I'm Still Standing

From Captive U.S. Soldier to Free Citizen - My Journey Home

By: Shoshana Johnson, M. L. Doyle

Narrated by: Napiera Groves

Length: 8 hrs and 29 mins

Publisher's summary

Shoshana Johnson, the first black female soldier in America's history to be taken as a prisoner of war, presents the much-anticipated story of her capture and imprisonment in Iraq and what happened after her rescue.

In March 2003, Operation Iraqi Freedom was barely in its infancy when a U.S. Army supply convoy was attacked in Iraq. Several soldiers were killed and six were taken prisoner. Their captors released a grainy video revealing the faces of the first POWs of the war in Iraq. One of the female soldiers was Shoshana Johnson, the first black female prisoner of war in America's military history. The other was Jessica Lynch who caught the media's attention.

Now, after years of coming to terms with her capture and its aftermath, Shoshana recounts her full story with candor, exposing her emotions and frustrations and addressing her fears. For the first time, she'll also explain the strange decision made by higher-ups that led to their weapons jamming during the fight so they couldn't defend themselves; the true reason why their convoy made a "wrong turn" which led to their capture; and what, exactly, happened to her and her fellow soldiers during the 22 days of their captivity, which none of them have told because of a military gag order. Her perspective of the ambush is revealing and her insight into life as a female POW inspirational.

Shoshana is a living testimony to the power of prayer and the strength that comes through a trusting faith.

©2010 Shoshana Johnson (P)2010 Blackstone Publishing, and Urban Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"Johnson endured her captivity with courage and emerged with honor. With the help of former army reservist Doyle, she vividly, simply, and unpretentiously tells her tale." ( Publishers Weekly)

Poor Production Quality

I’m surprised that Blackstone Audio allowed such a poorly edited work to be released. The narrator struggled many times with the pronunciation of word and several times used the wrong word altogether ie: sliver for silver.

As for the story, it’s well told but I take umbrage with the author’s questioning as to why a “cook” would be sent out of the compound to transport supplies. She absolutely knows that regardless of your job in the military you are ALWAYS a soldier first! That is your number one job. Being a cook comes second.

Inspiring

This book was perfectly written and narrated. I Laughed, Cried and Inspired by her COURAGE!

Outstanding Book!

When in the USAF and deployed with Security Forces in Saudi Arabia. I remember the news of POWs and all the rumors. Years later, it has enlightened me on her story and folks involved. I did 20 years in Logistics, no issues other then a sore back and bad knees, retired at 30%. It's unbelievable she got 30%. Happy they she got more and help others with the same issue and help with current POW issues.

Outstanding

I really appreciate Ms Johnson sharing her story. Her honesty with regards to her experience in Iraq and what happened to her upon returning home is important information for all citizens.

I salute these soldiers and fallen soldiers!

Couldn't stop listening. Got teary-eyed a few times. This book was a job well done Johnson!

Mouth noises (audiobook)

If you’re like me and HATE mouth sounds, like licking lips, wet mouth sounds, get the physical book. I’m at the beginning of the story and it’s driving me NUTS. Like my dog obsessively licking his paws sounds after every sentence. I listen to a lot of audiobooks but this is excessive.

Overwhelming

Amazing insight and recollection of the events she went through. I felt I was there with her and at times I had to pause the book to become mentally strong to listen to the rest. I think and wonder at her bravery and understand the growth of wisdom. Powerful and uplifting. I wish her every success mentally, physically and spiritually. A book that can add to your personal development highlighting that we are on a journey to love, care and show kindness in this life to everyone we meet.

really good

I like learning about our soldiers, all they go through, and their background. To be a soldier, takes commitment. The military does teach our young people what they are capable of doing. I am proud of these soldiers and all they do.

Insightful

Good listen, gained an understanding of army life and issues soldiers have to deal with after their return home.

Fascinating and Compelling

This fascinating account of a young woman’s ordeal in Iraq is compelling reading. I listened to it all in one day. It addressed the emotional, physical, and even political issues involved in being a black female soldier in war. Highly recommend. Good feels!