Outdoor writer Sharon Rushton has announced the release of her new book, but it's not about hunting or fishing. It is about freedom and survival.
Her gripping and emotional book No Paved Road To Freedom - A Dramatic and Inspiring Story of Human Struggle Against Overwhelming Odds - Based on a True Story documents the extraordinary courage of a Cornel Dolana and his family as they pay an incredible price for resisting communism. Dolana makes up his mind to escape the oppression and live in a free country. His journey to freedom is terrifying. He endures a bullet-riddled nighttime swim across the Danube River, imprisonments, and cruel beatings. He faces near starvation and hypothermia after he escapes from prison and tries to make his way over several mountains in the winter months with only a light jacket, and a worn pair of pants, shirt, and canvas shoes.
Dolana's yearning for freedom keeps him relentlessly focused on his goal, in spite of enormous setbacks. No Paved Road to Freedom tells his story.
"Cornel's story is so incredible it had to be told," Rushton said. "Today as much as ever, this book is relevant, inspiring, and helps us fully appreciate our civil liberties. I believe men and women who enjoy the outdoors will be amazed at Cornel's determination and ability to survive the extreme outdoor elements he encounters."
Rushton said that the book is a result of hundreds of hours of interviews over several years.
"Cornel Dolana's story reminds us that freedom is precious," said Andy Cline, Ph.D., associate professor of journalism, Missouri State University. "His example makes it difficult for contemporary readers to take the fruits of our liberty for granted. This is a gripping tale told by a skilled and sensitive writer."
"This gripping account of a young man's escape from Communist Romania has so many switch-backs, you'll have to hold on tight," said Jan Simpson with Yale University's Writing Center. "Young Cornel determines to get to a free country or die trying. Despite careful, cunning planning, the wrenching events of the long run to a new life make clear that the gulf between freedom and death is more terrifying than anyone so young could have imagined."
Check out www.nopavedroadtofreedom.com for more information. The book can be purchased from Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and select bookstores.
# # #
Author Sharon Rushton has developed and/or assisted in the development of several publications and programs in the outdoor field including the Hooked On Fishing - Not On Drugs Program, the STEP OUTSIDE program, Fishing Fun For Kids booklet, and Best Practice in Boating, Fishing, and Aquatic Resources Stewardship Education. This year she will be honored with enshrinement into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame.
