I am Potential: Eight Lessons on Living, Loving, and Reaching Your Dreams - Hardcover

Hughes, Patrick Henry; Hughes, Patrick John; Stamford, Bryant

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0738212989 ISBN 13: 9780738212982

Publisher: Da Capo Press Inc, 2008

Synopsis

Patrick Henry Hughes was born with a rare genetic disorder that left him without eyes and physically disabled. But he was also blessed with exceptional musical talent--able to play the piano as a toddler and now, at age 19, a nationally known pianist, singer, and trumpeter who has performed at the Grand Ole Opry and the Kennedy Center. Currently he's a member of his college marching band, playing while his devoted father pushes him in his wheelchair. With determined optimism and courage, Hughes has made "I am potential" his mantra and defied the impossible at every turn.Now, for the first time, Hughes and his father share the full account of his extraordinary journey. In I Am Potential, Hughes recounts the eight critical lessons he has learned that are at the heart of his success, including "When Life Gives You Lemons, Accept Them and Be Grateful" and "Do All You Can to Change What You Can." Uplifting and revealing, I Am Potential is remarkably inspirational for anyone facing challenges in their own life.

About this title

Review

InfoDad.com, 11/20/08
“[Shows] the resiliency of the human spirit...One of those sure-fire tearjerkers about someone with extremely severe handicaps who not only overcomes them but also finds a way to thrive and to get great enjoyment out of life...Clearly, Patrick Henry Hughes is a remarkable individual, his story serving as proof that being disabled in some ways does not mean being disabled in all ways...It is impossible not to be moved by who this young man is and what he has overcome to accomplish so much.”

Southern Living, December 2008
“Everyone should read this...This book gives a new definition to the term ‘able-bodied.’”

Today’s Woman, November 2008
“Might give you the inspiration you’ve been needing all along.”

American Author’s Association website
“Inspirational...A wonderful true life tale...This is one of those feel good stories that would make a great feature movie by Disney...Uplifting...[A] must read...This is a book that all family members can read.”

Deseret News, 11/2/08
“I Am Potential is a lesson in love...[It] is everything a reader would expect from a motivational book...The point-counterpoint format with father and son shifting between narratives adds flavor and variety. And an extensive list of resources at the end of the book is a welcome addition. Written in an almost conversational tone, I Am Potential is easy to read...It serves up a large dose of humility and perspective.”

Monday Morning Email, 11/3
“I could not put it down. It will capture your emotions from the opening page. This is a book of inspiration that should be bought and given as gifts to other young people who might need a shot in the arm, or to young adults who need an inspirational lift. And YOU will enjoy the book from start to finish...Outstanding...Get the book—today!”

PublishersWeekly.com, 11/17/08
“Hughes's knowing but uplifting tone balances out the tragedies, making this an inspiring addition to the growing self-help-memoir shelf.”

Carol Besse, co-owner of Louisville’s Carmichael’s Bookstore, quoted in Publishers Weekly, “hot independent press and university press titles for the fall” feature
“It is likely to be the feel-good story of the year. Patrick Henry Hughes is someone who has become a celebrity for all the right reasons. He is an inspiration to everyone who knows him and will become an inspiration to everyone who reads his book.”BookPage, November 2008
“[A] deeply moving story...A source of inspiration for anyone battling against the odds...I Am Potential emerges as more than an incredible triumph-over-adversity tale or a beautiful father/son relationship saga. It also evolves into the story of how helping one boy fight to achieve his dreams gave so many others the opportunity to expand their own abilities and capacities—to become their best selves.”Kentuckiana Healthy Woman Magazine, 10/08
“A very inspiring book...about a remarkable family’s faith in God, courage and perseverance...This book will remind us that challenges can be overcome. Attitude is everything!”

About the Author

Patrick Henry Hughes, a musician and student at the University of Louisville, won Disney's Wide World of Sports Spirit Award 2006. He and his father, Patrick John Hughes, are motivational speakers and have made appearances on the Oprah and Ellen shows, among others. They live in Louisville, Kentucky.

Edition details

• Publisher: Da Capo Press Inc
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 0738212989
• ISBN 13: 9780738212982
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 240