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The Journals Of Rachel Scott A Journey Of Faith At Columbine High
Written teen to teen as a first-person narrative, journal entries from a girl killed at Columbine High School are combined with notes from her parents and friends, demonstrating her faith journey from the time she became a Christian to her early demise.
147 pages, Hardcover
First published March 13, 2001
About the author
Beth Nimmo
3 books16 followersBeth Nimmo is the mother of Rachel Scott, the first victim killed at Columbine High School. Beth is the author of The Journals of Rachel Scott.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 12, 2016
I read this book at age 12. It was the year after I had become a Christian, and it RADICALLY changed my life. This is about a girl killed in the Columbine High School shooting for her belief in God. She was one of two killed for being believers. It was the first time I had anything of this type of tragedy had been brought to my attention. This was a collection of writing she had been doing when she died, and her vulnerability and transparency changed me forever. It caused me to start writing poetry as she did. Which forever led me to a path of writing. I literally wouldn't be who I am now without having read of Rachel, her creative pursuits, her devotion, her faith, and the tragedy of her untimely end. I'm so grateful I was able to find this book to spark a fire for creativity and compassion and mercy in my heart and my life.
October 11, 2019
If you are a teen, this book is for you.
If you are a believer, this book is for you.
If you are struggling with faith in Jesus, this book is for you.
The book is easily a quick read. If you are a fast reader, this can be devoured in a day or a couple of days. The first time I picked up the book it was about 1 in the morning, and I didn't stop until after 3 a.m. I was already halfway through reading.
Rachel Scott was the first victim to be killed at Columbine on April 20th, 1999. I originally learned about Rachel because I had read the book, "She said yes," a story about another girl, Cassie, who was killed at Columbine. Cassie had recently accepted Christ into her life. When I first heard of Cassie's story, as a teen, that really spoke volumes to me. How are we living our life for Christ, and would we be able to stand for Him?
This past year, I felt a push to reread Cassie's book. In doing so, I felt encouraged to watch a few videos on Columbine. This is where I first learned about Rachel and her incredible testimony of Jesus.
I found more videos about Rachel. I heard the testimonies of her parents and brother. Later, I viewed the movie inspired by Rachel's story. There were a lot of aspects in Rachel's walk with Christ I deeply related to, and ones, had I of been a teen, I would have connected even more.
I deeply wanted to learn more about Rachel and how God spoke to her through her walk with Christ. That was when I stumbled upon this book, along with another one, "Rachel's Tears."
This book has a lot of Rachel in it. Her poems, stories, quotes from a book she was writing, and more. Debra, who wrote from the perspective of Rachel, was given complete access to Rachel's writing, and she spoke to many people in order to learn of Rachel and her personality. I think Debra did a wonderful job. The book is written, for the most part, as if Rachel is telling her story to the reader. Struggles before receiving Christ, accepting Christ, challenges of being a Christian teen, etc.
Rachel learned that surrendering to Christ and submitting to Him is not easy. The book shares how Rachel was torn between Jesus and other influences. There were dark days Rachel had, this is seen in her writings as well. But at some point, Rachel decided she would follow Jesus completely, no matter the cost. She lost friends in school. She struggled with loneliness. Yet, what Rachel lost initially, she gained in many other ways.
The dialogue used reminds me of a lot of Christian teen bloggers I know. It's very relatable, and teens would definitely connect.
I myself was deeply affected while reading. There were many times, I would stop reading and prayed about what I read. There were times I would stop reading and start praying for things that I, too, struggled with. Times I rejoiced in seeing how the Lord was using the book to speak to me.
I appreciate the fact that the book does not end with the moment leading up to Rachel being killed. The last chapter is all Rachel. Her writings speak for themselves. Though Debra did a beautiful job capturing Rachel, I am thankful that you get a deeper glimpse at who Rachel was, I feel, through Rachel's own writing.
Rachel was NOT afraid to speak the truth. Her focus was on Christ and how to show His love to others. Her rawness, questions, and love for God shine. Even when she didn't understand, she believed and knew Jesus did. He would make ways. She encouraged others to bear this truth in mind and walk it.
This book is designed specifically with teens in mind. Often throughout the book there are questions and even lines in which the reader can write down answers. However, the message to make a chain reaction, struggles to live differently than the world, to live as Christ, and to draw closer to Christ is for everyone.
MINOR ISSUE I HAD:
The only issue I had with the book was NOT in the writing itself. I'm not sure if it is how the book is designed, but it seemed almost every other page had less ink. Usually the left page. This made it a little hard to read sometimes. The words would sometimes be very faint.
Other than that, I really enjoyed the book. It was a blessing. It inspired me and encouraged me in my own walk with Christ and my writing for others, as I am a Christian Blogger.
A big thank you to Rachel's family for sharing her testimony, how Christ made ripples in her life, and how He is using her story to make ripples in others.
If you need a push, motivation, and inspiration to draw closer to Jesus, this book is a great choice!
If you are a believer, this book is for you.
If you are struggling with faith in Jesus, this book is for you.
The book is easily a quick read. If you are a fast reader, this can be devoured in a day or a couple of days. The first time I picked up the book it was about 1 in the morning, and I didn't stop until after 3 a.m. I was already halfway through reading.
Rachel Scott was the first victim to be killed at Columbine on April 20th, 1999. I originally learned about Rachel because I had read the book, "She said yes," a story about another girl, Cassie, who was killed at Columbine. Cassie had recently accepted Christ into her life. When I first heard of Cassie's story, as a teen, that really spoke volumes to me. How are we living our life for Christ, and would we be able to stand for Him?
This past year, I felt a push to reread Cassie's book. In doing so, I felt encouraged to watch a few videos on Columbine. This is where I first learned about Rachel and her incredible testimony of Jesus.
I found more videos about Rachel. I heard the testimonies of her parents and brother. Later, I viewed the movie inspired by Rachel's story. There were a lot of aspects in Rachel's walk with Christ I deeply related to, and ones, had I of been a teen, I would have connected even more.
I deeply wanted to learn more about Rachel and how God spoke to her through her walk with Christ. That was when I stumbled upon this book, along with another one, "Rachel's Tears."
This book has a lot of Rachel in it. Her poems, stories, quotes from a book she was writing, and more. Debra, who wrote from the perspective of Rachel, was given complete access to Rachel's writing, and she spoke to many people in order to learn of Rachel and her personality. I think Debra did a wonderful job. The book is written, for the most part, as if Rachel is telling her story to the reader. Struggles before receiving Christ, accepting Christ, challenges of being a Christian teen, etc.
Rachel learned that surrendering to Christ and submitting to Him is not easy. The book shares how Rachel was torn between Jesus and other influences. There were dark days Rachel had, this is seen in her writings as well. But at some point, Rachel decided she would follow Jesus completely, no matter the cost. She lost friends in school. She struggled with loneliness. Yet, what Rachel lost initially, she gained in many other ways.
The dialogue used reminds me of a lot of Christian teen bloggers I know. It's very relatable, and teens would definitely connect.
I myself was deeply affected while reading. There were many times, I would stop reading and prayed about what I read. There were times I would stop reading and start praying for things that I, too, struggled with. Times I rejoiced in seeing how the Lord was using the book to speak to me.
I appreciate the fact that the book does not end with the moment leading up to Rachel being killed. The last chapter is all Rachel. Her writings speak for themselves. Though Debra did a beautiful job capturing Rachel, I am thankful that you get a deeper glimpse at who Rachel was, I feel, through Rachel's own writing.
Rachel was NOT afraid to speak the truth. Her focus was on Christ and how to show His love to others. Her rawness, questions, and love for God shine. Even when she didn't understand, she believed and knew Jesus did. He would make ways. She encouraged others to bear this truth in mind and walk it.
This book is designed specifically with teens in mind. Often throughout the book there are questions and even lines in which the reader can write down answers. However, the message to make a chain reaction, struggles to live differently than the world, to live as Christ, and to draw closer to Christ is for everyone.
MINOR ISSUE I HAD:
The only issue I had with the book was NOT in the writing itself. I'm not sure if it is how the book is designed, but it seemed almost every other page had less ink. Usually the left page. This made it a little hard to read sometimes. The words would sometimes be very faint.
Other than that, I really enjoyed the book. It was a blessing. It inspired me and encouraged me in my own walk with Christ and my writing for others, as I am a Christian Blogger.
A big thank you to Rachel's family for sharing her testimony, how Christ made ripples in her life, and how He is using her story to make ripples in others.
If you need a push, motivation, and inspiration to draw closer to Jesus, this book is a great choice!
January 8, 2016
I hate using the cheesy cliche that her death serves as an inspiration in some capacity, because in all reality, she was inspiring those around her by just being herself (and of course through her religious beliefs). I wanted to read this, not because she was religious, but I wanted to get to know this girl. I remember the Columbine shooting when I was in 8th grade, and being on lock down, and how none of us knew what "lock down" meant--or what was going on. It was the start to years of more school shootings--a start to schools adding policies for active shooter. This book puts a face on the victims, and the victim of Rachel Scott. However, I don't think Rachel Joy would describe herself as a victim that day, but as a servant of God going home to serve in another life.
April 24, 2018
I'm so conflicted.
On the one hand, I can't fault a family for wanting to celebrate their daughters' unique spirit and devotion to her faith.
On the other hand, this felt wrong. It was a violation of privacy (it even says that Rachel's journals were meant only for her). It was borderline inappropriate to have someone else write AS Rachel without her permission. It felt as if it was in bad taste, even if it had some good messages.
Overall though, I would just like to say Rachel was an incredible spirit and it really is a tragedy that the world lost her and many others that day 19 years ago.
On the one hand, I can't fault a family for wanting to celebrate their daughters' unique spirit and devotion to her faith.
On the other hand, this felt wrong. It was a violation of privacy (it even says that Rachel's journals were meant only for her). It was borderline inappropriate to have someone else write AS Rachel without her permission. It felt as if it was in bad taste, even if it had some good messages.
Overall though, I would just like to say Rachel was an incredible spirit and it really is a tragedy that the world lost her and many others that day 19 years ago.
May 19, 2010
How much of this content is actually from Scott? The heavy agenda of Nimmo made me doubt her assertions that she said what Rachel really meant. Creeped me out.
August 1, 2017
I saw the movie I'm Not Ashamed on July 11 and was so impressed with the authentic portrayal of a Christian in Rachel Scott (the highs and lows, the good and bad) that I decided to read the Journals of Rachel Scott book. You may remember Rachel Scott as the first person killed in the Columbine shootings.
I was initially disappointed that the book is not an unabridged record of Rachel's journals themselves (like with Jim Elliot, David Livingstone and others), but I quickly found that the author, Debra Klingsporn, did an excellent job capturing the voice of Rachel Scott (as revealed in excerpts from Rachel's actual journals) in a narrative summary of some of Rachel's journals.
This book is a fast read because of the casual, familiar writing style the author uses. I found myself saying "just one more page" over and over again.
I was amazed by Rachel's comprehension of and deep thoughts on some issues as a 16-17 year old girl that many adults still struggle with or don't even think about. She had a great love for God even when her friends left her and depression hit. She relied on Him like David did in the Psalms. The book shows she had struggles like any teenager does, but it also provides insight into how she dealt with these struggles by bringing them to God. Again, I was surprised by her maturity. As a teenager, I was nowhere near that level of spiritual maturity.
I would highly recommend this book especially for teenagers to read. I think they will be able to relate to the issues Rachel faced and benefit from the peer perspective. I would love for my daughter to read this book.
I was initially disappointed that the book is not an unabridged record of Rachel's journals themselves (like with Jim Elliot, David Livingstone and others), but I quickly found that the author, Debra Klingsporn, did an excellent job capturing the voice of Rachel Scott (as revealed in excerpts from Rachel's actual journals) in a narrative summary of some of Rachel's journals.
This book is a fast read because of the casual, familiar writing style the author uses. I found myself saying "just one more page" over and over again.
I was amazed by Rachel's comprehension of and deep thoughts on some issues as a 16-17 year old girl that many adults still struggle with or don't even think about. She had a great love for God even when her friends left her and depression hit. She relied on Him like David did in the Psalms. The book shows she had struggles like any teenager does, but it also provides insight into how she dealt with these struggles by bringing them to God. Again, I was surprised by her maturity. As a teenager, I was nowhere near that level of spiritual maturity.
I would highly recommend this book especially for teenagers to read. I think they will be able to relate to the issues Rachel faced and benefit from the peer perspective. I would love for my daughter to read this book.
January 28, 2010
Well, I didn't actually like how this book was formatted. It wasn't actually written by Rachel. At least, most of it wasn't. Her family hired someone else to write as if they were Rachel. I honestly think that was just dumb since Rachel had been writing journals since she was much younger and had a lot of completed ones. I personally think her family only wanted certain parts of the journals published so Rachel would be portrayed as they wanted her, not as she actually was. Hence, why I didn't like this book at all.
November 17, 2015
A Quickie Review
While most of this book was not actually written by Rachel herself, there are enough of her own writings to give an intimate portrait of a modern Christian martyr. Even though I knew how the book would end, reading it still brought a tear to my eye...which rarely happens.
Score: 4/5
While most of this book was not actually written by Rachel herself, there are enough of her own writings to give an intimate portrait of a modern Christian martyr. Even though I knew how the book would end, reading it still brought a tear to my eye...which rarely happens.
Score: 4/5
April 24, 2017
Please note that my review is not intended to diminish Rachel Joy Scott in any way, shape, or form.
Overall, this was a good book that is a testament to Rachel Joy Scott's life of faith, compassion, conviction, and thoughtfulness. However, the book would have been even better if it wasn't adapted by Scott's mother and Debra Klingsporn and was instead solely based on Rachel's writings/drawings. That being said, i'd like to address some inconsistencies that were presented in the book, the first being that it was Rachel Joy Scott that DK referred to in the Basement Tapes. The "Rachel" that EH and DK referred to were from their 5th period psych class (they mentioned Nick, Rachel and Jen as sitting next to each other); they only two "Rachels" from that class were a Rachel. G and a Rachel. B. So they were most likely not referring to RJS. Finally, it's a bit more difficult to dispute or confirm Richard. C's testimony (as told to his mother after he came out of surgery) about RJS being taunted for her faith. We do know that EH and DK asked Valeen. S (and not Cassie. B, as initially claimed by Craig. S) about her faith, so it is possible that they may have asked RJS as well. However, Richard no longer remembers this interaction between EH and Rachel Joy Scott. He also didn't mention this interaction in his initial police interviews which can be found in the JCSO documents. So I think that it's crucial that we take into account how the trauma/stress of that day, the severity of his injuries and the pain medications that he was on could have influenced/altered his ability to recall what occurred in a span of minutes. While these two elements of the story can be disputed, I think that we can all conclude that what happened on that day was nothing short of a tragedy.
Overall, this was a good book that is a testament to Rachel Joy Scott's life of faith, compassion, conviction, and thoughtfulness. However, the book would have been even better if it wasn't adapted by Scott's mother and Debra Klingsporn and was instead solely based on Rachel's writings/drawings. That being said, i'd like to address some inconsistencies that were presented in the book, the first being that it was Rachel Joy Scott that DK referred to in the Basement Tapes. The "Rachel" that EH and DK referred to were from their 5th period psych class (they mentioned Nick, Rachel and Jen as sitting next to each other); they only two "Rachels" from that class were a Rachel. G and a Rachel. B. So they were most likely not referring to RJS. Finally, it's a bit more difficult to dispute or confirm Richard. C's testimony (as told to his mother after he came out of surgery) about RJS being taunted for her faith. We do know that EH and DK asked Valeen. S (and not Cassie. B, as initially claimed by Craig. S) about her faith, so it is possible that they may have asked RJS as well. However, Richard no longer remembers this interaction between EH and Rachel Joy Scott. He also didn't mention this interaction in his initial police interviews which can be found in the JCSO documents. So I think that it's crucial that we take into account how the trauma/stress of that day, the severity of his injuries and the pain medications that he was on could have influenced/altered his ability to recall what occurred in a span of minutes. While these two elements of the story can be disputed, I think that we can all conclude that what happened on that day was nothing short of a tragedy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2018
This book was not only a beautiful tribute to Rachel but also a very uplifting read, especially for Christian teenagers who would no doubt be able to relate to Rachel on a deeply personal level. I'm not a Christian nor am I a teenager but I still very much enjoyed reading this, and did so in a single sitting.
I must say that Debra Klingsporn does a legendary job of writing as though it was Rachel herself writing. I honestly did not notice the difference between what Rachel actually wrote herself and what was added in by the ghostwriter to continue the story. On the other hand, at times I did wonder if Rachel actually did say/write/think certain things or if it was added in to fit the story or push a particular narrative.
At the end of the day, I'm glad I read this and I'd definitely recommend it to young people wanting to simply learn about humanity and how they have the power within them to make this world a better place.
I must say that Debra Klingsporn does a legendary job of writing as though it was Rachel herself writing. I honestly did not notice the difference between what Rachel actually wrote herself and what was added in by the ghostwriter to continue the story. On the other hand, at times I did wonder if Rachel actually did say/write/think certain things or if it was added in to fit the story or push a particular narrative.
At the end of the day, I'm glad I read this and I'd definitely recommend it to young people wanting to simply learn about humanity and how they have the power within them to make this world a better place.
December 16, 2015
Inspired to write, inspired to live, and most of all a desire to love.
Read this at the perfect time. My heart is broken for the youth of our nation; those wandering my neighborhood, those sitting in my church, and those hiding in the shadows contemplating their existence. I see a generation succumbing to the darkness, an empty hopelessness that our "American Dream" has feed them. They've tasted it, only to vomit up the sugar-coated refuse that it is, only to return to their vomit because they do not know there is bread and water that satisfies and brings true nourishment to body and soul. Hope is found in Jesus Christ alone. I will not stand on the side-lines and leave a generation to wallow in complacency when there is a purpose and a vision for their life and if they could only see it they would never be the same.
Proverbs 29:19a "Where there is no vision, the people perish..."
Read this at the perfect time. My heart is broken for the youth of our nation; those wandering my neighborhood, those sitting in my church, and those hiding in the shadows contemplating their existence. I see a generation succumbing to the darkness, an empty hopelessness that our "American Dream" has feed them. They've tasted it, only to vomit up the sugar-coated refuse that it is, only to return to their vomit because they do not know there is bread and water that satisfies and brings true nourishment to body and soul. Hope is found in Jesus Christ alone. I will not stand on the side-lines and leave a generation to wallow in complacency when there is a purpose and a vision for their life and if they could only see it they would never be the same.
Proverbs 29:19a "Where there is no vision, the people perish..."
December 31, 2016
I gave this book 3 stars because it is an inspirational and uplifting book, but I just wasn't liking the format of how it was written. I like that they took her own words from her journals, but at times it worked and at times it didn't. I wanted to read her story, but I just don't believe the author brought out enough about her. But as far as it being hopeful , uplifting , and inspiring, it was all that, but could have been written better to hold your interest more. I love her story though and how she never denied she was a Christian. I believe when she answered that question on that fateful day at Columbine High School and one of the boys shot her, I believe immediately she was carried into the arms of God. Her testimony proves this. And if you read this book, you will find it out as well.
November 27, 2016
This book is a super quick read that provides a lot of food for thought, especially for a teen-aged reader. Each chapter finishes with a challenge to think more deeply about a spiritual concept, and to make decisions that will change one's life. Rachel Scott was sold out for God, and her journals convey that truth eloquently. The author who compiled her writings gives her work a very teen-girl voice, but it works, mostly. I highly recommend this book to any young reader interested in giving their lives completely to Christ.
October 13, 2017
This is a book thst all teens should read. Adults will learn from it also. It could be used in Bible study for teens.
The life of Rachel Joy Scott was cut short (too short) by two teens who had nothing but hate for the world and those in it when they went through Culumbine High School on a shooting rampage on April 20, 1999. This short book looks into the life of Rachel Joy through her journals that she kept and wrote her deepest secrets.
A very touching and emotional book that will bring you closer to Rachel and God.
The life of Rachel Joy Scott was cut short (too short) by two teens who had nothing but hate for the world and those in it when they went through Culumbine High School on a shooting rampage on April 20, 1999. This short book looks into the life of Rachel Joy through her journals that she kept and wrote her deepest secrets.
A very touching and emotional book that will bring you closer to Rachel and God.
June 29, 2013
This is the final book (that I am aware of) about Rachel Joy Scott, martyr at Columbine High School. Her journals take you to the next level of her personality: her struggles, victories, prayers, drawings, musing, and a small glimpse into how much she loved her Lord. Over the time I've gotten to know her, Rachel has become one of my heroes, and although I'm not excited that the Columbine shootings happened, a rose has grown from that and it is beautiful.
November 30, 2016
This book was very good. It encouraged me to question myself on whether I would stand up for my faith like Rachel did. Like "She Said Yes", this book is a biography/autobiography of a victim of the Columbine Massacre. Unlike the book about Cassie Bernall, this book is not so dark. Yes, Rachel did illegally smoke as a teen, but really, it is not really bad. Overall, I would recommend this book to any one teen or older who is looking for a good, Christian, book to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2011
Rachels. Challenge was brought to my school and it has enlightened my son. There are many things to take from this event. I have decided to start a journal with my children. And really work. On the 5 principles of. The challenge in my life.
I wish this book was her. Journal unedited and santized for th readers
I wish this book was her. Journal unedited and santized for th readers
November 29, 2011
Very inspiring and I love reading Rachel's original works. My biggest problem with this book was that it was written in first person (although this did allow for some funny anecdotes). Overall I would definitely recommend this for anyone who admires Rachel as a role model in faith and absolute courage.
June 19, 2008
AMAZING
Read
March 23, 2009JF-Sco
March 16, 2010
oh my gosh this book was so touching I was in tears at the end!
January 29, 2011
Amazing Book! Just...WoW
April 6, 2012
so amazed to see such a strong faith in a young person.. inspiring and heart-wrenching
April 11, 2016
Rachel's story is AMAZING! She was just a normal teenager, who had the same problems we had. Her Faith was such an inspiration! Now she is in a better place with God our Father.
Read
September 13, 2016Story of faith among tragedy. Great book though easy read. Helped me explore my faith more.
January 24, 2022
3.5 stars. Initially when reading this book I thought it was a little juvenile and aimed at younger teen girls, but halfway through I started changing my mind. Although these diaries are written through the mind of a teenager dealing with high school drama and emotions, in a raw, very transparent way they also deal with what living for Jesus actually means. I think this book is sincere and heartfelt, and I'll leave you with one quote that really struck me. The backstory is that Rachel was working at her job when a homeless woman came in. She sat there for around an hour, and Rachel felt bad for her and felt compelled to share the gospel, but was too scared to. Another lady ended up coming in and actually bought her a sandwich, sat with her and evangelized her. Rachel felt a lot of shame that she hadn't done with that other woman did, and she comes to this realization: "I felt God was saying to me in that moment,"You feel like the poor woman missed something because you didn't speak up, But she didn't lose anything. The other woman is sharing with the poor women right now and she will not lose out on me. You lost. You passed up the chance to gain something. You just let a wonderful flame pass by you and into the hands of another. Know this, child of mine, when you do not follow through with the boldness and knowledge I have given you- you are affected more than the other person is."
So often when we want to evangelize we think about what we can give to the person. What we are telling them. How their hearts can change. But evangelism is something that the evangelizer actually grows from: regardless of whether it falls on deaf ears, or whether God chooses to work in the heart of the person, the very act of evangelism strengthens our faith and lets us experience God's joy and love. Retelling our story of faith and relishing in the truth of His salvation is just as beneficial for us as it is to the person we tell.
One thing I didn't like about this book is how Rachel mentioned her working on Sunday, and partially excused her parents divorce. Those things didn't seem like they complimented the Christian life style.
So often when we want to evangelize we think about what we can give to the person. What we are telling them. How their hearts can change. But evangelism is something that the evangelizer actually grows from: regardless of whether it falls on deaf ears, or whether God chooses to work in the heart of the person, the very act of evangelism strengthens our faith and lets us experience God's joy and love. Retelling our story of faith and relishing in the truth of His salvation is just as beneficial for us as it is to the person we tell.
One thing I didn't like about this book is how Rachel mentioned her working on Sunday, and partially excused her parents divorce. Those things didn't seem like they complimented the Christian life style.
August 24, 2021
"Rachel Joy Scott struggled with personal issues like every teenager. And she met her challenges with a faith so deep, so energetic, so alive that it underscored everything she said, wrote, and did during her seventeen years on this planet. Nowhere is this more evident than the stacks of diaries she left behind."
Rachel Joy Scott was the first victim to die in the tragic shooting on April 20, 1999 in Columbine High School in Colorado. She was a 17 year old Christian girl, and her last words was saying that she believed in God.
Eventhough Rachel's life is inspiring and I loved her journal entries I gave 4 stars to this book, because I was expecting more of her original entries. The book is narrated by Debra Klingsporn as Rachel, and eventhough she portrait her voice in a very respectful way I don't think, we were expecting that.
Beth Nimmo, Rachel's mom wrote a letter in the last chapter that touch my heart:
"...I have asked God to give me real forgivenessfor Eric and Dylan, but that desire is repeatedlytested. The more knowledgeI had about the two boys, the more violatedI felt, and the more grace it took for me to walk in forgiveness. Forgivenessfor me is not a one-time act of my will, but it's a choice I make on an ongoing basis. I choose constantlyto forgive, even when I don'twant to,...Forgiveness is not based on how I feel on any given day. Forgiveness is matter of choice."
Give it a chance if you are struggling with your fate, because even that I didn't like the way is written I love the message, and my heart is full. Overall, is a good book! God bless you!
Rachel Joy Scott was the first victim to die in the tragic shooting on April 20, 1999 in Columbine High School in Colorado. She was a 17 year old Christian girl, and her last words was saying that she believed in God.
Eventhough Rachel's life is inspiring and I loved her journal entries I gave 4 stars to this book, because I was expecting more of her original entries. The book is narrated by Debra Klingsporn as Rachel, and eventhough she portrait her voice in a very respectful way I don't think, we were expecting that.
Beth Nimmo, Rachel's mom wrote a letter in the last chapter that touch my heart:
"...I have asked God to give me real forgivenessfor Eric and Dylan, but that desire is repeatedlytested. The more knowledgeI had about the two boys, the more violatedI felt, and the more grace it took for me to walk in forgiveness. Forgivenessfor me is not a one-time act of my will, but it's a choice I make on an ongoing basis. I choose constantlyto forgive, even when I don'twant to,...Forgiveness is not based on how I feel on any given day. Forgiveness is matter of choice."
Give it a chance if you are struggling with your fate, because even that I didn't like the way is written I love the message, and my heart is full. Overall, is a good book! God bless you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2022
Ella es hermosa. Admito que aún le sigo teniendo algo de recelo al tema de las religiones en general y al ser Rachel tan cristiana esto sí influyó en cómo observaba todo el panorama. Pero ahora tengo más claro que realmente no importa el cómo sino solo la luz final.
Los diarios de Rachel están llenos de amor, honestidad y reflexión (y son demasiado divertidos en algunas partes). Ella tenía muchas ganas de aprender de la vida a su manera, como por medio de la religión cristiana. Y su intuición… definitivamente creo que ella entendió el trabajo!
Los diarios de Rachel están llenos de amor, honestidad y reflexión (y son demasiado divertidos en algunas partes). Ella tenía muchas ganas de aprender de la vida a su manera, como por medio de la religión cristiana. Y su intuición… definitivamente creo que ella entendió el trabajo!
September 19, 2025
This book definitely brings Rachel’s memory alive, it shows her as Rachel Joy Scott, child of God, rather than the first killed at Columbine, Rachel seemed like an amazing person to be around, She was mistaken for “The girl who said yes” along with Cassie Bernall, But the ‘yes girl’ was survivor Valeen ‘Val’ Schnurr , but Rachel did confirm she believed in god in her last moments, the last thing she ever said being “You know I do.” In response to being asked if she believed in God. This was such an amazing book, nothing in it is altered and it’s all Rachel’s own words.
April 28, 2020
"God is present in the darkness even when it doesn't feel that way."
I've always had an on-again off-again relationship with God. While reading this book I felt closer to Him than I've felt in a long time.
I've always had an on-again off-again relationship with God. While reading this book I felt closer to Him than I've felt in a long time.
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