heidirgorecki 's review for:

Rescue at the Reef by Jameson Reeder, Mary Catherine Reeder

4.0

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad tense fast-paced

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Jameson Jr’s story of perseverance, faith, and perspective is inspiring and full of hope. While what he and his parents went thru was horrific, they are a testimony that God can use the worst situations for good, and a a hopeful outlook and determination makes so much difference in the outcome. I look forward to hearing about what Jameson grows up to be and do with such an incredible faith and trajectory.

I appreciated much of the practical and down to earth parts of Jameson Sr and Mary’s struggles to parent as you watch your child suffer and struggle with something beyond their control. They handled well the concept of trauma-induced fear and not forcing the overcoming of it but not idling in the fear either. It was relatable and encouraging. 

For the writing, the story is narrated from the perspective of both parents, Jameson Sr and Mary Reeder, as authors, volleying back and forth on their experiences or thoughts. After the initial part of the accident, the majority of the book reads much like an interview of the two of them. 

I did find some of the book to be a bit repetitive and other parts were somewhat irrelevant, such as the sections on how the Reeders met and got married or Jameson Sr’s childhood. It wasn’t really pertinent to the son’s story and felt a little like we veered off from the overall intention and focus of the book there. 

Overall I enjoyed reading of the Reeder family’s story and will be praying for the continued journey. It was inspiring and I’m glad to have known it. 

Thanks to Worthy Publishing and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.