“Life doesn’t give us a manual — but it does give us moments that shape us. This is the book that helps you grow from them.”
The Unschooled Life is for anyone ready to turn struggle into strength, and find rhythm, grit, and purpose beyond the system
If you want to read something that will impact and change your life, then this is a must read.
Stories that speak to the heart and challenge the mind
Practical tools and rhythms you can apply straight away
A voice of hope, honesty, and gritty encouragement
Lessons learned the hard way — now shared for your journey
This isn’t just advice — it’s a journey. Let’s walk it together.
“I’ve started running. And I actually love it. If you’d told me that a few months ago, I would’ve laughed. And that’s the power of this book. It doesn’t just inspire you — it equips you. It gives you the practical tools to challenge your own stories, to shift your thinking, and to grow. It’s helped me look at all kinds of narratives in my life — ones I’ve placed on myself, and ones others have placed on me — and rethink them all. This isn’t your typical self-help book. It’s not just someone’s personal story stretched out to fit a formula. Mike offers something deeper, something that actually applies to everyone — especially youth. As a young adult, I can honestly say this book has changed how I see myself, how I see others, and how I show up in the world."
Grace
Young Adult - Trainee Teacher
"I'm in awe of the knowledge of this book. Where was something like this during my training at the school for death 56 years ago? It would have been a book well used and read, a book of immense value, not only
there, but in bringing up my own three children, a lifesaver of hope and help during the ups and downs in my life and the life of them all.
Reading this book has changed me, my thinking, and will change the way I negotiate every special visit from now on. Helping me see them in a different way and focusing on each child's needs and personality allowing them to fall, get up, grow stronger with each challenge along life's unpredictable path. Life isn't easy. Life isn't a quick fix. Life is one day, one foot, one minute at a time walking with hope towards a brighter tomorrow.
This book is hope for that future."
Jenny
Retired - Keen Grandparent
In this insightful book, it talks about the stretch zone. I had struggled with fear and anxiety for a long time. I had accepted it because I didn't know how not to. It prevented me from trying anything where I didn't feel safe. I wasn't living. The stretch zone showed me the way I could push through and face those things that had held me back. This book will make you cry and laugh as you recognise yourself in the stories told. It will inspire you and encourage you to face the challenges that have been holding you back. You will not be able to put it down. If you want to read something that will impact and change your life, then this is a must read. Embrace the journey it will take you on.
Sue
Retired - Recently back volunteering in school
The Book
The Unschooled Life - Real Growth Beyond The System
This book is raw, honest, and packed with the kind of stories that don't make it into school curriculums — but shape who we are. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, lost, or just over the same old grind. Inside are tools that actually work, rhythms to keep you steady, and hard-earned lessons from a decade of walking with young people through the mess and beauty of life.
A Book For Everyone
✅ Young Adults finding their way
✅ Parents & Mentors trying to support them
✅ Teachers, Coaches, & Youth Workers
✅ Anyone stuck, growing, or ready for more
Follow the Journey
Real Talk. Daily Grit. Stories that Stick
Not quite ready to dive into the book or course? No stress. Come follow the journey — I post regular reflections, stories from the trenches, and lessons learned the hard way. It’s raw, honest, and full of life stuff that’ll make you think, laugh, or maybe cry a bit. If you’re curious about the kaupapa, this is the best place to start.
Meet The Author - Michael Wilkes
Family Man - Youth Worker - Adventure Lover
Michael Is married and resides in Thames, New Zealand with his wife Jovana and four awesome (and full on) kids.
He has over a decade of youth work, mentoring and coaching experience. Both supporting young people, their families, and running workshops for school communities. The programs he developed in youth work have both changed and saved lives.
Now after years of people asking, he has heeded the call and created a resource for everyone — packed with tools, stories, and rhythms to help you get unstuck and grow forward.
“I’m Mike — youth worker, mentor, dad of four. After a decade of walking with young people through the mess and beauty of life, I’ve written the book I wish every teen, parent, teacher, and leader had.”
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