Counting It Joy: The Macallister Story

by Jody Macallister-Humbles, Levi Macallister (Contributor), Bree (Macallister) Barela (Contributor)

In her debut memoir, Counting It Joy, Jody Macallister–Humbles tells the tale of marriage and family as plagued by the tentacles of her husband's mental illness, depression and suicide. From their first encounter on a Bible-smuggling mission to the final moments of Mark's life, Counting It Joy is the story of family that experienced adventure and the fullness of life despite extreme health challenges, and the reality of death. Jody's autobiography – including contributions from Levi and Bree, her two children – is a personal testimony to the lavish love of God in the midst of our darkest hours.

184 pages, Paperback

Published December 2, 2016

Reviews

[Chad Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a hard read, not in the sense that it was difficult to comprehend but it was emotional. It was so raw. But it was also revealing of the redemptive narrative that God often plays into our stories.

[Christian Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw Levi Macallister perform in Dallas in 2017. To this day, I am still moved to tears by his piece titled, “Correspondence.” I asked for this book for Christmas about 5 years ago, and haven’t gotten around to reading it until now.

I got to talk to Levi briefly in 2017 after his show. I’ll never forget trying to find the venue, only to see him skating in the parking lot. I asked him for directions and then stopped and said, “Wait, are you Levi The Poet?” to which he smiled, and responded, “Tying to be.” As he continued skating with his friends.

Reading this book was like reading the life story of a friend I never had, told by his mother, about his father whom I never knew. It was a surreal experience. I cried. I’ve never cried while reading a book before.

Much love to the Macallister family for this testament to the fullness of tragic human life, and the unfailing love of Jesus Christ.

[Zach Garber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is sure to tug at your heart strings as you follow the Macallister story. The story reminds us of Gods goodness and providing for us in desperate times. Similarly it reminds us that we are not promised a perfect life on Earth and to cherish those memories along the way through all of life’s circumstances. The good. The bad. The ugly. God and family are what will get us through it all and that we are promised a blessed reunion in time

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super good!