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DEPUTY WHILE IMMIGRANT
THE STORY OF A GERMAN WHO BECAME A DEPUTY SHERIFF IN ARIZONA
“Deputy While Immigrant: The Story of a German Who Became a Deputy Sheriff in Arizona" is not just a memoir; it's a testament to the power of resilience, cultural adaptation, and the pursuit of justice. Awarded the Firebird Book Award and the Literary Titan Award for its exceptional storytelling and profound insights, this book takes readers on an unparalleled journey through the eyes of Tom Peine, a German immigrant whose dream led him from the corporate echelons of Germany and the U.S. to the heart of Arizona law enforcement post-9/11.
This captivating narrative delves deep into the complexities of American police culture, seen through the lens of an immigrant. From the adrenaline-fueled streets to the intricate work of detective investigations, Peine offers an unfiltered glimpse into his decade-long career, sharing stories that oscillate between humor and poignancy, honesty and introspection. His experiences as a peace officer in a landscape once roamed by Wyatt Earp are not merely recounted but reflected upon, revealing the multifaceted nature of duty, bravery, and human connection.
"Deputy While Immigrant" also explores the essence of community and the transformative power of embracing a new identity in a foreign land. A semi-finalist in the Memoir/Biography category of the Indies Today Awards and runner-up in the Southwest Book Festival’s “Memoir” category, this book is celebrated for elevating the craft of storytelling, turning original concepts into a narrative that resonates with readers from all walks of life.
Join Tom Peine on his extraordinary journey from business lunches in Germany to life-changing patrols in the Arizona desert. This memoir is a tribute to those who dare to cross literal and metaphorical borders in search of fulfillment and a deeper understanding of justice and human dignity.
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REVIEWS
“While the author was adept at learning police procedure and his subsequent career as a deputy was marked by dedication and courage, the value of his well-written story is in its distinctively European point of view. (...) An insightful and engrossing account of a German immigrant’s experiences as a police deputy in Arizona.”
“Peine provides an unfiltered look at life that leaves no stone unturned and no emotion unexplored, encompassing the challenges and triumphs of law enforcement. The book is penned with all the narrative skill of a great crime novel, offering a chronicle of fascinating detective discoveries and gun-slinging moments, but it also paces itself well to offer a poignant reflection on the author’s time as a peace officer.”
“This memoir is more than just an account of a police officer’s life; it explores resilience, adaptability, and dedication. It resonates with current, former, and aspiring police officers, providing a multifaceted look at the profession. Peine’s compelling storytelling and richly detailed experiences make Deputy While Immigrant an absorbing and enlightening read.”
“The strength of the book lies in Peine’s ability to tell a good story, completely wrapping one up in the safety concerns of each traffic stop and the adrenaline surges of each chase. Readers will gain great insights into the law enforcement experience through the many stories from academy experiences to lessons learned from field training supervisors, from the “beat” to the desk jobs. (...) Readers who look for a good laugh, a good cry, and lots of “there I was when ...” stories will very much enjoy this memoir.”
“His writing makes you feel as if you are there with him experiencing what he experiences in real time. At times his descriptions of people and events are almost poetic as he learns who he is as a new American and grows as a person. His insights are often thought-provoking and provide a very needed humanization of what it really is like to serve and protect.”
“It is quite an adventure Mr Peine takes us on, and it shows as well, what you can do if you have the will to do it. In so far, it is exemplary for what you can achieve, if you put your mind to it. It was a pleasure reading this book from beginning to end. Quite a thrilling story and hard to put down, once you start reading it.”
“The book gives a detailed account of Tom’s life experiences as he travels the path of a law enforcement officer. Each story in his journey gives the reader a front-row view, like a virtual ride-along, of his mindset and emotions as he traverses situations and overcomes obstacles in his life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the thrilling stories that had me on the edge of my seat.”