What do you think?
Rate this book
Perfect Strangers: Friendship, Strength, and Recovery After Boston’s Worst Day
Four lives brought together in a deadly moment prove that being in the wrong place at the worst time can lead to life's biggest adventures and most important relationships
As Roseann Sdoia waited to watch her friend cross the finish line of the Boston Marathon in 2013, she had no idea her life was about to change-that in a matter of minutes she would look up from the sidewalk, burned and deaf, staring at her detached foot, screaming for help amid the smoke and blood.
In the chaos of the minutes that followed, three people would enter Roseann's life and change it forever. The first was Shores Salter, a college student who, when the bomb went off, instinctively ran into the smoke while his friends ran away. He found Roseann lying on the sidewalk and, using a belt as a tourniquet, literally saved her life that day. Then, Boston police officer Shana Cottone arrived on the scene and began screaming desperately at passing ambulances, all full, before finally commandeering an empty paddy wagon. Just then a giant appeared, in the form of Boston firefighter Mike Materia, who carefully lifted her into the fetid paddy wagon. He climbed in and held her burned hand all the way to the hospital. Since that day, he hasn't left her side, and today they are planning their life together.
Perfect Strangers is about recovery, about choosing joy and human connection over anger and resentment, and most of all, it's about an unlikely but enduring friendship that grew out of the tragedy of Boston's worst day.
As Roseann Sdoia waited to watch her friend cross the finish line of the Boston Marathon in 2013, she had no idea her life was about to change-that in a matter of minutes she would look up from the sidewalk, burned and deaf, staring at her detached foot, screaming for help amid the smoke and blood.
In the chaos of the minutes that followed, three people would enter Roseann's life and change it forever. The first was Shores Salter, a college student who, when the bomb went off, instinctively ran into the smoke while his friends ran away. He found Roseann lying on the sidewalk and, using a belt as a tourniquet, literally saved her life that day. Then, Boston police officer Shana Cottone arrived on the scene and began screaming desperately at passing ambulances, all full, before finally commandeering an empty paddy wagon. Just then a giant appeared, in the form of Boston firefighter Mike Materia, who carefully lifted her into the fetid paddy wagon. He climbed in and held her burned hand all the way to the hospital. Since that day, he hasn't left her side, and today they are planning their life together.
Perfect Strangers is about recovery, about choosing joy and human connection over anger and resentment, and most of all, it's about an unlikely but enduring friendship that grew out of the tragedy of Boston's worst day.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published March 28, 2017
22 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 30, 2016
Totally captivating! I literally finished this book in record time and found it very hard to even take a break. She tells it like it is, good and bad, and brings you on a journey that only a few could. Grab some tissues, but get ready for a few laughs also. And be totally ready to fall in love with Mike from afar. What a wonderful group of four these people are and what a blessing they seem to one another. Thank you for your sharing this with us.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2017
GNab I received a free electronic copy of this memoir from Netgalley, Roseann Sdoia, and Perseus Books Group, PublicAffairs Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all, for sharing your hard work with me.
The Boston Marathon is a big deal. It is the oldest foot race in America, with a 120 year history, and in the 2013 race over 23,000 runners from around the world participated, and an estimated one million spectators lined the race route.
This is an intense read, very detailed and honest, by one of Boston's April 15, 2013 Marathon's 264 injured, one of the 16 who lost limbs from the two pressure cooker bombs planted in the last mile of the marathon. We see the tragedy from the eyes of Roseann Sdoia, one of the injured spectators, Officer Shana Cottone, a member of Boston's finest, Boston firefighter Mike Materia, and Northeastern University student Shores Salter, a young man who ran into the smoke. This is a tribute to the spirit of Americans everywhere who charge into danger to protect others.
But the most important points in this memoir are about healing, taking back your community, and getting through the fear. It's a really good read, a very positive how-to book on surviving and thriving despite terror. The 2016 marathon had 27,491 participants - 4,562 applicants had to be turned away as the field was capped at 30,000. Half a million street smart, savvy spectators lined the 26+ mile course, knowing what to look for, and how to be safe.
Pub date Mar 28, 2017
The Boston Marathon is a big deal. It is the oldest foot race in America, with a 120 year history, and in the 2013 race over 23,000 runners from around the world participated, and an estimated one million spectators lined the race route.
This is an intense read, very detailed and honest, by one of Boston's April 15, 2013 Marathon's 264 injured, one of the 16 who lost limbs from the two pressure cooker bombs planted in the last mile of the marathon. We see the tragedy from the eyes of Roseann Sdoia, one of the injured spectators, Officer Shana Cottone, a member of Boston's finest, Boston firefighter Mike Materia, and Northeastern University student Shores Salter, a young man who ran into the smoke. This is a tribute to the spirit of Americans everywhere who charge into danger to protect others.
But the most important points in this memoir are about healing, taking back your community, and getting through the fear. It's a really good read, a very positive how-to book on surviving and thriving despite terror. The 2016 marathon had 27,491 participants - 4,562 applicants had to be turned away as the field was capped at 30,000. Half a million street smart, savvy spectators lined the 26+ mile course, knowing what to look for, and how to be safe.
Pub date Mar 28, 2017
May 2, 2017
If not for Shores Salter holding the tourniquet, Officer Shana Cottone making sure I didn't die right there on the pavement, and firefighter Mike Materia assuring that I survived the trip to Mass General, I would have been among whose [sic] who didn't make it off the pavement alive. (89)Sdoia was a spectator at the 2013 Boston Marathon, and she lost a leg in the bombings. But Perfect Strangers is about a lot more of that—Sdoia chooses to focus primarily on the people who helped her survive and the bonds they developed afterwards.
I've read a number of books about the marathon bombings, and it's been interesting to see how each writer distinguishes both experience and book, makes it do something that the others don't. (If this sounds cold and clinical, well...oh well. If it helps you think I'm not cold and clinical, I'll note that videos of runners helping other runners are about the only thing that can make me cry on command, and books like this at least come close. Go figure.) Perfect Strangers benefits from three things, I think. First, a really good ghostwriter—not that there's any way for me to know how much of it comes down to the ghostwriter and how much comes down to Sdoia, but this is a partnership that worked out well. Good blend of scene and research, reconstructing not just Sdoia's experience but the experiences of many people involved. Second, distance—putting this out several years after the fact gives Sdoia the space to...have a better idea of where things are going, I guess. More perspective. And finally, humour. Not that she has the slightest obligation to tackle a tough topic/experience with humour, but it's...it's probably a cliché to say it's very Boston, isn't it? But there you go.
When she saw me, Alissa [a friend] thought I was dead, lying in a pool of my own blood, and she began screaming.Humour aside, there are some really thoughtful moments in here, none more so than when Sdoia pays tribute to the people who ran to help:
Really? I wanted to say to her. Really? I've lost my damn leg, and you're hysterical?
[...]
Finally Shana told her, "You really have to shut the fuck up."
God, I love Boston cops. (41)
Before the smoke cleared, video of the blasts shows an incredible scene: two distinct waves of people moving in different directions—the majority away from the obvious locations of the explosions and lesser numbers, many of them wearing the neon-yellow vests of police, firefighters, and medical personnel, running directly into the smoke and fire. (17)Nicely done all round.
-
"Am I going to die?" I asked Mike, squeezing his hand.
He was silent for a moment before he answered, "No, you're fine. It's only a flesh wound."
It would take me weeks to appreciate the irony, and tenderness, in that comment. (74)
-
"So, I saw that People reporter and you talking at the shoot. What did she ask you?"
He hesitated, his fork pausing over his plate, before answering with his typical no big deal shrug.
"She wanted to know about us, if we were together, I guess."
"And what did you tell her?" I asked, trying to keep my voice even. I was so nervous that the clam I was shucking nearly got shucked onto the floor.
After one of his long silences, he said with another shrug, "I told her I was your fireman." (182)
April 11, 2017
This book moved me so deeply. I absolutely could not put it down. As a native Bostonian, I recall spending so many Patriots' Days cheering on runners at the Boston Marathon. So many emotions ran through me as I read this book. I loved it so much & I love all 4 of these 'Perfect Strangers' & their personal stories & the story they formed together. Absolutely gripping.
April 4, 2017
Courage and love rise from the carnage on Boston's Boylston Street.
Roseann was my next-door neighbor and friend to my three boys while growing up in Dracut Massachusetts. When I heard about her being wounded severely in the Boston marathon I was so upset. And I followed her remarkable courage and progress very closely. About a year later I wound up losing my own right leg due to an accident I had several years ago. Roseann was instrumental in helping me get in touch with the correct people Who would help me to adapt to life without my leg. So I couldn't wait to read this book and it did not disappoint. What a fabulous story of constant courage and determination in a wonderful young lady. Her story shows how when people come together in a disaster it can change all of their lives for the better.
I would recommend this book to everyone because it encompasses all ages and all types people.
Roseann was my next-door neighbor and friend to my three boys while growing up in Dracut Massachusetts. When I heard about her being wounded severely in the Boston marathon I was so upset. And I followed her remarkable courage and progress very closely. About a year later I wound up losing my own right leg due to an accident I had several years ago. Roseann was instrumental in helping me get in touch with the correct people Who would help me to adapt to life without my leg. So I couldn't wait to read this book and it did not disappoint. What a fabulous story of constant courage and determination in a wonderful young lady. Her story shows how when people come together in a disaster it can change all of their lives for the better.
I would recommend this book to everyone because it encompasses all ages and all types people.
Read
May 3, 2017What a book! Sdoia has alot of bravery and foregiveness. A story of hope, forgiveness and humanity. The main characters exemplify what it really means to put others first. I came away from this book with a better understanding of what matters in life. In the wake of a true tragedy, such positivity and hope can arise.
December 29, 2016
Perfect Strangers
Friendship, Strength, and Recovery After Boston’s Worst Day
by Roseann Sdoia
Perseus Books Group, PublicAffairs Books
PublicAffairs
Biographies & Memoirs
Pub Date 28 Mar 2017
Archive Date 28 Mar 2017
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of Perfect Strangers through the publisher and Netgalley:
April.15.2013 lives were changed when a bomber let off a bomb during the Boston Marathon three people were killed and 264 were injured. This book doesn’t only highlight that tragic day but the Friendships that were formed from it.
A tragic event like The bombing at the Boston Marathon in 2013.
A number of people lost limbs that day, forever altering their lives but as many victims there that day there were at least as many heros.
Perfect Stranger is Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor Roseann S do it’s story, but it’s not merely a story of tragedy, it’s a story of triumph and friendship, of determination and hope.
I give Perfect Stranger five out of five stars.
Happy Reading
Friendship, Strength, and Recovery After Boston’s Worst Day
by Roseann Sdoia
Perseus Books Group, PublicAffairs Books
PublicAffairs
Biographies & Memoirs
Pub Date 28 Mar 2017
Archive Date 28 Mar 2017
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of Perfect Strangers through the publisher and Netgalley:
April.15.2013 lives were changed when a bomber let off a bomb during the Boston Marathon three people were killed and 264 were injured. This book doesn’t only highlight that tragic day but the Friendships that were formed from it.
A tragic event like The bombing at the Boston Marathon in 2013.
A number of people lost limbs that day, forever altering their lives but as many victims there that day there were at least as many heros.
Perfect Stranger is Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor Roseann S do it’s story, but it’s not merely a story of tragedy, it’s a story of triumph and friendship, of determination and hope.
I give Perfect Stranger five out of five stars.
Happy Reading
June 24, 2019
I am giving this book 5 stars for the courage and in depth look at how Roseann Sdoia's life changed and became intertwined with those who rescued her from her injuries during the Boston Marathon Bombing. Specially her relationships with Shores Salter, Shana Cottone, and Mike Material. I liked how with this book she used her perspective and theirs for different situations. This was very well written and strongly emotional. But one thing was clear Sdoia never gave up and didn't allow herself to be labeled a victim .... but rather a survivor. Geographically personal for me this book resonated with me as I live south of Boston, have been a spectator on Marathon Monday and had friends running the race that day.
October 1, 2017
Wow! This book made me cry (many times), but it also made me smile. Somehow a book about such a tragic event still managed to leave me with that feel good feeling. I love Boston and Marathon Monday and I am glad that I now know even more about the survivors and heroes who have made BOSTON STRONG!
April 22, 2018
Perfect Strangers: Friendship, Strength, and Recovery After Boston's Worst Day is a first-hand report of the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing related and penned by one of the survivor's Roseann Sdoia. In commemoration of the fifth anniversary of the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombings, I thought that I would read this memoir of Roseann Sdoia's experiences from this tragic event.
In this memoir, Sdoia not only focused on her recovery, but three others that entered her life. Sodia had no idea what was about to happen to her, one moment she was waiting to watch her friend cross the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon and the next she was on her back, burned and deaf, staring at her detached foot, and screaming for help.
It was then that three people would enter her life and irrevocably change her life. Instead of running away, college student, Shores Salter runs into chaos, sees Sodia, takes off his belt and uses it as a makeshift tourniquet that literally saved her life that day. Then Boston police officer Shana Cottone arrived at the scene and began screaming desperately at passing ambulances, before finally commandeering an empty paddy wagon. Finally fire-fighter Mike Materia carefully lifted her into the paddy wagon and held her burned hand all the way to the hospital.
Four perfect strangers in a city of over half a million people, living their separate lives, and on any other ordinary day, they would have probably wouldn't have met. However it wasn't an ordinary day, it was the Boston Marathon, and even then, it wasn't any Boston Marathon – it was the 2013 Boston Marathon. Four lives brought together in a deadly moment prove that being in the wrong place at the worst time can lead to life's biggest adventures and the most important relationships. This book is a wonderful tribute to Americans that would charge into danger against their instincts.
I appreciate the frank nature of this memoir – Sodia didn't held back, she showed the good, the bad, and the ugly about what happened and her recovery. This memoir is more than just physical and psychological healing of one person – it's about taking back the community, getting through the fear, and healing the community as a whole and being Boston Strong.
Sodia's writing is very moving and touching. I felt captivated on her journey and those around her. It was tremendously difficult of me to put this book down, because I wanted to know what happens next. I appreciated that Sodia had chosen the higher road of recovery and hardly blamed or wallowed in self-pity, anger, or resentment. I totally love that she turned a tragedy into a something positive, which gave her victory over the terrorism.
All in all, Perfect Strangers: Friendship, Strength, and Recover After Boston's Worst Day is a wonderful tribute of the American Spirit, of healing and recovery, about choosing joy and human connection over anger and resentment, and most of all, it's about an unlikely, but enduring friendships that grew out of the tragedy of Boston's worst day.
In this memoir, Sdoia not only focused on her recovery, but three others that entered her life. Sodia had no idea what was about to happen to her, one moment she was waiting to watch her friend cross the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon and the next she was on her back, burned and deaf, staring at her detached foot, and screaming for help.
It was then that three people would enter her life and irrevocably change her life. Instead of running away, college student, Shores Salter runs into chaos, sees Sodia, takes off his belt and uses it as a makeshift tourniquet that literally saved her life that day. Then Boston police officer Shana Cottone arrived at the scene and began screaming desperately at passing ambulances, before finally commandeering an empty paddy wagon. Finally fire-fighter Mike Materia carefully lifted her into the paddy wagon and held her burned hand all the way to the hospital.
Four perfect strangers in a city of over half a million people, living their separate lives, and on any other ordinary day, they would have probably wouldn't have met. However it wasn't an ordinary day, it was the Boston Marathon, and even then, it wasn't any Boston Marathon – it was the 2013 Boston Marathon. Four lives brought together in a deadly moment prove that being in the wrong place at the worst time can lead to life's biggest adventures and the most important relationships. This book is a wonderful tribute to Americans that would charge into danger against their instincts.
I appreciate the frank nature of this memoir – Sodia didn't held back, she showed the good, the bad, and the ugly about what happened and her recovery. This memoir is more than just physical and psychological healing of one person – it's about taking back the community, getting through the fear, and healing the community as a whole and being Boston Strong.
Sodia's writing is very moving and touching. I felt captivated on her journey and those around her. It was tremendously difficult of me to put this book down, because I wanted to know what happens next. I appreciated that Sodia had chosen the higher road of recovery and hardly blamed or wallowed in self-pity, anger, or resentment. I totally love that she turned a tragedy into a something positive, which gave her victory over the terrorism.
All in all, Perfect Strangers: Friendship, Strength, and Recover After Boston's Worst Day is a wonderful tribute of the American Spirit, of healing and recovery, about choosing joy and human connection over anger and resentment, and most of all, it's about an unlikely, but enduring friendships that grew out of the tragedy of Boston's worst day.
July 19, 2017
Monday, April 15, 2013, was a perfect day for the Boston Marathon. Roseann Sdoia came to the race to watch her friend compete. Roseann had completed a 5K fun run the day before and decided to train to run the Boston Marathon next year. Instead, she spent part the next year in the hospital and in rehabilitation learning how to walk with only one leg. She also spent that year leaning just how strong she really was and being thankful for the people who saved her life; strangers she now counts as valuable friends. Shores Salter ran into the chaos instead of fleeing and discovered Roseann coherent, but losing too much blood. With the help of Dr. Collin Stultz, Shores tied a makeshift tourniquet around Roseann’s leg that would save her life. Officer Shana Cottone held her hand and kept Roseann calm all the while screaming for an ambulance to stop. Officer Jim Davis repurposed his paddy wagon into an ambulance to get Roseann and another victim, Marc Fucarile, who was in worse shape to the hospital. Firefighters Mike Materia and Pat Foley held Roseann and Marc on the slippery metal benches while Davis made his way to the hospital. Because of the actions of this group of strangers, both Roseann and Marc survived. Roseann shares her courageous story and that of the other survivors and the strangers who became friends.
September 18, 2017
My husband was reading Perfect Strangers and told me it was a very interesting read. I was skeptical about reading a book based on the Boston Marathon Bombing. As a Massachusetts resident, I didn't want to read anything depressing and full of details of blood and gore (we heard and read so much about it during the weeks and months following the bombing). All I can say is WOW, this was not what I was expecting! From the opening pages, Roseann set the tone. This is a book about the human soul (actually 4 to be exact) and how these remarkable strangers came together in the face of adversity to not only overcome, but to form a lasting and enduring friendship. Extremely well written, thoughtful, poignant, and most notable is the absence of extensive references to the bombers themselves. This is a book about resiliency. Boston is blessed to have so many dedicated police, firefighters, EMT's, outstanding hospitals and staff, the Boston Marathon staff and volunteers as well as true Bostonians -- every day people willing to help someone in need. Boston Strong!
Life is about being filled with gratitude even in the face of difficulty. A quote from the book sums up Roseann and this book "I will live life, feel love, and express gratitude for each and every day." May we all live be these words. Thank you Roseann for sharing your story.
Life is about being filled with gratitude even in the face of difficulty. A quote from the book sums up Roseann and this book "I will live life, feel love, and express gratitude for each and every day." May we all live be these words. Thank you Roseann for sharing your story.
November 16, 2017
Needed some additional editing (the story from different viewpoints contained repetitive details/explanations).
Overall though, a very compelling read. As a cancer survivor, I related to the community she felt with her "perfect strangers" - people who didn't treat her differently and who didn't need to be talking about "IT" all the time, and who could toss a morbid joke around. My survivor girls and I are very much the same.
I admire her fighting spirit, but I found the constant positivity to be a bit disingenuous. There's no way she had just a few bout of sobbing/tears, and I find it hard to believe she got over her PTSD/fear of being in crowds by just muscling through it. Perhaps that's all true, but I'm betting she threw herself a pity party or two during it all - and I think including that stuff makes her all the more relatable. I mean, how can you go through all that and NOT fall apart and wonder "WHY ME?".
I grew up just outside of Boston and while I currently live in Providence, I too felt personally affronted that "my" city was attacked. I'm happy to see that someone who was so terribly injured is back to living a happy, if totally different and new, life.
Overall though, a very compelling read. As a cancer survivor, I related to the community she felt with her "perfect strangers" - people who didn't treat her differently and who didn't need to be talking about "IT" all the time, and who could toss a morbid joke around. My survivor girls and I are very much the same.
I admire her fighting spirit, but I found the constant positivity to be a bit disingenuous. There's no way she had just a few bout of sobbing/tears, and I find it hard to believe she got over her PTSD/fear of being in crowds by just muscling through it. Perhaps that's all true, but I'm betting she threw herself a pity party or two during it all - and I think including that stuff makes her all the more relatable. I mean, how can you go through all that and NOT fall apart and wonder "WHY ME?".
I grew up just outside of Boston and while I currently live in Providence, I too felt personally affronted that "my" city was attacked. I'm happy to see that someone who was so terribly injured is back to living a happy, if totally different and new, life.
December 30, 2017
Not only is this a story of resilience in the face of adversity, but it is a heartwarming love story too. This is more than just Roseann's story -- this is a story about Mike, Shana and Shores as well and how the marathon bombing affected them all. While it was difficult to read about the time Roseann spent lying on the ground waiting for someone to come and help her, her courage and strength showed through. That she could say "What the hell does that have to do with anything" when asked by Shana, one of her first responders, if she was at the marathon watching her husband run, shows just how much spunk she has. And that toughness is witnessed throughout the book. I found the book more uplifting than sad. Truly a story of love and friendship that rose from disaster.
December 8, 2017
Roseann Sdola has written a book about tragedy, strength and honesty. Her openness about the struggle her life was even before the marathon bombing . She then brings us a hard, first person view of the bombing that to date hasn't been told. Roseann does give us a graphic view of the bombing and her injuries but they are not to graphic. Her story of how her family came to find out and their reaction is very emotional but told in the matter of fact fashion that makes it very relatable. fashion. Her long recovery is very heart warming and is told setbacks and all. She does a great job tell us about her fears and setbacks and also does a wonderful job tell us how this impacts her personal life.
This is a wonderful memoir and one of the best you'll read in a long time. A must read!
This is a wonderful memoir and one of the best you'll read in a long time. A must read!
February 21, 2018
One of the most emotional books I've ever read. It's rare that a book makes me cry, but this one had me crying like a baby. I couldn't imagine being in Boston on this tragic day. The strength and bravery of the first responders, the survivors, and the families of the victims is incredible. To read about how a person's like can change entirely in the blink of an eye is horrifying but it's also inspiring to see the friendships that came out of it, as well as how they didn't give up and kept moving forward. Roseann wrote this book with such passion, emotion, and strength. Reading this book really makes you think what side of the "fight or flight" stance you would take in this kind of situation. I'd like to believe that I would fight.
February 16, 2017
An amazing story of survival, bravery, determination and friendship. Roasann is caught up in the horrific Boston Marathon bombing. She is a survivor but with dramatic, life changing injuries. This story is not just about her recovery and amazing strength but also the wonderful people involved in saving her life. Four people who would not have met become the best and closest of friends with this shared experience. I loved this book. I finished in two days. A fascinating account of moving forward with the severe injuries of Roseann but also the post-traumatic stress of the heroes involved and their personal accounts. Thank you for the advanced review copy.
May 7, 2017
"Perfect Strangers" is just about perfect! The author, Roseann Sdoia, relates her story honestly and bravely. The confluence of traits was exactly what was needed to save her life! As Roseann states in her acknowledgements she "kept her positive attitude intact" from the very start. Shores has that special willingness to help without care for himself. Shana does whatever is needed. She does her job no matter what and again without care for herself. Mike is a gentle giant and a blend of all the traits. Once you start reading this book, the story is so compelling you don't want to stop until you get to the end!
February 23, 2018
This book was simply amazing. The way she describes it makes you see it and picture it all on your head. I really loved reading it. It was a quick read, but I literally could not put this book down until I was done with it...I didn't even want to put it down to eat or go to the bathroom!! I just love how...with everything horrible with her experience that she still kept fighting no matter what happened.
June 26, 2017
A beautiful memoir surrounding the tragedy of the Boston Marathon bombing, Perfect Strangers is filled with honesty and courage, demonstrating just how indomitable the human spirit can be. Inspiring and difficult to put down, this book displays the power of embracing life, the birth of unique friendships, and the growth of love, all in the midst of adversity.
June 17, 2017
When I picked up this book at my local library and saw that it was written by a Boston Marathon bombing survivor, I assumed that the author had been running in the race. I was surprised to find that she was a spectator, watching a friend run. But that did not make her story any less interesting or inspiring. Living in Maine, just two hours from Boston, I remember that day well. I even had a couple friends running the race. Roseann's honesty was refreshing and insightful. She shared her memories of that day and also those of her "perfect strangers"--the three people who were critical in saving her life. Overall, an inspiring read and helpful to understand in more detail what Roseann and others experienced on April 15, 2013.
December 14, 2017
This was hard to put down and I found myself wanting to know more, especially about the therapy and recovery life returning in a non-handicapped culture. Loved Roseann's fiery spirit and Mike's calm reactions.
August 8, 2017
This is the recount of the Boston Marathon bombing from the perspective of one of the victims. It's a story of grit and tenacity, though not for the squeamish due to graphic details of the bombing and injuries that ensued.
May 21, 2017
Boston Strong! The story of a survivor and the people who helped her.
September 11, 2017
I picked up this book because I needed some marathon spirit during my own training. Yet, the story of healing is what I most connect with on many levels!
August 4, 2023
Boston is a wonderful city that brings people from around the world to learn about the history and enjoy the sites. I have lived here since 1986 and am one of many who are proud to call it home. If you live here you remember the day of the bombing. I was home with my 2 kids in Brighton. We walked to Boston College to watch everyone come down from heartbreak hill. I have never ventured to the city to watch from the finish line, but reading Roseanns story I felt I was there with her. She captures the day with vivid descriptions of what was going on. I could not put it down as I silently cheered her on to live through the horror. She lost around 90% of her blood volume and would have died if it was not for many of the heroes around helping her. Her story is written with this raw honesty, sharing her thoughts as she was going through it . She does not want to be known as a hero, but her bravery and grace throughout the whole ordeal can only be admired. I wonder if I could have been as strong as her. This story of her experience and new friendships are one of many that day. I am so humbled to be able to read and get a glimpse into the 4 lives that came together as a result of a deadly moment.
I was very emotional through her story and when she wrote about the deadly fire in Back Bay taking the lives of 2 fire fighters, I realized how closely connected we all are as humans. One who was a constant in the YMCA in Brighton as a director of facilities who many of us got to know. Thank you for sharing so much with us. I only hope you are living a happy life now!
I was very emotional through her story and when she wrote about the deadly fire in Back Bay taking the lives of 2 fire fighters, I realized how closely connected we all are as humans. One who was a constant in the YMCA in Brighton as a director of facilities who many of us got to know. Thank you for sharing so much with us. I only hope you are living a happy life now!
February 6, 2021
The story of Roseann’s survival and willingness to thrive is definitely amazing but I just didn’t like the way it was written. The style. The whole story was (kind of) told from four different perspectives (the four perfect strangers, if you will) and they were all just repeating the same things and details over and over again. Didn’t make sense to me why stick to different perspectives when in fact they were not so different... But I guess that’s something the editor should have fixed. Ah, all in all, it was an okay read.
October 6, 2021
I really liked this memoir of sorts. Roseann had such a positive attitude, despite losing her leg in the Boston Marathon bombing. I enjoyed getting a flavor for the events of the marathon, and what she experienced on that dreaded day in 2013. I like to get to know people and this gave a glimpse into the lives of these "perfect strangers."
August 22, 2022
Captivating true story about one survivor from the Boston Marathon bobbing l, told by the actual survivor. This story grabbed me, I couldn’t put it down. Growing up in a community south of Boston, the descriptions of Marathon Day and Boston were very realistic. We’ll worth your time to read this one.
Read
August 14, 2025Great book about one of the Boston Marathon bombing victims gifted to me by a friend who ran the marathon - the author is his cousin. This captures so well everything that is magical about Marathon Monday, everything that was horrible about that particular Monday, and reinforces my belief that all tragedies have “the helpers” whose acts balance and even outweigh the devastation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews