Animals I Want To See: A Memoir of Growing Up in the Projects and Defying the Odds

Dreams reinforced with grit and tenacity may occasionally become a reality. In this rags to riches tale, Tom Seeman eloquently traces his transformation from a slum child to a successful businessperson while growing up in a family of fourteen with a devoted overworked mother and, unfortunately, an uncaring ne’er do well father. His dreams start early as he lists the animals he sees in his mess of a yard, but make an optimistic open list to be filled in with animals he wants to see someday. As he ages, he continually opens lists to further objectives.

This is the story of a youth surviving poverty and the strangling slums, who through sheer will takes on all manner of jobs to afford an education, he devours the encyclopedia with his curiosity, befriends librarians, clergy, teachers, coaches and neighbors seeking mentors. Chance favors his survival during adolescence when his hijinks and mischief might have led to disaster or prison.

This is an uplifting story for any living in the ghettos and mixed neighborhoods that spew poverty for its residents and hopelessness for the young. Written with lyrical grace, the memoir traces the adventures and emotions of this author from childhood till he finds his dreams fulfilled. It is a very appealing and encouraging story for all ages picturing social issues that we should be aware of.