Title: Based on a True (Traumatic) Brain History: A Short Memoir
Author: Mark Allen
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 978-1796097313
Genre: Memoir
Pages: 278
Reviewed by: Aly Avina
Pacific Book Review
It isn’t often enough we read about the highs and lows of combative sports — including the repercussions of being involved in a dangerous sport — from the perspective of those affected by the events. This is precisely why I enjoyed hearing this true story from the author’s point of view in great detail to give a full picture of the good, bad, and ugly that he went through during this time period. Author Mark Allen is a former MMA fighter and was an amateur in the competitive world of boxing prior to a serious brain injury incurred while competing from repeated blows to the head. All of this is covered, as well as so much more, in Based on a True (Traumatic) Brain History: A Short Memoir by Mark Allen.
Throughout his story we learn of Allen’s past, including the drug addiction he suffered during his post-graduate days after college. He also dealt with alcoholism at this time, and these struggles were not at all easy feats to overcome. But he eventually found a way to reach sobriety which also led him to the competitive world of amateur boxing and eventually MMA fighting. This was something Allen was not only passionate about but clearly excelled at. All the more reason it was particularly devastating when he was sidelined due to his serious brain injury he received while performing the sport he loved so much.
The way the author laid it all out there for his audience to understand the full scope of his journey and what he went through is truly admirable and inspiring. He manages to intricately detail his story, which kept me easily enthralled, no matter how bloody or gritty the tale itself was. That aspect, in fact, was needed to fully grasp the hardships he had gone through while simultaneously giving us a glimpse into how serious these brain injuries in sports are, both in the short-term and long-term.
This book is an inspiring and eye-opening true story. Relevant and engaging for all ages. A powerful, personal narrative of the journey of brain-related traumas and a prevalent cautionary story. This is a must read for athletes. A warning to parents, teachers, and coaches about the dangers of head injuries and the repercussions of failing to identify the symptoms.
Even with all that knowledge of what Allen went through, this book also shows his audience what it takes to be truly successful in the world of combative sports. It is not an easy goal to achieve but can be worth it with dedication and sacrifice. Risk, as always, will come with it, though, which is not shied away from in this novel. I enjoyed reading about the author’s personal story in this memoir and know you will, too. Pick up your copy of Based on a True (Traumatic) Brain History: A Short Memoir by Mark Allen today!
