Review: paper airplane by Kersten L. Kelly

paper airplane
written by Kersten L. Kelly
published by Talisman Book Publishing LLC

find it here: (affiliate links) Barnes & Noble, Amazon, iBooks, Smashwords, Book Depository, Goodreads

Why did I pick this book: Chrissy reviewed Ms. Kelly’s first book, ec·o·nom·ics: a simple twist on normalcy. (See her review here.) I agreed to Ms. Kelly’s request to review paper airplane. (I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)

Did I enjoy this book: Pretty much.

This is a collection of short stories that highlight the interesting people the author meets while on her numerous air travels. She jokes about the universal dread of being stuck in the center seat. And highlights the array of personalities she meets along the way.

I think the stories are at times amusing and interesting. But they lack any real moral, emotional depth, or plot. Basically, she points out that if you talk to people along life’s journey, you’ll meet some who are interesting, funny, obnoxious, generous, etc. I can’t imagine this is startling to any reader.

It isn’t a bad book. It’s easy to read that could fill the empty minutes of waiting at the doctor’s office or hair salon. But that’s about it.

I did, however, add a half star to the review making it one small notch above mediocre in response to a story about half way through the book. Instead of just flying on the airplane, she jumps out of one. Now that’s a story.

Would I recommend it: Kind of.

Will I read it again: No.

About the book – from Goodreads: In this tumultuous, distinctive memoir, Kersten L. Kelly looks back on the most influential individuals that she encountered while flying through the clouds. Confined in a small vestibule for hours, Kelly identified an opportunity for learning and growth by chatting with the fellow passengers around her. After a few life changing conversations and unforgettable emergencies, she put the in-flight magazines to rest and never looked back. She recalls life lessons from perfect strangers about love, family, perseverance of dreams, and humility through a series of brief anecdotes all taking place on airplanes. Selfless philanthropy was discovered, long-term friendships bonded, and talents unveiled. The book proves the phrase “you never know what you will learn on an airplane” over and over again. Every chapter will capture the mind and sometimes the heart of anyone who jumps into this collection of humanity at its best. The personalities present in this book assimilate with the intrinsic characteristics all readers can relate to. With a raw authenticity stemming from old notes in a ragged journal, Kelly delivers a personal reflection of unique tales from a mile high.