Rise: The Jessica Phoenix Story

by Julie Fitz-Gerald

Librarian's Note: An alternate cover for this ISBN can be found here

This is a story about trial and triumph. It's about a small-town girl with big dreams and the faith to realize them. It's about fighting through life-threatening injuries and injustice to achieve a greater goal - and doing so with a level of determination, confidence, and grace that shines bright. As Jessica Phoenix's sister, I've been privy to the backstory of how a Canadian Olympian is made...It's a powerful blueprint that we can all use to overcome the inevitable curveballs life throws at us. ~ Julie Fitz-Gerald

85 pages, Paperback

Published October 31, 2017

Reviews

[Linda Shantz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick and interesting read, I just wanted it to be meatier. She is such a dynamic and inspiring person, but it reads like one big long magazine article. As a result, it comes off a little bit superficial, and she is definitely not superficial! And of course - her story isn't over yet. :-)

[Lyndsay Nugent · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspiring story about an athlete that makes the choice, time and again, to dig deep and never give up. To fight for what's right and work harder and smarter to achieve their dreams. Told by a brilliant and talented writer, RISE honours sacrifice, resilience, and celebrating success with integrity and grace. Highly recommended read.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked it. I could not put it down. You should read it for sure! It’s amazing what you can overcome when you are determined.

[Patti Moloney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true tale of a champion! Guaranteed to touch your heart and inspire your soul as you follow a small town girl who has a dream, the feistiness to follow it, and the faith to overcome all odds against her. A beautiful crafted reminder to never give up. Highly recommend!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an incredible book about the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. Jessica Phoenix's story gives insight into the lengths an athlete will go to to achieve their goals. Lovingly written by sister Julie Fitz-Gerald, Rise profiles an inspirational individual who takes all that life throws at her with grace, doing it all with a smile.

[Debi Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a huge read but a well-written book that everyone should read in order to remind themselves about what life is all about. I have had the privilege of knowing this family for a long time. I love them to the moon and back.

[Pauline Kiely · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming, inspirational story, that is sincerely captivating and motivating. The author does an excellent job sharing what it takes to be an Olympic Equestrian and inspires her audience to believe in ourselves and to go for gold. I was high for days after reading it!

[Sean Fitz-Gerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an inspiring story of a world class Olympian. The story of perseverance transcends sport and can teach life lessons thay are applicable in business and beyond and can be used as a road map on how to achieve many life goals. I highly recommend this to anyone.

[Jess Kerschbaumer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good, but very short and more like a magazine article. I would love if Jessie wrote an actual book at some point. She has a lot of wisdom to impart and I would love for her to go deeper and do it in her own words.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is small but mighty. At 80 pages long, I started this book in bed one evening expecting to read a few pages before falling asleep and devoured it. Such an inspiring story.

[Serena Yoder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessi Phoenix is an inspiring rider and reading her story is quite refreshing.