There are few authors capable of translating their life experiences into stories that others can read and feel part of. Some authors, however, take this art to the next level by drawing inspiration from their childhood experiences and lessons to produce unique pieces.

The Atlanta-born Donald Patrick “Pat” Conroy is an excellent example of such a gifted author. As the eldest of 7 children, his early life wasn’t the smoothest, with his school days being a prime example, seeing that he had attended 11 schools by age 15. Born in 1945, his upbringing and journey through military college shaped his writing to the last letter.