Book Review-Life In Spite of Me

Many thanks to Ashley and WaterBrookMultnomah for offering this book for my review.

It is rare that a book like this that isn't a struggle for me to read. My favorite reading is novels. I am thankful for the publishers and promoters like WaterbrookMultnomah that allow me to broaden my personal horizons and step out of my comfort zone a little and experience something a little different for me.

This is the story of a young womans failed attempt at suicide and the story of how God had other plans for her.

I was captivated by this book. From chapter one I was drawn into Kristen's story. The very beginning was hard to read. It really wasn't so much that it was overly graphic but her description of what happened to her is so vivid that you can almost picture seeing the train as it rolls across her body.

As she describes the sensations she feels as the train goes over her I was left wondering about why she choose to describe it in such detail. I had no negative or bad feeling about it at all. I just happened to zero in on it and was just left wondering if she was making a point.

Toward the end I was thrilled to see the point she was making. It was at that moment on the railroad tracks that God physically saved her. She was able to later remember the feelings, and the sounds and she was able to realize it was at that point that God revealed himself and gave her peace.

From the back cover:

In Life, in Spite of Me this remarkable 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.

As Kristen shares her story she strives to encouragement to readers that are struggling with hopelessness and loss. She includes personal notes throughout the book encouraging the reader to turn to God. To seek him out.

I was encouraged by Kristen's boldness in sharing her found faith. As she became closer and closer to God during her recovery process she began to realize God's calling on her heart to share her story and help others. And upon answering God's call Kristen founded Reaching You Ministries I encourage you to click on this link to learn more about her work.

I am happy that I had the opportunity to read this book. Seeing Kristen's enthusiasm and boldness for the Lord was a Blessing to me. It encouraged me to be much more bold. Seeing the Joy she has in her relationship with Christ left me personally longing and with a desire to enter into a deeper more personal relationship with Christ. It left me wanting more Joy in my own life.

I highly recommend this book. It is not only encouraging to those struggling with depression and loss but it is encouraging as well to the young and mature believer.

I know that if you purchase this book you will not be disappointed.