Shatter the Sky: What going to the stratosphere taught me about self-worth, sacrifice, and discipline Paperback – 6 Oct. 2021

What's not to like? Merryl leads you through her self made, eventful life in a series of vignettes which like her life trajectory, careens 'off the walls' but always towards a lofty goal, always upwards. I imagine I could have done well just if I knew this lady and by 'drafting' along behind her. She's a (retired) U2 pilot flying both at the edge of space and the flight envelope 'coffin corner' of that daring plane. The title is a take off on 'Shatter the glass ceiling' ... why stop there? Right on! I bought the book after I saw a You Tube interview (not originating there ... search for her name and 'Dragon Lady' ). I was intrigued she was from Brooklyn, right next door to my wife's original home in Queens. My wife and Merryl act a lot similar and like her marriage, we are mixed race couple and enjoying it. Go Merryl!

Merryl's life story is an incredible inspiration to those she crosses paths with. Written in such a way as to flow easily and be that hard to put down book. She has accomplished a lofty goal of inspiring people with her experiences. Merryl's passion for life comes through as she shares from the gut. It's clear that she is someone who will no doubt be the Woman young girls can look up to as a role model when chasing their dreams. I lived a very similar life of adventure because of role models like Merryl. She is a natural leader and motivational speaker and truly cares about how she impacts those she interacts with. This is her first book. It's a smooth and easy read that leaves you wanting more. Well done, Merryl! You inspire people by your example of being so very brave from a young age that you never let the naysayers stop you from living your wildest dreams!

What a fast-paced read! From her roots in the Bronx, to her time in the military, to becoming a TV personality, Merryl uses the events in her life to weave a well-written narrative that anyone can relate to -- even if they haven’t gone to the Stratosphere.Inside every chapter there are heartfelt stories about successes and, more importantly in my eyes, failures. She definitely doesn’t shy away from the challenges in her life. All of this is done with humor and an inspirational tone that uplifts from one page to the next.When you’re done with this book, you’ll understand what it takes to accomplish what Merryl has. You’ll also be ready to take on your own challenges in life.Go read it now, you won’t be disappointed!

It is clear that Colonel Tengesdal lived a stellar military career and her story should be an inspiration to anyone and everyone. Her accomplishments are too many to list and extremely impressive. Her story was written in an engaging manner, not without a few touches of humor. What spoke to me most was how her accomplishments were her own (with support from family and colleagues), through personal determination. My takeaway was that one should navigate life with confidence and assume personal responsibility for its outcome. It's not good enough to wait around to have things handed to you. Go get it!C. Veilleux

I purchased the Kindle version the day of the release. I had to force myself not to read cover-to-cover in one sitting because I did not want the experience to end. The realness and rawness resonated with me. While I thank her for her esteemed military service, she is so much more than her service record. The world needs more Merryl's. Fortunately, I am confident we've neither seen nor heard the last of her amazing contributions to a world that needs more of what she brings to the table.