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The Unbreakable Boy: A Father's Fear, a Son's Courage, and a Story of Unconditional Love
With "New York Times" best-selling author Susy Flory, a father shares his autistic son's story and offers inspiration and advice for families facing similar challeges.
Like any other teen boy, Austin loves pizza, movies, dancing, and girls. But unlike most other eighteen year olds, he has a rare brittle-bone disease, was locked in a mental ward as a child, and is autistic. Yet Austin doesn't let any of that stop him.
"The Unbreakable Boy "is the raucously tender story of Austin's joyful embrace of life's tragedies and triumphs. His is a world where suffering a broken back is a minor inconvenience and the quest for the ultimate strawberry milkshake just might be the best day of his life.
Told with compelling candor by Austin's father, Scott, and with "New York Times" best-selling author Susy Flory, "The Unbreakable Boy" weaves the beautiful and often humorous tale of how Austin teaches his father--and everyone else he encounters--to have faith in God and trust that one day life's messes will all make sense.
Like any other teen boy, Austin loves pizza, movies, dancing, and girls. But unlike most other eighteen year olds, he has a rare brittle-bone disease, was locked in a mental ward as a child, and is autistic. Yet Austin doesn't let any of that stop him.
"The Unbreakable Boy "is the raucously tender story of Austin's joyful embrace of life's tragedies and triumphs. His is a world where suffering a broken back is a minor inconvenience and the quest for the ultimate strawberry milkshake just might be the best day of his life.
Told with compelling candor by Austin's father, Scott, and with "New York Times" best-selling author Susy Flory, "The Unbreakable Boy" weaves the beautiful and often humorous tale of how Austin teaches his father--and everyone else he encounters--to have faith in God and trust that one day life's messes will all make sense.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published November 11, 2014
106 people are currently reading
5825 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
March 31, 2016
I really wanted to like this book, but the man who is supposedly telling the story of his sons keeps talking about HIMSELF the whole time! What he did, what he said, how he felt, what he thought . . . OMG, this guy is a total narcissist! I had to give up about halfway through. NOT recommended.
September 15, 2015
I think this was the father's story about himself. He is very proud of himself and that, unfortunately, is the message I was left with.
October 27, 2022
"He celebrates every milkshake and sausage biscuit because to him, what's in front of him is the greatest thing in the world on the greatest day of his life."
July 28, 2014
Unbreakable Boy
Scott LeRette with Susy flory
Thomas Nelson Publishers
November 11, 2014
Memoir
It was graduation weekend. I walked up to Austin's house where all the festivities were going on celebrating him and there he was sitting on the retaining wall of their driveway.
"Congrats Austin! I'm so proud of you. How are you today?"
"My butt hurts and my back hurts."
And that's just Austin, no pretense, no guessing games. 100 percent real. One of the many reasons I love that kid.
10 minutes later he was sitting by me chomping on some candy and telling me all about his party and thanking me for coming.
What a guy.
When Scott (the dad and author) let me know he was writing a book on Austin and their family I was delighted. I also knew I'd be requesting a review copy as soon as it was ready.
Unbreakable Boy is the story of "unconditional love", the story of a father and his son.
Born with a rare brittle-bone disease and autistic Austin is defined by none of his diagnoses and he's broken every box he's been asked to fit in. He is unique, he is challenging, he is loved. He is also a popular fixture in our town and at my church.
Scott does a beautiful job of weaving the tale of Austin. It's told with such honesty and candor I'll admit I started this late at night and finished it a few hours later, well into the early morning hours. Thoughts of sleep and my agenda for the morning flew out the window as I entered the life of the LeRette family.
I personally have known Austin and his family for a number of years now. Austin loves my parents "Pastor and Connie" and for years just referred to me as "Connie's daughter". Seen in our church and around town wearing one of his wacky hats Austin makes a statement everywhere he goes. I remembered a number of the stories from later in the book and will never forget the first time Austin raised his hands in worship in our church. It was both touching and hilarious, as Scott describes so well.
This book is both inspiring and challenging. I'll be honest and say that I truly did laugh out loud, and cry a couple times too. I so appreciate Scott's openness with the reality of life with Austin. It's challenging, sometimes achingly so, it's also beautiful. Written in a timeline way that doesn't make you feel like you're reading a timeline you'll love the way the story weaves together. From Scott meeting his wife to Austin's birth to the realization that something wasn't quite right with Austin all the way to him going to prom, the story just keeps on getting better and better. It's captivating.
This book has no obvious agenda other than to tell the story of Austin and his dad. Autism is mentioned but not parked on. As the reader, you can't help, however, be intrigued by autism as well as the brittle bone disease.
Throughout the entire book is the very obvious thread of God's grace. Austin loves his Jesus and that love of his Creator has been modeled by two parents who came broken and needy before the throne of grace. You'll love how God woes Scott in particular.
While it was particularly heart-warming for me to read about a boy and a family I know personally and love so dearly I can promise you you don't have to know them to love them and love this book. I read it and passed it on and everyone who has had it in their hands has become instantly engrossed and fallen in love with Austin.
I highly recommending going over to Amazon to pre-order this book today. It's a story so sweetly written that I know you'll want to read over and over and over again. And if you're passing through Red Oak, Iowa, head to our local grocery store. You just might see Austin carrying out groceries and making everyone he comes in contact with smile just a little brighter. He's just that kind of kid and it's just that kind of story.
My sincere thanks to Thomas Nelson publishers for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my real and honest review.
Scott LeRette with Susy flory
Thomas Nelson Publishers
November 11, 2014
Memoir
It was graduation weekend. I walked up to Austin's house where all the festivities were going on celebrating him and there he was sitting on the retaining wall of their driveway.
"Congrats Austin! I'm so proud of you. How are you today?"
"My butt hurts and my back hurts."
And that's just Austin, no pretense, no guessing games. 100 percent real. One of the many reasons I love that kid.
10 minutes later he was sitting by me chomping on some candy and telling me all about his party and thanking me for coming.
What a guy.
When Scott (the dad and author) let me know he was writing a book on Austin and their family I was delighted. I also knew I'd be requesting a review copy as soon as it was ready.
Unbreakable Boy is the story of "unconditional love", the story of a father and his son.
Born with a rare brittle-bone disease and autistic Austin is defined by none of his diagnoses and he's broken every box he's been asked to fit in. He is unique, he is challenging, he is loved. He is also a popular fixture in our town and at my church.
Scott does a beautiful job of weaving the tale of Austin. It's told with such honesty and candor I'll admit I started this late at night and finished it a few hours later, well into the early morning hours. Thoughts of sleep and my agenda for the morning flew out the window as I entered the life of the LeRette family.
I personally have known Austin and his family for a number of years now. Austin loves my parents "Pastor and Connie" and for years just referred to me as "Connie's daughter". Seen in our church and around town wearing one of his wacky hats Austin makes a statement everywhere he goes. I remembered a number of the stories from later in the book and will never forget the first time Austin raised his hands in worship in our church. It was both touching and hilarious, as Scott describes so well.
This book is both inspiring and challenging. I'll be honest and say that I truly did laugh out loud, and cry a couple times too. I so appreciate Scott's openness with the reality of life with Austin. It's challenging, sometimes achingly so, it's also beautiful. Written in a timeline way that doesn't make you feel like you're reading a timeline you'll love the way the story weaves together. From Scott meeting his wife to Austin's birth to the realization that something wasn't quite right with Austin all the way to him going to prom, the story just keeps on getting better and better. It's captivating.
This book has no obvious agenda other than to tell the story of Austin and his dad. Autism is mentioned but not parked on. As the reader, you can't help, however, be intrigued by autism as well as the brittle bone disease.
Throughout the entire book is the very obvious thread of God's grace. Austin loves his Jesus and that love of his Creator has been modeled by two parents who came broken and needy before the throne of grace. You'll love how God woes Scott in particular.
While it was particularly heart-warming for me to read about a boy and a family I know personally and love so dearly I can promise you you don't have to know them to love them and love this book. I read it and passed it on and everyone who has had it in their hands has become instantly engrossed and fallen in love with Austin.
I highly recommending going over to Amazon to pre-order this book today. It's a story so sweetly written that I know you'll want to read over and over and over again. And if you're passing through Red Oak, Iowa, head to our local grocery store. You just might see Austin carrying out groceries and making everyone he comes in contact with smile just a little brighter. He's just that kind of kid and it's just that kind of story.
My sincere thanks to Thomas Nelson publishers for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my real and honest review.
July 17, 2025
Scott Lerette's “The Unbreakable Boy” is an honest, quick-to-read fatherhood memoir, chronicling the early life of son, Austin, known for his rare bone disorder and autism diagnosis. We follow Scott's transformation as a dad from a party-guy, blindsided by an unexpected pregnancy, to a struggling alcoholic after Austin's staggering double-diagnosis. Their family faces a toxic mix of health crises and drama. Yet, impacted by his wife Teresa's growing Christian faith, Scott finds life-transformation, becoming the dad God called him to be.
Personally, as a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, I found Austin's symptoms and descriptions validating. The writing was not the most captivating, but the story was heartfelt and engaging. The final pages, where Lerette shares his personal testimony, explicitly naming Jesus as his Savior, are a refreshing contrast to the earlier portions of the book where it seems as if his editor kept things more generic (“God” and “faith” changed his life).
As the story ends with Austin’s graduation and plans for further education and career, I was definitely left wanting to learn about Austin’s own faith journey. As a mother of someone on the spectrum, this feels like a topic I wish more people talked about. What does the experience of exploring Christianity, and growing in holiness look like for someone with autism?
~Jen
Personally, as a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, I found Austin's symptoms and descriptions validating. The writing was not the most captivating, but the story was heartfelt and engaging. The final pages, where Lerette shares his personal testimony, explicitly naming Jesus as his Savior, are a refreshing contrast to the earlier portions of the book where it seems as if his editor kept things more generic (“God” and “faith” changed his life).
As the story ends with Austin’s graduation and plans for further education and career, I was definitely left wanting to learn about Austin’s own faith journey. As a mother of someone on the spectrum, this feels like a topic I wish more people talked about. What does the experience of exploring Christianity, and growing in holiness look like for someone with autism?
~Jen
February 1, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Nelson Books, Thomas Nelson for accepting my request to read and review The Unbreakable Boy: A Father's Fear, a Son's Courage, and a Story of Unconditional Love.
Author: Scott Michael LeRette
Published: 11/04/14
Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
My personal opinion is that memoirs and biographies are to learn from, not judge. For that reason I'm giving three stars as I usually do.
The synopsis states the primary information. The book is show and tell. This starts with a pregnancy from little more than a one night stand. Then a child born with a rare bone disease, all the time the parents are playing house. The father was less mature and frankly selfish, this is his story. The question is does he grow up? That's for you to decide. Like all messes, they have another child who came across as perfection. I mean that in a good way. He's kind and selfless. Their mom is in the book, but doesn't have a major role. I think she is the glue of the family.
This is a story that can teach, however, your eyes have to be open.
Author: Scott Michael LeRette
Published: 11/04/14
Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
My personal opinion is that memoirs and biographies are to learn from, not judge. For that reason I'm giving three stars as I usually do.
The synopsis states the primary information. The book is show and tell. This starts with a pregnancy from little more than a one night stand. Then a child born with a rare bone disease, all the time the parents are playing house. The father was less mature and frankly selfish, this is his story. The question is does he grow up? That's for you to decide. Like all messes, they have another child who came across as perfection. I mean that in a good way. He's kind and selfless. Their mom is in the book, but doesn't have a major role. I think she is the glue of the family.
This is a story that can teach, however, your eyes have to be open.
March 22, 2022
Read this in about 90 minutes. Not going to recommend. For one thing, the writing was a little iffy. I think I read the author was a blogger. Sometimes that translates well to books. Other times it does not. Unfortunately this is one of those other times. Also, for a book written not all that long ago, the book contains some outdated terms and ideas about disability. The way the author speaks about his son and his diagnoses made me uncomfortable at times, particularly as a person who shares some of those same diagnoses. For one, calling your autistic son your "own little 'rain man'" is pretty gross, especially when most of us recognized by 2014 (the year this book was published) that that movie is filled with harmful stereotypes and that neurotypical actors shouldn't be playing up neurodivergence for clout or a paycheck. Finally, it was fairly alarming to read about some of the incidents in the book. A less privileged person would have been arrested at some point for negligence. They have been. I know these people. I physically cringed while reading about some of the events that led to Austin's injuries, and cringed some more at some incidents that didn't result in a trip to the hospital. I'm a parent of multiple children, some with disabilities. I am very far from perfect. And I have made mistakes with my kids, obviously. But even if I were to write about them in a book (and the amount of consent Austin has given to having these stories shared is not clear) I would not do so in such a nonchalant manner. I also recognize that the author's inclusion of religious thought and experience might feel overbearing for some readers, though I didn't necessarily feel that way.
I know there's a new movie coming out, and I hope that the production team does a cleaner, kinder job sharing this family's story than the book does. It was just not well executed, in my opinion.
I know there's a new movie coming out, and I hope that the production team does a cleaner, kinder job sharing this family's story than the book does. It was just not well executed, in my opinion.
December 24, 2014
I have yet to read anything with Susy Flory falling anywhere near flat. She has a wonderful talent for working with people and getting their stories into an awe-inspiring, heart-touching book. This book is no exception. It's definitely another "wow."
Austin LeRette is the first-born baby of two flawed people: Scott is a heavy drinking, ex-navy, macho guy with a propensity to hide in the closet when life gets to be too much--which it does, and often. He also talks a lot to his invisible friend, Joe.
Teressa LeRrette has beautiful blue eyes--even the irises are blue--with osteogenesis imperfecta (IO--a bone-breaking disease, literally) and a few secrets in her past.
Little bumps can become big breaks, and there's a possibility she will pass IO on to the baby. Sure enough, Austin is born with the same thing.
There are several unique things about Austin (Auz) they find as he grows up. Yes, he breaks bones right and left. Trips to the emergency room are frequent. He also has autism. Plus a wonderful optimism, a sense of humor that won't quit, and a knack for making friends with absolutely everyone.
Add in a younger brother who somehow becomes the beloved big brother.
Still--their parents find they need more than just optimism and humor to be good parents and spouses. They have a lot to learn about love and life and crises.
This would be the perfect book to begin the new year reading.
Austin LeRette is the first-born baby of two flawed people: Scott is a heavy drinking, ex-navy, macho guy with a propensity to hide in the closet when life gets to be too much--which it does, and often. He also talks a lot to his invisible friend, Joe.
Teressa LeRrette has beautiful blue eyes--even the irises are blue--with osteogenesis imperfecta (IO--a bone-breaking disease, literally) and a few secrets in her past.
Little bumps can become big breaks, and there's a possibility she will pass IO on to the baby. Sure enough, Austin is born with the same thing.
There are several unique things about Austin (Auz) they find as he grows up. Yes, he breaks bones right and left. Trips to the emergency room are frequent. He also has autism. Plus a wonderful optimism, a sense of humor that won't quit, and a knack for making friends with absolutely everyone.
Add in a younger brother who somehow becomes the beloved big brother.
Still--their parents find they need more than just optimism and humor to be good parents and spouses. They have a lot to learn about love and life and crises.
This would be the perfect book to begin the new year reading.
July 16, 2016
I really wanted to like this book but it was god-awful. Horribly written.
January 25, 2025
"our meeting was no accident; and neither was austin's birth. he was born the boy he was made to be, just as we are the family we were made to be."
I LOVE THIS BOOK SOOOOO MUCH!!!!! i can't wait for the movie and this is definitely a five-star book. the first half felt just like a recounting of everything bad that had happened, but around chapter 20, everything turned around. this book truly points to God and i think it's going to be my favorite movie.
austin was obviously my favorite character because i liked how he took everything in stride and taught his family things. he truly was unbreakable because he wasn't broken in the first place. at first, i didn't like the dad because he was addicted to alcohol, careless, and narcissistic. But the way the narrating changes shows character development in an amazing way!! also i loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter.
this book is SOOOOOOOO GOOOOD, i don't even know how to describe it. the end was perfect because they overcame their troubles even though they didn't go away. it was an encouraging, funny, and heartfelt story.
chapter 23 was my favorite because of this paragraph: "austin had been injured again, but he'd already moved on to more important matters. i'm beginning to understand that's how austin's life will be as he continues to ride his bike and ring that bell. i am just as sure that we will have more broken bones and pain in our future. that's part of who we are. austin is going to keep having adventures, and some of them are going to have happy endings, and some of them are gong to end in a crash. But teresa and i are learning to laugh more and panic less. and we know we are becoming a stronger family as we go through this crazy life of ours together." i read that part like five times over and over again because it was sooo good.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - my new favorite book
I LOVE THIS BOOK SOOOOO MUCH!!!!! i can't wait for the movie and this is definitely a five-star book. the first half felt just like a recounting of everything bad that had happened, but around chapter 20, everything turned around. this book truly points to God and i think it's going to be my favorite movie.
austin was obviously my favorite character because i liked how he took everything in stride and taught his family things. he truly was unbreakable because he wasn't broken in the first place. at first, i didn't like the dad because he was addicted to alcohol, careless, and narcissistic. But the way the narrating changes shows character development in an amazing way!! also i loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter.
this book is SOOOOOOOO GOOOOD, i don't even know how to describe it. the end was perfect because they overcame their troubles even though they didn't go away. it was an encouraging, funny, and heartfelt story.
chapter 23 was my favorite because of this paragraph: "austin had been injured again, but he'd already moved on to more important matters. i'm beginning to understand that's how austin's life will be as he continues to ride his bike and ring that bell. i am just as sure that we will have more broken bones and pain in our future. that's part of who we are. austin is going to keep having adventures, and some of them are going to have happy endings, and some of them are gong to end in a crash. But teresa and i are learning to laugh more and panic less. and we know we are becoming a stronger family as we go through this crazy life of ours together." i read that part like five times over and over again because it was sooo good.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - my new favorite book
January 6, 2015
I really did enjoy this heart-warming memoir by Scott Michael LeRette. I don't have any personal experience of autism, so it was a real eye opener listening to his journey and his family's. It thought it might be a struggle to listen to, but actually it is very funny in places and it filled me with admiration for anyone who has a special needs person in their lives. Lloyd James narrates this book perfectly and drew me into the adventures and stories the author took me on. There were a lot of life lessons in this audio but not cringey or embarrassing, but profound and definitely worth another listen sometime. I definitely recommend this audio to anyone who wants to listen to a really uplifting book, it'll make you appreciate the simple things in life as extraordinary, especially when you see them through Austin's eyes!
Thanks to christianaudio.com Reviewer's Program for this copy.
Thanks to christianaudio.com Reviewer's Program for this copy.
February 15, 2025
Ugh. I hate being critical of memoirs. I almost didn't even leave a star rating because who am I to say what someone's life story is rated? It feels weird. But I felt like I should so that I might help others know what they will be reading. This was not at all what I was expecting to read based on the description. It should have a different title and synopsis. This book was the fathers story. There were many chapters where Auz was just kind of setting the stage or background information for the more focused topic of the author himself. I truly got tired of reading the same thing over and over again- the author complaining about something and then remembering to be grateful or that life was good. Etc. It was very heavily focused on the authors road to sobriety and faith. I think that is all great, just absolutely not what I expected the book to be about or what I hoped for.
May 6, 2023
THE UNBREAKABLE BOY
Scott Michael LeRette
MEH!
DNF
Happy Reading!
Scott Michael LeRette
MEH!
DNF
Happy Reading!
August 2, 2025
I sped right through this one. I love reading different autism stories and seeing the similarities and differences from my own boys. The book got a bit preachy, but this is the author’s journey.
October 29, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
Scott tells his story of how he finally "grew up" and became selfless after the birth of his son Austin. He married the mother without really knowing each other. Then Austin's troubles began and Scott struggled to be a good husband and parent. He tells his story with such honesty and humbleness.
Scott tells his story of how he finally "grew up" and became selfless after the birth of his son Austin. He married the mother without really knowing each other. Then Austin's troubles began and Scott struggled to be a good husband and parent. He tells his story with such honesty and humbleness.
July 1, 2019
I expected more from this book. Not that the struggles Austin goes through aren’t heart wrenching, and Scott’s salvation and growth aren’t inspiring; they are. But, those stories are contained in a rather rambling discussion of the general meaning of selfishness, love, and maturity. I was expecting more about their faith and about God.
I’m not sure exactly what caused it, but the chapters in the last maybe half of the book each sound as if they were intended to be the last chapter. They just start out with that sense of finality that final chapters usually have. Then after a while, they started to feel like they were intended to be standalone articles. It just gave it an overall choppy feel. It reminded me of a ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ style of book. It also had that almost saccharine sweetness that those books have. Each chapter was good, but together they don’t flow as well.
I was surprised and disappointed by the inclusion of OM_ type language. All other curse words were cleaned out, but I really wish he had deleted those as well.
I’m not sure exactly what caused it, but the chapters in the last maybe half of the book each sound as if they were intended to be the last chapter. They just start out with that sense of finality that final chapters usually have. Then after a while, they started to feel like they were intended to be standalone articles. It just gave it an overall choppy feel. It reminded me of a ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ style of book. It also had that almost saccharine sweetness that those books have. Each chapter was good, but together they don’t flow as well.
I was surprised and disappointed by the inclusion of OM_ type language. All other curse words were cleaned out, but I really wish he had deleted those as well.
January 14, 2022
“While trying to sort out and understand my feelings, I recognized a new one - the feeling of grace. I had never really understood the meaning of grace. I learned it means ‘the love and mercy given to us by God because God desires us to have it, not because we have done anything to earn it…a gift from God, spontaneous, generous, free, totally unexpected and absolutely undeserved.’”
I loved seeing the growth of a father as he navigated the hardships he experienced through all the uncertainty he had in the role. Can’t wait to see the movie!
I loved seeing the growth of a father as he navigated the hardships he experienced through all the uncertainty he had in the role. Can’t wait to see the movie!
October 27, 2021
I expected it to be more about Austin, but it felt like it was more about how proud his father felt about himself... I liked the very first chapter of Austin's words. I was misguided that I would get more of that.
May 2, 2025
As an autistic reader f#ck this writer, his book, the movie it inspired and everyone involved except the child actors.
May 13, 2025
Book Review: The Unbreakable Boy: A Father’s Fear, a Son’s Courage, and a Story of Unconditional Love
by Scott Michael LeRette
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Overview
Scott Michael LeRette’s The Unbreakable Boy is a profoundly moving memoir that chronicles the extraordinary journey of raising his son, Austin, who lives with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease) and autism. More than a story of disability and hardship, this book is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of unconditional love. Now adapted into a major motion picture starring Zachary Levi, LeRette’s narrative blends raw emotional honesty with moments of unexpected humor and profound insight, offering readers a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of parenting a child with complex medical and developmental needs.
Themes and Content
At its core, The Unbreakable Boy explores:
-Parental Love and Fear: LeRette candidly shares his struggles with fear, guilt, and the weight of responsibility, revealing how Austin’s condition reshaped his understanding of fatherhood.
-Resilience in Adversity: Austin’s indomitable spirit—his ability to find joy despite physical pain and social challenges—becomes a central theme, challenging conventional notions of strength and weakness.
-Faith and Purpose: The memoir grapples with questions of suffering and divine purpose, though it avoids heavy-handed religiosity, focusing instead on lived experience.
-Community and Support: The role of family, friends, and medical professionals in Austin’s life underscores the importance of collective care in overcoming isolation.
Writing Style and Structure
LeRette’s prose is accessible and deeply personal, oscillating between heart-wrenching vulnerability and lighthearted anecdotes that capture Austin’s quirky, endearing personality. The nonlinear structure—moving between past and present—effectively mirrors the unpredictability of life with disability, though some transitions could be smoother. The inclusion of Austin’s own perspective (through his words and behaviors) adds a unique layer of authenticity, ensuring the story remains centered on his voice rather than just parental observation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-Emotional Authenticity: LeRette’s willingness to expose his fears and failures makes the narrative deeply relatable.
-Austin’s Voice: The portrayal of Austin’s humor and wisdom elevates the book beyond a typical “inspirational” story, humanizing him as more than a symbol of courage.
-Balanced Tone: The memoir deftly balances heavy themes with levity, avoiding saccharine sentimentality.
Weaknesses:
-Pacing: Some sections linger on repetitive emotional beats, slowing momentum.
-Limited Perspective: While LeRette’s introspection is valuable, deeper exploration of Austin’s internal world (beyond his external behaviors) could have enriched the narrative.
Section Scoring Breakdown (0–5)
-Emotional Impact: 5/5 – Unforgettable and deeply affecting.
-Narrative Craft: 4/5 – Engaging but occasionally uneven in pacing.
-Originality: 4.5/5 – A fresh take on disability narratives, centering joy over pity.
-Thematic Depth: 4.5/5 – Explores love, fear, and resilience with nuance.
-Reader Engagement: 5/5 – Compelling from start to finish.
Final Verdict
The Unbreakable Boy is a triumph of storytelling that transcends its genre. LeRette’s honesty and Austin’s irrepressible spirit make this memoir a must-read for anyone seeking insight into disability, parenthood, or the power of perspective. While not without minor structural flaws, its emotional resonance and universal themes leave a lasting impression.
★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – A luminous celebration of the human spirit.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Scott Michael LeRette, for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
by Scott Michael LeRette
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Overview
Scott Michael LeRette’s The Unbreakable Boy is a profoundly moving memoir that chronicles the extraordinary journey of raising his son, Austin, who lives with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease) and autism. More than a story of disability and hardship, this book is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of unconditional love. Now adapted into a major motion picture starring Zachary Levi, LeRette’s narrative blends raw emotional honesty with moments of unexpected humor and profound insight, offering readers a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of parenting a child with complex medical and developmental needs.
Themes and Content
At its core, The Unbreakable Boy explores:
-Parental Love and Fear: LeRette candidly shares his struggles with fear, guilt, and the weight of responsibility, revealing how Austin’s condition reshaped his understanding of fatherhood.
-Resilience in Adversity: Austin’s indomitable spirit—his ability to find joy despite physical pain and social challenges—becomes a central theme, challenging conventional notions of strength and weakness.
-Faith and Purpose: The memoir grapples with questions of suffering and divine purpose, though it avoids heavy-handed religiosity, focusing instead on lived experience.
-Community and Support: The role of family, friends, and medical professionals in Austin’s life underscores the importance of collective care in overcoming isolation.
Writing Style and Structure
LeRette’s prose is accessible and deeply personal, oscillating between heart-wrenching vulnerability and lighthearted anecdotes that capture Austin’s quirky, endearing personality. The nonlinear structure—moving between past and present—effectively mirrors the unpredictability of life with disability, though some transitions could be smoother. The inclusion of Austin’s own perspective (through his words and behaviors) adds a unique layer of authenticity, ensuring the story remains centered on his voice rather than just parental observation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-Emotional Authenticity: LeRette’s willingness to expose his fears and failures makes the narrative deeply relatable.
-Austin’s Voice: The portrayal of Austin’s humor and wisdom elevates the book beyond a typical “inspirational” story, humanizing him as more than a symbol of courage.
-Balanced Tone: The memoir deftly balances heavy themes with levity, avoiding saccharine sentimentality.
Weaknesses:
-Pacing: Some sections linger on repetitive emotional beats, slowing momentum.
-Limited Perspective: While LeRette’s introspection is valuable, deeper exploration of Austin’s internal world (beyond his external behaviors) could have enriched the narrative.
Section Scoring Breakdown (0–5)
-Emotional Impact: 5/5 – Unforgettable and deeply affecting.
-Narrative Craft: 4/5 – Engaging but occasionally uneven in pacing.
-Originality: 4.5/5 – A fresh take on disability narratives, centering joy over pity.
-Thematic Depth: 4.5/5 – Explores love, fear, and resilience with nuance.
-Reader Engagement: 5/5 – Compelling from start to finish.
Final Verdict
The Unbreakable Boy is a triumph of storytelling that transcends its genre. LeRette’s honesty and Austin’s irrepressible spirit make this memoir a must-read for anyone seeking insight into disability, parenthood, or the power of perspective. While not without minor structural flaws, its emotional resonance and universal themes leave a lasting impression.
★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – A luminous celebration of the human spirit.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Scott Michael LeRette, for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2025
I basically inhaled this book , I couldn’t put it down. I did a review of it on instagram and this says it all for me. Excerpts from The Unbreakable Boy: A Father's Fear, a Son's Courage, and a Story of Unconditional Love.
“it pains me to relive the past, but remembering and owning my past enables me to understand how real consequences are determined by my actions. “It is easy to say I can never do this or that again, but the reality is I work hard every day and I always remember. “It all starts with love . . . the love you showered upon me, even when I wasn’t there. “ We love and we survive. Unbroken.
On the fly read for me, came across it by accident and I have to say it has touched my heart in a way no book has in awhile. I expected a book on how one deals with an autistic child, but that was only a drop in the bucket. It’s more on how one realizes they need help themselves and realizes their imperfections as a father, husband and a human being basically they are a mess. As the book moves forward you feel as if their boy became his father’s teacher, steering him in the direction of bringing the man he knows he can and wants to be for himself, for god, and his family. In ending “We hate that normal word. What’s normal anyway? There’s no such thing. I would definitely recommend this book 📕❤️
“it pains me to relive the past, but remembering and owning my past enables me to understand how real consequences are determined by my actions. “It is easy to say I can never do this or that again, but the reality is I work hard every day and I always remember. “It all starts with love . . . the love you showered upon me, even when I wasn’t there. “ We love and we survive. Unbroken.
On the fly read for me, came across it by accident and I have to say it has touched my heart in a way no book has in awhile. I expected a book on how one deals with an autistic child, but that was only a drop in the bucket. It’s more on how one realizes they need help themselves and realizes their imperfections as a father, husband and a human being basically they are a mess. As the book moves forward you feel as if their boy became his father’s teacher, steering him in the direction of bringing the man he knows he can and wants to be for himself, for god, and his family. In ending “We hate that normal word. What’s normal anyway? There’s no such thing. I would definitely recommend this book 📕❤️
February 10, 2025
I saw a preview for this movie in the theater and it brought me to tears! When I saw the book was available, I couldn't wait to read it.
The story mainly centers around the father and son and their relationship. The love that the dad has for his family, though contains many failures, is so strong. I love how he tries to see the positive in Austin even though it can be challenging.
It meant so much when God came into the dad's life and was able to change him. I enjoyed watching his relationship with God change throughout the story.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
The story mainly centers around the father and son and their relationship. The love that the dad has for his family, though contains many failures, is so strong. I love how he tries to see the positive in Austin even though it can be challenging.
It meant so much when God came into the dad's life and was able to change him. I enjoyed watching his relationship with God change throughout the story.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
June 15, 2025
A moving memoir written by a neurodivergent father of an autistic son with brittle bone disease and a heart condition. This is an older book that was recently remade into a movie and it is a fantastic look at fatherhood, raising disabled children and being their for them in the ways they need. The author also is open about his alcoholism, sobriety journey and rocky relationship with his children's mother. Highly recommended, especially for fans of books like the graphic memoir, Little victories which is also written from the perspective of a father of an autistic son.
November 22, 2025
I absolutely loved this book—I found it relatable as a parent navigating similar challenges. Austin’s resilience was inspiring, and I admired how he never let anything stand in the way of his happiness. One line that truly stayed with me was: ‘I’m coming to see him as someone who doesn’t necessarily need fixing. I’m beginning to see my son as someone I need to better understand and accept, instead of continually trying to change him as if something is broken or wrong.’ That perspective was powerful and reminded me of the importance of acceptance and understanding in parenting.
November 10, 2025
This is a nice, short non-fiction read that has uplifting themes and tangible life lessons which are raw and honest - not shying away from the realities and struggles of family health issues and disabilities. It portrays a return to faith in God, as well as to appreciating little things in life despite life’s trials, which is always a nice reminder to have.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes simple non fiction with Christian elements and a heartwarming and hopeful story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes simple non fiction with Christian elements and a heartwarming and hopeful story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
February 26, 2025
Great memoir of a special-needs dad. His character growth is well-described including his sobriety journey. He shares honest experiences about the difficulties of parenting his son. In the beginning the author does come off as narcissistic, but that was part of his journey to become more Godly and family-focused. I loved the way he shared his faith.
No language. Some heavy themes.
No language. Some heavy themes.
June 5, 2025
This book both broke my heart and gave me hope. I feel in love with this boy (young man) and was engrossed in the transformation of his faith. I smiled, chuckled, cried and just road the emotions in this book.
June 7, 2025
Wow. I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway, and while it drew me in just from the synopsis, I had doubts because it isn't a genre I normally like. However, I couldn't put this book down. Highly recommend this book.
June 3, 2025
Such a feel good book! Easy to read and inspirational without being preachy.
September 15, 2025
A good movie too!
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