Blood, Sweat and Tears: An Oral History of the American Red Cross

by Michele Turk

Journalist and former Red Cross employee Michele Turk tells the story of the modern-day Red Cross through the voices of twenty-nine current and former Red Cross paid and volunteer staff from all parts... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0977719200
• ISBN13: 9780977719204
• Release Date: January 2006
• Publisher: E Street Press
• Length: 250 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Amazing stories

I love hearing about ordinary people, placed in extraordinary situations. Great stories about people who are your next door neighbor - which is kinda what the Red Cross is all about.

A look at the people behind the mission

A book that takes you inside the American Red Cross and introduces the volunteers and employees who live the mission- helping neighbors in crisis, locally, nationally and around the world. Michele Turk has also done a terrific job of illustrating how this organization rises to the occassion- from wartime to the devastating natural disasters and acts of terrorism- and how Americans depend on the Red Cross to respond. The mission is what it's all about, and Ms. Turk presents the stories of volunteers and staffers in a way that makes you appreciate the blood, sweat and tears that they have given to the people they have served. It's an inspiring book and one that should encourage you to call your local chapter and volunteer!

Moving stories about real life heroes

This is an amazing collection of true stories of generations of Red Cross volunteers, which is both a compelling look at the lives of these brave and adventurous Americans as well as an intimate account of the events that have shaped our modern society, from wars and disasters to improvements in safety and community development. I read the book cover to cover on a long flight and was in tears more than once. The lives of the volunteers and the way in which Ms. Turk organizes and presents their Red Cross focus shows the real life generosity of spirit and humanism of the Red Cross, without sugar coating some of the controversy surrounding its bureaucracy.

Humanity and Compassion in the Time of Need

As I read the individual stories I found myself smiling and tearing. Ms Turk brought the oral history of the American Red Cross to life in such a way that captured the compassion, dignity, and gentleness of generations of Red Cross responders. Instead of shying away from the tough criticism challenging the American Red Cross, Ms Turk helped the reader understand that in spite of difficult challenges the American Red Cross is always there providing vital services in the most difficult situations. Readers may find themselves motivated by this book to discover how they too can make a difference by getting involved in helping others in need.