Michael Without Apology

A Novel

De: Catherine Ryan Hyde

Narrado por: Michael Crouch

A film student struggling with self-acceptance finally stops looking away from his traumatic past in a powerful novel by New York Times bestselling author Catherine Ryan Hyde.

Michael Woodbine was seven years old when a near-fatal fireworks accident scarred him and led to his placement in foster care. Now a college freshman, he is still trying to hide the effects of his trauma from his classmates, his adoptive family, and himself.

When Michael signs up for a film class, he meets Robert Dunning, a teacher who wears his own scars unapologetically. Robert encourages Michael to make a documentary that explores body image and self-perception. Michael places an ad seeking people who feel unattractive and rejected by society—and is surprised to learn that this is essentially everyone. Although some participants are recovering from injuries or surgeries, others are dealing with more everyday factors like aging or the changes to a body from giving birth.

As he collects these stories—and finally tells his own—Michael feels more connected to the world than he ever has before. But he knows his journey of self-acceptance has one more obstacle: his crushing doubts about why his birth parents wouldn’t fight to keep him.

©2025 Catherine Ryan Hyde, Trustee, or Successor Trustee, of the Catherine Ryan Hyde Revocable Trust created under that certain declaration dated September 27, 1999. (P)2025 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Reseñas de la Crítica

“In this brilliant novel, we learn about accepting ourselves and others, with all our scars and imperfections. Hyde demonstrates that we don’t need to apologize for our imperfect bodies, or for a messy house.”—Bookreporter

Honest, thought provoking, and lovely

I loved the way the story drew me in, and captivated my heart. I love how Michael grew into a man of integrity, diving into his past to untangle the child like feelings and images, then applying everything he learned, then applying what is needed to become a man he could be proud of, with a purpose.

Heartwarming Story

I love Catherine Ryan Hyde’s stories. This one is especially good. It is so well done and brings out all the varied perspectives of the interesting characters with acceptance despite their flaws. It is heartwarming to see the main character grow into manhood with the help of those he tries to understand. The story left me feeling good about the human experience.

Inspirational

Catherine Ryan Hyde once again gives us a book that speaks to our soul. Always thought provoking, this book leaves an impression on your mind and your heart. Don't miss it!

Excellent story

Interesting characters, surrounded by a delightful story of self acceptance. Catherine Ryan Hyde never lets us readers down.

Don’t apologize for things you aren’t responsible for

The premise of the book… Be yourself. Don’t apologize to make people more comfortable. The book has some valuable advice through the various encounters with the characters that are interviewed.