“This book is everything wrapped into one, shocking, sad, funny, and hilarious. I laughed out loud on several pages, page 31 made me ROTFLOL, by page 115 I had to put the book down. I remembered that this was the author’s actual life, and I started sobbing. I sobbed even more when I counted how many friends I have that have encountered those same monsters. I couldn’t wait to finish the book. I believe Eleanor is a hero and an inspiration to so many young girls/women who need to know that they can beat the monsters. I hope that there is a sequel!”
—Kori DeSio, Amazon.com
“Not since The Autobiography of Malcolm X have I been so moved and inspired by the true story of a human being overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds to pull themselves out of poverty, ignorance, and abuse. The experiences described are often heart-wrenching, but the overall tone of the story of her life is actually light-hearted – a tribute to Eleanor Tomczyk’s ability to always look for the good in people and situations while experiencing the pain of injustice to its depth.”
—Dorothy Long, Amazon.com
“Eleanor is a true storyteller. She is engaging, riveting and truly amazing. She touched me emotionally many times with her journey. Thank you, Eleanor. Please write the sequel very soon. I can’t wait!”
—Pam Cradic, Amazon.com
“This book is amazing and inspiring. I read it in one sitting! Eleanor is a force of nature, and a woman to be truly admired. If you read nothing else in this wonderful memoir, you absolutely must read Chapter 8, where Eleanor first enters the library. Absolute poetry. I think that every child who is facing adversity in life should read this book at some point. Really brilliant writing.”
—Karen Schiebler, Amazon.com
“I love this book! It’s warm, witty, honest, and positive. The author’s voice is authentic, engaging, and unstoppable. The pluck and stick-to-itiveness of a girl with so many things stacked against her is guaranteed to be inspiration for every reader lucky enough to pick up this book. Monsters’ Throwdown is a roller coaster of emotions; you will be sobbing for her and then laughing out loud! Once you start reading you will not be able to put it down, until you find out what happens next. Bravo! It is perfect for book clubs!”
—Sondra Smith, Amazon.com
“This book is a must read. From the first page, to the last, you are caught up in the author’s amazing life! She tells her story with such honesty and humor, that you feel yourself in the midst of the goings on. Such sorrow, yet such hope, all leading up to the love of her life, told with courage, boldness and yet, great humility. I was personally riveted from beginning to end, and if you have ever been in need of hope, encouragement, or just a good laugh, this book is for you.”
—Maxine Wilkins, Amazon.com
“Eleanor Tomczyk has written a book that brings wry humor to the darkest corners of human behavior. Allowing us a glimpse into a world most of us have never experienced, then forgiving us our laughter as she knocks the blinders from our eyes. I was knocked to my knees more than once, wanting to shake the adults in her life, sometimes even wanting to do more; my tears flowed without my realizing it then suddenly I would find myself laughing along with her.
Monsters’ indeed. Thankfully Ms. Tomczyk has slain her monsters and at the same time exposed them for what they are. I am forever a fan. This is a must read for anyone interested in what the world was like for children without defenders, without caretakers and before the days of desegregation across the US, not just the South. What an amazing story, what an amazing life, what an amazing victory.”
—Valentine “Val,” Rowlett, TX, Amazon.com