Robert had reached the summit of many mountains. His adventures took him to unimaginable heights, yet his greatest achievements were not in conquering these majestic beauties, but in his ability to reach people in need. That is, until he’s the one facing the toughest climb of his life. Roberto Sanchez is living the dream; one could say the man had it all. He is blessed with a beautiful wife and daughter who complete him. A career that reaches at-risk kids that brings him true joy. Then a tragic accident leads Robert to a chasm of dark despair. Although his interventions have reached many, he found he is incapable of helping himself off the edge of a cliff, jeopardizing his career, his marriage, and himself. because takes us on a journey of two Roberts as he struggles to find a way to once again believe. e-SCRIBES, UK - November 10, 2016
We find this a skillful, thoughtful and deeply moving novel… and it’s an inspiration to anyone who knows someone in this situation, or whose physical life as they knew it has been unexpectedly curtailed. This book is a life lesson from which we will all extract our own, differing, narratives.
INDIEREADER - February 15, 2016
BECAUSE is a deeply moving, emotionally-powerful tale of intertwined lives, and of finding strength to go on in the face of utter despair. There are multiple stories braided into the main plot, as each of the characters has a voice and a tale of their own. Robert’s story, therefore, is reflected in the stories of those he’s helped as well as those who want to help him, giving the book a multifaceted perspective and adding deeper emotional and philosophical layers to the plot. This is a heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting book, and there isn’t a character who doesn’t have a substantial, painful tragedy to wrestle with… BECAUSE is a book full of both emotional intensity and real philosophical and psychological insight.
MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW - Small Press Bookwatch November 2015 Issue
A deftly crafted novel and an absorbing read from beginning to end, because is a compelling and thoroughly entertaining novel that documents author Jack Langedijk’s truly exceptional storytelling skills…
KIRKUS REVIEWS MAGAZINE - August 15, 2015 Issue .. .Langedijk has lots to say about courage, compassion, redemption, and self-worth. Although those life lessons are more compelling than the actual drama unfolding around Roberto’s post-Everest experience, they more than make the journey with him worthwhile. Meditations on some of life’s biggest questions as told through some harrowing experiences. -Kirkus Reviews
The book has left me with a great impression. It made me feel that everything happens for a reason… - Katarina
Langedijk explores the depths of human suffering in a realistic, uplifting way. His characters deal with real and relatable issues that affect so many people today, especially the young… - Michael Head
I enjoyed reading this book, it had a truly inspirational ending. - Vicky Boackle
