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Open Your Eyes by Jake Olson
Doctors removed Jake Olson's left eye at ten months old. When he was twelve, after years of radiation and chemotherapy, the cancer took his right eye as well. That's when Jake's story really began.When ESPN met Jake Olson, he was a twelve-year-old boy who wanted to spend his final weeks of sight with the USC football team. Jake's story became one of the most recognized pieces in the network's history, earning an ESPY award, instantly viewed by hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. But Jake's story didn't end with his final surgery or with ESPN--not by a long shot.Now sixteen, Jake Olson dreams of becoming the first blind golfer in the PGA. How is such a thing even possible? How does that level of perseverance endure in someone with so many reasons to give up?In "Open Your Eyes," Jake Olson tells more than his story. He reveals the ways of thinking, living, and praying that have kept him and his family triumphant in the face of their tribulations. Told with sincerity and humor in tandem with leadership coach McKay Christensen, "Open Your Eyes" is not just a heartwarming chronicle of the Olson family's struggle. Jake's story is a step-by-step lesson in perseverance and motivation from a young man who knows how to put the past in the past.From the USC locker room to the fairways of Pebble Beach, Jake Olson will inspire you, your family, and your team with bravery, ability, and faith. It is time to learn from this remarkable young man and open your eyes to a happier life.
- GenresNonfiction
Hardcover
First published December 31, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 13, 2014
Jake Olson is no ordinary teenager. He was born with a rare form of cancer called retinoblastoma that affects the eyes. With his supportive family by his side, he underwent fierce and experimental treatments to save his eyesight. The cancer returned nine times over this course. Battling for control over the destructive disease, he learned to put his faith in God. He gave up control and surrendered to Him. Jake has a positive outlook on life, he considers himself blessed that God gave him eyesight to the age of twelve.
Jake’s optimism and undeterred spirit keep him going. He’s an avid sports lover and plays both golf and football. He isn’t limited by his blindess. Nothing can limit Jake Olson. His enthusiasm has inspired Coach Pete Carroll of the Seattle Seahawks, and countless others. His passion for golf itself is huge, and he aims to being the first blind player on the PGA Tour.
“When setbacks come my way, I try to focus on the positives. I try to decide right from the get-go that it isn’t going to stop me. This includes golf.”
My Thoughts:
Who wouldn’t be moved by Jake Olson in some way? His courage and determination remind us to persevere and run the race of life. That – if we’d adjust our limited perspectives and open our eyes, we’d be able to see more clearly. I admire Jake’s optimistic and unwielding faith. He’s a driven young man, and I believe that He will accomplish much with the heart God has given him.
I liked this book written by McKay Christensen and Jake Olson. I particulary enjoyed Jake’s snippets on his feelings and thoughts. His parents and sister added to the book with their own viewpoints on Jake’s struggles and victories. I really wanted to read more from Jake himself, but the chapters were written mostly by McKay Christensen.
I found McKay’s writing to be informative and helpful, but I felt it lacked emotion. The “10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life” presented in the book provided great advice on pursuing happiness. It made me reflect on how I could change and manage my overall outlook on life. All wonderful insights, but his writing for me was too analytical. I lost interest somewhat in reading.
Putting that aside, it’s a good book. Jake Olson is a remarkable and inspiring individual. The ten lessons presented within are thought-provoking. I was challenged to inspect myself and encouraged to grow outside of my own limiting boundaries.
I recommend Open Your Eyes to readers who could use a new door to walk through or a different path to follow. Need a little inspiration? Read about Jake Olson. It will truly open your eyes.
This book was provided to me by BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
Jake’s optimism and undeterred spirit keep him going. He’s an avid sports lover and plays both golf and football. He isn’t limited by his blindess. Nothing can limit Jake Olson. His enthusiasm has inspired Coach Pete Carroll of the Seattle Seahawks, and countless others. His passion for golf itself is huge, and he aims to being the first blind player on the PGA Tour.
“When setbacks come my way, I try to focus on the positives. I try to decide right from the get-go that it isn’t going to stop me. This includes golf.”
My Thoughts:
Who wouldn’t be moved by Jake Olson in some way? His courage and determination remind us to persevere and run the race of life. That – if we’d adjust our limited perspectives and open our eyes, we’d be able to see more clearly. I admire Jake’s optimistic and unwielding faith. He’s a driven young man, and I believe that He will accomplish much with the heart God has given him.
I liked this book written by McKay Christensen and Jake Olson. I particulary enjoyed Jake’s snippets on his feelings and thoughts. His parents and sister added to the book with their own viewpoints on Jake’s struggles and victories. I really wanted to read more from Jake himself, but the chapters were written mostly by McKay Christensen.
I found McKay’s writing to be informative and helpful, but I felt it lacked emotion. The “10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life” presented in the book provided great advice on pursuing happiness. It made me reflect on how I could change and manage my overall outlook on life. All wonderful insights, but his writing for me was too analytical. I lost interest somewhat in reading.
Putting that aside, it’s a good book. Jake Olson is a remarkable and inspiring individual. The ten lessons presented within are thought-provoking. I was challenged to inspect myself and encouraged to grow outside of my own limiting boundaries.
I recommend Open Your Eyes to readers who could use a new door to walk through or a different path to follow. Need a little inspiration? Read about Jake Olson. It will truly open your eyes.
This book was provided to me by BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
January 4, 2014
Open Your Eyes is about survival in a world that can be harsh and unforgiving. It's about being brave in the face of adversity and facing the demons that can linger when tragedy strikes.
Although it does focus upon a need to believe in God, something to which I don't subscribe, it could give comfort and inspiration to those whose lives are less than they hope, those whose suffering warrants understanding and solace in difficult times.
Some could say that the 'lessons' are patronising, while others may agree they focus too much on religion. However, I cannot fault the driving force behind those whose only wish is to help others and admire the bravery in one such as Jake Olsen.
I was given this book for an honest review.
Although it does focus upon a need to believe in God, something to which I don't subscribe, it could give comfort and inspiration to those whose lives are less than they hope, those whose suffering warrants understanding and solace in difficult times.
Some could say that the 'lessons' are patronising, while others may agree they focus too much on religion. However, I cannot fault the driving force behind those whose only wish is to help others and admire the bravery in one such as Jake Olsen.
I was given this book for an honest review.
December 31, 2013
Open Your Eyes: 10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life
by Jake Olson, McKay Christensen
As a child Jake Olson had cancer and went blind. This is an uplifting story of his courage and strength, how he handled the bad news, the hurdles he faced and what it took to keep him moving on. We learn some tips on coping with life, also how Jake relied on his religious beliefs and faith to get him through the rough times in his life.
One thing I liked was Jake's courage and never-give-up attitude. He took a tragic event in his life and shows us that life does go on, and you can achieve what ever you want no matter what .
by Jake Olson, McKay Christensen
As a child Jake Olson had cancer and went blind. This is an uplifting story of his courage and strength, how he handled the bad news, the hurdles he faced and what it took to keep him moving on. We learn some tips on coping with life, also how Jake relied on his religious beliefs and faith to get him through the rough times in his life.
One thing I liked was Jake's courage and never-give-up attitude. He took a tragic event in his life and shows us that life does go on, and you can achieve what ever you want no matter what .
September 26, 2019
This sounded promising, but it was infested with so much religion that it pretty much ruined it.
Maybe if the backcover or the LOC blurb contained a clear warning about the amount of christianity about to be shoveled down your throat by the means of this book, it could find better audiences.
I wish there was at least a way to completely skip the religious bits and views from the book, but can’t quite do that with the audio version.
Maybe if the backcover or the LOC blurb contained a clear warning about the amount of christianity about to be shoveled down your throat by the means of this book, it could find better audiences.
I wish there was at least a way to completely skip the religious bits and views from the book, but can’t quite do that with the audio version.
June 7, 2020
Great book
This was a very inspiring book and uplifted me in many ways thanks for all of your thoughts and sharing your story with the world !!!!!God bless you for it ALL !Love in Christ ,Leanna Williams
This was a very inspiring book and uplifted me in many ways thanks for all of your thoughts and sharing your story with the world !!!!!God bless you for it ALL !Love in Christ ,Leanna Williams
May 9, 2019
Very good book.
Very inspiring story, as well as, many examples of how others have overcome adversity or excelled because of a positive outlook.
Very inspiring story, as well as, many examples of how others have overcome adversity or excelled because of a positive outlook.
December 17, 2022
Always like inspirational books. This is one I will remember and go back to when needed. Best of the lessons ...leave a legacy! Enjoyed it!
December 9, 2023
I attended a motivational speech from him for my work and he gave me a signed copy of this book. It’s a very uplifting read. And I enjoyed it very very much.
September 9, 2016
I received an ARC from the publisher
Jake Olson was 8 months old when he was diagnosed with retinoblastoma. Retinoblastoma is a rapidly developing eye cancer. It's mainly in children, but is rare, only 3% of cancer diagnosed in children is retinoblastoma. His left eye was removed at 10 months old, but doctors were able to preserve his sight it in his right eye, though they knew that it wouldn't last forever. The cancer returned in 2009, when Jake was 12 years old and he knew that he would end up losing his sight. ( I know I told you that this book was inspirational but we need to get through the sad stuff first.)
Knowing that he had limited time with sight left Jake set out to see everything that he could. His parents decorated their house in early November so he could experience the Christmas lights once more. He golfed the Pebble Beach golf course. He played in his team's football games. However one of the greatest experiences for Jake involves the USC football program. His dad went to USC so they were big Trojan fans to begin with, Jake especially. When he finds out that he is going to lose his sight he wishes that he could get up close and personal with the Trojans football team. When the coach at the time, Pete Carroll hears Jake's story he makes it happen. Not only is he there for a game, he's there for team meetings, meal times, and practices. He really bonds with all the players and the coaches. Pete Carroll even writes one of the forwards for the book. Jake and some of the team members still seem to be quite close! ESPN caught wind of this story they filmed some of his experiences. Jake even got some tv time with Lee Corso on an episode of Game Day and made better picks than the coach! (If you're like me, and this name sounds only vaguely familiar let me assist you: Corso is the kind of loud one who does the stuff with the mascots.)
Even know that he is blind, Jake is an active golfer. He even golfs on his school team and his dream is to be the first blind golfer on the PGA tour. I think even I would enjoy watching golf if he was involved (more Jake, less Tiger Woods, that's what I'd need to watch golf. But I digress).
The first 25-30 pages are about Jake's background and his experiences (I was reading the ARC, so it might be different in the final published book) but the rest of the book is more of a reflection on how his faith has helped sustain him, how he keeps a good attitude, and how he doesn't let his lack of sight keep him from leaving a full and joyous life.He (and his whole family) lean heavily on their faith to get them through these different struggles. Though some of the advice that he offers is great no matter who you are, like "It's not what happens to us; i's what we do with what happens to us that matters". Another "By small and simple things are great things brought to pass".
Others who have faced difficulties are also featured in this book. A man named Art Berg was made a quadriplegic in a terrible car accident. Doctors told him that he would need to be taken care of for the rest of his life, that he probably wouldn't have kids, drive a car, or work again. 12 years after the accident Art had 2 children with his wife, could drive a car, feed himself, was a motivational speaker and was very self-sufficient.Beck Weathers while he was climbing Mount Everest and while he waited for his eyesight to return he was left for dead twice. He managed to stumble into camp on his own, though he would eventually lose both hands to frostbite.
I like that the book had little "insights" from Jake, his parents, and other people who could add something to his story. I think my favorite chapter of the book was "Lemons and Molehills". Who doesn't need a reminder that you need to keep problems in perspective and that "this too shall pass?" This would have been a great Christmas gift for the hard to shop for person in your life, but keep it in mind for birthdays or other occasions.(Though maybe not a great gift for the Notre Dame fan in your life, if they are particularly rabid). The book is very conversational, and is a good casual read while still having a message worth hearing.
Jake Olson was 8 months old when he was diagnosed with retinoblastoma. Retinoblastoma is a rapidly developing eye cancer. It's mainly in children, but is rare, only 3% of cancer diagnosed in children is retinoblastoma. His left eye was removed at 10 months old, but doctors were able to preserve his sight it in his right eye, though they knew that it wouldn't last forever. The cancer returned in 2009, when Jake was 12 years old and he knew that he would end up losing his sight. ( I know I told you that this book was inspirational but we need to get through the sad stuff first.)
Knowing that he had limited time with sight left Jake set out to see everything that he could. His parents decorated their house in early November so he could experience the Christmas lights once more. He golfed the Pebble Beach golf course. He played in his team's football games. However one of the greatest experiences for Jake involves the USC football program. His dad went to USC so they were big Trojan fans to begin with, Jake especially. When he finds out that he is going to lose his sight he wishes that he could get up close and personal with the Trojans football team. When the coach at the time, Pete Carroll hears Jake's story he makes it happen. Not only is he there for a game, he's there for team meetings, meal times, and practices. He really bonds with all the players and the coaches. Pete Carroll even writes one of the forwards for the book. Jake and some of the team members still seem to be quite close! ESPN caught wind of this story they filmed some of his experiences. Jake even got some tv time with Lee Corso on an episode of Game Day and made better picks than the coach! (If you're like me, and this name sounds only vaguely familiar let me assist you: Corso is the kind of loud one who does the stuff with the mascots.)
Even know that he is blind, Jake is an active golfer. He even golfs on his school team and his dream is to be the first blind golfer on the PGA tour. I think even I would enjoy watching golf if he was involved (more Jake, less Tiger Woods, that's what I'd need to watch golf. But I digress).
The first 25-30 pages are about Jake's background and his experiences (I was reading the ARC, so it might be different in the final published book) but the rest of the book is more of a reflection on how his faith has helped sustain him, how he keeps a good attitude, and how he doesn't let his lack of sight keep him from leaving a full and joyous life.He (and his whole family) lean heavily on their faith to get them through these different struggles. Though some of the advice that he offers is great no matter who you are, like "It's not what happens to us; i's what we do with what happens to us that matters". Another "By small and simple things are great things brought to pass".
Others who have faced difficulties are also featured in this book. A man named Art Berg was made a quadriplegic in a terrible car accident. Doctors told him that he would need to be taken care of for the rest of his life, that he probably wouldn't have kids, drive a car, or work again. 12 years after the accident Art had 2 children with his wife, could drive a car, feed himself, was a motivational speaker and was very self-sufficient.Beck Weathers while he was climbing Mount Everest and while he waited for his eyesight to return he was left for dead twice. He managed to stumble into camp on his own, though he would eventually lose both hands to frostbite.
I like that the book had little "insights" from Jake, his parents, and other people who could add something to his story. I think my favorite chapter of the book was "Lemons and Molehills". Who doesn't need a reminder that you need to keep problems in perspective and that "this too shall pass?" This would have been a great Christmas gift for the hard to shop for person in your life, but keep it in mind for birthdays or other occasions.(Though maybe not a great gift for the Notre Dame fan in your life, if they are particularly rabid). The book is very conversational, and is a good casual read while still having a message worth hearing.
January 3, 2014
What would you do if you permanently lost your sight? Whether involuntarily or voluntarily – would your life spin down the drain uncontrollably? Would you sink into a deep depression? I think a lot of us would, then again not everyone has that level of faith and belief in “God’s Plan” or “Destiny” as Jake Olson does. While he is not shy about his relationship with Christ, he believes with every ounce of his being that his blindness and the motivation he can bring others was part of his Destiny, that it was his pre-determined path in life to succeed despite being blind – to go after his ultimate goals in life – an education and being the first blind player on the PGA tour – no matter the obstacles. I think there’s a lot that the reader can bring away from this book, the how’s and why’s of letting go of all of your preconceived notions and using the steps outlined to lay-out your path to finding your pre-destined path in life!
As someone who believes wholly without question in fate and destiny I feel that nothing we experience in life, nothing we do, and nowhere we go is an accident, everything, and I mean absolutely everything, is pre-determined by something or someone greater than ourselves. The lessons we need to learn in life, the people we interact with, the jobs we hold, and how we go about each step of the plan is pre-set before we are even born. This path and plan is replayed in each life until we get it right, until our souls are enlightened completely. It is on this level that I am able to closely relate to Jake’s story, and will use the tools outlined in the book, and through his and his family’s insights to each step along the way the reader is able to see the tools applied real-time and use the Olson families’ insights as the stepping stones to their own path.
The only area I was not able to “connect” to the book was in the intro portion – I feel that it could have been better written – the uses of the phrase “God’s Love” and “God’s Plan” are stated, re-worded, and re-stated over and over in the first thirty pages of the book. However, the authors’ seemed to get into their “groove” after the intro portion of the book. Outside of this section of the book I feel that it is a very good concept, and with some work on the intro they could find a way to better connect the reader to the beginning of the book. As someone who reads a lot of books knows that this is where readers are gained and lost, and with the current introduction chapters of this book in its current state may just lose a lot of readers.
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by the agent through bookbloogerlist.com**
As someone who believes wholly without question in fate and destiny I feel that nothing we experience in life, nothing we do, and nowhere we go is an accident, everything, and I mean absolutely everything, is pre-determined by something or someone greater than ourselves. The lessons we need to learn in life, the people we interact with, the jobs we hold, and how we go about each step of the plan is pre-set before we are even born. This path and plan is replayed in each life until we get it right, until our souls are enlightened completely. It is on this level that I am able to closely relate to Jake’s story, and will use the tools outlined in the book, and through his and his family’s insights to each step along the way the reader is able to see the tools applied real-time and use the Olson families’ insights as the stepping stones to their own path.
The only area I was not able to “connect” to the book was in the intro portion – I feel that it could have been better written – the uses of the phrase “God’s Love” and “God’s Plan” are stated, re-worded, and re-stated over and over in the first thirty pages of the book. However, the authors’ seemed to get into their “groove” after the intro portion of the book. Outside of this section of the book I feel that it is a very good concept, and with some work on the intro they could find a way to better connect the reader to the beginning of the book. As someone who reads a lot of books knows that this is where readers are gained and lost, and with the current introduction chapters of this book in its current state may just lose a lot of readers.
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by the agent through bookbloogerlist.com**
March 15, 2014
Thomas Nelson Publishing, through the BookSneeze program, provided me with a copy of Open Your Eyes by Jake Olson and McKay Christensen in exchange for an honest review.
What an inspirational book! Jake Olson lost his sight to eye cancer when he was twelve years old. But that hasn't stopped him from playing football, taking AP classes in high school, having a positive attitude, praising God through it all, or even working on his goal of one day playing on a PGA golf tour (seriously!).
So this book is about Jake, yes, but it also has stories from others who have faced major struggles in their lives (Muhammad Ali, for example). There is also a lot of "self-help" talk by McKay Christensen, a researcher and speaker about how adults learn and find happiness. That writing is always followed by "Insights From" Jake, his parents, or his twin sister to show how they have put that particular teaching into practice.
Each chapter begins with a quote and ends with "In Summary" bullet points.
Some spots I marked in the book:
"Struggle and pain...were not put here to torment or mock men, but to life and build them...Adversity, pain and struggle do not challenge the Lord's love for us, they prove it." (p. 28)
"When we make mountains from molehills, we expect others to change, when it may be we who need to change." (p. 64)
"One of the most important things I have learned is to stay calm and not imagine the worst possible outcome. It's important to focus on the best possible outcome." (p. 75)
"A dream without reality is only a wish." (p. 157)
"When you have a positive image of the future and confront the facts realistically, you learn and get better. You constantly get stronger and wiser from adversity. You can bear more challenges today because you've lived through them in the past."
"If you're not happy with who you are or what path you're traveling in life, if you don't feel that you've met your true potential, then maybe you need to live consistently with your moral compass."
What an inspirational book! Jake Olson lost his sight to eye cancer when he was twelve years old. But that hasn't stopped him from playing football, taking AP classes in high school, having a positive attitude, praising God through it all, or even working on his goal of one day playing on a PGA golf tour (seriously!).
So this book is about Jake, yes, but it also has stories from others who have faced major struggles in their lives (Muhammad Ali, for example). There is also a lot of "self-help" talk by McKay Christensen, a researcher and speaker about how adults learn and find happiness. That writing is always followed by "Insights From" Jake, his parents, or his twin sister to show how they have put that particular teaching into practice.
Each chapter begins with a quote and ends with "In Summary" bullet points.
Some spots I marked in the book:
"Struggle and pain...were not put here to torment or mock men, but to life and build them...Adversity, pain and struggle do not challenge the Lord's love for us, they prove it." (p. 28)
"When we make mountains from molehills, we expect others to change, when it may be we who need to change." (p. 64)
"One of the most important things I have learned is to stay calm and not imagine the worst possible outcome. It's important to focus on the best possible outcome." (p. 75)
"A dream without reality is only a wish." (p. 157)
"When you have a positive image of the future and confront the facts realistically, you learn and get better. You constantly get stronger and wiser from adversity. You can bear more challenges today because you've lived through them in the past."
"If you're not happy with who you are or what path you're traveling in life, if you don't feel that you've met your true potential, then maybe you need to live consistently with your moral compass."
January 9, 2014
Full review to come.
***
Originally reviewed on my blog All The Bookish Love
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really, really dislike giving a bad review to a book that I started reading with vigour. But unfortunately, it happens to the best of us and we just can’t help but not like the book. I dove headfirst into this book, because it interested me a lot when I read the blurb and the first few pages really pulled me in. Reading the struggle Jake and his family went through in his childhood years was brilliant but after the fifth chapter, things took a sway to the bad side for me.
This book started out tremendously interesting, but it started reading monotonously and I had to force myself to finish the book, because it was an assignment and I always power through. It has so much potential that just wasn’t captured. I’m not an extremely religious person and this book gave off an overly religious vibe. Now I get that religion and God helped Jake through his struggles and made him into the very inspiring person he is today, but it was overwhelming at times. But even this wasn’t a major issue. For me, the writing didn’t flow and create a comfortable atmosphere. The book bounced around a lot. The minute I started getting interested in one part of the story, it would jump to an entirely different phase of Jake’s life and it irritated me.
This book wasn’t my cup of tea (or glass of wine) but hey, I’m just one person in a world filled with readers. Jake is however a very remarkable young man, and I do admire him for all he has accomplished.
***
Originally reviewed on my blog All The Bookish Love
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really, really dislike giving a bad review to a book that I started reading with vigour. But unfortunately, it happens to the best of us and we just can’t help but not like the book. I dove headfirst into this book, because it interested me a lot when I read the blurb and the first few pages really pulled me in. Reading the struggle Jake and his family went through in his childhood years was brilliant but after the fifth chapter, things took a sway to the bad side for me.
This book started out tremendously interesting, but it started reading monotonously and I had to force myself to finish the book, because it was an assignment and I always power through. It has so much potential that just wasn’t captured. I’m not an extremely religious person and this book gave off an overly religious vibe. Now I get that religion and God helped Jake through his struggles and made him into the very inspiring person he is today, but it was overwhelming at times. But even this wasn’t a major issue. For me, the writing didn’t flow and create a comfortable atmosphere. The book bounced around a lot. The minute I started getting interested in one part of the story, it would jump to an entirely different phase of Jake’s life and it irritated me.
This book wasn’t my cup of tea (or glass of wine) but hey, I’m just one person in a world filled with readers. Jake is however a very remarkable young man, and I do admire him for all he has accomplished.
June 16, 2014
I really wanted this book to be great.
I saw the ESPN piece and it was very inspiring and when I found out there was a book I was hoping it would be more about how Jake actually plays football and golfs while being blind.
Unfortunately for my liking there is way too much bible thumping. I am not a religious person but I also do not begrudge the beliefs of others.
I truly believe that every person on this planet is entitled to their own beliefs as long as they do not try to force their beliefs on those who do not want it.
From what I read of this book, God is a big part of Jake and his family's everyday life and that is great for them.
For me though - it is too much in this book. It is always in your face and that has pushed me away from the story I wanted to read.
I think it is great that Jake has found a way to deal with his disability and I wish him well going forward, for me unfortunately, I can not finish this book.
I saw the ESPN piece and it was very inspiring and when I found out there was a book I was hoping it would be more about how Jake actually plays football and golfs while being blind.
Unfortunately for my liking there is way too much bible thumping. I am not a religious person but I also do not begrudge the beliefs of others.
I truly believe that every person on this planet is entitled to their own beliefs as long as they do not try to force their beliefs on those who do not want it.
From what I read of this book, God is a big part of Jake and his family's everyday life and that is great for them.
For me though - it is too much in this book. It is always in your face and that has pushed me away from the story I wanted to read.
I think it is great that Jake has found a way to deal with his disability and I wish him well going forward, for me unfortunately, I can not finish this book.
January 2, 2014
My husband's client is one of the authors of this book so he brought a copy home for me to read. Jake Olson is a very inspirational young man who has kept a positive outlook on life regardless of the fact that he has lost both his eyes to cancer. The beginning of the book is Jake's story (which is heartbreaking and made me as a mother cry); the majority of the book is life lessons Christensen shares with Jakes inspirational insights on how to live a happier, more fulfilling life. Jake has a very firm faith in God and this belief helps him in every way. This isn't a "can't put it down thriller", but a great read still the same. Jake is an amazing kid and I would love to meet him someday. Christensen does a great job helping the reader feel inspired while providing ways to overcome struggle and lead a happier life and remembering what is truly important.
January 1, 2014
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Jake Olson had Cancer as a child as a result he went blind. This is a beautifully written story of his strength and courage, how he handled the news and the hurdles he faced everyday and what it took to keep him moving on with his life. He gives us some tips on coping with life and he tells us how he relied on his religious beliefs and faith in God to get him through the rough times. I loved Jake's courage and his attitude. Jake took this tragic event in his life and showed us that life goes on and you you can achieve what ever you what no matter the obstacles you may face along the way.
January 21, 2014
Forewarning: I am admittedly biased as the daughter of the author, McKay Christensen.
Discovering ways to enhance, not only the quality of your life, but the quality of your faith is not always easy. But Jake and McKay set you on a path that can help. Jake's story is uplifting and his example is meaningful. You'll not regret reading his story.
Discovering ways to enhance, not only the quality of your life, but the quality of your faith is not always easy. But Jake and McKay set you on a path that can help. Jake's story is uplifting and his example is meaningful. You'll not regret reading his story.
December 21, 2014
It is an amazing story mixed with a life of privilege. You can't discount pain and suffering however. The story did not feel genuine - it felt like it was missing the true depth and feeling of his experience. I was hoping for more.
June 29, 2016
Inspiring story of a man (born in 1997) who lost the sight of one eye at eight months and the second eye at 12 years. It's a non-whiny, faith-based story offering suggestions for overcoming challenges and making happiness a habit. The non-whiny, practical part was very refreshing.
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