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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I learned a lot about Autism in this book. I think school children should read it to see how harmful their bullying can be to others. I enjoyed this book so much and have recommended it to my friends.
Holden is locked in his own private world of autism until his childhood friend, Ella re-enters his life. Through Ella, their common bond of music, and God’s power, Holden is slowly unlocked from autism’s hold on him. His transformation has a profound impact upon many lives, including the bullies at Fulton High School.
This beautiful and inspiring story, based on a true narrative, reveals the transformational power God’s love had in many anguished lives.
A very wonderful book well written by Karen Kingsbury
Excellent book!
I like Karen Kingsbury. You get good information about what the story is about and add some inspirational words and you can’t go wrong.
As per usual an excellent story
Captivating and touching.
One of my favorite books. Tissues needed!
This book deals with a number of situations, sometimes a bit too sweetly, but overall I was left with a wish that everyone could overcome such difficulties and triumph.
A boy with Autism that is helped by musical productions and also helped by a Student that cares and is compassionate. A very interesting read!!!
having a grandson on the autism spectrum ,that caught my interest first, some I have read are way too simplistic on helping a person on the spectrum, and one I felt put the person in a totally mentally ill class that could even be dangerous.I thought Karen carried the whole book well. It was interesting, and some informative and had an ending I could deal with. another good job Karen
Scary, romantic and realistic.
I loved this book and cried many tears over the emotionin this remarkable story of the autistic teen and his friend who changed a whole school with their lives. I learned much about autism and the importance of befriending everyone who is considered different and unworthy of love and kindness.
Very good story. Interesting characters. Different story line than the usual. Really enjoyed it.
Great insight into autism and how it may present in one instance. Told in an heartwarming, poignant, and appealing way. I appreciated the reliance on God shown by the mother through years of “fiery trial”. And, rejoiced with each incremental victory in Holden’s life.
Loved it!
Must read if you know a child or teen with autism
This was an amazing, beautifully writer book. I definitely
Recommend it.
Another great read !
This was such a wonderful picture of what families with Autistic children go through. It was great understanding how this young man was coming out of his
Autistic world. This was another great book by Karen Kingsbury. I loved it!