In the 1960's, while coming of age and struggling with severe dyslexia, a youth encounters a few selfless mentors who see to it he discovers two diverse career paths. As a young man, his dual career's make it possible to escape a destructive relationship with his violent religious mother. After navigating through life with much hardship, tragedy and loneliness, just by chance his life changed for the better. Soon he felt prey once again to religious zealots and their fervency. But that is not where Goldstein's story would end. Through a stroke of good luck Goldstein's life was turned upside down, and ultimately for the better. As a senior he mentors dyslexic learners, so they may escape some of his torment. Late in life he discovers through DNA testing he was never who he was told he was as a youth. In this raw deeply moving memoir, there has never been a more poignant story for our turbulent times. Valley boy underscores the anguish, shame and limitations of being dyslexic while exploring the dangers of religious fervency, tribalism and indoctrination. This story will make you think about what is truly important in life. You will run home and hug your loved one and never let go.