What an incredibly harrowing and profound memoir. Stephen Jon Thompson was just 9 years old when his mother left him and his 4 younger siblings (the youngest being just a year old) in a motel room for multiple days to never return. As the oldest, Stephen takes charge and dials the front desk for help. What follows is a heartbreaking story of siblings separated, juvenile homes and foster care, and children experiencing events so traumatizing it is often difficult to read. I cannot imagine what a feat it was for this author to put his story of abuse, poverty, and neglect into words and have it published. Stephen defied all odds stacked against him and his story is painful but important. His ability to overcome the events of his childhood as well as his motivation to continue to grow into the person he is today is both admirable and inspiring. I would highly recommend this incredible memoir and the audiobook is great! The narrator did an excellent job and I was engaged throughout. Thank you to NetGalley, Stephen Jon Thompson, and Forbes Books for the gifted ARC audiobook recording in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 stars rounded up

I was drawn to Hotel Goodbyes by the cover as I used to live in Reno, Nevada and was interested in reading a memoir about a man who grew up in the foster system there. I was surprised by how insightful and touching Stephen Jon Thompson’s writing was! He detailed his various childhood traumas with a nuanced lens that showed his inner strength and empathy. It was inspiring to see how far he has come and the hope he retained throughout it all.

In particular I thought this was a fascinating personal account of the foster system and childhood services in general in Nevada. Thompson discusses the challenges foster children face with a special focus on politics. I found his voice to be insightful and important to read.

I would broadly recommend this memoir! The audiobook was a great way to enjoy this work.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forbes Audio for access to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!

From the first chapter this book sucks you into a vivid world that no one should have to experience, let alone a child.

Stephen’s writing is captivating and his story is one that will make you cry and at the same time give you hope.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Heartbreaking true story of Stephen Jon Thompson and how he vigilantly tried to save his siblings after his mother walked out on them.

There were so many points in this one where my heart was just BREAKING for him and his four siblings. How does a parent do this to their children? Well, drugs and alcohol played a big part in the lives of these children…

The fact that he not only made it through, but kept them safe, AND made a name for himself in the long run? Well, that’s something to be very proud of indeed!

And the foster parents who took these kids in, and then didn’t treat them well?? OK…well I believe there IS a God…and he’ll be waiting for all of them… and they’ll get their paybacks in the long run…


4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 stars for m, rounded up to 5!

Thanks to #NetGalley and #ForbesAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This one was released on 9/10/24, so you should be able to find on shelves already!

#HotelGoodbyes by #StephenJonThompson and narrated nicely by #DanielCordoso.

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Stephen Thompson has lived through a childhood that no child should encounter. Out of necessity he shouldered the kind of adult responsibility that was beyond his years. In this memoir he recounts it all very eloquently. It was heartbreaking in parts, yet his resilience kept the narrative from bogging down or getting too heavy. With the perseverance he showed, it doesn't surprise me he is a successful, educated adult. Hotel Goodbyes has all the inspirational feels at the end.

I listened to the audio and the narration is very good! I highly recommend the audio.

Thank you NetGalley and Forbes audio for earl access.

HOTEL GOODBYES by Stephen Jon Thompson

Narration was well done by, Daniel Cardoso

Thank you to NetGalley and Forbes Audio for the audiobook.

A profound memoir of navigating the stormy waters and the road unknown of growing up in poverty, abuse, hunger, abandonment, parents addictions, and foster care. This moving memoir starts off with nine-year-old, Stephen and his four younger siblings left alone for days in a rundown motel, in Reno, with no food. This sets the stage of the harrowing experiences of negligence that faced them for years. We see Stephen Jon Thompson’s journey from his neglected childhood to an accomplished executive. We see the perseverance, strength and willpower that let him rise above the darkness of his circumstances. This amazing story also reflects on coming to terms with his past, and acknowledging the pain. Infused with hope and facing your past to build a better future. Offers inspiration and hope to others that face seemingly insurmountable circumstances. I highly recommend this memoir.

Thanks to NetGalley and Forbes Audio for the advanced audiobook

This was a heartbreaking and inspiring memoir showing how important it is to have people in your life that will believe in you and push you to become the best version of yourself.

A heartbreaking story, told by Stephen the oldest of 5 siblings. Abandoned by their mother in a hotel room after years of living in poverty and suffering abuse at the hands of his stepfather. Stephen the oldest, aged 9 realises he can no longer take care of his younger brothers and sister and reaches out for help.
I enjoyed listening to this story though at times I felt sickened, saddened and angry at some of the events that occurred. It is ultimately an uplifting and powerful story of a young boy determined to beat the odds and make something of his life.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me access to the audiobook for review.