Krishan K. Bedi

So...this one I had mixed feelings about...and being that it's a memoir, I find that perfectly acceptable. After all, it's not a fictional creation, it REALLY happened, and while no one can (or should!) pass judgment on another's life, it's doesn't mean you can't comment on the journey shared.

There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Bedi lived a varied life, filled with ups and downs and in betweens, but while some of his anecdotes were entertaining, I've an issue or two to contend with when dealing with a few situations. For example, how the whole academic achievements were actually achieved (no one should get special exceptions simply because you're also working, or what have you...) as well as the misadventures in bus driving (yes, I cheered about throwing the rule breaker off, but driving people to their homes, demanding the route be told to you from passengers and using your temporary assignment status as the "get free" card didn't sit right with me).

Once I reached the end, all I could say if what a journey it was! He came from nothing, built a life of merit through struggles and trials, returned a "made man" only to have his dreams pulled out from under him, leaving him to start over once again. He definitely had perseverance, and the support of his family was certainly a cornerstone for his ability to reinvent himself later in life. Certainly a story readers can look to while in pursuit of their own evasive dreams...


**copy received for review… (más)

When I read Engineering a Life by Krishan Bedi, the qualities of persistence and determination took on a new meaning. Leaving his beloved homeland of India at the age of twenty, Krishan overcame many obstacles to achieve the American Dream of becoming an engineer.

This memoir is rich in detail about the meaning of home, family and Indian culture. Despite his love of family and country, Krishan’s desire to receive an education and succeed in his life drives him to use every setback as a stepping stone for moving forward. Nothing stopped him and he was willing to try anything to achieve his goal of succeeding. Through his story he reminds us that life is full of twists and turns and we need to learn how to navigate through these uncertain times to reach our goals.

His writing is crisp and honest and he leaves no doubt in the reader’s mind that he will persevere against all odds. His story is a vivid account of the strength, courage and resilience required of the immigration experience.

An inspirational, engaging and enjoyable read which highlights the struggles and triumphs of life in a new land.… (más)

The great part about reading memoirs is learning about peoples lives of all different cultures. Mr. Bedi has a great story to share about his life. Readers will not be disappointed as they dive into a great memoir of Mr. Bedi's life in Engineering a Life.

Just when I didn't think I could like Krishan anymore, I would read some more and fall in love with him a little more. He is some humble and has great morals. I enjoyed reading about Krishan's time as a cook at the Dorsey Hotel. What with him slowly winning over the head chef with all of his questions and persistence to learn. Also, when Mr. Bedi made pancakes for the first time.

Then there is the time when Mr. Bedi took a job as a bus driver. It is a good thing that he was so kind to the old women as he really should not have been a bus driver. There are so many more lovely aspects of Mr. Bedi's life that I am glad he did decide to share. Readers have to pick up a copy of this book. A great read.… (más)