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Never Ever Give Up: The Inspiring Story of Jessie and Her JoyJars
It started with a simple question: How can we help them? It became an international movement called NEGU: Never Ever Give Up. When Jessica Joy Rees was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at age 11, she chose to focus not on herself but on bringing joy and hope to other children suffering from cancer.
During the ten months she battled cancer, she and her family worked in the 'Joy Factory' (originally their garage) making JoyJar - packages filled with toys, games, and love for other kids with cancer. Jessie first handed them out personally at the hospital where she was being treated, but the effort blossomed quickly and there were soon thousands of JoyJars being distributed across the United States and to over fifteen countries. Today, more than 100,000 kids have received JoyJars, and they continue shipping each week to kids in over 200 children's hospitals and 175 Ronald McDonald Houses.
Jessie lost her battle with cancer in January 2012, but her message lives on in the Jessie Rees Foundation, which has become a beacon of hope for families fighting pediatric cancer.
During the ten months she battled cancer, she and her family worked in the 'Joy Factory' (originally their garage) making JoyJar - packages filled with toys, games, and love for other kids with cancer. Jessie first handed them out personally at the hospital where she was being treated, but the effort blossomed quickly and there were soon thousands of JoyJars being distributed across the United States and to over fifteen countries. Today, more than 100,000 kids have received JoyJars, and they continue shipping each week to kids in over 200 children's hospitals and 175 Ronald McDonald Houses.
Jessie lost her battle with cancer in January 2012, but her message lives on in the Jessie Rees Foundation, which has become a beacon of hope for families fighting pediatric cancer.
- GenresNonfictionInspirational
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2014
11 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 10, 2014
Jessie Joy Rees got brain cancer at eleven. DIPG is a rare inoperable, incurable tumor in the middle of the brain stem. When Eric Rees, her dad, heard the diagnosis all he could pray was “God please heal my daughter.” And for 10 months that was his hearts cry. This is Jessie’s story from first symptom until her passing 10 months later. But before you think you can’t bear to read such a heart breaking story, please reconsider; read Never Ever Give Up for all the children, and their families, fighting this battle right now. Because that is what Jessie would have wanted, she cared about all the children and put them first. She took up her cross, and bore the weight of it by creating something to bring joy into their lives. Jessie started a movement called NEGU (Never Ever Give Up), by taking large jars and stuffing them full of toys for every child fighting cancer so that they could, for a moment, play in their hospital bed and feel happiness. These jars of toys are called Joy Jars*, and thousands of children have been blessed by them.
This tragic story touches on all the layers of human life: bad things do happen to good people, even when you have a strong belief in God, and you will struggle with your faith when the answer you get isn’t what you prayed for. How do you go on? How does adversity affect family and friends? Eric is transparent in the telling of Jessie’s story, this is how they walked through it, these are the choices they made and even as a pastor he admits he wasn’t perfect in all his choices. Her mom Stacey took on the day to day care as Jessie went through Chemo and Radiation, along with taking care of Jessie’s 2 siblings. Jessie’s story touched me personally because I prayed for her after hearing about her on FB. There were 3 other children with cancer I heard about and prayed for, only one survived and is in remission. It’s so upsetting that we haven’t gotten any further along with treatments and cures, and part of the problem is that there isn’t much money in these rare types of cancers. And also too many scientists are waiting for patents on new treatments. That needs to change. But as Eric says “We will care until there is a cure.” Well written, with help from Jenna Glatzer, this is a 5 star inspirational true story
This tragic story touches on all the layers of human life: bad things do happen to good people, even when you have a strong belief in God, and you will struggle with your faith when the answer you get isn’t what you prayed for. How do you go on? How does adversity affect family and friends? Eric is transparent in the telling of Jessie’s story, this is how they walked through it, these are the choices they made and even as a pastor he admits he wasn’t perfect in all his choices. Her mom Stacey took on the day to day care as Jessie went through Chemo and Radiation, along with taking care of Jessie’s 2 siblings. Jessie’s story touched me personally because I prayed for her after hearing about her on FB. There were 3 other children with cancer I heard about and prayed for, only one survived and is in remission. It’s so upsetting that we haven’t gotten any further along with treatments and cures, and part of the problem is that there isn’t much money in these rare types of cancers. And also too many scientists are waiting for patents on new treatments. That needs to change. But as Eric says “We will care until there is a cure.” Well written, with help from Jenna Glatzer, this is a 5 star inspirational true story
April 19, 2015
For whatever reason, this book sat on my shelf for quite some time, and I always figured I'd get to it "one day." All I can say is that I am grateful I finally picked it up and read it as this book is one of the most amazing books I have read in quite some time! It is non-fiction, Christian, and inspirational. And if you end the book with a dry eye, well, I'd be surprised. I sure didn't.
I think I may have heard something about the "Joy Jars" before I read this book, but I didn't know very much about them. And I knew nothing about the brave girl and her family who fought the battle of pediatric cancer. This book will inspire you on all levels, and yet it never comes off as being "preachy." The theology was fairly sound in the book--in fact there are some parts that truly impressed me. But even non-Christians can read this book, for the Christian aspect is not the focus of the book. It is the family's story that will tug at the strings of your heart and remind you of what is truly important in this world.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I think I may have heard something about the "Joy Jars" before I read this book, but I didn't know very much about them. And I knew nothing about the brave girl and her family who fought the battle of pediatric cancer. This book will inspire you on all levels, and yet it never comes off as being "preachy." The theology was fairly sound in the book--in fact there are some parts that truly impressed me. But even non-Christians can read this book, for the Christian aspect is not the focus of the book. It is the family's story that will tug at the strings of your heart and remind you of what is truly important in this world.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
July 27, 2025
This book made me cry so many times especially towards the end their were times where I had to put down the book and take a break i feel for Jessie’s parents
March 5, 2019
Never Ever Give Up is an inspiring and emotional read; however, very worthwhile. Jessie Rees wanted to help other cancer children even though she was going through treatment of an incurable/inoperable brain tumor herself at the age of 11. If each individual would focus on others by making them smile and feel happy instead of their own issues like Jessie did what a different world we would have.
August 8, 2022
Amazing book, amazing story, amazing family and incredible girl. Everyone should read this book. It reads very fast because it is hard to stop. I will be going to the Jessie Rees Foundation website to read more about it. Thank you, Erik, for sharing your family's story with us.
September 3, 2014
This is an inspiring true story about a family. Because of a devastating illness Jessica becomes the focus of the family. Jessica is hit with a very rare cancer. A tumor settles in her brain stem where there are million of nerves. Therefore, the tumor can not be cut out. It is inoperable. Erik Rees, Jessica's father, writes this story and allows us to follow a strong little girl as the diseases progresses. Jessica is eleven years old. She always thinks of others and not herself even during her illness. This is the message of the book, Jessica's message is to "Never Ever Give Up" no matter what battle you face here on earth. Keep hope before you.http://negu.org/
July 24, 2017
I found this book to be very inspiring Jessica Joy Rees battled a tough issue with a rare cancer. She decided she wanted to help others who were also battling cancer and started Joy Jars for cancer patients, which would have toys inside. She touched many lives with her short life. Her never give up motto is applicable to not just cancer patients but to all. She decided that if she could help others nothing would stop her. .It is a very well written book I read it in one sitting. It is one that will stay with me for awhile. She was a very special young lady who contributed much to everyone in her circle and may she had never met.
July 4, 2020
Such a sad story, that has an uplifting message interspersed throughout. Brought me to tears multiple times. Inspiring to see Jessie's love and focus on others even during her own struggles and challenges. Interesting to hear the story through her father's eyes and to hear how her passion has inspired others far beyond her short life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2017
a beautiful and inspiring lefe story. praise Jesus. a must read.
December 29, 2017
A bit too religious for my taste, but the story is truly inspiring!
January 4, 2018
Riveting and very inspiring.
May 17, 2020
Fantastic book NEGU
September 3, 2020
It has such a powerful message, and it taught me a lot. I read this over and over because it is just that good. Definitely one of my favorite books to read!
October 7, 2022
Such a beautifully written book about the too short life of Jessie. This book is inspirational from beginning to end.
August 31, 2023
I would recommend this to anyone who knows of someone going through childhood cancer; a lot of things I read hit home 💛
September 16, 2024
This book was very good! It was sad but also not at the same time! I’d recommend it to you!
September 2, 2014
The book, Never Ever Give Up: The Inspiring Story of Jessie and her Joy Jars by Erik Rees with Jenna Glatzer is a beautiful message of hope and courage lived out in a little girl's life as she faced cancer head on. In this book, Jessie Rees challenges each one of us to make this world a better place by thinking of other's needs before our own and reaching out to spread joy through acts of kindness...especially to those children battling cancer. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. This is a perfect time to read an informative book about this dreadful disease and increase our understanding of how we can help.
Never Ever Give Up by Erik Rees with Jenna Glatzer is a wonderful book and I highly recommend reading it. This tenderly written true story narrated by the father of Jessie Rees, elicits so much emotion due the weightiness of the subject matter, pediatric cancer, that I must confess, I was exhausted after reading it. I'm sure that being a parent, I frequently put myself in the father and mother's position as they walked through each new trial of this horrible diagnosis pronounced on their previously healthy and vivacious daughter. The raw emotion and the transparency in which the book is written provide the reader with a microscopic look at the behind the scene details of such an earth shattering diagnosis and how it impacts the entire family.
This book touched me in several ways. First, I will now be better equipped to help a family who is going through the dreadful diagnosis of pediatric cancer. At the end of the book, the author lists "25 Ways To Help a Family With a Child Fighting Cancer." This is a tangible list with practical things to do for the family, including ideas like making a meal or filling up the car gas tank to cleaning their house or babysitting the siblings.
Secondly, I have a much deeper understanding of the exhaustion, confusion, fear and turmoil that a family will go through when they receive a pediatric cancer diagnosis. The book provides a candid look into this family's experience which will allow me to be a great deal more empathetic should I ever be confronted with this horrific situation.
Finally, after having read Never Ever Give Up , I am reminded of the simplicity of a child's heart and faith through Jessie's determination to make this more about helping others than focusing on herself. I am flabbergasted by her selfless acts of kindness as she made the Joy Jars and chose to center her life on bringing relief to others despite the pain and suffering she was currently enduring. I am completely in awe at the way Jessie and her family have chosen to make something good out of this terrible situation. It has given me hope and spurred me on to literally "Never Ever Give Up" on reaching a hurting and lonely world, one person at a time!
This book is narrated with such grace and detail that the reader can't help but feel that they actually had the privilege of meeting Jessie! It is eloquently written and has an authenticity that cannot be underscored. What a great example Jessie Rees left for us in her short time here on earth. "I NEGU...do you?" (NEGU Nation)
I would like to thank Handlebar Publishing and Zondervan Publishing for this review copy of Never Ever Give Up by Erik Rees with Jenna Glatzer. The opinions within the review are completely my own as I was not required to write a positive response.
Never Ever Give Up by Erik Rees with Jenna Glatzer is a wonderful book and I highly recommend reading it. This tenderly written true story narrated by the father of Jessie Rees, elicits so much emotion due the weightiness of the subject matter, pediatric cancer, that I must confess, I was exhausted after reading it. I'm sure that being a parent, I frequently put myself in the father and mother's position as they walked through each new trial of this horrible diagnosis pronounced on their previously healthy and vivacious daughter. The raw emotion and the transparency in which the book is written provide the reader with a microscopic look at the behind the scene details of such an earth shattering diagnosis and how it impacts the entire family.
This book touched me in several ways. First, I will now be better equipped to help a family who is going through the dreadful diagnosis of pediatric cancer. At the end of the book, the author lists "25 Ways To Help a Family With a Child Fighting Cancer." This is a tangible list with practical things to do for the family, including ideas like making a meal or filling up the car gas tank to cleaning their house or babysitting the siblings.
Secondly, I have a much deeper understanding of the exhaustion, confusion, fear and turmoil that a family will go through when they receive a pediatric cancer diagnosis. The book provides a candid look into this family's experience which will allow me to be a great deal more empathetic should I ever be confronted with this horrific situation.
Finally, after having read Never Ever Give Up , I am reminded of the simplicity of a child's heart and faith through Jessie's determination to make this more about helping others than focusing on herself. I am flabbergasted by her selfless acts of kindness as she made the Joy Jars and chose to center her life on bringing relief to others despite the pain and suffering she was currently enduring. I am completely in awe at the way Jessie and her family have chosen to make something good out of this terrible situation. It has given me hope and spurred me on to literally "Never Ever Give Up" on reaching a hurting and lonely world, one person at a time!
This book is narrated with such grace and detail that the reader can't help but feel that they actually had the privilege of meeting Jessie! It is eloquently written and has an authenticity that cannot be underscored. What a great example Jessie Rees left for us in her short time here on earth. "I NEGU...do you?" (NEGU Nation)
I would like to thank Handlebar Publishing and Zondervan Publishing for this review copy of Never Ever Give Up by Erik Rees with Jenna Glatzer. The opinions within the review are completely my own as I was not required to write a positive response.
September 14, 2014
This is an amazing book for many reasons. If you know nothing at all about this young girl’s story, all I can say is that this is one that doesn’t end well according to our earthly standards. I mean, no one in their right mind desires for their child to die of cancer at such a young age. Right? And with such a rare cancer at that, nobody!
As I read this biography of this young courageous girl living with this cancer called DIPG, I keep thinking of the statistics which have shown that most kids with DIPG don’t survive even a full year and, tragically, 99% of them die!
Cancer has no friends, no gender, no morals, no limits, no age and no family. It is a result of the fall in the Garden of Eden in the beginning of creation. Sin has brought it upon us. We are now living the aftermath of sin and cancer is part of it. It’s sad and I, like most people, want to avoid it. But life doesn’t work that way as this family soon found out…
After reading this true story, I was left with an even more profound truth on my heart that in each of our lives our days are counted and we are to live for a purpose: glorifying God. Of course we know this, but do we live it?
Despite her very young age, I believe Jessie Rees had a sense of this purpose without even knowing it. That is what makes her special even today though she is gone, yet still very present in many people’s lives. She desired to turn her grief outwardly in helping others rather than focusing on herself during her cancer. At her young age, this is remarkably awesome. She was barely 11 years old and already teaching adults by her living through suffering and acting in love, gratitude, kindness, selflessness and acceptance of God’s sovereignty in her own life.
Her wish was to give and share the joy by granting those who were sick the opportunity to receive a gift while they were going through treatments at the hospital. She wanted to give them something to make them smile, spreading joy and hope! What a wonderful heart of kindness and overflow of love. This is where her idea of Joy Jars started and her famous statement of NEGU (never ever give up). All she wanted to do was help those kids she saw… at a time in her life where she was the one who needed it the most!
This story is not one of easy reading; it brought much tears and heartache. I can only imagine the deep pain of losing a child to such a terrible disease. The only comfort as her father repeats is that she is with her Savior and cancer free. I especially appreciated the honesty of Mr. Rees through this painful trial as he graciously permits us to embark along with him and his family. I believe he has granted us a true gift in writing us this book and opening us this window of their precious life to so many. Thank you!
I was deeply inspired by this young courageous girl. Her love for her Lord, her desire to live a life fully and spread joy to others as often and however she could, despite her situation, truly compels me to imitate her. She is a beautiful example of unconditional love. God did not grant her many years to live, yet the years she lived were worth much gold… Oh how much! She died young but she left a legacy behind that has inspired many and is still encouraging today.
Ann L Beaulieu
I have received a free copy by Handlebar Publishing. However I am under no obligation to write a positive review. These are entirely my own personal opinions and thoughts expressed according to my own discernment.
As I read this biography of this young courageous girl living with this cancer called DIPG, I keep thinking of the statistics which have shown that most kids with DIPG don’t survive even a full year and, tragically, 99% of them die!
Cancer has no friends, no gender, no morals, no limits, no age and no family. It is a result of the fall in the Garden of Eden in the beginning of creation. Sin has brought it upon us. We are now living the aftermath of sin and cancer is part of it. It’s sad and I, like most people, want to avoid it. But life doesn’t work that way as this family soon found out…
After reading this true story, I was left with an even more profound truth on my heart that in each of our lives our days are counted and we are to live for a purpose: glorifying God. Of course we know this, but do we live it?
Despite her very young age, I believe Jessie Rees had a sense of this purpose without even knowing it. That is what makes her special even today though she is gone, yet still very present in many people’s lives. She desired to turn her grief outwardly in helping others rather than focusing on herself during her cancer. At her young age, this is remarkably awesome. She was barely 11 years old and already teaching adults by her living through suffering and acting in love, gratitude, kindness, selflessness and acceptance of God’s sovereignty in her own life.
Her wish was to give and share the joy by granting those who were sick the opportunity to receive a gift while they were going through treatments at the hospital. She wanted to give them something to make them smile, spreading joy and hope! What a wonderful heart of kindness and overflow of love. This is where her idea of Joy Jars started and her famous statement of NEGU (never ever give up). All she wanted to do was help those kids she saw… at a time in her life where she was the one who needed it the most!
This story is not one of easy reading; it brought much tears and heartache. I can only imagine the deep pain of losing a child to such a terrible disease. The only comfort as her father repeats is that she is with her Savior and cancer free. I especially appreciated the honesty of Mr. Rees through this painful trial as he graciously permits us to embark along with him and his family. I believe he has granted us a true gift in writing us this book and opening us this window of their precious life to so many. Thank you!
I was deeply inspired by this young courageous girl. Her love for her Lord, her desire to live a life fully and spread joy to others as often and however she could, despite her situation, truly compels me to imitate her. She is a beautiful example of unconditional love. God did not grant her many years to live, yet the years she lived were worth much gold… Oh how much! She died young but she left a legacy behind that has inspired many and is still encouraging today.
Ann L Beaulieu
I have received a free copy by Handlebar Publishing. However I am under no obligation to write a positive review. These are entirely my own personal opinions and thoughts expressed according to my own discernment.
March 1, 2020
One of the best books I've read in a long time. Couldn't put it down.
September 29, 2014
What would you do if you learned that you had an inoperable brain tumor? In his book, Never Ever Give Up: The Inspiring Story of Jessie and Her JoyJars, Erik Rees tells the inspiring story of his daughter, Jessica Joy Rees, who succumbed to an inoperable form of brain cancer in January 2012 at the age of 12 after a 10-month-long battle. Rather than focusing on her own problems, this incredible little girl focused on what she could do to help other kids who were suffering. Her efforts became an international movement called NEGU: Never Ever Give Up and led to over 100,000 children receiving JoyJars®—packages filled with toys, games, and love for other kids with cancer—so far in over sixteen countries.
In case there was any question in your mind, this is an incredibly moving book. Rees describes, in heartbreaking detail, the events of those 10 months. Throughout the book, we are brought into many family discussions, doctor’s offices, and even Erik’s own thoughts. We cry with the family, but we also smile and at times even laugh. The book is a moving tribute to a beautiful gift that God gave not just a family, but the world.
Never Ever Give Up has given me a new appreciation for what a family dealing with pediatric cancer goes through. I consider myself a reasonably compassionate person, but after reading this book, I will forever find a greater level of sympathy for families with a child with a terminal illness.
Jessie’s story has also inspired me to take a more active role helping those who are less fortunate than I. I’m not sure what that will look like yet, but I am committed to doing more.
At the end of the book, Rees lists “25 Ways To Help a Family With a Child Fighting Cancer.” Everyone should have a copy of this list ready to be used to support those around us.
I highly recommend reading Never Ever Give Up. It will change you forever.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing these things in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
In case there was any question in your mind, this is an incredibly moving book. Rees describes, in heartbreaking detail, the events of those 10 months. Throughout the book, we are brought into many family discussions, doctor’s offices, and even Erik’s own thoughts. We cry with the family, but we also smile and at times even laugh. The book is a moving tribute to a beautiful gift that God gave not just a family, but the world.
Never Ever Give Up has given me a new appreciation for what a family dealing with pediatric cancer goes through. I consider myself a reasonably compassionate person, but after reading this book, I will forever find a greater level of sympathy for families with a child with a terminal illness.
Jessie’s story has also inspired me to take a more active role helping those who are less fortunate than I. I’m not sure what that will look like yet, but I am committed to doing more.
At the end of the book, Rees lists “25 Ways To Help a Family With a Child Fighting Cancer.” Everyone should have a copy of this list ready to be used to support those around us.
I highly recommend reading Never Ever Give Up. It will change you forever.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Handlebar Marketing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing these things in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
September 2, 2014
Never Ever Give Up: the inspiring story of Jessie and her JoyJars™ is really an amazon book! I had not heard Jessie Rees’ story before I read it, although I was somewhat familiar with the rare type of brain cancer, DIPG, that she had. Isaiah 11:6 says, “…and a little child shall lead them.” I’ve found this to be so true, and especially so in the case of Jessie Rees. Jessie lost her brief battle with cancer in 2011, but her spirit lives and leads on in her namesake foundation.
Jessie was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer at the age of 11. She lived just 10 valiant months. In those 10 months, Jessie lived more than most of us live in a lifetime. There is no doubt that the world is a better place because she was in it! Jessie didn’t feel sorry for herself when she was diagnosed with cancer. She had a special ability to look outward when most would (legitimately) look inward. Instead of dwelling on her struggles, she literally looked up (at the windows of the cancer ward at the children’s hospital) and asked “How can we help them?”
What began as a little girl’s desire to bring cheer to another child has grown into the Jessie Rees Foundation. The foundation began with the mission of giving local children JoyJars™ and has spread to a global movement for good, helping more than 500,000 children to have a little cheer in the darkest of times. Margaret Mead is quoted as saying “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” A small girl with cancer has done just that.
Jessie’s story is at once heart wrenching and inspiring. I shed tears when I read the account of her passing…the pain was palpable…but the overwhelming message is one of hope. In a world where terrorists are beheading journalists on camera, there are also good people who love God and who want to do kind things “unto the least of these.” If you need a dose of inspiration, read this book. Then, go do something to make the world a bit better. Jessie did so while fighting brain cancer. What’s your excuse?
*I was provided with a complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Jessie was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer at the age of 11. She lived just 10 valiant months. In those 10 months, Jessie lived more than most of us live in a lifetime. There is no doubt that the world is a better place because she was in it! Jessie didn’t feel sorry for herself when she was diagnosed with cancer. She had a special ability to look outward when most would (legitimately) look inward. Instead of dwelling on her struggles, she literally looked up (at the windows of the cancer ward at the children’s hospital) and asked “How can we help them?”
What began as a little girl’s desire to bring cheer to another child has grown into the Jessie Rees Foundation. The foundation began with the mission of giving local children JoyJars™ and has spread to a global movement for good, helping more than 500,000 children to have a little cheer in the darkest of times. Margaret Mead is quoted as saying “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” A small girl with cancer has done just that.
Jessie’s story is at once heart wrenching and inspiring. I shed tears when I read the account of her passing…the pain was palpable…but the overwhelming message is one of hope. In a world where terrorists are beheading journalists on camera, there are also good people who love God and who want to do kind things “unto the least of these.” If you need a dose of inspiration, read this book. Then, go do something to make the world a bit better. Jessie did so while fighting brain cancer. What’s your excuse?
*I was provided with a complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2014
An Inspiring Story of Courage and Helping Others
Stacey and Erik heard the most dread words any parents can hear. Their twelve-year-old daughter, Jessie, had an inoperable brain tumor. The family was devastated praying to God to heal Jessie. They couldn't think of anything else to do.
Bit Jessie was a very special little girl. Instead of focusing on her own plight, she noticed that some of the children fighting cancer had to stay in the hospital and couldn't go home the way she could. She wanted to help them – to make them smile. From this desire was born the concept of Joy Jars, jars filled with toys and goodies that were passed out to hundreds of children during Jessie's short life.
If you're a parent, this is a very hard book to read. It could have been written as the perfect family faces cancer together, but Erik's book is more honest than that. The family has many crises. There were strained relationships between grandparents who wanted to help and the parents who were carrying most of the burden. Reading it, you realize that Jessie's slogan, Never Ever Give Up, has a special meaning for parents, too.
If your family has a child fighting cancer, I highly recommend this book. Even if you are lucky enough to have healthy children, this book makes you realize how lucky you are, and encourages you to do what Jessie did – help others.
I reviewed this book for Handlebar Publishing.
Stacey and Erik heard the most dread words any parents can hear. Their twelve-year-old daughter, Jessie, had an inoperable brain tumor. The family was devastated praying to God to heal Jessie. They couldn't think of anything else to do.
Bit Jessie was a very special little girl. Instead of focusing on her own plight, she noticed that some of the children fighting cancer had to stay in the hospital and couldn't go home the way she could. She wanted to help them – to make them smile. From this desire was born the concept of Joy Jars, jars filled with toys and goodies that were passed out to hundreds of children during Jessie's short life.
If you're a parent, this is a very hard book to read. It could have been written as the perfect family faces cancer together, but Erik's book is more honest than that. The family has many crises. There were strained relationships between grandparents who wanted to help and the parents who were carrying most of the burden. Reading it, you realize that Jessie's slogan, Never Ever Give Up, has a special meaning for parents, too.
If your family has a child fighting cancer, I highly recommend this book. Even if you are lucky enough to have healthy children, this book makes you realize how lucky you are, and encourages you to do what Jessie did – help others.
I reviewed this book for Handlebar Publishing.
December 24, 2014
Jessica Joy Rees was diagnosed with an inoperable and incurable brain tumor at the age of eleven.
This book is told through the eyes of her father, Erik Rees.
Jessie never focused on herself as she was battling this horrible tumor, instead she focused on other children fighting cancers by making JoyJars - packages filled with toys, games, crayons, and LOVE!
NEVER EVER GIVE UP! (NEGU) was her favorite saying and it became an international movement.
This book was so heartbreaking to read about this most precious little girl, who should of had a long healthy life, but was taken to soon.
I actually cried when I looked at this sweet girls pictures and read her story. What an inspiration she is for all.
I tried to put myself in Jessie's family shoes and I could not even fathom how they got through.
My heart goes out to them, even though Jessie is now an angel in heaven and in no more pain, I pray no other families have to go through this pain.
Did you know that childhood cancers are the least studied and there is less awareness out there about them! This needs to change! With more studies and information we could maybe find a cure.
If you would like more info on the Jessie Rees Foundation, please visit www.jessie.org or https://www.facebook.com/JessieReesFo...
** I received this complimentary book from BookLook for my honest review and opinions **
This book is told through the eyes of her father, Erik Rees.
Jessie never focused on herself as she was battling this horrible tumor, instead she focused on other children fighting cancers by making JoyJars - packages filled with toys, games, crayons, and LOVE!
NEVER EVER GIVE UP! (NEGU) was her favorite saying and it became an international movement.
This book was so heartbreaking to read about this most precious little girl, who should of had a long healthy life, but was taken to soon.
I actually cried when I looked at this sweet girls pictures and read her story. What an inspiration she is for all.
I tried to put myself in Jessie's family shoes and I could not even fathom how they got through.
My heart goes out to them, even though Jessie is now an angel in heaven and in no more pain, I pray no other families have to go through this pain.
Did you know that childhood cancers are the least studied and there is less awareness out there about them! This needs to change! With more studies and information we could maybe find a cure.
If you would like more info on the Jessie Rees Foundation, please visit www.jessie.org or https://www.facebook.com/JessieReesFo...
** I received this complimentary book from BookLook for my honest review and opinions **
September 6, 2014
Oh my goodness. What an incredible, heartbreaking, and inspiring story. I was crying in the very first chapter. My daughter is 11 years old, and I couldn't help but put myself in the writer's shoes as I read his story of being told that his sweet 11-year old girl had an inoperable brain tumor. Very well written, this true story tells of Jessie and her battle with cancer. She had an extremely rare form of cancer, and the odds were desperately stacked against her. Instead of wallowing in self-pity because she was sick, she chose to help others, and in doing so, she brought joy to herself, and to thousands of others. She invented the "Joy Jars", jars filled with gifts and fun stuff. She became well known in her community after a news story was aired about her Joy Jars, and still her story spread. Erik Reese, the author, is Jessie's father, and he tells the story only the way a parent can. It is heartfelt and heartbreaking. It is inspiring and devastating. He chronicled the last 9 months of his sweet daughter's life, and it's just so raw, so tender. The chapter in which he tells of her death haunts me, and yet it reminds me to hug my own children, and to share with them what Jessie taught so many: NEGU, or in other words, Never Ever Give Up. What a message!
I'm giving this book 5 stars. I loved it, and I became inspired to join the movement.
I'm giving this book 5 stars. I loved it, and I became inspired to join the movement.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2014
Jessie was diagnosed with a brain tumor at age eleven. The prognosis was twelve to eighteen months. The first time in the hospital, seeing other kids battling cancer, she asked her parents what they could do to encourage them. JoyJars were born.
Rees takes us through the treatments, the ups and downs, the second tumor and the decline. Her ministry lives on in a foundation Rees chairs.
This is an inspiring book, showing what one young person can do in a short amount of time.
The only thing that makes this book less than perfect is the concentration on the father. He has a chapter on himself, growing up, etc., on his becoming a daddy. His wife, and Jessie's mom, Stacey is absent most of the book. That just seemed a little odd to me. Rather than how they were both handling the struggle, it was just about him.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1rqt0ju.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Handlebar for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Rees takes us through the treatments, the ups and downs, the second tumor and the decline. Her ministry lives on in a foundation Rees chairs.
This is an inspiring book, showing what one young person can do in a short amount of time.
The only thing that makes this book less than perfect is the concentration on the father. He has a chapter on himself, growing up, etc., on his becoming a daddy. His wife, and Jessie's mom, Stacey is absent most of the book. That just seemed a little odd to me. Rather than how they were both handling the struggle, it was just about him.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1rqt0ju.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Handlebar for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
April 19, 2015
This is a feel good book. It features the drama and the courage of one girls and her family. Jessie was fighting a terminal brain tumor, and amidst her struggles, she wanted to help the other kids and their families. It doesn't really end right if you want your heroine to live happily ever after; but it is an inspiring story.
If you have any connection to the cancer world, read it.
If you really like inspiring stories, read it. Hallmark channel. Absolutely. Jessie's Dad, Erik, wrote this along with a professional biographer. It is not great literature.
I acknowledge I am super picky when it comes to self-published, first novels, and anything written by most Utah "authors." Erik Rees isn't from Utah; but he's a religious motivational writer on his first book, so it's pretty in the category.
It is still worth a read- particularly if you are in Jessie's community. NEGU.
If you have any connection to the cancer world, read it.
If you really like inspiring stories, read it. Hallmark channel. Absolutely. Jessie's Dad, Erik, wrote this along with a professional biographer. It is not great literature.
I acknowledge I am super picky when it comes to self-published, first novels, and anything written by most Utah "authors." Erik Rees isn't from Utah; but he's a religious motivational writer on his first book, so it's pretty in the category.
It is still worth a read- particularly if you are in Jessie's community. NEGU.
July 12, 2015
Never Ever Give Up
The author, Erik Rees, was born in Spokane and grew up in Moscow, ID. Around the time I went to college there His father was oddly my psych professor at U of I. Erik's book filled in why I detested his dad, but that was only my own personal epiphany a background in the book.
This is Erik's tale of the most unthinkable and unbearable thing any parent could face: the loss of their young daughter. And, if loss is the body, love is the soul of his story. I'm better for reading this and for meeting Jessie Rees, who makes me see life a bit differently as I turn the last page.
This is a book about loving and trusting God even when you lose on this earth, which we all inevitably. It resonated deeply with my heart.
The author, Erik Rees, was born in Spokane and grew up in Moscow, ID. Around the time I went to college there His father was oddly my psych professor at U of I. Erik's book filled in why I detested his dad, but that was only my own personal epiphany a background in the book.
This is Erik's tale of the most unthinkable and unbearable thing any parent could face: the loss of their young daughter. And, if loss is the body, love is the soul of his story. I'm better for reading this and for meeting Jessie Rees, who makes me see life a bit differently as I turn the last page.
This is a book about loving and trusting God even when you lose on this earth, which we all inevitably. It resonated deeply with my heart.
July 25, 2015
without question a MUST-READ book.
There is nothing easy about reading this book. In fact, I had to put it down many times because I was crying too hard. But also one of the most rewarding reads ever. Through all the heartbreak and tragedy, there is this overwhelming sense of hope and never giving up. Jessie is one of the most remarkable people I've ever encountered, and she had me adopt NEGU as a motto.
Reading about this amazing and remarkable young girl inspired me to give, be more mindful and spread hope around me in whatever small or big way I can.
There is nothing easy about reading this book. In fact, I had to put it down many times because I was crying too hard. But also one of the most rewarding reads ever. Through all the heartbreak and tragedy, there is this overwhelming sense of hope and never giving up. Jessie is one of the most remarkable people I've ever encountered, and she had me adopt NEGU as a motto.
Reading about this amazing and remarkable young girl inspired me to give, be more mindful and spread hope around me in whatever small or big way I can.
March 26, 2016
Jessie Joy Rees was on a mission to put a smile on the hearts of children battling cancer. She designed and contributed thousands of joy jars while struggling against brain cancer herself. Erik Rees shares his daughters story in "Never Ever Give Up". Her courage and selflessness can teach us all about God's Love and His plan for our life. In ten months, Jessie accomplishes more than most of us do in a lifetime. I have had the great opportunity to read and rate this book. For more information about the Jessie Rees Foundation
October 21, 2014
This is an amazing story of a young girl diagnosed with brain cancer who chose not to think about herself but to do all that she could to relieve the suffering of others. She created the concept of JoyJars, plastic bottles filled with toys and other items that might bring a smile to the face of a child dealing with cancer. Although Jessica lost her fight after 10 months, this book is proof that she continues to do good work and help so many others even now.
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