Overview

A beautiful and transformative memoir, Maria's Scarf is the incredible story of a mother's love, a family's unbreakable bond, and a starry-eyed boy who never lost sight of his dreams. As the fatherless biracial child of a Mexican immigrant, Danny Donnelly was never expected to amount to much. Before the age of nine, his single mother had moved her seven children more than thirty times--from the impoverished streets of South Central Los Angeles to rural Oregon and everywhere in between. Sometimes there was no home to go to, so they slept in their '62 Chevy; sometimes dinner was a slice of bread; sometimes they showered in a nearby park. Desperate yet ever hopeful, they clung to the only thing they had--each other. Through it all, Danny longed for his father's love and approval, ultimately channeling his pain and transforming himself into Zoro, one of the world's greatest drummers. Eloquent, hilarious, and remarkably tender, Maria's Scarf: A Memoir of a Mother's Love, a Son's Perseverance, and Dreaming Big, tells the story of a family fighting for survival against almost insurmountable odds. Through laughter, tears, and many misadventures, Zoro touches the heart of every reader--young or old, citizen or immigrant--and speaks to the dreamer in all of us, emboldening everyone to live fantazmical lives. An Educator's Guide is available: https: //s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/www.blackstoneaudio.com/Maria%27s_Scarf_Educator%27s_Guide.pdf

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Reviews

"""Zoro and our lifelong customer, Elvis Presley, were cut from the same cloth. Both grew up dirt poor, passionate about R&B music and fashion. What makes them stand apart besides their talent, though, is their big hearts and adoring love for their mothers. We live in a culture that worships fame and celebrity, placing little value on the gatekeepers of our well-being. Zoro's book pays tribute to the heroes who shaped his life in such a beautiful and honoring way that you can feel the love seeping off the pages. Elvis would have loved Zoro and this book!"" -- ""Hal Lansky, third-generation owner of Lansky Bros., known as the Clothier to the King "" ""Zoro's memoir reads like compelling fiction--a living testament to how love can nurture the soul for triumph amid life's deep difficulties."" -- ""Laura Munson, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author and founder of the acclaimed Haven Writing Retreats"" ""Maria's Scarf proves how becoming one of the world's greatest drummers is not only about technique, but it's also about the forging of a man's soul so that each time he lays down a beat, you can feel the pain, joy, and love of Zoro's improbable and incredible story."" -- ""Tony R. Abrams, screenwriter/director"" ""Although I make my living with words, I find myself at a loss for words to express how amazing Zoro's story is. At times, it is hilarious; at other times, heartbreaking; at all times, deeply and beautifully human. I have never read anything like it."" -- ""Ken Gire, author of Windows of the Soul"" ""I can't ever recall reading a book when I just wanted to stand up and cheer again and again, but that's how Zoro's memoir affected me."" -- ""Homer Hickam, New York Times bestselling author of Rocket Boys"" ""Serving as a uniting force for an increasingly divided culture, this inspiring story will open hearts, fuel hopes, and restore faith for readers across multiple generations, backgrounds, and beliefs. Exploring everything from identity and relationships, to mental health, poverty, and the power of music, Maria's Scarf is the kind of uplifting story you'll want to read and discuss with everyone you know. The absolute must-read of the year."" -- ""Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author "" ""We all have a destiny that is greater than the circumstances we face. But sometimes, we need to see how someone overcomes the obstacles in their life to muster up the courage necessary to meet our own. Maria's Scarf is a portrait of courage that will inspire dreamers, both young and old. A timely immigrant story of a family pursuing the American dream. You'll be thinking about these heartbreaking, hilarious, and harrowing adventures long after you put the book down!"" -- ""Joyce Meyer, New York Times bestselling author"" ""Zoro's memoir will make you smile. The story captures what it means to love hard, stay true to a dream, overcome huge obstacles, and reach for the stars. Like the author himself, Maria's Scarf is triumphant in spirit, full of heart."" -- ""Marcus Brotherton, New York Times bestselling author of The Long March Home "" ""Zoro's music and life lessons are about using your talents to the maximum."" -- ""Lenny Kravitz, Grammy Award-winning recording artist, actor, and author"""

"""Maria's Scarf is the funny, touching, and inspiring story of a mother whose unending love...gave her son the faith and courage to relentlessly pursue his impossible dream."" -- ""Michael Hauge, author of Writing Screenplays That Sell and Storytelling Made Easy"" ""Maria's Scarf is an overcoming family saga of epic proportions, brimming with heart and soul, joy and pain, tribulation and triumph. The book is real at every level."" -- ""Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law & Justice"" ""Maria's Scarf is emotional and inspiring. I couldn't put it down!"" -- ""Gary Bryan, K-EARTH 101 Radio, Los Angeles "" ""A must-read for anyone who has lived, loved, lost, and knew there was something greater waiting for them."" -- ""Cathy Rich, vocalist, producer, and daughter of Buddy Rich, the world's greatest drummer"" ""Belief is powerful. It can cause us to persevere against all odds and do great things...An extraordinary example of how a mother's faith in God and steadfast belief in her son can make all the difference. It will restore your hope even in the hardest of times."" -- ""Dave Ramsey, bestselling author and radio host"" ""Both Zoro and I were blessed to live our dreams. Maria's Scarf will inspire you to never give up on yours."" -- ""Frankie Valli, lead vocalist of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and cocreator of Jersey Boys, the Broadway musical"" ""Filled with wit, wisdom, grit, and glory, Maria's Scarf will leave you with a hopeful sense of possibility and the desire to rock the world in your own way!"" -- ""Alex Van Halen, drummer and cofounder of the rock band Van Halen "" ""I can't recall ever reading a book when I just wanted to stand up and cheer again and again, but that's how Zoro's memoir affected me. If I could, I would give this book to every young person in the world."" -- ""Homer Hickam, New York Times bestselling author of October Sky"" ""If you have ever doubted the power to become what you dream despite your circumstances, then read Maria's Scarf. The American dream comes alive in this wonderfully poignant and exquisitely written account of how an immigrant mother's faith and fortitude transforms the lives of her children. You'll be singing the Hallelujah chorus at the end!"" -- ""Joe Battaglia, president of Renaissance Communications and author of Make America Good Again "" ""Maria's Scarf proves how becoming one of the world's greatest drummers is not only about technique, but it's also about the forging of a man's soul so that each time he lays down a beat, you can feel the pain, joy, and love of Zoro's improbable and incredible story."" -- ""Tony R. Abrams, screenwriter/director"" ""One of the best books I've read in years. Uplifting, hilarious, heartbreaking, and heartwarming, Maria's Scarf is a revelation. A love letter to those who love us unconditionally."" -- ""Tosca Lee, New York Times bestselling author"" ""Sometimes, we need to see how someone overcomes the obstacles in their life to muster up the courage necessary to meet our own. Maria's Scarf is a portrait of courage that will inspire dreamers, both young and old. A timely immigrant story of a family pursuing the American dream. You'll be thinking about these heartbreaking, hilarious, and harrowing adventures long after you put the book down!"" -- ""Joyce Meyer, New York Times bestselling author"" ""This inspiring story will open hearts, fuel hopes, and restore faith for readers across multiple generations, backgrounds, and beliefs...Maria's Scarf is the kind of uplifting story you'll want to read and discuss with everyone you know. The absolute must-read of the year."" -- ""Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author "" ""This story is for all who dream. It's for all who have felt shut out and let down; it's for all who have been buoyed up by someone who unrelentingly kept a candle of faith and hope lit."" -- ""Kim Dorr-Tilley, Hollywood agent"" ""With whip-smart prose and a talent for telling stories, Zoro catapults us into the world of music, but he also takes us on a journey of growing up and what it means to be a family. He captures his childhood as a dreamer that is authentic and pulses like a pattern of drum beats. Maria's Scarf is a generous and moving story of sacrifice, family, and hope."" -- ""Melissa Cistaro, award-winning author of Pieces of My Mother"" ""You quickly fall in love with these characters. All the elements of a visual story leap off the page at you with every turn. It's Whiplash meets Rocky meets The Blindside...with the heart of Forrest Gump. A must-read...and hopefully soon a must-see as well."" -- ""Rick Eldridge, CEO/producer, ReelWorks Studios"" ""Zoro and our lifelong customer, Elvis Presley, were cut from the same cloth...Zoro's book pays tribute to the heroes who shaped his life in such a beautiful and honoring way that you can feel the love seeping off the pages. Elvis would have loved Zoro and this book!"" -- ""Hal Lansky, third-generation owner of Lansky Bros., known as the Clothier to the King"" ""Zoro's beautiful and touching memoir, Maria's Scarf, is a testament to the strength and tenacity of the human spirit."" -- ""Countess Luann de Lesseps, original cast member of The Real Housewives of New York City"" ""Zoro's memoir portrays a boy who is rich with faith, tenacity, resiliency, and drive! He reminds us that sometimes we just have to fake it 'til we make it! My whole-hearted applause for Maria's Scarf."" -- ""Yvonne Vollert Noblitt, writer/producer"" ""Zoro's memoir reads like compelling fiction--a living testament to how love can nurture the soul for triumph amid life's deep difficulties."" -- ""Laura Munson, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author "" ""Zoro's memoir will make you smile. The story captures what it means to love hard, stay true to a dream, overcome huge obstacles, and reach for the stars. Like the author himself, Maria's Scarf is triumphant in spirit, full of heart."" -- ""Marcus Brotherton, New York Times bestselling author of The Long March Home"" ""Captivating...exhilarating...inspiring...riveting...An eight-course meal with dessert! Bravo, Zoro!"" -- ""Dyan Cannon, three-time Academy Award-nominated actress"" ""The rich and colorful details that are woven into every story make his book come alive. If ever there was a story about God making way for one of His own, this is it. Highly recommended!"" -- ""Bob Kilpatrick, author, musician, inventor"" ""Engaging and evocative, Maria's Scarf is a glorious portrayal of the poignancy of love, one that kept me turning each page. A magical story filled with surprise and delight, this unforgettable memoir serves as a testament to the power of a mother's love and one boy's sheer determination. Every mother who has dreams for her children needs to read this!"" -- ""Melissa Rivers, actress, producer, and television host of Fashion Police on E! "" ""Much like his drumming, Zoro's memoir is filled with heart and soul and captures the rhythm of a life filled with adversity, adventure, and ascension. Through his unforgettable journey, he shows us all how to become a shining star. A deeply affecting book about overcoming the odds that will make your heart sing."" -- ""Verdine White, founding member and bassist of Earth, Wind & Fire"" ""These pages aren't just about how to live a beautiful life when it's easy, but how to press forward with tenacity and courage and love when life is hard. If you've got a pulse, you are going to be touched by this book."" -- ""Bob Goff, New York Times bestselling author of Love Does; Everybody, Always; and Dream Big "" ""This book had me laughing and crying, sometimes on the same page, but is more than a memoir. With its cinematic splendor, Maria's Scarf is a movie that calls to be made--one that will inspire millions."" -- ""Jimmy Steinfeldt, legendary rock photographer "" ""Although I make my living with words, I find myself at a loss for words to express how amazing Zoro's story is. At times, it is hilarious; at other times, heartbreaking; at all times, deeply and beautifully human. I have never read anything like it."" -- ""Ken Gire, author of Windows of the Soul"""

"""Zoro and I grew up on different ends of the country and in different periods, but we share one huge trait in common--we are both dreamers. Another amazing parallel is that, just like me, Zoro was inspired as a kid by Frank Sinatra. Like the Chairman of the Board, both Zoro and I were blessed to live our dreams. Maria's Scarf will inspire you to never give up on yours."" -- ""Frankie Valli, lead vocalist of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and cocreator of Jersey Boys Broadway musical"" ""Zoro's beautiful and touching memoir, Maria's Scarf, is a testament to the strength and tenacity of the human spirit. Like Zoro, I too came from a family of seven children. The book's message--that a strong familial bond and a mother's loving encouragement can help us realize our dreams, even in the face of difficult circumstances--truly resonated with me. I know it will for you too! Life is a cabaret!"" -- ""Countess Luann de Lesseps, original cast member of The Real Housewives of New York City, singer, model, author, and leader of Countess Cabaret"" ""After reading this beautiful memoir, I am left with many emotions from different perspectives. As a mother, I know the otherworldly bond between mother and son and how we would walk through fire for them. As a performer, I know the heartache and absolute joy we go through with every rejection and success. As a daughter, I can't imagine not having had a deep and loving relationship with my father. Zoro's story is one of triumph through adversity on every level. It is a must-read for anyone who has lived, loved, lost, and knew there was something greater waiting for them."" -- ""Cathy Rich, vocalist, producer, and daughter of Buddy Rich, the world's greatest drummer"" ""Belief is powerful. It can cause us to persevere against all odds and do great things. Zoro's memoir is an extraordinary example of how a mother's faith in God and steadfast belief in her son can make all the difference. It will restore your hope even in the hardest of times and make you believe anything is possible."" -- ""Dave Ramsey, bestselling author and radio host"" ""Captivating...exhilarating...inspiring...riveting...An eight-course meal with dessert! Bravo, Zoro!"" -- ""Dylan Cannon, three-time Academy Award-nominated actress"" ""Engaging and evocative, Maria's Scarf is a glorious portrayal of the poignancy of love, one that kept me turning each page. A magical story filled with surprise and delight, this unforgettable memoir serves as a testament to the power of a mother's love and one boy's sheer determination. Every mother who has dreams for her children needs to read this!"" -- ""Melissa Rivers, actress, producer, and television host of Fashion Police on E! "" ""I've known Zoro as one of the great drummers, and I knew he had an interesting backstory, but I was unprepared for the deeply personal revelations about his family and his incredible path to stardom. Maria's Scarf is emotional and inspiring. I couldn't put it down!"" -- ""Gary Bryan, K-EARTH 101 Radio, Los Angeles "" ""Much like his drumming, Zoro's memoir is filled with heart and soul and captures the rhythm of a life filled with adversity, adventure, and ascension. Through his unforgettable journey, he shows us all how to become a shining star. A deeply affecting book about overcoming the odds that will make your heart sing."" -- ""Verdine White, founding member and bassist of Earth, Wind & Fire"" ""One of the best books I've read in years. Uplifting, hilarious, heartbreaking, and heart-warming, Maria's Scarf is a revelation. A love letter to those who love us unconditionally, a story of faith and passion and the power of a praying mother. Every kid with a dream needs to read this book. Every adult with a dream should read it. Every person who thought their dream passed them by needs to read it and get out there and see what faith and belief can do."" -- ""Tosca Lee, New York Times bestselling author"" ""The descriptive way Maria's Scarf takes you through the sights, sounds, and smells of a struggling family fighting to survive while taking you for an emotional roller-coaster ride...you quickly fall in love with these characters. All the elements of a visual story leap off the page at you with every turn. It's Whiplash meets Rudy meets Blindside...with the heart of The Notebook. A must-read...and hopefully soon a must-see as well."" -- ""Rick Eldridge, CEO/producer at ReelWorks Studios (Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius and The Ultimate Gift) "" ""These pages aren't just about how to live a beautiful life when it's easy, but how to press forward with tenacity and courage and love when life is hard. If you've got a pulse, you are going to be touched by this book."" -- ""Bob Goff, New York Times bestselling author of Love Does; Everybody, Always; and Dream Big "" ""This book had me laughing and crying, sometimes on the same page, but is more than a memoir. With its cinematic splendor, Maria's Scarf is a movie that calls to be made--one that will inspire millions."" -- ""Jimmy Steinfeldt, legendary rock photographer "" ""This is a book about trying when it's hard, failing when it was unexpected, and persisting in between. These pages aren't just about how to live a beautiful life when it's easy, but how to press forward with tenacity and courage and love when life is hard. If you've got a pulse, you are going to be touched by this book."" -- ""Bob Goff, Honorary Consul to the Republic of Uganda and New York Times bestselling author of Love Does; Everybody, Always; and Dream Big "" ""Zoro and our lifelong customer, Elvis Presley, were cut from the same cloth. Both grew up dirt poor, passionate about R&B music and fashion. What makes them stand apart besides their talent, though, is their big hearts and adoring love for their mothers. We live in a culture that worships fame and celebrity, placing little value on the gatekeepers of our well-being. Zoro's book pays tribute to the heroes who shaped his life in such a beautiful and honoring way that you can feel the love seeping off the pages. Elvis would have loved Zoro and this book!"" -- ""Hal Lansky, third-generation owner of Lansky Bros., known as the Clothier to the King "" ""Zoro's memoir reads like compelling fiction--a living testament to how love can nurture the soul for triumph amid life's deep difficulties."" -- ""Laura Munson, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author and founder of the acclaimed Haven Writing Retreats"" ""Maria's Scarf proves how becoming one of the world's greatest drummers is not only about technique, but it's also about the forging of a man's soul so that each time he lays down a beat, you can feel the pain, joy, and love of Zoro's improbable and incredible story."" -- ""Tony R. Abrams, screenwriter/director"" ""Although I make my living with words, I find myself at a loss for words to express how amazing Zoro's story is. At times, it is hilarious; at other times, heartbreaking; at all times, deeply and beautifully human. I have never read anything like it."" -- ""Ken Gire, author of Windows of the Soul"" ""I can't ever recall reading a book when I just wanted to stand up and cheer again and again, but that's how Zoro's memoir affected me."" -- ""Homer Hickam, New York Times bestselling author of Rocket Boys"" ""Serving as a uniting force for an increasingly divided culture, this inspiring story will open hearts, fuel hopes, and restore faith for readers across multiple generations, backgrounds, and beliefs. Exploring everything from identity and relationships, to mental health, poverty, and the power of music, Maria's Scarf is the kind of uplifting story you'll want to read and discuss with everyone you know. The absolute must-read of the year."" -- ""Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author "" ""We all have a destiny that is greater than the circumstances we face. But sometimes, we need to see how someone overcomes the obstacles in their life to muster up the courage necessary to meet our own. Maria's Scarf is a portrait of courage that will inspire dreamers, both young and old. A timely immigrant story of a family pursuing the American dream. You'll be thinking about these heartbreaking, hilarious, and harrowing adventures long after you put the book down!"" -- ""Joyce Meyer, New York Times bestselling author"" ""Zoro's memoir will make you smile. The story captures what it means to love hard, stay true to a dream, overcome huge obstacles, and reach for the stars. Like the author himself, Maria's Scarf is triumphant in spirit, full of heart."" -- ""Marcus Brotherton, New York Times bestselling author of The Long March Home "" ""Zoro's music and life lessons are about using your talents to the maximum."" -- ""Lenny Kravitz, Grammy Award-winning recording artist, actor, and author"""

"""Maria's Scarf proves how becoming one of the world's greatest drummers is not only about technique, but it's also about the forging of a man's soul so that each time he lays down a beat, you can feel the pain, joy, and love of Zoro's improbable and incredible story."" -- ""Tony R. Abrams, screenwriter/director"" ""Although I make my living with words, I find myself at a loss for words to express how amazing Zoro's story is. At times, it is hilarious; at other times, heartbreaking; at all times, deeply and beautifully human. I have never read anything like it."" -- ""Ken Gire, author of Windows of the Soul"" ""I can't ever recall reading a book when I just wanted to stand up and cheer again and again, but that's how Zoro's memoir affected me."" -- ""Homer Hickam, New York Times bestselling author of Rocket Boys"" ""Serving as a uniting force for an increasingly divided culture, this inspiring story will open hearts, fuel hopes, and restore faith for readers across multiple generations, backgrounds, and beliefs. Exploring everything from identity and relationships, to mental health, poverty, and the power of music, Maria's Scarf is the kind of uplifting story you'll want to read and discuss with everyone you know. The absolute must-read of the year."" -- ""Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author "" ""We all have a destiny that is greater than the circumstances we face. But sometimes, we need to see how someone overcomes the obstacles in their life to muster up the courage necessary to meet our own. Maria's Scarf is a portrait of courage that will inspire dreamers, both young and old. A timely immigrant story of a family pursuing the American dream. You'll be thinking about these heartbreaking, hilarious, and harrowing adventures long after you put the book down!"" -- ""Joyce Meyer, New York Times bestselling author"" ""Zoro's memoir will make you smile. The story captures what it means to love hard, stay true to a dream, overcome huge obstacles, and reach for the stars. Like the author himself, Maria's Scarf is triumphant in spirit, full of heart."" -- ""Marcus Brotherton, New York Times bestselling author of The Long March Home "" ""Zoro's music and life lessons are about using your talents to the maximum."" -- ""Lenny Kravitz, Grammy Award-winning recording artist, actor, and author"""

Author Information

Zoro has spent four decades performing with artists such as Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons, New Edition, Sean Lennon, Lisa Marie Presley, and Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. He has been voted the number one R&B drummer in the world numerous times and is the author of The Big Gig: Big-Picture Thinking for Success and SOAR! 9 Proven Keys for Unlocking Your Limitless Potential. His engaging personality, ability to speak on a wide range of subjects, and authentic way of inspiring others have also established him as a sought-after speaker. Website: zorothedrummer.com mariasscarf.com Zoro has spent four decades performing with artists such as Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons, New Edition, Sean Lennon, Lisa Marie Presley, and Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. He has been voted the number one R&B drummer in the world numerous times and is the author of The Big Gig: Big-Picture Thinking for Success and SOAR! 9 Proven Keys for Unlocking Your Limitless Potential. His engaging personality, ability to speak on a wide range of subjects, and authentic way of inspiring others have also established him as a sought-after speaker. Website: zorothedrummer.com mariasscarf.com

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