Title: Becoming a Lake Girl and Family: Owning and Operating a Family Resort on The Magical Lake of the Ozarks
Author: Debra Amandola
Publisher: Balboa Press
ISBN: 978-1982273408
Pages: 114
Genre: Memoir
Reviewed by: Lily Amanda
Pacific Book Review
Debra (Christenson) Amandola, PhD’s book Becoming a Lake Girl and Family: Owning and Operating a Family Resort on The Magical Lake of the Ozarks Chronicles her family’s daring relocation and the ingrained beliefs, goals, and drive that sustained them.
In January 1960, Debra’s family moved from Kansas City to the rural area of the Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri. Debra was five and had just started kindergarten in the city. Her father, Bob Christenson, was dissatisfied at work, prompting the relocation and investment in a new business – a resort/fishing camp. For tiny Debra, the relocation meant new places to discover and explore. It became much more fascinating when her grandfather joined them, becoming her playmate and teaching her things from his Swedish youth.
She recounts the meeting of her parents and their intentional decision to live a positive and affirmative life. They both desired a future over which they had control, as well as the benefits that came with their hard work, which led them to the new acquisition. With their joint efforts, the business grew, received repeat business, and allowed the family to take vacations.
This book encourages taking chances and not fearing change in pursuit of contentment and fulfilling joy. The depiction of a purposely positive-minded couple who helped their daughter develop into a goal-driven person who strived to achieve her dreams, takes the day. One would be hard-pressed to overlook the substantial impact their optimism had on their business’ growth and continuity.
Several lessons are embedded in the adventures chronicled in this book. They include finding value in family and honoring everyone’s values. Readers will be charmed by the outstanding sports and scenery of what would become the author’s home for decades. Her story is captivating, her voice calming, and her essential points are clearly stated.
The fun never ended for Debra, whether she was at church, school, assisting customers, or meeting new friends. The book Becoming a Lake Girl and Family: Owning and Operating a Family Resort on The Magical Lake of the Ozarks, by Debra Amandola is perfect for readers looking for a true story that will encourage them to maintain their optimism, hope, and energy. This tapestry will motivate you to live a similar lifestyle.
