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Share Journey From Midnight With Your Reading group: The Complete Book Club Discussion Guide Below

Extended Book Trailer

About Journey From Midnight

The True Story

The True Story

The True Story

Selira V. Samanne grew up homeless—one of thousands of teens on a road to nowhere, searching for a better place and a better version of herself. Her life has been marked by hardships that would have broken most people long ago.

But her spirit is indomitable.

She survived to share her story with the world. Through her exceptional and devastating experiences, she speaks openly to reach those who need to hear her message—and possibly save lives.

Her Mission

By sharing this riveting and heartbreaking journey, Selira aims to:

  • Raise awareness of homeless youth in America and worldwide
  • Inspire readers to view homelessness through a different lens
  • Offer hope to those still on the streets or feeling lost

A Message to Those Still Searching

Believe in the good within yourself. Your inner moral compass will never steer you wrong if you remain true to yourself.

To Thine Own Self Be True

Don't be afraid to reach out for help. If you can't find it, be willing to do whatever it takes. Seek knowledge. Be willing to learn. When obstacles appear, find a way over, under, or around them.

This is survival of the fittest: mentally, physically, and spiritually.

If you try and fail, believe in yourself enough to keep trying. Keep seeking. You will find answers and solutions.


Trust Your Instincts. If something feels wrong-

It probably is...


The True Story

The True Story





Journey From Midnight Book Chapter Playlist

Feel The Added Visceral Impact and Emotions of Each Chapter 

Unique Aspect of The Book

SPECIAL NOTE: THE SOUNDTRACK OF SURVIVAL

Music has always been the lifeline that pulled me through the darkness. In what may be a first for memoir writing, each chapter of "Journey From Midnight" is titled with a carefully selected hard rock song that mirrors the emotional landscape of that period in my life. 


These aren't arbitrary choices - each song represents the actual soundtrack that carried me through specific moments of trauma, survival, and transformation.

As you read this story, I encourage you to listen to each chapter's corresponding song. This creates an unprecedented reading experience where the visceral power of hard rock music amplifies the raw emotions contained within these pages. 


The driving beats, screaming guitars, and rebellious lyrics of bands like Def Leppard, Guns N' Roses, Ozzy Osbourne, and others become the pulse beneath my words, creating a multidimensional journey through sound and story.


These songs didn't just provide background music to my experiences - they were survival tools. When the world became unbearable, when systems failed and people betrayed me, when hope seemed impossible, these anthems of rebellion and resilience kept my soul breathing. 


The music understood what words couldn't express: the rage, the defiance, the refusal to surrender even when surrender seemed like the only rational choice.

Hard rock speaks the language of the broken, the abandoned, the fighting-back. It's the perfect soundtrack for a story that refuses to sanitize trauma or wrap survival in pretty packages. 


This musical framework transforms reading into an immersive experience where you don't just read about my journey - you feel the soundtrack that sustained me through it.

Turn up the volume. Let the music guide you through the darkness toward whatever light exists on the other side.


Selira V. Samanne - Author Bio

☀️ 🌙⭐ ✨ 

Selira V. Samanne lives at 8,234 feet ⛰️ just outside Nederland, Colorado—a mountain town perched near the Continental Divide, where the Flatirons pierce the sky and the wild still rules.

Deep in the woods 🌲, she walks among bears 🐻, moose, mountain lions, and coyotes—creatures who, like her, know what it means to survive in harsh conditions. Her days unfold under endless sky ☀️, her nights beneath stars ✨ and moon 🌙, always accompanied by her two black Lab soul companions, Pagan and Tarot 🐕🐕, who have stood beside her through 15 years of transformation.

A Phoenix Rising 🔥

After surviving the brutal first half of her life, Selira shed the weight of her past and stepped into her power 💜. She no longer just survives—she creates, she builds, she transforms. Her mission is clear: turn a lifetime of pain into a foundation of hope for the next generation 🌟.

The wilderness 🌲 that surrounds her is both sanctuary and teacher. Where others see isolation, she sees freedom. Where others fear the dark 🌑, she builds light 💡.

Selira is the author of Journey From Midnight**, founder of the JFM H.A.V.E.N. Foundation, and designer of a fashion line that celebrates resilience through sacred geometry and bold self-expression. She is living proof that you don't need permission to rise.** ✨🔥


Discover How I Survived ✓ Personally Signed Paperback Copy

✨ 💜 💜 What Readers Are Saying 💜 💜 ✨

Highly Recommended Read

A Remarkable Journey of Survival and Strength

A Remarkable Journey of Survival and Strength

This book is a compelling read that takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions. The storyline is great, mixing personal tragedy into a narrative of triumph— both makes it inspiring and thought-provoking. All in all, this book is not just a memoir, it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Highly recommended read.

A Remarkable Journey of Survival and Strength

A Remarkable Journey of Survival and Strength

A Remarkable Journey of Survival and Strength

Journey From Midnight is a raw and inspiring memoir that captures the resilience of Selira V. Samanne as she navigates unimaginable challenges. From escaping abuse to becoming a runaway and hitchhiking across 36 states by age 17, her story is both heartbreaking and empowering. This powerful account sheds light on trauma, survival, and determination, leaving readers deeply moved.

Unyielding Courage

A Remarkable Journey of Survival and Strength

An Emotional Yet Deeply Inspiring Story of Resilience and Survival Against Unimaginable Challenges

This book offers a poignant and stirring glimpse into the harsh realities faced by a young girl on her own. With each page, you travel alongside her through a dark journey marked yet illuminated by her fierce determination and resilience. It's an eye-opening narrative that highlights the struggles of forgotten youths, encouraging understanding and compassion.

An Emotional Yet Deeply Inspiring Story of Resilience and Survival Against Unimaginable Challenges

An Emotional Yet Deeply Inspiring Story of Resilience and Survival Against Unimaginable Challenges

An Emotional Yet Deeply Inspiring Story of Resilience and Survival Against Unimaginable Challenges

 The emotional narrative captivated me with its vivid portrayal of a young girl’s journey through trauma, survival, and triumph. The honest exploration of emotional scars and the insightful perspective it shares regarding the struggles of homeless youth are both powerful and eye-opening. This heartfelt account is a powerful reminder of the strength found in perseverance and the importance of awareness and empathy.

Heart-Wrenching, Inspiring, and Real

An Emotional Yet Deeply Inspiring Story of Resilience and Survival Against Unimaginable Challenges

A Heart-Wrenching Journey of Survival and Resilience on the Streets

Wow—Journey From Midnight is one heck of a ride. Selira doesn’t hold back as she takes you into the raw, gritty reality of her life from age 11 on the streets, surviving things most of us couldn’t even imagine. Her resilience is just incredible, and she somehow manages to bring hope and strength to her story despite the darkness.

You can feel every ounce of her pain and strength as she navigates a world that’s anything but kind, all while staying determined to make it through. This book doesn’t just tell a story—it raises awareness, pushes you to think differently, and shows just how tough the human spirit can be. Absolutely worth the read if you’re ready for something real and powerful!


A Heart-Wrenching Journey of Survival and Resilience on the Streets

An Emotional Yet Deeply Inspiring Story of Resilience and Survival Against Unimaginable Challenges

A Heart-Wrenching Journey of Survival and Resilience on the Streets

Journey From Midnight by Selira V. Samanne is a powerful memoir that dives into the raw, resilient journey of a young runaway navigating life on the streets. Samanne’s story, told with vivid clarity, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her detailed recollections and openness bring readers face-to-face with the stark realities of homelessness, trauma, and survival.

Each chapter carries emotional weight, showing her strength in the face of unimaginable challenges. This book isn’t just a personal story; it shines a light on the often overlooked struggles of homeless youth, urging readers to reflect on societal gaps. Samanne's resilience and direct style make the story relatable and impactful, giving it a page-turning quality that grips you till the end.

I recommend Journey From Midnight to anyone drawn to stories of survival, personal strength, and social awareness—it’s a memorable, eye-opening read.

Formidable Journey

Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Survival

Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Survival

This true story of survival and persistence is both unsettling and inspirational. It is autobiographical, making it all the more impactful; it is uncompromising, telling a traumatic story honestly and straightforwardly. It is also an indictment of a flawed system, a cautionary tale that shines bright light on a sector of our society that is in serious need of reform. It's a challenging read, but a truly worthwhile one.

Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Survival

Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Survival

Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Survival

In "Journey From Midnight" Selira V. Samanne shares her courageous and harrowing journey of survival against all odds. From a childhood marred by abuse and neglect to a tumultuous adolescence marked by homelessness and danger, Selira's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Through her raw and unflinching account, readers are given insight into the trauma and tragedies she endured, yet also the strength and resilience that allowed her to persevere.
Selira's narrative is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring capacity for hope even in the darkest of circumstances. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, she emerges as a beacon of courage and determination, inspiring readers to overcome their own adversities. "Journey From Midnight" is a poignant and compelling memoir that sheds light on the profound impact of trauma and the incredible strength found within the human heart.

So Powerful!

Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Survival

So Powerful!

This book is a powerful memoir that touched my heart deeply. Selira's courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity are truly inspiring. Her journey from a runaway to a survivor is a testament to the human spirit's strength. The book sheds light on important issues like child abuse and homelessness while offering hope and encouragement. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and understanding of the human experience.

A Worldview

Powerful Testament.

So Powerful!

As I immersed myself in the book, I was deeply moved by the raw honesty and resilience of the narrative. Selira's harrowing journey from abuse and abandonment to homelessness and survival is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. What sets this book apart is its unflinching portrayal of the trauma and tragedies that Selira endured at such a young age. Her firsthand account offers a poignant insight into the struggles faced by children who are failed by the system and left to fend for themselves on the streets.

Powerful Testament.

Powerful Testament.

Powerful Testament.

A harrowing yet inspiring memoir. Samanne's raw vulnerability immerses readers in her tumultuous journey from an abusive adoptive home to life as a runaway traversing America by age 17. Her resilience in the face of unimaginable trauma is both heartbreaking and awe-inspiring. While difficult to read at times, her perseverance and determination to overcome pain and find purpose is ultimately uplifting. A powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.

Genuine Page-Turner

Powerful Testament.

Powerful Testament.

"Journey From Midnight" by Selira Samanne is a genuine page-turner. The book is a living, breathing testament to the unflinching commitment and resilience to live against impossible circumstances ranging from abuse to homelessness. This is an absolute must-read for anyone who wants to get a bite of what's not to like to overcome impossible circumstances.

✨💜💜 Reader Love & Reviews Continued 💜 💜✨

A Raw, Powerful Story of Survival and Hope

Journey From Midnight is a deeply moving and courageous account of a life shaped by tragedy and the strength it takes to survive. Samanne's story is both heartbreaking and inspiring as she recounts her struggles with trauma and the challenges she faced in a system that often failed to help her.

What makes this book truly impactful is Samanne’s raw honesty and resilience. She opens up about the painful experiences that marked her life, and through her vivid storytelling, readers feel every moment of her journey. Despite the hardships, her determination to overcome and find healing shines through, creating a powerful message of hope for anyone who has faced adversity.

This book isn’t just a memoir—it’s a testament to the human spirit. Journey From Midnight will resonate with readers who have faced struggles of their own, reminding us of the importance of resilience, self-worth, and the strength to rise above. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an unforgettable story of survival and triumph.

Touching

As a former foster parent and adoptive mom this story ripped my heart out. Every other page I just thought "Where are the adults? How has nobody stopped this?"
But adults failed her.

Heavy

Resilience Redefined

Wonderful and terrible at the same time. The journey of Selira is one of a kind, paved with hardship, resilience, and things no child should experience. Great job for telling her story, I'm sure it wasn't an easy ride writing and thus reliving it.

Resilience Redefined

A Raw Memoir That Restores Hope

Resilience Redefined

This isn't just a story about the past; it's a lesson in perseverance, a beacon of hope for anyone facing their own battles, and a call to recognize and address the struggles of the unnoticed. Reading Selira's account has left an indelible mark on me, reshaping my understanding of resilience and the capacity for healing.

Powerful

A Raw Memoir That Restores Hope

A Raw Memoir That Restores Hope

A difficult read, but an important one nonetheless. Selira does a great job of shedding light on what life is like for homeless youth, the atrocities that they face, and ways that we can help. If you care about opening your eyes to what's going on right under your nose in America (and elsewhere), this is a book you can't pass up.

A Raw Memoir That Restores Hope

A Raw Memoir That Restores Hope

A Raw Memoir That Restores Hope

This raw and unflinching memoir illuminates the forgotten shadows where vulnerable children slip through society's cracks. With poetic courage, Selira reshapes her pain into redemption's light. Her inner radiance emerges, even from the darkest places. Through the power of her voice, we bear witness to unfathomable hardship faced with remarkable resilience. Her story sheds light on a silent epidemic. Abandoned and abused, yet Selira persists. Though forsaken, she is never broken. This book calls us to see those we overlook. It reminds us the human spirit cannot be crushed, only transformed. Her living words challenge our conscience and restore our hope. Highly recommend!

A Compelling Tale of Survival and Redemption!

A Compelling Tale of Survival and Redemption!

A Compelling Tale of Survival and Redemption!

This gripping narrative chronicles the journey of a former runaway with raw honesty, showcasing resilience amidst adversity. Through poignant storytelling, it offers invaluable insights into the struggles of individuals navigating life's darkest corners, making it essential reading for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of human resilience

Healing From Abuse

A Compelling Tale of Survival and Redemption!

A Compelling Tale of Survival and Redemption!

This is painful--but it will be a cathartic read. Her intentions are spot on. She is writing this to shed light on all those who are traumatized, who have gone through abuse, and so on. This is a healing book

A World View

A Compelling Tale of Survival and Redemption!

A World View

As I immersed myself in the book, I was deeply moved by the raw honesty and resilience of the narrative. Selira's harrowing journey from abuse and abandonment to homelessness and survival is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. What sets this book apart is its unflinching portrayal of the trauma and tragedies that Selira endured at such a young age. Her firsthand account offers a poignant insight into the struggles faced by children who are failed by the system and left to fend for themselves on the streets.

Great

A World View

Journey From Midnight is a powerful memoir that takes readers through the raw and heartfelt story of one person’s battle against life’s most challenging circumstances. This book is not just a tale of tragedy and trauma, but a testimony to the human spirit's incredible resilience and unyielding determination to overcome. It sheds light on the deeply flawed systems that often fail those most in need and showcases the power of hope and perseverance.

The narrative is both gripping and emotional, offering an unfiltered view of the struggles faced by the author. The author’s vulnerability in sharing their story makes it an incredibly personal read, one that resonates deeply with those who have faced similar battles or know what it means to be resilient in the face of adversity.

One of the most compelling aspects of Journey From Midnight is the way it highlights the strength required to rebuild a life from brokenness. The book is a journey in every sense—through hardship, pain, and ultimately towards healing and self-discovery. Each chapter is a testament to the small victories that make a significant impact, showing readers that even in the darkest of times, there is light to be found.

For those looking for an inspiring read, this book serves as a reminder that it is possible to rise above the challenges that life throws your way. It is a story of hope that encourages readers to keep pushing forward, no matter how impossible the odds may seem. Journey From Midnight is an unforgettable volume that will stay with readers long after the final page is turned, offering both solace and motivation for those navigating their own difficult journeys.

Journey of Courage and Resilience

"Journey From Midnight" is a raw, captivating memoir that delves deep into the life of Selira V. Samanne, a survivor of abuse and homelessness. Her story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and strength. Samanne's candid narrative sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many young people, offering a powerful message of hope and resilience. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into the lives of those who have overcome unimaginable challenges.

Truly Engaging

This is a truly engaging story, it is one of those stories that would be amazing to watch in a movie or series. I have loved the openness the author has in describing the specificities of problems and events in life.

Book Podcast/Radio Announcement

Book Club Discussion Guide

Journey From Midnight: Volume One

A True Story of Tragedy and Trauma, Overcome by Resilience and Determination After Falling Through the Cracks of the System
By Selira V. Samanne

Welcome to Your Book Club Discussion
Thank you for choosing "Journey From Midnight" for your book club. This discussion guide is designed to facilitate meaningful conversations about resilience, systemic failures, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

Content Warning: This book contains discussions of trauma, homelessness, and systemic abuse. Please ensure all participants are prepared for potentially triggering content and establish ground rules for respectful, supportive discussion.

Discussion Guidelines

Creating a Safe Space

Respect confidentiality - what's shared in book club stays in book club
Practice active listening without judgment
Allow space for emotional reactions
It's okay to pass on questions that feel too personal
Focus on the book's themes rather than personal trauma details
Have resources available for those who might need support
Suggested Group Size: 6-12 people
Recommended Duration: 90-120 minutes

Opening Discussion (15 minutes)

Icebreaker Questions:

What drew you to choose this book for our discussion?
Share one word that describes your overall reaction to Selira's story.
Had you previously considered the experiences of homeless youth before reading this book?

Chapter-by-Chapter Discussion Themes

Section 1: Falling Through the Cracks
Focus: Systemic Failures and Vulnerability

Discussion Questions:

What emotions did you experience reading about Selira's early experiences with the system?
The subtitle mentions "falling through the cracks of the system." What specific "cracks" does Selira identify?
How do the failures Selira experienced reflect larger societal issues?
What assumptions about homeless youth did this section challenge for you?

Section 2: Survival Mode
Focus: Resilience and Adaptation

Discussion Questions:

How does Selira define resilience through her actions rather than her words?
What survival strategies does she develop, and how do they evolve throughout her journey?
Discuss the role of other people in Selira's survival. Who helped, and who hindered?
How does trauma shape but not define Selira's choices?

Section 3: Finding Light
Focus: Transformation and Hope

Discussion Questions:

What turning points can you identify in Selira's journey from survival to thriving?
How does Selira's relationship with herself change throughout the story?
What role does self-advocacy play in her transformation?
How does sharing her story become part of her healing process?

Deep Dive Discussion Questions

On Resilience:

How does Selira's definition of resilience differ from common misconceptions about "being strong"?
What practical resilience strategies from the book could apply to everyday challenges?
Discuss the difference between surviving and thriving as demonstrated in Selira's journey.

On Systemic Issues:

What systems failed Selira, and how might they be improved?
How does this book change your understanding of homelessness in America?
What role do individual actions play in supporting vulnerable youth?
Discuss the phrase "falling through the cracks." Is this an adequate metaphor?
On Personal Growth:
How does Selira maintain hope throughout her darkest moments?
What does healing look like in this story? Is it linear?
How does writing and sharing her story contribute to Selira's journey?
What does "overcoming" mean in the context of this book?

On Community and Connection:

Who are the people who make a positive difference in Selira's life? What do they have in common?
How does isolation impact Selira's journey, and how does connection help?
What role does self-advocacy play in building supportive relationships?
How can communities better support vulnerable youth?

Character and Motivation Analysis
Selira as Protagonist:

How does Selira evolve from the beginning to the end of Volume One?
What internal qualities help her survive and eventually thrive?
How does she balance vulnerability with strength?
What motivates her to share her story publicly?

Supporting Figures:

Which adults in Selira's life fulfill their responsibilities, and which fail her?
How do peer relationships impact her journey differently than adult relationships?
What can we learn from both the positive and negative influences in her story?

Contemporary Relevance
Discussion Points:

How do the issues Selira faced connect to current news and social challenges?
What has changed and what remains the same for vulnerable youth today?
How might reading this book change your daily interactions or voting decisions?
What organizations or initiatives does this book inspire you to learn about or support?

Creative Discussion Activities
Option 1: Letter Writing
Have members write a letter to:
Teenage Selira offering encouragement
Current policymakers about needed changes
The author expressing what the book meant to them
Option 2: Solution Brainstorming
Identify three specific problems highlighted in the book
Brainstorm practical solutions your community could implement
Discuss which actions you might take individually or as a group
Option 3: Resilience Mapping

Each member shares a time they demonstrated resilience (comfort level dependent)
Identify common themes between personal experiences and Selira's journey
Create a group "resilience toolkit" based on collective wisdom

Reflection Questions for Individual Consideration

These can be answered privately or shared based on comfort level
What aspects of Selira's story resonated most strongly with your own experiences?
How has reading this book changed your perspective on trauma and resilience?
What questions would you ask Selira if you could meet her?
How might you apply lessons from this book to support others in your life?
What assumptions about homelessness, foster care, or youth services has this book challenged?

Taking Action: Beyond Discussion

Individual Actions:

Support The JFM H.A.V.E.N. FOUNDATION Mission 

(Share You Care)
Volunteer with mentorship programs
Advocate for policy changes in your community
Share the book with others who might benefit from Selira's story

Group Actions:
Host a fundraiser for The JFM H.A.V.E.N. FOUNDATION MISSION
Invite a speaker from youth advocacy organizations

Write letters to local representatives about youth services funding

Resources for Further Learning

Organizations to Research:

National Safe Place Network
Covenant House
StandUp for Kids
Local youth homeless shelters and advocacy groups

Discussion Topics for Future Meetings:
Books by other trauma survivors
Policy books about youth homelessness
Resilience research and psychology
Social justice and systemic change

Closing Discussion (15 minutes)

Final Reflection Questions:

What is one thing you'll remember most about Selira's story?
How has this discussion enriched your understanding of the book?
What's one action you feel inspired to take after reading this book?
Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?
What does "journey from midnight" mean to you after this discussion?

Thank You Note

Thank you for taking the time to deeply engage with "Journey From Midnight." By discussing Selira's story thoughtfully and respectfully, you're contributing to greater understanding and awareness of the challenges facing vulnerable youth. Your conversations matter and can spark real change.
For more resources and to connect with the author, visit journeyfrommidnight.com

Book Club Leader Notes

Preparation Tips:

Read the book completely before facilitating
Have tissues available
Know local crisis resources in case participants need support
Consider having a mental health professional available if discussing with trauma survivors
Prepare to guide conversation away from graphic details toward themes and healing

Time Management:
Start with lighter questions and build to deeper discussions
Allow flexibility for emotional processing
Save action-oriented questions for the end when people are ready to channel emotions constructively

Sensitive Facilitation:

Watch for participants who may be triggered
Redirect oversharing to protect the group dynamic
Focus on hope and resilience rather than dwelling on trauma details
End on an uplifting, forward-looking note

This guide can be adapted for virtual book clubs, classroom discussions, or community reading groups. Please feel free to modify questions and activities to suit your group's specific needs and comfort levels.



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