How I Learned To Rock My Life - by Peter Dankelson & Dede Dankelson (Paperback)

About the Book

Peter Dankelson's journey is an example of how to live your best life. Learn how this twenty-one-year old overcame more than ten birth defects, found his passion playing guitar, and inspired half a million followers to amplify positivity.

Book Synopsis

Peter Dankelson's story is a reminder that circumstances don't define your life; how you react to them does. You will be inspired by how Peter overcomes adversity with a positive attitude and a loving family. You will be motivated to choose courage over fear, embrace what makes you different, and reflect on what's important in your life. Readers will battle with Peter through his thirty-six surgeries, laugh with him as he searches for an ear store, and share in his excitement when he takes the stage with Buckcherry, Jared James Nichols, and others. Over half a million social media followers have found inspiration from Pete's Diary, a company inspired by Peter's life. This book is both Peter's story and the journey of how Pete's Diary evolved from his birth in 2000 to his career as a guitar player.

Review Quotes

"This book is a must read for those who want to be the best version of themselves-- no matter the odds or obstacles." Mike Babcock, NHL Head Coach 2002-2019, 2023+

"I have tremendous admiration for Peter as a guitarist. But I have even more respect for him as a human. I have enjoyed getting to know him through his story, and I'm confident you will too." Corey duBrowa, Vice President, Google/Alphabet

"Peter's incredible performance with Buckcherry at Summerfest demonstrates how his positive energy triumphed over his years of struggle. It was an honor for the band to share the stage with him." Larry Mazar, Buckcherry Manager, Entertainment Services Ltd.

Reader's Favorite Honorable Mention Award + 5-Star Review by Astrid Lustulin

"Some people can teach us better than others how to make a difference in our lives, and Peter Dankelson is one of them. Yet, in the beginning, his circumstances would not have allowed him to even imagine this possibility. He was born prematurely and was diagnosed with Goldenhar syndrome. He had to undergo surgery on numerous occasions throughout his life and cope with being different, but this has not discouraged him at all. Thanks to music and his guitar, Peter proves you can stay positive and become a source of inspiration for many people. Find out all the details of his incredible life in his book How I Learned to Rock My Life: The Peter Dankelson Story, which he wrote in conjunction with his mother, Dede Dankelson.

How I Learned to Rock My Life is the perfect title for the story of Peter Dankelson. This book tells of a life that could have been very different, but which, thanks to the spirit of our hero, can and will inspire people to self-acceptance. Reading about all the surgery that Peter underwent since he was a baby and seeing the photographs makes us realize everything he had to endure before becoming the person he is now. He also reveals that the secret is to believe that even unfavorable conditions can bring about something good. I think that Peter, his mother Dede, and the rest of his family can be proud of what they have shown to the world. I recommend this book to anyone who wishes to discover the life of the extraordinary Peter Dankelson, especially if they are looking for a model of perseverance."