Overwhelming Odds

by Susan O'Leary, Denny O'Leary

Susan O'Leary recounts the miraculous and triumphant fight of her then 9-year-old son to survive and recover from a devastating burn covering 98% of his body. The book unveils a truth of universal importance, namely, by helping others in need we canbecome their miracles.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Memoir, Christian

150 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Cris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Read

I had already read On Fire by John O’Leary when I discovered his mother had written this book. I though, eh, same story different perspective. How wrong could I have been? I couldn’t put this book down. The inspiration leaps off these pages and I must say I was a little misty-eyed when I finished.

[Michael Scheer · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a St Louis Cardinal fan I was familiar with this story because of our beloved announcer, Jack Buck but not the miraculous details. John O’Leary was an inspiration for him and so many others and now to me too. As a general and trauma surgeon I can tell you that severe burns are so very difficult to care for and the only thing worse is severely burned children. This is an overwhelming aspirational story. Make sure you have plenty of tissue handy when you read it.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting perspective from John O Leary's parents on his ordeal with being burned. While his book was motivational and hinted at his spiritual rootedness, this one smacks you in the face with their charismatic roots. As a parent, it was still a great read to look at a singular incident from multiple viewpoints or perspectives. Still a good read but I enjoyed John's book more.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent read to follow up with if you have seen the movie Soul On Fire. Told from the mom's point of view and reinforces how their faith and prayers saw them through this challenge for their family.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring!

[Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick easy read but so real and promising

[Katie Burg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the privilege of meeting John twice. He and his family have an amazing story!

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational true story. It's a quick read. I am now starting a book by John O'Leary - On Fire.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book as much as their son John O'Leary' book, On Fire! This story of faith, love, and appreciation for family and all who helped them through this tragedy, is heartwarming and inspiring.

[Elizabeth Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing true story!

[Kelly Mcdonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very quick read. A testament to faith, miracles, and family love.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This a very moving (and really unbelievable) story of a local, STL boy who survived burns that covered 98% of his body. He was given less than 1% chance to survive. Today, he is a 35yr old man w. a wife, 2 kids and is a motivational speaker. He spoke to our book club and was incredibly inspiring. He is a beautiful man and has a beautiful story to tell of a family's love, the support of a community and the strength of his spirit. This book is written by his parents. He should write a book as well!

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharlyn...Cindy Hitler...Beth Hitler marries John O'Leary.

John was 9 y/o in 1987 and in a fire with 98% body burns. The St. Louis community rally around--incl'g sports greats like Jack Buck, the Cardinals and the Blues.
He lives despite all odds. Now married and an inspirational speak.

risingabove.com

[Tarah Wyatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about the motivational speaker John O'Leary who was burnt badly as a child, from his parent's perspective. I could not imagine experiencing any sort of tragedy with my children and still being able to remain strong in my faith. These parents were able to do it, with all of the love and support they were given. Great story and a fast read.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very quick read. This was an inspirational story from a mom's perspective of a terrible accident that occurred to her son and their long road back through recovery. It was very inspirational to hear their faith behind all the challenges, trials and hardships.

[Spencer F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written. Inspiring story, not only about John O'Leary, but of his supportive community - religious, neighbors, athletes, and many others. A very fast read and well worth the reading. In his adulthood, John is also the real deal.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the book after hearing John O'Leary speak. He was amazing, positive and emotional. The book written by his mother, focuses more on a combination of the facts, the logistics, but also combined with answering serious questions of faith,prayer, and service.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing true story. I like to have my nursing students read this one.

[Liz Kleiner · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know John, the man (boy then) who was burned. He is a great man with a wonderful perspective. Very inspiring!

[Nanci Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent true story of a 9 year old boy who poured gasoline onto an open fire and suffered burns over 93% of his body. Book written by his parents.

[Kelly Klevorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story about an amazing boy with such a positive attitude. I had the honor of hearing him speak and he is an amazing motivational speaker!

[Mya]

It was a very good book but was sad ay some times.

[Jeanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

If this book doesn't make you believe in miracles, nothing will.

[Cori · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a strong overriding theme of God's mercy and purpose from a Roman Catholic viewpoint, but nonetheless a touching and inspirational story that is well worth reading.

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

inspiring true story. worth the read and I highly recommend seeing John speak

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story of perseverance and trusting in the Lord. If you are in need of a good inspirational read, you should check out this book.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved my cousins book!

[Jt]

Was given this book as a gift and read it in one setting. Was such a great story of overcoming a tough situation.

[Trintrin.B · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing but tragic story, happy that it ended well.

[Jennette]

recommended by Renae