Finding Me: A Decade of Darkness, a Life Reclaimed: A Memoir of the Cleveland Kidnappings

Narrated by:
Maria Cabezas

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
66
Narrator
25
Release Date
May 6, 2014
Duration
7 hours 15 minutes
Summary
Michelle was a young single mother when she was kidnapped by a local school bus driver named Ariel Castro. For more than a decade afterward, she endured unimaginable torture at the hand of her abductor. In 2003 Amanda Berry joined her in captivity, followed by Gina DeJesus in 2004. Their escape on May 6, 2013, made headlines around the world. Barely out of her own tumultuous childhood, Michelle was estranged from her family and fighting for custody of her young son when she disappeared. Local police believed she had run away, so they removed her from the missing persons lists fifteen months after she vanished. Castro tormented her with these facts, reminding her that no one was looking for her, that the outside world had forgotten her. But Michelle would not be broken. In Finding Me, Michelle will reveal the heartbreaking details of her story, including the thoughts and prayers that helped her find courage to endure her unimaginable circumstances and now build a life worth living. By sharing both her past and her efforts to create a future, Michelle becomes a voice for the voiceless and a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of children and young adults who go missing every year.
Reviews
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Sylvia S.

I’ve read Michelle’s printed book but wanted to read again so downloaded it as audiobook. I follow Michelle on Instagram and her story and how she came through it is so inspiring to me, especially as someone dealing with trauma as well (but not anywhere near compared to hers). Michelle is such an amazing inspiration and her book is so well written. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone, but especially those coming to terms with traumatic events in life.

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Tiffany G.

It was actually really hard to read. She details all the awful things that happened. While I find that important, I was hoping to find what happened after the escape. I would love to have read the journey after and how she overcame or dealt with the trauma. Still she is an amazing woman, as are all of them!

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Breanne A.

One of the most harrowing tales I have ever heard. I’ve listened to many different true crime podcast episodes about the Cleavland Kidnappings, but this was still so enthralling. I knew what happened to these girls was horrendous, but hearing it told from behind the eyes of the longest kept captive, hit me on a whole other, deeper level. Michelle’s attitude and viewpoints expressed at the end of the book are truly amazing, and will remind you to try and appreciate all the happy little details of your life a bit more. She’s got to be one of the bravest, most empathetic, and kind souls I have ever heard of.

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Cheryl S.

Great book! Take your time, especially if you are a trauma survivor. It really is well worth the listen! The narrator was amazing and the author opens up to readers in ways I don't think I ever could. I really hope it was cathartic for you and that you are doing well!!

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Adrian B.

good book heavy content

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Carol T.

Amazing story. And the narrator did an excellent job.

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Lois B.

Michelle has my highest respect for enduring all that did. This well written story had me in tears and it proves the strength of the human spirit. I pray the rest of your life is filled with love and joy. Hopefully someday you'll get to see your son Joey and have him in your life too!

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Ruby W.

This is a sad, sad, very disturbing story. But what a hero Michelle is to prevail despite her challenges and tragedies. I cannot even imagine..

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ashley beardsley

great book. disturbing details. kinda makes you thankfull for your own life. she is an amazing women.

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Colette Falter

Wow! This book stirred me. I feel ashamed that I can allow such mundane factors to discourage me in this journey of life. Michelle you are inspiring and reminds how very important it is to approach each day with a grateful heart. You helped me see how many things I take for granted. May the rest of your Gina, and Amandas' lives be blessed abundantly, full of joy, love, kindness, respect, and peace.

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becky willoughby

This book was very well written and read. I thought it would help me to know the students that I teach bettet. I have always had my own bed to sleep in and 3 meals all at regular scheduled times. I had a mom and dad every day and always knew that I was respected mind body and soul. In Michelle story she was treated quite the opposite . What I learned is that to be simply respected by someone and showing kindness means the world to a child raised in poverty. Just knowing that someone cares about you.u.

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Gayle Brossard Mahoney

You are an amazing young woman Michelle. Thank you very much for sharing your story. You deserve happiness to infinity and beyond. Big hugs to you, Gayle in California

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