Book Review and giveaway: Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick

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Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 18 and up (reading level and style)
Description: On the night of November 5, 2006, the Barrick family was driving home from church when their van was struck by a drunk driver. Fifteen-year-old Jen suffered multiple skull fractures and severe brain trauma and was not expected to survive the night. But against all odds, she did. As she lingered in a coma, doctors warned that if Jen ever woke up, she would be cursing and screaming in confusion due to her brain injuries. Instead, after five weeks she opened her eyes and began praying and praising God. Jen didn't remember her middle name, recognize her parents, or recall that she had a little brother, but she remembered Jesus and every word to every praise song and scripture she had hidden in her heart before the accident. As any loving mother would, Jen's mother Linda wanted God to heal Jen, make her like she was before. Normal. But a loving God had something else in mind--instead of making her normal, God is making Jennifer and the whole Barrick family--extraordinary, miraculous. Hope Out Loud is the remarkable true story of a family who overcame tragedy and learned to trust God's plan for their lives in a whole new way.

Sometimes we need to be reminded that God can use us despite our short comings and faults. We need to be shown God’s strength is shown best in our own weakness. If you need this reminder, this book is an excellent choice for doing that.

From the first chapter I was captivated by this story. It was told like I imagine Linda would tell it if I was sitting in her living room, hearing what God had done in her life, and in the life of Jen. I really enjoyed the realism of the style and the honesty Linda brings to the table.

This story was an encouragement as well as a challenge to me. As Linda talked about her daughter, who had suffered a traumatic brain injury, spending her waking hours praising God, I wondered what I would do in the situation. If I got knocked in the head and was unable to control what I was saying, what would come out of my mouth? Meaningless movie lines I am prone to repeat? Would those ugly word and thoughts that I unfortunately have sometimes, come tumbling out? Or would I be like Jen where the good things spill out in an unending torrent?

This book caused me once again to look at what I am reading and watching and making sure that if what I am putting in comes out, I do not have a reason to be ashamed. It also made me praise God for his goodness for being my strength when I am weak.

If you are looking for an encouraging read that will also challenge you, I highly recommend this book.

I received this book from Tyndale House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I want to give you a chance to read this book for yourself. Enter below for a chance to win a copy of Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick. Open to US residents only due to shipping costs.