Publisher's Synopsis
The Dark Zone of Lower Manhattan after super-storm Sandy. Flying cross-country into Boston during the Boston Marathon Bombings. Heartbreak and hilarity in Hawaii. Adventure in Iceland. And 13,000 miles of stories in between. Big Apple, Black Sand and the Midnight Sun is a collection of 15 essays written by author Dave Ursillo as he journeyed across 13,000 miles in pursuit of a meaningful life. From New York City's East Village to the beaches of Hawaii and the mystical landscapes of Iceland, nine-time author Dave Ursillo invites you across continents and time zones to discover what it means to make life's journey your greatest reward. Part One of this book begins in the blistering heat of a New York City summer where themes of space, energy and personal identity are explored in the world's foremost concrete jungle. Confronted by challenges, enticed by experiences and emboldened by chance encounters, the Big Apple offers heart-stirring lessons and powerful reminders. In Part Two, a longing for space and fresh energy are discovered across the beaches of Hawaii where, for five weeks, author Dave Ursillo and friend Jacob live in oceanfront cabins and island dive bars. Themes of love, heartbreak, friendship and human-to-human connection emanate. In Part Three, you arrive in the mystical landscape of Iceland where the allure of adventure and globe-trotting travel is second-guessed by self-doubt before the sight of a ticking clock provides a powerful reminder: we don't have all the time in the world to live the lives that we desire, so we best start living them now. Big Apple, Black Sand and the Midnight Sun is more than a snapshot into the "nomadic" lifestyle of a location-independent writer and creative entrepreneur. This book tells tales of real-life adventure, moments of heartache and profound doubts about living the high ideals that one strives to embody. Through moments of joy, stories of friendship, tales of heartache and even national tragedies, Big Apple, Black Sand and the Midnight Sun is the perfect read to inspire lovers of travel and adventure, but especially those who feel called to discover purpose and meaning in one's life, every day. Beyond all else, Big Apple, Black Sand and the Midnight Sun hopes to encourage you to embark upon on a journey of truth and authentic living of your own, whether traveling abroad or in your own backyard. What does it mean to live a life that's true to your purpose? Could adventure, travel and meeting new people make your life's journey your greatest reward? Join author Dave Ursillo for this true tale of adventure and the pursuit of happiness in Big Apple, Black Sand and the Midnight Sun!
