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Inseparable: How Family and Sacrifice Forged a Path to the NFL
Much more than a sports memoir, in Inseparable Shaquem and Shaquill Griffin share the previously untold details of the powerful and inspiring story behind the modern NFL’s first one-handed player, and his twin brother’s unrelenting devotion, sacrifice, and love. It’s the story of Shaquem’s understanding of God’s purpose for his life—to inspire others to stop being afraid and to stop making excuses—and his family’s unwavering support in spite of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The Griffins’ unlikely underdog story has already captured the imagination of millions of football fans and physically challenged people around the world.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2019
12 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 4, 2019
Great read in the inspirational category. Best for this year in memoir of 1st person collective history published and read by myself during 2019. Ghost written forms within prose and progressions are above average. And each twin narrates experiences and memories. Often for the very same events. The letters written to the Griffins at the ending of the copy made me tear up. It must be quite a bridge to find someone with the very same handicap who would meet and teach by such excelling example.
Strong men in this family and all the photos were stupendous! You can well understand the hair cutting crux. But the effort and the faith - they are a powerful combination. Inspiration for excelling aspirations to all the long odds dreams. And emotions that arise! But always with that top rung parental support.
I do watch the draft. And I cannot conceive of the anguish and angst of his waiting through all those rounds and under those green room conditions. Often times I have thought while watching that football isn’t just difficult physically.
It also taught me about amniotic sack rips/ tissue propensities that I never knew caused some odd and outlier birth defects. Highly recommend if you need a boost in your Faith in God and in human enthusiasm.
Strong men in this family and all the photos were stupendous! You can well understand the hair cutting crux. But the effort and the faith - they are a powerful combination. Inspiration for excelling aspirations to all the long odds dreams. And emotions that arise! But always with that top rung parental support.
I do watch the draft. And I cannot conceive of the anguish and angst of his waiting through all those rounds and under those green room conditions. Often times I have thought while watching that football isn’t just difficult physically.
It also taught me about amniotic sack rips/ tissue propensities that I never knew caused some odd and outlier birth defects. Highly recommend if you need a boost in your Faith in God and in human enthusiasm.
July 14, 2019
This is a well written account of two inspiring young men, their football dreams and careers, and the family that supports them. Shaquem Griffin does not let a limb difference stand in his way, and the positive attitude both brothers have is impressive. I have an even greater respect now for Coach Frost, although like many a UCF Knight, I’m still sad he went to Nebraska after such a brief time as UCF’s head coach. The brothers had great respect and love for him, too. If you didn’t like George O’Leary before reading this, you’ll like him even less.
Not surprisingly, this book is heavy on football stats and scores, so if you aren’t a football fan, you may find segments of the book a bit of a slog. As a football fan and a Knight, I enjoyed this book immensely and for as long as the Griffin brothers play for Seattle, I will be a Seahawks fan. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for these “Inseparable” brothers. I know it’s going to be amazing.
Not surprisingly, this book is heavy on football stats and scores, so if you aren’t a football fan, you may find segments of the book a bit of a slog. As a football fan and a Knight, I enjoyed this book immensely and for as long as the Griffin brothers play for Seattle, I will be a Seahawks fan. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for these “Inseparable” brothers. I know it’s going to be amazing.
October 12, 2019
Easy read. Inspirational. The twins are very humble and were raised very well.
September 6, 2019
I am a triple University of Central Florida alum, getting my last degree from there in late 2012. I remember somewhere around that time frame the school's social media briefly showcased a football player who only had one arm. I remember thinking to myself "That's really neat that UCF brought someone like that on to the team, I hope he gets to play!"
For several seasons Shaquem didn't get to play. The coaches wouldn't let him. And then in 2015 our team went 0-12. Everything changed. A new coaching staff was brought on board and had a morale problem to fix. They told Shaquem he could play if he proved himself. He did, and he played. Man, did he play.
This story about the twin Griffin brothers has it all; perseverance, loyalty, forgiveness, inspiration, love, and overcoming the odds.
It's amazing how much of this story is simply because the brothers made promises to each other to stick together, through thick and thin, no matter what. There are several points in the book where it felt like the whole tale up to that point could have ended if Shaquill decided to do what was best for him, or if Shaquem decided it was too hard and not worth putting up the good fight any more. But they both stayed true to their commitments to the sport and to each other, and the whole world loves them for that.
Personal anecdote time: In the 2016 football season I was unpacking my car to setup for a tailgate before the very first game, the debut of Coach Frost's new UCFaster, UCFiercer team. I always got to campus early on game days to claim the spot we had had for several years. But this season, someone else was already setup in our spot. Whaaaaaat. Guess I'll set up in the spot next door.
I was wearing one of the school's new jerseys that season, which had a bold white and black design that the university had said was to honor UCF's cherished history of working with NASA and the space program (where I now work!). This jersey jussssst so happened to have the number 10 on it.
An older male from the group who took my beloved tailgate spot saw me and said "Hey! That's a great jersey! Number 10! I like it!"
"Oh, are you related to the player?"
He motioned to a lady standing next to him, "Yes, we're his parents!"
"Oh wow, cool! But I'm sorry, I don't know his name. Can you tell me what it is so I can commit it to memory and be excited every time I see him do something awesome!"
"Yes, it's Shaquill Griffin!"
"Shaquill! Awesome, well I'm rooting for him to do well so I can say he's the reason why I got this jersey!"
I have remembered who Shaquill is since that day, for sure!
I'll add too that my brother and I would travel to many of the UCF away games and would often try to cheer on our players after the game ended and they left the locker rooms to board the busses, win or lose. Shaquill and Shaquem always always ALWAYS stopped to take pictures and would talk to everyone who wanted to talk to them. CLASS ACTS.
For several seasons Shaquem didn't get to play. The coaches wouldn't let him. And then in 2015 our team went 0-12. Everything changed. A new coaching staff was brought on board and had a morale problem to fix. They told Shaquem he could play if he proved himself. He did, and he played. Man, did he play.
This story about the twin Griffin brothers has it all; perseverance, loyalty, forgiveness, inspiration, love, and overcoming the odds.
It's amazing how much of this story is simply because the brothers made promises to each other to stick together, through thick and thin, no matter what. There are several points in the book where it felt like the whole tale up to that point could have ended if Shaquill decided to do what was best for him, or if Shaquem decided it was too hard and not worth putting up the good fight any more. But they both stayed true to their commitments to the sport and to each other, and the whole world loves them for that.
Personal anecdote time: In the 2016 football season I was unpacking my car to setup for a tailgate before the very first game, the debut of Coach Frost's new UCFaster, UCFiercer team. I always got to campus early on game days to claim the spot we had had for several years. But this season, someone else was already setup in our spot. Whaaaaaat. Guess I'll set up in the spot next door.
I was wearing one of the school's new jerseys that season, which had a bold white and black design that the university had said was to honor UCF's cherished history of working with NASA and the space program (where I now work!). This jersey jussssst so happened to have the number 10 on it.
An older male from the group who took my beloved tailgate spot saw me and said "Hey! That's a great jersey! Number 10! I like it!"
"Oh, are you related to the player?"
He motioned to a lady standing next to him, "Yes, we're his parents!"
"Oh wow, cool! But I'm sorry, I don't know his name. Can you tell me what it is so I can commit it to memory and be excited every time I see him do something awesome!"
"Yes, it's Shaquill Griffin!"
"Shaquill! Awesome, well I'm rooting for him to do well so I can say he's the reason why I got this jersey!"
I have remembered who Shaquill is since that day, for sure!
I'll add too that my brother and I would travel to many of the UCF away games and would often try to cheer on our players after the game ended and they left the locker rooms to board the busses, win or lose. Shaquill and Shaquem always always ALWAYS stopped to take pictures and would talk to everyone who wanted to talk to them. CLASS ACTS.
June 9, 2025
Inseparable follows the journey of twins Shaquem and Shaquill Griffin from their childhood all the way to playing together in the NFL. They were born two minutes apart from each other in St. Petersburg, Florida. The brothers have a very strong bond and promised each other that they would achieve their dreams alongside each other. However, this would come with some challenges, most notably the amputation of Shaquem's hand. They played together all throughout high school and college at UCF in which the brothers grow their bond even through tackling all the challenges they were presented with. The brothers eventually defied all odds to break history and live out their dreams.
Theme: The most prominent theme I took away from this book is the importance of Brotherhood and perseverance when the world is against you.
Rating: I rate this book a 5/5 stars because I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was engaging to me the whole time and involved my favorite sport of football. The book went very in depth taking me through one of the best stories in sports history.
Theme: The most prominent theme I took away from this book is the importance of Brotherhood and perseverance when the world is against you.
Rating: I rate this book a 5/5 stars because I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was engaging to me the whole time and involved my favorite sport of football. The book went very in depth taking me through one of the best stories in sports history.
November 9, 2019
Inspirational Marathon
I really enjoyed reading this book. There was so much to take in and reflect upon. It had some funny moments, some moments one can relate to and it was overall very well told thought provoking. I appreciate the twins for sharing their story. I recommended the local school librarian order several copies of this book! The best takeaway for me was the purpose they had/have and to never take your place in this world for granted and the best we can all do is walk in our purpose and give the glory to God! This will make a great gift for any one of any age! There is something for any one to gain after reading this book!
I really enjoyed reading this book. There was so much to take in and reflect upon. It had some funny moments, some moments one can relate to and it was overall very well told thought provoking. I appreciate the twins for sharing their story. I recommended the local school librarian order several copies of this book! The best takeaway for me was the purpose they had/have and to never take your place in this world for granted and the best we can all do is walk in our purpose and give the glory to God! This will make a great gift for any one of any age! There is something for any one to gain after reading this book!
July 12, 2019
Yes I read it on a car trip, in one day. This was an excellent read! I suppose I relate because of the story of twins and their bond. It is an inspiring story of truly living your life with the attitude that you can do anything with hard work and effort. It is a book filled with the love of family and how having that love behind you can help you achieve amazing things. It is a story about never giving up, ever. Easy read but a truly good one. I highly suggest.
August 7, 2020
I was looking for a light read, and due to COVID's possible impact on football, and as a mom to twins...well, this one fit the need. I loved it. Overcoming challenges. Loved the closeness of these brothers. My very best to them. As I work with differing abled students, I will be thinking of this extraordinary family and story. Also, I guess i just added another reason to watch the Seahawks.
June 15, 2019
A beautiful and inspiring story. It will humble and uplift you at the same time. It will encourage you to never give up while sharing a book filled with faith.
I received a complimentary copy.
I received a complimentary copy.
October 10, 2019
Amazing
I was already a fan of the brothers before reading the book but now I am a super fan. Reading about their closeness and always having each other's back was beautiful. I would highly recommend this book.
I was already a fan of the brothers before reading the book but now I am a super fan. Reading about their closeness and always having each other's back was beautiful. I would highly recommend this book.
April 5, 2020
Inspirational
After being counted out on every level the Griffin twins fought back..There were soecfic game deaths, score date that I deem important but otherwise it was nice to hear more about their story! Would recommend for sports lovers
After being counted out on every level the Griffin twins fought back..There were soecfic game deaths, score date that I deem important but otherwise it was nice to hear more about their story! Would recommend for sports lovers
May 26, 2021
This is a great inspirational story. This story shows that just because you are handicapped in some way you can still find a way to make your dreams come true. Others will continue to possibly look down on you and tell you that you cannot do it but if you work hard enough you can prove them wrong.
May 16, 2025
Awesome Book
It's so wonderful to read a book so powerful and positive. I love these two. I became a fan when they were on my team, the Seahawks. They are great role models for kids. I enjoyed this book. It is well written.
It's so wonderful to read a book so powerful and positive. I love these two. I became a fan when they were on my team, the Seahawks. They are great role models for kids. I enjoyed this book. It is well written.
July 11, 2019
Just a fantastic book! Worth reading for so many reasons.
August 26, 2019
This was a quick read but I really enjoyed it.
October 4, 2019
This book was amazing. I’m in awe of what all these 2 have done in their lives already. They are an inspiration to others not to accept limitations and how family should stand by one another.
December 14, 2019
Get this in the hands of youth!
January 8, 2020
I could not put this book down. I finished it in less then four days. Such an inspirational read. The griffin brothers are true role models.
Read
April 28, 2020Amazing and inspirational story
Read
January 11, 2021It was good
January 27, 2025
Easy read, but good story and motivational
February 22, 2021
Very inspiring, not just because Shaquem has a limb difference but because of how dedicated and determined these twins were to make it to the NFL. As a former collegiate athlete I was able to relate to some of the struggles and excitement they experienced and reading this book took me on a trip down memory lane. I love the bond and family values they have, overall a feel good read and highly recommend for any young athlete.
After reading the book I’m sure Shaquill & Shaquem live by stats, scores, and game review. I’m guessing it’s just a part of who they are and how they talk. If I could change one thing about the book; there were too many stats too often, like scores of games and such that weren’t always necessary for the reader.
After reading the book I’m sure Shaquill & Shaquem live by stats, scores, and game review. I’m guessing it’s just a part of who they are and how they talk. If I could change one thing about the book; there were too many stats too often, like scores of games and such that weren’t always necessary for the reader.
October 25, 2019
This story of determination, perseverance, commitment, family, and unbreakable needs to be heard by all. I am a huge fan of these brothers and the Seahawks, but after this book, the Griffin Brothers have become my hero. Their memories growing up planning ball, the impact of their mom & dad involvement, and how they each handled college coaches and triumphs is so inspiring. Great story and what an amazing family!
July 26, 2019
So let me start with I am an avid UCF. I had heard some of the story of there life and have seen been lucky enough to see them play together and solo. These men are a great inspiration to anyone who is willing to read this book. Read the book no matter what and remember “Against all odds” you can accomplish anything.
September 1, 2019
I knew I would enjoy this book, but I didn’t know how much.
Their story is truly inspiring and motivational. What an amazing family!
There is no doubt in my mind that Shaquem will be known as a great football player. Media should lose the “one-handed” label. Simply put - he is, a great football player.
Thanks for a great read!
Their story is truly inspiring and motivational. What an amazing family!
There is no doubt in my mind that Shaquem will be known as a great football player. Media should lose the “one-handed” label. Simply put - he is, a great football player.
Thanks for a great read!
November 27, 2019
A must read for anyone who thinks there are barriers to achieving anything you want to. These two young men and their family are a shining example of the power of family and faith. Shaquem will forever be remembered as the football player who proved the naysayers wrong.
July 3, 2021
Inspirational book recommended by my daughter who is a big fan of Shaquem. I loved reading about his parents and the family dynamics - a little heavy on the football stats for me, to be expected with an NFL star I guess!
March 19, 2020
Very Inspiring
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews