About the Book

Joey Mullaney was only thirteen years old when he found out he was dying.

A rare degenerative disease would rob him of his ability to play sports. It would slur his speech and crash his confidence. It would even confine him to a motorized scooter as a teenager. 

In this true story about his life so far, Joey reveals how he came to terms with the unthinkable. Teens and young adults will see pieces of themselves and their experiences in Joey’s journey of acceptance. And they’ll laugh along with Joey as he stutters and stumbles his way to discovering his true identity and finding his place in the world.

Stare at Me is more than an inspirational memoir. It’s the voice of a trusted friend that empowers every reader — the geek, the misfit, the introvert, the class president, the jock — to stare down whatever faces them and say, “I got this.” 

Endorsements and Reviews

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“Great perspective for young people dealing with tough things. I found myself reliving my childhood as if I were one of Joey’s best friends, rooting for him every step of the way.

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“Stare at Me shows us a young man’s transformation from seeing his challenges as obstacles to embracing them as unique opportunities to live a full life.”

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“Reveals an unconquerable spirit, determination, and courage … The boy who was horrified that he might be stared at with pity is seen growing into a young man who welcomes those stares, knowing they carry an opportunity to help those who need to hear that life … is worth living.”

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“More than inspiration … a story of grit and daring courage that shows readers there are no limits to what they can achieve, no matter what stands in the way. You must read this book, and then share it with others.”

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“One of the most candid autobiographies I have ever read. … Joey Mullaney shows us how to go through life with courage and determination, and we should treasure this lesson to get the most out of our own lives.”

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“A sharply penned and no-punches-pulled life story … Would highly recommend to young people who need guidance, but also for adults looking back and seeking hope and optimism.”

In the News

About the Author

Joey Mullaney helps young adults and teens make the most of their lives, no matter what obstacles they face. Diagnosed as a child with a terminal, degenerative disease called Friedreich’s ataxia, Joey began a long, bumpy ride to self-awareness, confidence, and acceptance. His triumphs have been documented on Good Morning America and in USA Today and have gone viral on YouTube. Now twenty-six, Joey is an inspirational speaker and writer who blogs at joeymullaney.com. In person or on the page, Joey provides his audience with a humorous, uplifting, and motivational punch in the arm. 

Ordering Information for Bookstores and Libraries

Stare at Me: How Being Blindsided Brings Life into Focus

$18.95 ISBN 978-1-7345642-3-5 (paperback)

BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / People with Disabilities

BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / Personal Memoirs

Please call 937-483-4204 for special pricing and shipping information for bulk orders.

Stare at Me is distributed by Independent Publishers Group.

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