Bestselling author Karen Kingsbury reminds us that before you take a stand, you’ve got to take a chance.Despite his quiet ways and quirky behaviors, Holden Harris is very happy and socially engaged—on the inside, in a private world all his own. But Holden is an eighteen-year-old with autism. Every day he is bullied at school by kids who only see that he is very different.Ella Reynolds is part of … different.
Ella Reynolds is part of the in-crowd. A cheerleader and star of the high school drama production, her life seems perfect. When she catches Holden listening to her rehearse for the school play, she is drawn to him . . . the way he is drawn to the music. Then Ella makes a dramatic discovery—she and Holden were best friends as children. Frustrated by the way Holden is bullied and horrified at the indifference of her peers, Ella decides to take a stand against the most privileged and popular kids at school. Including her boyfriend, Jake.
Ella believes miracles can happen in the most unlikely places and that just maybe an entire community might celebrate from the sidelines. But will Holden’s praying mother, Ella, and a cast of theater kids be enough to unlock the prison that contains Holden? This time friendship, faith, and the power of a song must be strong enough to open the doors to the miracle Holden needs.
This contemporary, inspirational read is a standalone novel. Book length: approximately 80,000 words. Includes a reading group guide and a letter to readers from the author.
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Karen Kingsbury doesn’t just tell a great story, she gets to the heart of the emotions. Her characters have life; they live and you are a part of their lives. You feel their pain, their joy, their hurts, their deepest feelings.
As having my own son with autism I read these books and think of how it could be written different and people would still get it. But still a great book wish more people would open there eyes to what is out there in our lifes around us.
A look inside a person who is different and how we can learn to be inclusive to all people
This story really tugged on my heart strings
One of the best stories I have read. I would encourage everyone to read it.
This book was an amazing story of how the human spirit can rise above hardships and come out on top. Love always wins!
I loved this book. It was hard to put it down. The story tugged at my heart in so many ways as the characters and their dealings with difficult real life problems came to life. I gained important insight into autism, bullying and teenage suicide. Thank you for painting a realistic picture.
I LOVED this book. It left me “thinking” for days after reading it. I will read it again and highly encourage others to also.
I love everything Karen Kingsbury writes. Have read all her books except the latest.
Very moving.
I have loved every Karen Kingsbury book!!! This one was no exception. I even have it to a mother of an autistic teen as a must read book !!!
Such a interesting book!
I love anything written by Karen Kingsbury.