Blogging for Books Review: Life, In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson and Tricia Goyer
Life, in Spite of Me is a gripping story Kristen Anderson and co author Tricia Goyer share regarding Kristen’s suicide attempt. The book starts off recalling the attempt where Kristen places herself in front of a moving train. The recollection is breathtaking and the authors paint a vivid picture not just of Kristen’s bleak outlook at the time, but the blunt truth the train should have killed her.
The rest of the book is about her recovery, time in a psych ward, counseling and coming to terms with her depression and choices that January night. She shares the guilt and shame she had before and after the accident once she realized the accident details. The authors also make it clear time and time again people were put in Kristen’s path by design. In time she felt God’s love for her and sought a personal faith in God through Christ.
What I liked about the book was Kristen added notes to readers throughout her story to encourage them in case they were struggling. When I think about teenagers especially I love what Kristen did with this. She wrote things she wished she could have heard when she was having a hard time. The end of the book contains a letter from Kristen’s mom. She’s very forthright wishing they raised Kristen in a Christ centered home. These letters are a great eye opener to families.
I think this was well written and a story that can help many, many families who are hurting. I recommend Life, in Spite of Me. If you know someone who has depression, feelings of suicide and hopelessness, there is hope. Make sure they receive medical and professional counsel. And never forget Kristen’s story.
To purchase, click here.
I received this book as part of Waterbrook Multnomah’s Blogging for Books program in exchange for an honest review.
