Kristen Anderson wanted to die---but God had other plans. Recounting her miraculous survival of a suicide attempt in which a train severed her legs, Kristen shares how her newfound faith in God helped her overcome severe depression and shame, as well as the challenges of permanent physical disability. Discover how she found fulfillment serving God! 240 pages, hardcover from Multnomah.

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.

Kristen Jane Anderson has been featured on Oprah and is a popular speaker at colleges, women’s and youth events, churches, and suicide prevention outreaches. A graduate of Moody Bible Institute and the founder of Reaching You Ministries, Kristen seeks to help those who are hurting, hopeless, lost, suicidal and depressed.
 
Tricia Goyer is the author of three hundred articles for national periodicals, as well as fourteen novels and six nonfiction books, including Blue Like Play Dough.

“Life, In Spite of Me is a remarkable story of life beyond despair and hope that triumphs over tragedy.” — Louie Giglio, pastor, Passion City Church/The Passion Movement

“Suicide is a liar and a thief. It promises peace to those who are escaping but delivers unimaginable pain and rejection to those left behind. Kristen Jane Anderson’s riveting story unmasks the thief and gives hope a face.” — Dr. Dennis Rainey, president, FamilyLife Ministries

“When I first met Kristen, I was overwhelmed with her smile, and then I saw her wheelchair. It was a defining moment for me. I had not heard her story or why she’d ended up at Moody. But it was her smile—and it is still her smile—that dismantles me. Kristen has something. It is something otherworldly. She had every reason to die, but now she has every reason to live. I hope you’ll read her story, see her smile, and know why she lives.” — Michael Easley, former president, Moody Bible Institute

“Kristen’s story is a great example of what a big God and the resilient human spirit can accomplish. Life, in Spite of Me is a must-read for anyone who struggles with self-doubt or insecurity. I have no question God will use Kristen to transform many lives.” — Trent Dilfer, Super Bowl XXXV champion quarterback and TV sports analyst

“Kristen’s endearing personality and piercing vulnerability drew me in from the first page to the last. If you are in a pit of despair, this book will give you the strength to hold on. By giving voice to her struggles, Kristen shows that you are not alone and there is a God who sees and will not waste any of your pain. This book is going to save lives.” — Nicol Sponberg, singer, songwriter, and former member of the Dove award-winning trio Selah.

“From the first time I met Kristen, I knew she was an amazing young lady. As a fellow double amputee, I understand the difficulties she faces every day. Kristen lives with relentless joy and contagious optimism. Her story will infuse you with hope and a passion for life.” — Ron Santo, Chicago Cubs nine-time All-Star third baseman and radio broadcaster

“Kristen is a trustworthy guide through the difficult issues of depression, facing one’s own choices, self-forgiveness, and discovering authentic faith. Her recovery isn’t a mountaintop experience others are incapable of having, but a real story of perseverance through fear, setbacks, and disappointments. She is an honest and credible teacher for all of us.” — Dr. JoAnn Nishimoto, clinical psychologist

“An incredible heart-wrenching story about an incredible God who is always there, however dark it is, and how—standing in the shadows—he saved, healed, and restored his daughter to become a healing agent in a hurting world. A must read.” — Jill P. Brisco, author and speaker

"Life, In Spite of Me is a remarkable story of life beyond despair and hope that triumphs over tragedy." 
   —Louie Giglio, pastor, Passion City Church/The Passion Movement

"Suicide is a liar and a thief. It promises peace to those who are escaping but delivers unimaginable pain and rejection to those left behind. Kristen Jane Anderson’s riveting story unmasks the thief and gives hope a face."
   —Dr. Dennis Rainey, president, FamilyLife Ministries

"When I first met Kristen, I was overwhelmed with her smile, and then I saw her wheelchair. It was a defining moment for me. I had not heard her story or why she’d ended up at Moody. But it was her smile—and it is still her smile—that dismantles me. Kristen has something. It is something otherworldly. She had every reason to die, but now she has every reason to live. I hope you’ll read her story, see her smile, and know why she lives."
   —Michael Easley, former president, Moody Bible Institute
   

http://www.christianbook.com/spite-extraordinary-hope-after-fatal-choice/kristen-anderson/9781601422521/pd/422520

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product_review

__USERID__

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/ask_and_answer

• Books >> Christian Living >> Spirituality >> Overcoming Spiritual Challenges >> Pain & Suffering
• Books >> Christian Living >> Spirituality >> Personal Testimonies
• Books >> Personal Growth >> Emotional Issues >> Suicide
• Books >> Personal Growth >> Recovery
• Christian Living >> Spirituality >> Overcoming Spiritual Challenges >> Pain & Suffering
• Christian Living >> Spirituality >> Personal Testimonies
• Teens >> Christian Living >> Spirituality
• Teens >> Personal Growth
• Start A New Christianbook.com Search

I'm the author/artist and I want to review Life, in Spite of Me: Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice.