Destiny Is Debatable: A Memoir of Meningitis, Losing Sight, and the Love I Didn’t See Coming

by John B. Grimes

388 pages, Paperback

Published February 7, 2026

Reviews

[Julie Vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an advanced reader copy and didn't want to put it down. John shares his story of surviving meningitis and learning to live with the challenges it left behind. As someone who lives with a chronic illness, I am always interested in learning how others approach the changes in their life. I especially appreciate when someone shares the good and the bad - there is grief to be had in life and it can be ignored, or recognized for the role it can play in making us who we are today.

[Nicole Barron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honest, deeply vulnerable…appreciate his openness. Great memoir.

[Paige Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refreshingly honest

I really enjoyed reading this book. John brought so much emotion and honesty and vulnerability to writing about his experience with bacterial meningitis. This book is written in a manner which is very easy to read and quite fast-paced. His words and experience remind us that when something bad happens, it's our opportunity to overcome and truly embrace life again.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uplifting!

Love your spirit, John!