction with a focus on the experiences of young protagonists. Mears' vivid storytelling and authentic portrayal of industrial life make this book a compelling read for those interested in exploring the complexities of child labor and industrialization in the late 19th century.

In 'The Iron Boys in the Mines; or, Starting at the Bottom of the Shaft' by James R. Mears, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the dangerous world of mining. The book offers a vivid portrayal of the harsh conditions faced by young boys working in the mines, highlighting the importance of resilience and camaraderie. Mears' writing style is both engaging and informative, providing readers with a unique insight into a lesser-known aspect of industrial society. The book is a blend of adventure, social commentary, and coming-of-age themes, making it a compelling read for readers of all ages. James R. Mears, a former miner himself, draws on his personal experiences to bring authenticity to his writing. His firsthand knowledge of the mining industry shines through in the vivid descriptions and realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by the characters. Mears' passion for social justice and advocacy for workers' rights is evident throughout the book, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. I highly recommend 'The Iron Boys in the Mines' to readers interested in historical fiction, social issues, and tales of perseverance. Mears' poignant storytelling and insightful commentary make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience in industrial settings.

A novel.

In this deeply learned book, poet and translator Robert Bly offers nothing less than a new vision of what it is to be a man.Bly's vision is based on his ongoing work with men and reflections on his own life. He addresses the devastating effects of remote fathers and mourns the disappearance of male initiation rites in our culture. Finding rich meaning in ancient stories and legends, Bly uses the Grimm fairy tale "Iron John," in which the narrator, or "Wild Man," guides a young man through eight stages of male growth, to remind us of archetypes long forgotten-images of vigorous masculinity, both protective and emotionally centered.Simultaneously poetic and down-to-earth, combining the grandeur of myth with the practical and often painful lessons of our own histories, Iron John is a rare work that will continue to guide and inspire men-and women-for years to come.