A poignantly reflective non-fiction memoir by David Kitzmiller, "
A Step Away from Bathing with a Toaster
" chronicles his transformative journey as a depressed American on his first-ever trip to Australia. Set against Sydney's vibrant atmosphere, the story starts with the most unexpected weekend romance that fueled a storm of emotions in his heart and sets the stage for his weighty introspection of love and life during his nine-day cruise. The first in the four-part series "Dealing with the Toaster." This is a gut-wrenching memoir in which David determinedly shares his life, profoundly touching some of the most complex relationships, intensive losses within his family, ongoing fights against addiction, burgeoning aging, and loneliness. He opens his soul without the slightest hint of personal restraint. He connects very intimately with the readers regarding his vulnerabilities and inner turmoil. Between his explorations of romance in Sydney, the cruise ship is a hotbed for David to interject some moments of humor and wit. These lighter comedic moments respite from the weightiness of his struggles and highlight the resilience of the human spirit and a strong power enabling one to find laughter even in the darkest hour. In his own creative way, David contends with the voices in his head. He invites the readers into a profound self-discovery, forgiveness, and healing journey. Interspersed in the memoir are poems that add deeper insight into the inner emotional landscape and thus call for contemplation and reflection.