| Amazon Reviews
Reviews from Amazon.com:
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read about reality, July 31, 2011
By: KKD
Amazon Verified PurchaseThis review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Hardcover)
I could not put the book down. It clearly gives a picture of the consequences of bad choice's. Very easy to read and I think Travis has prevailed and beat the odds. It is not what happens to you; it is how you learn, deal with it and move forward. I highly recommend.
5.0 out of 5 stars Awe-Inspiring Read, July 2, 2011
By: Michelle Amazon Verified Purchase
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
As soon as I started this book, I couldn't put it down. In one day, I had read an amazing tale of one man's brave life. From child to man, the Westcoast Kid takes us on an awe-inspiring journey of what he went through and overcame. One thing I truly enjoyed with this book was how he didn't sugarcoat anything and told us exactly what it was like for him. He didn't hold anything back. Some parts I had to shake my head at his decisions, other times my eyes were open wide in shock. And yes, I did have to dab those eyes at the end a few times. All I kept thinking while reading this book was how much it seemed like I was watching a movie. I just couldn't believe that all these things were happening to one man. I would honestly recommend everyone to read this book, especially those aged around 16-18. It will definitely make them think about their own choices in life and realize that maybe, just maybe, their parents know a little bit more than they do about the future. Again, amazing read. Highly recommended.
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing Story, June 29, 2011
By: Jennifer
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
After recently joining Face Book, I found out one of my classmates wrote a book on his life. After graduation, I assumed that Travis went onto the college of his dreams on a full ride scholarship. WOW was I wrong. This book is full of suspense. I read it in one day, I couldn't believe what was happening and it couldn't get any worse but it did. This book touches on every aspect of life, the good and the bad. Travis had grown up with an abusive and alcoholic father and on the other hand a very loving and protective mother. Travis throughout his book was always very concerned and showed his love for his mother. As the best basketball player in Lely history, Travis got caught up in the drug smuggling world. Enjoying the smuggling adventure and all the fringe benefits until finally his load got busted and it was all downhill from there. After spending six years in prison, Travis has made a tremendous turn around. He is now coaching youth basketball, enjoying his family and trying to keep teens on the right path by sharing his personal experiences. I believe this book should be in every high school library. Good luck Travis and keep up the good work.
5.0 out of 5 stars A gripping tale and a stern warning, June 29, 2011
By:Tom Westgate (Altamonte Springs, FL United States)
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
This novel is a must read for any at-risk youths out there. It tells the true story of Travis' fall from grace and his harrowing journey to redemption. On the rise as a basketball star, he threw it all away and began running drugs for the most notorious drug cartel in the world. The glamorous lifestyle became an addiction, but a busted load soon led to Travis' downfall. Under threat from the cartel and being pressured by the feds, he takes a deal and turns himself in, only to be double crossed by the government. Shuffled from "club fed" to the most dangerous prisons in Florida, Travis soon had to play basketball for his life on the inside. Used by the gangs as a money-making machine, his days of playing high school b-ball against Deion Sanders soon became a curse. One that wound up nearly costing him his life. His story is currently being made into a documentary and will then move on to the big screen in a feature-length film. Read the novel to discover the fascinating life and times of a man who made it through the worst lows the drug world and our prison system has to offer, to emerge a new man who now coaches youth basketball and spreads the word about following your dream and avoiding life's pitfalls.
5.0 out of 5 stars The West Coast Kid should be required reading for every teen, May 24, 2011
By:Jamesl Scarrett "Jim Scarrett" (Fort Myers, Florida)
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I recently read The West Coast Kid by Travis Waters and could not say enough nice things about this excellent book. In my opinion this book should be required reading for every teenager in America. His respect for his mother and the sad story that too many people experience " what if " makes this book very compelling reading. If you read this book and don't end up with a frightning view of our prison system I would be surprised.
The book was worth much more than the price. I wish Mr. Waters smooth sailing for the rest of his life.
Jim Scarrett N. Fort Myers, Florida
5.0 out of 5 stars Big screen, May 6, 2011
By: Michele Johnson
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
The best story about a young mans life I've ever read. You can not put this book down you continue turning the pages to find out what he will experience next. It let's you know in the end none of it was worth throwing your dreams away for drugs and prison. I will read this book again.
5.0 out of 5 stars Definitely a movie, May 5, 2011
By:king0122 (Florida, USA)
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I could not put this book down. I never read a book with this much gritty detail about prison life. I recommend this book to all parents and Teens. This book is written in detail from the start to the end.You feel all the emotions Travis is feeling in his life as a child to an adult. It's sad to waste all that talent for drugs and prison.It's a great story and a great read.This book is definitely a movie.
4.0 out of 5 stars Awesome story!!, May 5, 2011
By: J. Bailey (Houston, TX)
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
This book is definitely one you cannot put down. I don't think I've ever read a book this fast and I don't usually ready non-fiction. Unbelievable story that is 100% true. Coming from Naples, FL I can tell you some pretty good smuggler stories but this one is by far the BEST!! I sure do hope they do a movie on this one. Amazing how this guy seems to come through such crazy events in his life and perseveres. Congrads Travis on the completion!! You've come a long way. I have recommended this book to many and will do so again here!!
5.0 out of 5 stars A book that will be shared with my son when he's a teenager., May 4, 2011
By: PCoventry (Southwest Florida)
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
From the second I picked up the West Coast Kid I was unable to put the book down until I was finished. Reading about the overwhelming odds that Travis faced as a child, to becoming a star basketball player was inspirational enough. To see how quickly his young life went from being a star to a drug smuggler overnight was startling. As somebody who grew up during the same time as Travis I related to how quickly myself or many of my friends could have found ourselves in the same situation. Looking back I wished I had a book like this to read when I was a teenager. I will save this book for my own son when he's a teen. Not only will he find it riveting to read but It may make him think about choices as he grows up.To see how Travis turned his life around after incarceration and into a role model for today's youth is priceless. I'm sure there are very few people who come out of our criminal justice system that can say the same. Great Read!!!!
5.0 out of 5 stars My Review, January 28, 2011
By: Donna
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I recently read a book entitled The Wesstcoast Kid written by Travis Waters. My last memory of Travis was his extraordinary athletic talent I witnessed as his peer at Lely High School in Naples, Florida. I truly didn't know what to expect, I heard talks of a troubled past from fellow students, but no one ever went into great detail. Initially I was unable to put the book down, I wept as I read the details of child abuse, alcoholic father, victim mother. I felt relieved to know that Travis's father, the alcoholic victimizer was removed from the state of Florida. I celebrated in my mind the courageous and brave effort of Travis's mom Nancy (Freck) as she personally tried to end the madness to save the lives of herself and children. I began to feel settled in knowing they were safe and freed from the emotional and physical imprisonment that had been forced upon them. As I read further I became frustrated with Travis. I was saddened with his life choices as a "King Pin Drug Lord." I took a short recess from my read. I just could not understand why this lifestyle was so appealing to Travis. I was able to discern through his writing style that he was certainly bright and I began to think about control and power and instant gratification. I pondered a bit and began to see Travis single-handedly sabotaged anything good that could have come his way. I felt his self-esteem was damaged early on at the hands of his father (Harold) and that this would set a life stage of self-demise. As I returned to Reading further, I could feel his defensive tendency as he would describe his interactions with fellow drug lords. I was able to feel his regret. As I read chapter 23, I wept for the remainder of my read of this compelling narrative. Initially, my emotions were attached to horror, and then deep sadness, sympathy and empathy. As I approached the end of my read, I began to feel relieved even amidst more loss for Travis and his wife Michele. Travis was able to understand himself. Sadly his journey was undeniably horrific, yet happily Travis was finally freed from the emotional imprisonment imposed upon him during his early development, as well as the physical imprisonment he was sentenced to. I'm glad to know Travis was able to survive such a challenging and painful life. He is a courageous human being who has aligned himself with a loving supportive spouse. Noble is the man that that uses his personal experience to "encourage young adults to shun bad choices, opt for the right path, and follow their dreams."
Donna Castellone Sparadeo
4.0 out of 5 stars A gripping tale about the horrors of drugs, January 20, 2011
By: SWFLreader
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
Waters writes about his days as a drug smuggler and the punishment he received in detail. The story of his highs and extreme lows keeps the reader enthralled. The Westcoast Kid is a stern warning to anyone who might get involved in drugs what can happen. Waters suffered six years in some of the roughest prisons in America, and in this book he describes the hell he went through. The Westcoast Kid also is a tale of redemption as Waters attempts to make up for his past mistakes.
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read!, January 18, 2011
By:BBoop
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
Going to high school with this author made it an immediate book of interest to me. After starting the book I could not put it down. The description of life in the fast lane of drugs and money was shocking. The fact that Travis survived all this much less turned his life around is nothing short of amazing! It is truly a story to be shared with youth, folks down on life and anyone that loves an underdog that comes out on top. Great job and continued success and blessings.
4.0 out of 5 stars A Must Read!, January 12, 2011
By: KTaylor
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I went to high school w/ Travis Waters. Even though he was older than me, I knew who he was for his kindness and being a star basketball player. As soon as I saw he wrote a book, I bought it and read it immediately. I had know idea his story! Travis' book explains the type of person he was in high school and how his high school basketball coach believed in him. Then how/why he got involved w/ illegal drug trade, his time spent in prison and the positive place he is in now with his family. My first thought was, "How did someone w/so much going for him go here?" Of course, that is not my place to judge but as I read through his book I could feel his emotions of adventure, danger, thrill, risk, sadness, and ultimately his courage to get where he is today. Therefore, having the reaction I did it's a well written book about that time period of his life. Everyone takes different paths in life and has a story. I think it's very brave of Travis to share his experiences in hopes to help other young people make better choices and stay strong! I only hope for the best for Travis as he raises his family, stays involved with the community, and success with his book, The Westcoast Kid!
5.0 out of 5 stars This Is A Must Read!!!, January 7, 2011
By: LukeG7
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
This book is the most interesting, intriguing story a human can tell. I happen to know Travis personally and know what a good man he is and how the events in his life have impacted him. The story he tells is one that brings you into the story with him and wanting to know the next thing that happened in his life. When you read this book it will only let you wonder what a movie WILL be like on the big screen!!! This book was written for a reason and that was to deliver a message to young kids, and adults for that matter that are thinking about heading down the road that Travis did, and to stop and think about what happened to Travis and think twice. The best part of the book for me was the up to date information on how he is doing and his wonderful family to this day. Travis is a great man and everyone should be very happy he is telling his story and everyone can take something positive away from it.
5.0 out of 5 stars Home town boy gone wrong - hits big in your heart, January 7, 2011
By: Maria H. Sbrocco
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I went to school with Travis Waters and new him as a great guy with an unbelievable talent and a bright future. His story is captivating and rich in detail. I never new how complex the drug business was or how close to home it truly was. The amounts of drugs and money that passed hands is mind boggling. But in the end it was his honesty that struck a cord in my heart. I could not put the book down. He has a message and I read it loud and clear. Parents should let there high school kids read this book - there is strong language and adult situations but an important message none the less.
5.0 out of 5 stars A must movie from this book, December 30, 2010
By: A FAN (Florida USA)
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
In reading this book one can feel the raw emotion that Travis is experiencing through his tragic events. Especially his struggle to survive in prison because of his athletic ability. I recommend that young adults who are contemplating with the idea of going down the wrong path, to read and understand Travis' story. This book should be put in every high school and college library across the nation. And in the future it would be great to see his story made into a movie.
4.0 out of 5 stars Great read for parents of teens and some teenagers, December 20, 2010
By: A Mom
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I got this book because I grew up in Naples where the story occurs. I also know the author. I would recommend this book to parents of teens first. After reading it you can decide if your teen is mature enough to handle the content. I would say that an older teen would understand it. A younger teen would have questions on some of the content. It definately has adult content in places so read it first and make an informed decision.
The reason for writting the book was simple. It is to encourage kids to think about the consequences of your actions. I enjoyed the book and it is a quick read. Finished easily in 2 days.
5.0 out of 5 stars The West Coast Kid, December 17, 2010
By: Jill3441
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
I believe this is a must read for all young adults today. I'm thankful that Travis is here to share his life story. If you read this book and choose to go down the wrong path and keep making bad decisions sit down and reread it again. It is heart wrenching to know what he went through during his nightmare at such a young age. Life does not always give you second chances but take it when you get it such as Travis has done. Turning something good out a horrible situation is the best outcome for anyone.
5.0 out of 5 stars Could not put it down, December 14, 2010
By: lisa1967
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Paperback)
When I first heard Travis was writing a book about his life, I was first surprised and then very interested to learn where his life had taken him. What I did not know was that Travis'life had taken him down a darker path, one that started at a very young age. As I began to read his book, I could not believe that my friend from elementary and high school had such a tumultuous life. When I went to high school with Travis, I was so impressed with his basketball skills, he was a true great athlete and knew he had a promising future in sports, but after high school his life changed dramatically. He tells of his experiences dealing and smuggling drugs, a life that no teenager should ever have to be a part of. This book is going to make a huge impact on any young teenager who thinks that drugs are the way to a better life, it shows the harsh reality of what can happen when you make the wrong decisions in life. There is a happy ending though and it shows that even if you make bad decisions in life, you can turn yourself around and make things right, learn from your mistakes and live a happier life. Intense, emotional and very exciting, I would highly recommend this book to anyone. I think I may just read it again!
5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommend,must read, December 4, 2010
By: Melinda Freese
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Hardcover)
This book is riveting. Once I began to read it, I was unable to put it down. It is a very accurate yet sadly true story of what can go wrong in a young man's life despite having wonderful opportunities and a glowing future ahead of you. It is a heart-wrenching story that is necessary read for all high school students. It is a real life story that would make anyone rethink a life of crime.The book has so much emotion you actually feel as though you are walking a mile in Travis's shoes.
5.0 out of 5 stars Impressive heartfelt life story, December 4, 2010
By: Joanne C
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This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Hardcover)
I found this to be a well written account of Travis Waters real life experiences. Right from the beginning you are drawn in to the detailed account of his childhood experiences and life choices that led him down a bad path. This will be a good book for kids in high school who think they have life all figured out and that they are smarter and can beat the game. Bad choices are made by so many teens and Travis lets you in to the blood and guts real life intimate details of what happens when those choices go horribly wrong. This book is a well written, easy to read true life story. When you are reading this story you can feel his emotion come through on the paper and you know he was reliving these events like it was just yesterday. I have so much more respect for Travis and who he has become as a person, a loving, caring family man who paid the ultimate price for his choices and turned his life around. Travis was made to face his abandonment of his extreme talent in return for the fast and easy life style so many are drawn to at that age. Money, Women and Power are really enticing at that vulnerable age. I am sure this story will make some kids think twice about where bad choices can lead and the price that will have to be paid. This is one of those books you will want to pass on to friends and people you know with teens in the house.
4.0 out of 5 stars A Rare Look Inside, November 1, 2011
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Hardcover)
This book is a really good read. It is told from the first person perspective and really captures the emotion of what was going on in Travis's life at the time. It's an eye-opener to how easily one can get wrapped up in the drug culture. This book is extremely detailed and while reading it, I kept wondering how the people in his past feel about him exposing such detail. This book needs to be picked up by a major publishing company that can give Travis the editting tools to really polish his work. It needs to be read by anybody who has found themselves feeling stuck by what life has dealt them. It shows that you CAN turn your life around no matter what.
5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome!, August 22, 2012
By: Peter Greyson, Author of Dear Lilly: From Father to Daughter
This review is from: The Westcoast Kid (Hardcover)
First of all, I have to thank Travis Waters for sharing this book with us. His is a story the likes of which I have never read. It is a comprehensive, heart wrenching, brutally honest account of substance abuse, addiction, and ultimately... redemption. This book should be read by anyone whose life has been touched by any type of addiction. The writing is fantastic, Travis' unconquerable spirit is present in every line. I cannot believe he survived some of the things that are described in this book. Many times as I was reading, I had to put the book aside for a moment because it was all too much to take in at one time. The best thing I can say about this book is even if the reader is the most cynical of people, he or she will still come away having learned something. I for one consider myself a better person for having read it~
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