Madisonville, KY – In the late 1990s, I walked the halls of high school amid a time of mounting turmoil, haunted by the dark shadow of school shootings. One tragedy struck alarmingly close at Heath High School in West Paducah, Kentucky. Then, in 1999, the Columbine High School shooting shattered the nation, marking the deadliest event of its kind in U.S. history at that time. These events didn't just shock me—they reshaped my sense of safety, and they became a haunting backdrop to my own high school experience.
Soon after, c. Simple yet powerful, prayer became my refuge, my shield, the force that I believe kept us from becoming another statistic on the world stage.
My book, *Surviving What Could Have Been*, finally shares my side of this story—a story that has remained untold for over two decades. –Gary Paul Gates Author, Surviving What Could Have Been
More about this book
Author Gary Gates has released his new book, “Surviving What Could Have Been.” This poignant reflection delves into his childhood and high school experiences, drawing parallels to the tragic events at Heath High School and Columbine High School. Inspired by the stories of other student’s faith (even in their devastating deaths), Gary shares his personal journey of overcoming challenges and finding solace in his faith.
In “Surviving What Could Have Been,” Gary recounts his own struggles, anxieties, and a sense of foreboding that mirrored the experiences of many teenagers. The book offers a raw and honest look at his life, revealing stories and thoughts that have never been publicly disclosed before. Through his narrative, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the impact of tragic events on individuals and the power of faith to provide guidance and hope. Leaving the reader understanding that school violence affects in different ways all students everywhere.
About the Author
Gary is a passionate advocate for kindness and faith. With over 25 years of experience serving his faith behind the scenes, he is now using media to spread a message of hope and love. Inspired by the Bible and guided by his faith, Gary encourages others to reach out with compassion and make a positive impact on the world.
Images of the book and author along with a downloadable book trailer: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ArLH9ZFHV61H0oRgVQED1vbz2gQDpN7A?usp=sharing
Book trailer (viewable on YouTube): https://youtu.be/bktNQZb_v3g?si=PZo1KSi0kMbCEt7N
Public purchase of the book, available in paperback and digital (Kindle) on Amazon: https://a.co/d/aP3CSMJ
For more information or to schedule an In-person interview or by internet via Stream Yard, Skype, Zoom, or Restream using my home studio.
Contact the author:
Gary Paul Gates
270-245-8107
In the news...
WPSD 6 Paducah, KY - https://www.wpsdlocal6.com/news/book-by-madisonville-author-aims-offer-hope-through-faith-amid-school-violence/article_6951dc06-7547-11ef-b224-5f70bdcea544.html