From The Publisher:
She wanted to die. God had other plans. Why does my life have to be so painful? What’s wrong with me? It’s not going to get better. It could all be over soon, and then I won’t hurt anymore. Kristen Anderson thought she had the picture-perfect life until strokes of gray dimmed her outlook: three friends and her grandmother died within two years. Still reeling from these losses, she was raped by a friend she thought she could trust. She soon spiraled into a seemingly bottomless depression. One January night, the seventeen-year-old decided she no longer wanted to deal with the emotional pain that smothered her. She lay down on a set of cold railroad tracks and waited for a freight train to send her to heaven…and peace. But Kristen's story doesn’t end there. In Life, In Spite of Me this remarkably joyful young woman shares the miracle of her survival, the agonizing aftermath of her failed suicide attempt, and the hope that has completely transformed her life, giving her a powerful purpose for living. Her gripping story of finding joy against all odds provides a vivid and unforgettable reminder that life is a gift to be treasured. Includes notes of encouragement Kristen wishes she had received when she was struggling most.
My Review:
Get your tissues ready for this must read book! From the first pages, I was immediately drawn into the true story of Kristen Anderson, a 17 year old girl whose battle with depression and tragedies in her life, led her to consider suicide. In an attempt that would have by all logic killed even the strongest, by the grace of God she lived. We follow her story as she learns to live without her legs and watch as through the struggles, her relationship with God grows. This is an amazing and inspiring story about overcoming such extreme obstacles, but the story goes much deeper. It is a reminder of the role that God plays in our every day lives and proof that miracles do still exist and God is with us, as seen in her miraculous survival. It is also a wonderful reminder that God has plans for every one of us and all events in our life will prepare us to face those plans. Kristen was able to take this horrible tragedy in her life and use it to give glory to God and ultimately help to bring others to Him as well.
Overall, I think this was an amazing book, I was unable to put it down and finished in one afternoon, wanting to know how everything was going to turn out. I was not disappointed. There were however a few places where I had to step away for a few minutes. It was not extremely graphic, but did deal with some very extreme injuries, so if you have a very weak stomach like myself, be aware but please don't let it discourage you from reading. I truly believe this is a must read for all ages, but especially for younger readers who are having the same suicidal thoughts.
Still not sure you want to read it? You can read the first chapter here!
If you would like to learn more about Kristen's ministry, Reaching You Ministries, you can find that here.
**Disclaimer: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for this honest review.**
This is on my "to read list"...just haven't gotten it yet! I've seen a few interview with her, including on Oprah. Her story is truly amazing! Now, how do you get into Blogging for Books??? I would love to be a part of something like that!
ReplyDelete