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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
I Will Always Write Back summary
Caitlin Alifirenka
Brief summary
I Will Always Write Back is a heartwarming memoir that tells the story of Caitlin and Martin, two pen pals from different worlds. Their friendship transcends borders and changes their lives forever.
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I Will Always Write Back
Summary of key ideas
Unlikely Friendship Across Continents
In I Will Always Write Back, Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda with Liz Welch recount a life-affirming friendship that blossomed between two pen pals living thousands of miles apart. Caitlin Alifirenka, a 12-year-old girl from Pennsylvania, and Martin Ganda, a 14-year-old boy from Zimbabwe, form an unlikely bond that changes both of their lives dramatically.
It all starts in 1997 when Caitlin chooses Zimbabwe out of her pen-friend options in French class for no other reason than it sounds exotic. Caitlin shares her normal teenage life while Martin opens a window for Caitlin into his impoverished world, where even a single pen can be a prized possession.
Heartfelt Exchanges Bolstering an Improbable Bond
As they write back and forth, Caitlin learns about Martin’s stark reality—his daily struggles, his intelligence, and his ambitious dreams. She shares her life innocently, without realizing the disparity between their worlds. Martin cherishes these letters, even though responding becomes tougher due to his financial constraints. He conceals his penury, infusing positivity in his return letters.
Time passes, and their friendship grows. Eventually, Martin gathers the courage to disclose his situation to Caitlin. Shocked and moved by his confession, Caitlin, with the help of her mother, starts sending him life-changing resources—school supplies, clothes, and ultimately, money.
Overcoming the Hive of Social Disparity
This act of kindness marks the turning point in Martin's life. Caitlin and her family's support allows Martin to stay in school, performing excellently in his studies—he went on to become the top student in Zimbabwe, earning him scholarship opportunities from international entities. It's an achievement that was almost unthinkable given his backgrounds.
However, his road to success was not smooth. Martin faced plenty of obstacles, the most significant being his denial of a visa that almost dashed his dreams of studying in America. Caitlin's family again steps in to help Martin, fighting tirelessly to ensure he's given the opportunity he deserved.
Inspiring Outcome Born from Cross-border Friendship
Eventually, Martin is granted a full scholarship to Villanova University. His path was paved by hard work, aided by the kindness and determination of Caitlin and her family. His feat demonstrates the power of friendship, generosity, and the relentless spirit of human resilience against all odds.
In conclusion, I Will Always Write Back is a heartwarming tale of hope, compassion, and the transformative power of friendship. It underlines the fact that benevolence has no borders and asserts the commendable truth that even modest acts can make a significant difference in someone's life.
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What is I Will Always Write Back about?
This book tells the true story of two pen pals, Caitlin and Martin, who form an unlikely friendship through letters. As they exchange letters, they learn about each other's lives and develop a deep bond. The book highlights the power of friendship, kindness, and the impact of reaching out to someone in need. It is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of connection and the difference one person can make in another's life.
I Will Always Write Back Review
I Will Always Write Back (2015) is a heartwarming true story about friendship and the transformative power of connection. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Through a series of letters, it chronicles the astonishing friendship between two teenagers from different continents, revealing the shared humanity that transcends borders.
- With its honest portrayal of poverty and privilege, it offers a thought-provoking exploration of social inequality and the importance of empathy.
- The book takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, combining joy, compassion, and despair, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the impact individuals can have on each other's lives.
Who should read I Will Always Write Back?
- Readers who enjoy heartwarming true stories
- Those interested in exploring different cultures and perspectives
- People who want to be inspired by acts of kindness and generosity
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I Will Always Write Back FAQs
What is the main message of I Will Always Write Back?
The main message of I Will Always Write Back is the power of friendship and how it can transform lives.
How long does it take to read I Will Always Write Back?
The reading time for I Will Always Write Back varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is I Will Always Write Back a good book? Is it worth reading?
I Will Always Write Back is a heartwarming and inspiring book. It's definitely worth reading for its powerful story of connection and global understanding.
Who is the author of I Will Always Write Back?
Caitlin Alifirenka is the author of I Will Always Write Back.
What to read after I Will Always Write Back?
If you're wondering what to read next after I Will Always Write Back, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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