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Josiah's Fire: Autism Stole His Words, God Gave Him a Voice (Paperback) – Inspirational Book on Overcoming Adversity Through God
Where is hope when there is no hope?
First-time parents Joe and Tahni Cullen were thrust into the confusing world of autism when their toddler, Josiah, suddenly lost his ability to speak, play, and socialize. The Autism Spectrum Disorder. In their attempts to see Josiah recover and regain speech, the Cullens underwent overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial struggles. While other kids around him improved, Josiah only got worse.
Five years later, Josiah, who had not been formally taught to read or write, suddenly began to type on his iPad profound paragraphs about God, science, history, business, music, strangers, and heaven. Josiah’s eye-opening visions, heavenly encounters, and supernatural experiences forced his family out of their comfort zone and predictable theology, catapulting them into a mind-blowing love-encounter with Jesus.
Follow a trail of truth into Josiah’s mysterious world and see why his family and friends can no longer stay silent.
Key
First-time parents Joe and Tahni Cullen were thrust into the confusing world of autism when their toddler, Josiah, suddenly lost his ability to speak, play, and socialize. The Autism Spectrum Disorder. In their attempts to see Josiah recover and regain speech, the Cullens underwent overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial struggles. While other kids around him improved, Josiah only got worse.
Five years later, Josiah, who had not been formally taught to read or write, suddenly began to type on his iPad profound paragraphs about God, science, history, business, music, strangers, and heaven. Josiah’s eye-opening visions, heavenly encounters, and supernatural experiences forced his family out of their comfort zone and predictable theology, catapulting them into a mind-blowing love-encounter with Jesus.
Follow a trail of truth into Josiah’s mysterious world and see why his family and friends can no longer stay silent.
Key
254 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2016
153 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 2, 2016
"Josiah's Fire" is an incredible heartfelt story of a little boy and his family, and their faith. It is a real wonder. It started when Josiah suddenly got autism when he was a toddler, lost his words, and had his mind pretty much locked up with no hope to communicate. His parents' prayers and perseverance are nothing but amazing, they had seen all kinds of doctors and programs, they tried everything to help Josiah. And they were rewarded in a big way! And it was not any doctor's merit but God's. Even though Josiah cannot speak those words yet, he can type. There are so many profound things he has said in this book; they are breathtaking. Josiah speaks about peace, joy, purpose, God, trinity, Jesus, Holy Spirit, worship, and many other things. He cannot speak, but what a voice God gave him in wisdom and vision! I could not put this book down. This little boy is a modern prophet. One of my favorite Josiah's phrases is: "Peace is the voice of love for yourself." There are more of his phrases on his Facebook page Josiah's Fire
This book is a must read, it will help understand the Father's heart better as well as the children with autism. It will help pray harder, dare to believe more, dare to do more, and get encouraged.
This book is a must read, it will help understand the Father's heart better as well as the children with autism. It will help pray harder, dare to believe more, dare to do more, and get encouraged.
August 7, 2016
I guess this book is very encouraging for parents who have an autistic child.
The first half of the book was very interesting and I don't doubt that his story is true. I do believe that there are still prophets and that some of them are allowed to look into heaven. (Joel 2:28)
The book contains some amazing episodes, but after a while Josiah's writings were hard to read for me, too repetitive and sometimes weird. I also have theological doubts about some of his answers.
I want to thank Netgalley for the free coy in exchange for my honest review.
The first half of the book was very interesting and I don't doubt that his story is true. I do believe that there are still prophets and that some of them are allowed to look into heaven. (Joel 2:28)
The book contains some amazing episodes, but after a while Josiah's writings were hard to read for me, too repetitive and sometimes weird. I also have theological doubts about some of his answers.
I want to thank Netgalley for the free coy in exchange for my honest review.
May 27, 2017
I thought this book was fascinating but I'll quote another reader of this book who gave it three stars..."The book contains some amazing episodes, but after a while Josiah's writings were hard to read for me, too repetitive and sometimes weird. I also have theological doubts about some of his answers."
The writings were repetitive and weird/puzzling enough that I ended up skipping ahead. Interesting and good for a different point of view but too odd to be an easy read. I still can't decide if Josiah's writings are just plain weird or if they're so deep that they're weird. Maybe I'm too shallow a person to truly appreciate the writings and the book? Maybe.
I'm not sure what to think of the writings themselves. Are they true? Do angels really talk to him? I'm a Christian and I'm very skeptical of those that claim they speak to angels or God, that they have a word from God or Angels or that they know what heaven is like. I'm not sure what to think. I don't disbelieve but I'm cautious about what was stated. The one thing that stands out for me is when Josiah talks about where we live in Heaven.
John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.
Strangely it matches up to what I had thought of Heaven and where specifically we as individuals reside, that each place is customized to represent out personalities and involve what he have loved in our lives from specific objects to pets we have had. The pets part I so want to be true. It makes their death a little less traumatic believing I'll see them again. So, this makes me want to believe what he says but... how many times have you heard of a person saying they've heard from God and what they say ends up being untrue (I'm thinking specifically of pastors who have said the world will end on a certain day and it doesn't, but there are other examples that you might be able to think of in your own life).
The book is worth reading just for it's distinctive and unusual point of view but is especially worth reading if you're interested in the subject of Autism, if you're a Christian, if you're spiritual.
The writings were repetitive and weird/puzzling enough that I ended up skipping ahead. Interesting and good for a different point of view but too odd to be an easy read. I still can't decide if Josiah's writings are just plain weird or if they're so deep that they're weird. Maybe I'm too shallow a person to truly appreciate the writings and the book? Maybe.
I'm not sure what to think of the writings themselves. Are they true? Do angels really talk to him? I'm a Christian and I'm very skeptical of those that claim they speak to angels or God, that they have a word from God or Angels or that they know what heaven is like. I'm not sure what to think. I don't disbelieve but I'm cautious about what was stated. The one thing that stands out for me is when Josiah talks about where we live in Heaven.
John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.
Strangely it matches up to what I had thought of Heaven and where specifically we as individuals reside, that each place is customized to represent out personalities and involve what he have loved in our lives from specific objects to pets we have had. The pets part I so want to be true. It makes their death a little less traumatic believing I'll see them again. So, this makes me want to believe what he says but... how many times have you heard of a person saying they've heard from God and what they say ends up being untrue (I'm thinking specifically of pastors who have said the world will end on a certain day and it doesn't, but there are other examples that you might be able to think of in your own life).
The book is worth reading just for it's distinctive and unusual point of view but is especially worth reading if you're interested in the subject of Autism, if you're a Christian, if you're spiritual.
December 22, 2016
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review. I have a huge heart for special needs kids, and I applaud this family for doing whatever it takes to give Josiah the best education and opportunities possible for his lifetime. There has not nearly been enough work done on Autism, ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder (my eldest son has severe ADHD and Sensory and has been in therapy for years and will be for years to come, not to mention the medication and the work we've had to do with and for him in school). And I have no reason to doubt God would work through special needs children any more than he works through anyone else. He has made many miracles happen in this world, more than I'll ever know. God bless this family.
November 26, 2017
Such an inspirational read. It's sad, happy, inspirational and joyous all at the same time. It truly makes me thankful for so much. Yet so often we think about how good we have it, but then we have to stop and think about how God has given each of us gifts - regardless of who we are or what we have to contend with. Josiah definitely heard from God and is so inspirational, yet at the same time so are his parents. They had everything to contend with and yet never gave up their faith. Absolutely awesome reading and knowing it's factual makes it even more amazing.
August 19, 2019
this is such an amazing book! so inspiring and heartfelt. it really helped me think more about God and how I view Him, and especially how I deal with experiences God has given me. such a good read!
September 21, 2016
This is an amazing book. I know people with autism and others that have children with autism. I can't imagine the heartbreak when a parent see the disconnect in their child's eyes. Josiah went from a normal young child to a child with autism, unable to share his voice or emotions. It was only through a new program and the use of an iPad that he discovered a way to get his words out. What he learns and shares, as he types it on the screen, is nothing short of a miracle. Words, thoughts, phrases, sentences, emotions, truth and more come out as Josiah and his mother, Tahni, interact day after day. Josiah shares things that could have only come from a heavenly experience. The way that Tahni and Cheryl have written this story blesses my heart and will touch you too. I cannot recommend this book enough. I have a sister with a Down's syndrome and know how hard it is for others to know what people with a disability are capable of. This books helps. Read this book and you'll experience a bit of Josiah's fire.
July 15, 2017
Loved this book eye opening !!!
March 26, 2019
This book was so amazing and inspiring, I couldn’t put it down. A MUST READ!
January 12, 2022
Too good to be true
What I see here is the combination of a very understandable desperation of a parent of an autistic child and the shaky theological foundations and a debunked, scientifically unproven autistic therapy, RPM, which is similar to the debunked method from the 90s called facilitated communication. Despite this being a very different source of extra biblical revelation than one usually finds, it is none the last extra biblical and not authoritative. Even in the case of a legitimate personal revelation from God, I find it extraordinary that such things would take place on what appears to be a daily basis in this book. I read with an open mind but there was something not quite right that I couldn't put my finger on immediately.
What I see here is the combination of a very understandable desperation of a parent of an autistic child and the shaky theological foundations and a debunked, scientifically unproven autistic therapy, RPM, which is similar to the debunked method from the 90s called facilitated communication. Despite this being a very different source of extra biblical revelation than one usually finds, it is none the last extra biblical and not authoritative. Even in the case of a legitimate personal revelation from God, I find it extraordinary that such things would take place on what appears to be a daily basis in this book. I read with an open mind but there was something not quite right that I couldn't put my finger on immediately.
August 2, 2023
This was a two day read for myself. It is about a boy who is diagnoised with autism . He has to use a Ipad to communicate with his family. Hope he keeps using that IPad, join a Special Olympics sports team. Do not give up Josiah. I started followed his facebook page.
September 11, 2022
This book is awe-inspiring and right at the top of all the stories I have come across in my lifetime! I couldn't stop listening to this on my Audible. A true story which takes my breath away.
August 18, 2017
The book "Josiah's Fire" by Tahni Cullen is a book centering around the life of a nonverbal autistic child named Josiah. This book is fairly small, 255 pages long. In this book, Josiah is diagnosed with a severe form of autism. Which takes away his ability to communicate. Tahni, the mother, has a lot more issues to face than her peers whom have neuro typical kids. She is a minister and sides with god for help with Josiah's challenges. God gave her hope as Josiah continually struggled, falling behind kids his age with early academic skills. Though a plot twist does occur in the middle of the storyline of the book. The text and chapters are in chronological order from the time Josiah was first diagnosed with autism until later on when he grows up and becomes intelligent. The book is written from a 3rd person point of view from the mother whom narrates the experience of raising Josiah. The text would often reference Tahni's stories of divine intervention that eventually leads to a plot twist near the climax of the story. The setting of the story changes as the family in the story had to move to the twins cities in Minnesota from North Dakota.
I found this book easy to read as the author kept events in the book shorter, and summarized in good language. The text makes sense with what is going on in each chapter. Just halfway through the book, I learned a lot about the plot and had a good idea about what was going to occur later on in the book. This is a great book if you want to know more about what a mother of an autistic kid has to go through. While at the same time, learning more about autism itself. As a person who is experiencing high functioning autism. I still ended up learning a lot about what extra work needs to be done for both the autistic kid and his/her parents. I would recommend reading this book if you are looking to learn a lot about the nature of autism in a relatively short book. It is also recommended if you are looking for inspiration and hope from god's words. As he is often referenced and even plays a major role in the plot of the story. Journey through the mysterious of Josiah, whom is diagnosed with severe autism, and get a good glimpse of the parental experience surrounding Josiah's world and experience the divine intervention of god as he guides this family through the voyage towards greatness and heavenly light.
I found this book easy to read as the author kept events in the book shorter, and summarized in good language. The text makes sense with what is going on in each chapter. Just halfway through the book, I learned a lot about the plot and had a good idea about what was going to occur later on in the book. This is a great book if you want to know more about what a mother of an autistic kid has to go through. While at the same time, learning more about autism itself. As a person who is experiencing high functioning autism. I still ended up learning a lot about what extra work needs to be done for both the autistic kid and his/her parents. I would recommend reading this book if you are looking to learn a lot about the nature of autism in a relatively short book. It is also recommended if you are looking for inspiration and hope from god's words. As he is often referenced and even plays a major role in the plot of the story. Journey through the mysterious of Josiah, whom is diagnosed with severe autism, and get a good glimpse of the parental experience surrounding Josiah's world and experience the divine intervention of god as he guides this family through the voyage towards greatness and heavenly light.
February 3, 2018
Amazing Story, insightful and a great gift
The book came at the right time for me. Several of my Step Children and Grandchildren have High Functioning Autism. My Step Grandson just started mainstream school having his first day two days ago. He went back to wearing his singlet in the first hour and Deputy Principal provided a little tent for him to sit in rather then under his desk. He lamented, " why is the world so different from me". I felt a lump in my throat hearing about this. At the age 5 he knows every dinosaur that ever lived. It has been a difficult journey for his single mum.
I loved Josiah's insights into the Holy Trinity, Angels and heaven. What a beautiful gift. The book is good for understanding what parents go through with autistic children especially the meltdowns and socializing. With some of my autistic Step Grandchildren it is difficult to receive a slight acknowledgement. Now I understand better what they are going through. I do have fun with the 5 year old playing dinosaurs.
The book has multi dimensions; spiritual, psychological and personal sharing.
The book came at the right time for me. Several of my Step Children and Grandchildren have High Functioning Autism. My Step Grandson just started mainstream school having his first day two days ago. He went back to wearing his singlet in the first hour and Deputy Principal provided a little tent for him to sit in rather then under his desk. He lamented, " why is the world so different from me". I felt a lump in my throat hearing about this. At the age 5 he knows every dinosaur that ever lived. It has been a difficult journey for his single mum.
I loved Josiah's insights into the Holy Trinity, Angels and heaven. What a beautiful gift. The book is good for understanding what parents go through with autistic children especially the meltdowns and socializing. With some of my autistic Step Grandchildren it is difficult to receive a slight acknowledgement. Now I understand better what they are going through. I do have fun with the 5 year old playing dinosaurs.
The book has multi dimensions; spiritual, psychological and personal sharing.
February 22, 2021
This book is incredibly enlightening. As a single mom of 2 boys with autism and me being on the spectrum myself I can relate to the heartache and frustrations Tahni describes.
Reading Josiah's words was literally an answer to my prayers. I felt God speaking to me through this book. His words left me crying happy tears with immense joy. Because of Josiah, I feel I have grown closer to God with a better understanding of him. I cannot thank him enough for sharing his insights with the world. Thank you Cullen family a million times over.
This is a must read whether you are a believer or not; interested in autism or not. This book and their journey is a miracle in my eyes. All praise to our everlasting Jehova, Abba, Papa for putting this book in my path when you knew I would need it. Thank you.
Reading Josiah's words was literally an answer to my prayers. I felt God speaking to me through this book. His words left me crying happy tears with immense joy. Because of Josiah, I feel I have grown closer to God with a better understanding of him. I cannot thank him enough for sharing his insights with the world. Thank you Cullen family a million times over.
This is a must read whether you are a believer or not; interested in autism or not. This book and their journey is a miracle in my eyes. All praise to our everlasting Jehova, Abba, Papa for putting this book in my path when you knew I would need it. Thank you.
March 3, 2018
I have a grandson a year older than Josiah and so much of what is shared in is early life and behaviors parallel Cooper's. Josiah's mom had read to him and took him to church and Cooper has had lots of books read to him because Our daughter has a PhD in English, writes, and loves books. We often wonder what he thinks since he is nonverbal and the glimpse into Josiah's life with iPad communication using the letter board after meeting Soma--something we have read about before, is special. Mostly Josiah's heavenly connections and his stories are absolutely breathtaking. Bless this young man and his family for sharing their story!
February 2, 2025
Quite thought provoking. It got to be a little hard to follow in places as Josiah's words were formatted into a story. His thoughts themselves were also a little difficult to understand. I find the extra abilities and closeness to Jesus that many non verbal Austistic people have in common - fascinating. I don't doubt that God can use anyone and I do wonder if there is a move of God in this group of people.
I found this book as it was referenced in "The Book of Heaven: A Story of Hope for the Outcasts, the Broken, and Those Who Lost Faith". And I found that book via the podcast "The Telepathy Tapes".
I found this book as it was referenced in "The Book of Heaven: A Story of Hope for the Outcasts, the Broken, and Those Who Lost Faith". And I found that book via the podcast "The Telepathy Tapes".
January 4, 2018
"Josiah's Fire" is a fairly easy read - much like reading someone's blog over a few years. I loved the insights into heaven, and the shift in perspective as Tahni realised her son was having encounters with Heaven. It's increased my hunger for more encounters with the heavenly realm.
The writing style wasn't my favourite - a few too many cliches - but it did give me the sense of being a part of the journey with the Cullen family through the highs and lows of raising a family, the onset of autism, education, growing up, heavenly encounters and everything in between.
The writing style wasn't my favourite - a few too many cliches - but it did give me the sense of being a part of the journey with the Cullen family through the highs and lows of raising a family, the onset of autism, education, growing up, heavenly encounters and everything in between.
July 27, 2017
Wow. It's really a challenge to describe this book beyond "wow." This is the true story of little Josiah Cullen and autism. His parents watch helplessly as Josiah slips away from them, but then his voice is discovered in a most unusual way and his messages are heaven sent. His story can build your faith, restore hope and fill your heart with a desire for knowing and experiencing more of God's love.
November 19, 2016
Brilliant book. If you are a parent of a non- verbal child then so much of this story will really make you think, from Tahni & Joes struggle as parents to Josiah's perspective on his own disability & the way the world sees him to his amazing insight into the heavenly realm. It offers fresh hope & a new perspective.
August 22, 2017
Great, Powerful!!!
I was told about this book as I ended a summer study on pride and humility. Josiah's Fire kept me on an even keel as I prepared for heart surgery . it gave me hope, lobe and a place to rest in the lord. I recommend this book for anyone who feels they need inspiration.
I was told about this book as I ended a summer study on pride and humility. Josiah's Fire kept me on an even keel as I prepared for heart surgery . it gave me hope, lobe and a place to rest in the lord. I recommend this book for anyone who feels they need inspiration.
February 20, 2019
Amazing
I enjoyed every minute of reading this book. I just couldn’t put it down. It touched my heart and soul. Anyone who wants to feel closer to God, experience the awesome love of Jesus our Savior, and get a clearer picture of how the Holy Spirit works in us should read this book.
I enjoyed every minute of reading this book. I just couldn’t put it down. It touched my heart and soul. Anyone who wants to feel closer to God, experience the awesome love of Jesus our Savior, and get a clearer picture of how the Holy Spirit works in us should read this book.
April 13, 2019
Encouraging. Engaging. Enlightening
God is weird. Truly. He works in twisted paths that include us. I am grateful that He doesn't paint in straight lines. He goes outside the lines to find us, and to help us help others be found too. This is a great story about how things look on the surface are a far cry from rich reality in a deeper realm. Ooo rah!
God is weird. Truly. He works in twisted paths that include us. I am grateful that He doesn't paint in straight lines. He goes outside the lines to find us, and to help us help others be found too. This is a great story about how things look on the surface are a far cry from rich reality in a deeper realm. Ooo rah!
November 20, 2019
This book caused a huge impact on me. I was struggling with my sceptic thought and with my belief.
Therefore, some messages that Josiah wrote went directly to my heart.
It is a book that you have to read with an open mind about how God can change everything around you. You cannot see God's work on your life at the moment that you are facing the problem, but later the explanation comes to you.
Therefore, some messages that Josiah wrote went directly to my heart.
It is a book that you have to read with an open mind about how God can change everything around you. You cannot see God's work on your life at the moment that you are facing the problem, but later the explanation comes to you.
March 10, 2021
Amazing! Couldn’t put it down!
What a beautiful story of God’s love for us! So many incredible truths to unlock! I read it in one day, because I had to know what other nuggets that the Lord wanted Josiah to share with us! My heart is truly inspired!!! I’ve already ordered 3 books to share with others! May God Bless Josiah, Tahni, & Cheryl all of their days!
What a beautiful story of God’s love for us! So many incredible truths to unlock! I read it in one day, because I had to know what other nuggets that the Lord wanted Josiah to share with us! My heart is truly inspired!!! I’ve already ordered 3 books to share with others! May God Bless Josiah, Tahni, & Cheryl all of their days!
June 30, 2017
An inspiring story of an amazing child and the way God was working through him. It did get a bit repetitive and while I was expecting more from the ending it just seemed to peter out.
Inspiring book though and well worth the read
Inspiring book though and well worth the read
January 4, 2018
An easy read albeit with many deep thoughts to think about. I was greatly encouraged, given hope, a stronger sense of the reality of God and the joy there is in him. All conveyed through the innocence of a little boy struggling with a huge disability.
March 15, 2020
This is such a powerful book! I don't know anyone with autism, but God was showing me so much. This is a book everyone should read. God will show himself to you through Tahni and Josiah. This is one of the most spiritually powerful books I have ever read.
August 14, 2021
Amazing story! I’m going to read it again, as there are so many points of encouragement and blessings as the story progresses, not only for the family, but for the reader. What a treasure! I highly recommend it!
May 13, 2024
I almost didn't read this because I have an issue with vaccine injuries, especially since the plandamic. I put it down and then got a nudge that I must read this. I cried a lot. This is amazing. I will look into the website. Feel I need an update. Thank you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews