169: The Slippery Slope, Half-Truths, and Getting Back on The Path, with Jody Mitic.

Mikey and the Dragons is a timeless tale by Jocko Willink that follows the story of Little Mikey, a boy who is scared of everything from creepy crawlies under the rug to monsters in his closet. When Mikey finds an old book about a young prince who volunteers to protect his king-less kingdom from hordes of dragons, he begins to learn that his fears are not as big as they seem. The book, told in rhyming verse and illustrated with big, bold, and beautiful full-color pictures, helps children overcome their fears and tap into their inner bravery. It is relatable, inspiring, and perfect for young readers to enjoy alone or with their parents.

This memoir follows Jody Mitic's personal journey into the Canadian military, through sniper training, and into firefights in Afghanistan. It culminates on the fateful night when he stepped on a landmine and lost both of his legs below the knees. The book chronicles his honour and sacrifice as a soldier, his authentic portrait of military life, and his inspirational story of living his dreams despite overwhelming adversity.

In 'Marc's Mission', Marc uses the skills he learned from his Navy SEAL uncle Jake to help another kid who needs a boost. The book emphasizes the importance of hard work, discipline, and empathy in becoming a leader. Marc faces challenges such as earning money to fix his bike, dealing with a bully, and competing in a jiu-jitsu tournament, all while learning to control his emotions and make better decisions.

In 'Everyday Heroes,' Jody Mitic compiles inspiring stories from men and women in the Canadian Armed Forces. The book features personal accounts of bravery, sacrifice, and camaraderie from various conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and Afghanistan. It highlights the heroism and resilience of ordinary individuals who have made extraordinary impacts through their service. The stories range from courageous rescues and bravery in conflict to the daily commitments of professionals who go above and beyond their duties, showcasing the heart and spirit of those who serve Canada.

In 'Way of the Warrior Kid', Marc, who had a terrible fifth-grade year, is helped by his uncle Jake, a retired Navy SEAL. Uncle Jake devises a plan to turn Marc into a warrior by focusing on physical fitness, healthy eating, and academic improvement. The book emphasizes the importance of physical activity, mental sharpness, and hard work, all illustrated with comic-style art by Jon Bozak. It is the first installment in a series aimed at inspiring young readers to overcome their challenges.