Reviews
Readers' Favorite 5 Star Review Link
“You Just Have to Read This…” Books by Wesleyan Authors Goodman ’06 Thoms MAT ’62 and Blake ’78 Link
Sid Balman Jr., author, Amazon 5 Star review: Beyond the Policy Elite Link
Frank Thoms created the atmosphere of communication in the deepest meaning of this world when words pass from your soul. Not all people have the gift to communicate. Such people are rare, but these people are necessary in our society, because they have a sincere interest in people. ~ Rima Ivanovna, Director School 15, Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan
I thought I knew a good deal about Russia including its people and history. I realize that I have been covered by the veil that was the result of Western writers who mainly explored the history, literature, music, and politics of this fascinating country but little about the mindset of the people and its institutions. This is a must-read. ~ Bob Leonard, civil rights advocate and Peace Corps leader in seven countries including Cambodia, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
You write beautifully! I truly enjoyed your book. Such a good mix of the personal while trying to understand the intricacies of another culture. Very difficult to do! Excellent writing! ~ Rita Saliba, Founder of Grant Partners New England
As I read your book I did plenty of contemplating on the powerfulness of your story. While learning of Russia was ostensibly the main theme of Behind the Red Veil, I would contend the real message within your book was the story of you, of your journey and your insight on your life. That was paramount. ~ Rod Copeland, former Vermont Commisioner of Mental Health
The raw, unfettered honesty in Thoms’s writing is refreshing and welcomed. We need more authors who are unafraid to speak the truth, even if it means exposing their own, to enable us a people to be able to see others as human and not some mysterious force to be afraid of. ~Amazon Customer
You are a brave soul to immerse yourself in a unique culture and connect so well with your peers and students. What an adventure, including jumping on public transportation on your first day to visit friends and families in their homes. ~Lowell MA reader
"Behind the Red Veil" is a delight to read. To read it is to be Thoms' companion on an adventure from the safety of your comfy chair. ~ Kate Arms, ICA Accredited Coach and former student
Your writing is superb. You were persistent, you were diplomatic when needed to be, and you always had the end result in mind. I learned so much Russian history from your account as you painted much of the history of the country, the country as you encountered it, and the relationship to everyday events. ~ Velma Sayer, former principal