Joel

by Joel Sonnenberg, Gregg Lewis (Contributor)

Joel Sonnenberg was only two years old when an 18-wheeler smashed into his family's car. In the inferno that followed, he was burned on over 85 percent of his body. This is his story as only he can tell it. Experience the world from Joel's perspective as he takes you on a personal journey with more twists and turns than a Hollywood movie. It's been a life of both great struggles and of tremendous achievement and honor. Yet Joel asserts, 'I am just an ordinary person whom people find extraordinary.' Be prepared to fall in love with a young man named Joel. We have known Joel since he first moved to Montreat, North Carolina, eighteen years ago. What an incredible boy he was; what an incredible man he has become. His testimony will stir your heart and forever change you. Ruth and Billy Graham Joel is a dear friend. His story is truly remarkable. I encourage everyone to read it. It is truly inspiring! Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Head Coach, Duke University Basketball Joel is an American hero. True courage is demonstrated in every page. Bob Dole, Former United States Senator, Kansas The dictionary doesn't have enough adjectives to describe my love and admiration for Joel Sonnenberg. To spend time with Joel---whether in his book, at a soccer game, or over a soda---is to come away a different person simply because you've been with him. Joni Eareckson Tada, Founder and CEO of Joni and Friends Joel Sonnenberg's story is more than just an uplifting tale of persistence and achievement. Rooted in tragedy, it's the story of a mother's love, a boy's courage, and the resilience of the human spirit. Bryant Gumbel, Television News Journalist His story is one all young people need to hear . . . optimistic, confident, and filled with faith. Dr. Jay Kesler, President Emeritus, Taylor University

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography, Memoir, Autobiography, Christian, Biography Memoir, Christian Non Fiction

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Samantha | samanthakreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an inspirational story that is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. At the age of 2, Joel, alongside his family, was hit by an 18-wheeler. The result left Joel burned over 85% of his body. Most doctors and nurses didn’t expect him to make it through the night, yet the Lord had other plans. This book follows Joel’s story through his experience and perspective including the challenges and hardships he endured, and the beautiful way the Lord used him and his story.

Joel’s attitude on life, his faith in Christ, and his determination are truly inspiring. Reading this story, you truly see how the Lord worked in Joel’s life. When I was messaging Jen after I finished, she said it the best “It really put into perspective how small some of the things I complain about really are. His life is truly a miracle!” I couldn’t agree more!

This book does explain and give some detail into Joel’s surgeries and medical procedures, as he lost his fingers and toes and had to have multiple skin grafts, among other things. Please use mild caution if you are sensitive to those types of descriptions.

Thank you so much, @thisfilledhome, for recommending this book and putting it on my radar! I really enjoyed it, and I would recommend others check it out✨

[christine p sturino malkmus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sad....but, inspirational...

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational reading - make sure you have some kleenex. What an amazing young man!

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Joel" is an inspirational book about Joel Sonnenberg's life from his near-death experience at age two when he was burned in a fire through his college graduation. The first several chapters discuss the accident and reconstructive surgeries. Most of the middle chapters detail his accomplishments in school and the exciting opportunities he enjoyed. The last chapter touches on his struggles with anger and self-worth, topics I was hoping he would talk more about throughout the book. I wanted to hear how he overcame emotional struggles, not all the awards he won. I would be interested in reading a book that details Joel's life in his 20s-50s to see what happens in the next chapter of his life.

[Walt Walkowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

The amazing thing about Joel Sonnenberg’s story is that it is simultaneously heart-wrenching and heartwarming. Bittersweet is an apt adjective. The thread that runs through the entire book is faith. Faith in a loving, all-knowing, all-powerful God. Faith in God’s goodness, provision, and plan. And faith that God can and does use everyone who places their trust in Jesus. I appreciate that Joel neither wallows in victimhood nor gives an overly glowing rendition of his life. It is both good and difficult, ugly and beautiful, wonderful and disappointing. That is real life, and Joel is honest in his self-assessment, as well as his ongoing need for his Savior. I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book purely by accident or, so I thought. Like Joel, mine and my family’s lives were devastated by a devastating car crash but, unlike Joel, I lived almost 24 years as a "normal", active and very independent girl. God is good and I believe He does have a sense of humor and it is in the times of joy that we must cling.
I fully believe that we, as humans, only really find our strength in the struggles.
Joel handles his challenges like a true child of GOD. And I am motivated by him. Thank you Joel Sonnenberg for writing this book! :)

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible story packed with unconditional love, a strong faith in Jesus and an amazing extroverted attitude.

Reading Joel's story made me realize that my problems are so tiny but even though they are tiny that doesn't mean they aren't problems. Hehe

But what I find so amazing is the help he received. What amazing parents, friends, family, nurses, doctors and Christian network he has.

100% recommended. This book is a MUST-READ.

[Elizabeth Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very inspiring story. It is more about God and Christian stuff, but this story is truly moving. The fact that Joel has gone through so much and continues to be an inspiration is amazing. I can only hope to be able to touch people in the smallest fraction of the way he has.

[Kelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

a good enough book but was hoping it would have been better. kept attention just ok. seemed redundant in parts.

[Tim Wester · Rating 3 out of 5]

Amazing story

[Rachel Steiger · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible story. Would not recommend it if you are "squeamish" - Joel's story is painful to read in the beginning.

[Esther Hopkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compelling story from a survivor’s standpoint. One of the most beautiful stories of forgiveness and allowing our lives to be used by God.

[Christine Deeths · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this book. It was good. But made me sad for all of the people who have similar challenges and do not have the overwhelming support this family had.

[John Hollinger · Rating 3 out of 5]

An amazing story but it kind of goes on and on and repeats a lot. I listened to it on audio. I doubt if I would have made it through by reading.

[Robert Ruesch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional book! A must read. If you desire to read an inspirational book, this is the one to choose.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing story! Joel Sonnenberg (and his family) experienced a horrific accident, which transformed all their lives. Through Joel's thoughts, we learn what he and the family endured. Their faith held their family together. It is a very emotional story. I will never forget the descriptions as Joel told his story. But he said it best at his college graduation. The one gift he has and will continue to use is his voice. I really appreciate that I found this book on Scribd and read the electronic version. Joel, for you and your family, than you for sharing. May God continue to bless you all.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most likely the most inspiring book I've ever read. At 22 months old Joel was burned in a car accident. He survived the worst burns anyone ever had. His family raised him in such an extraordinary way that he has excelled beyond all expectations. He speaks to others about how to find your purpose in life through God. He is a true Christian.

[Lisa Rathbun]

The beginning of this book was horrific: I can't imagine what that mother went through seeing her baby burned beyond recognition and having to watch him suffer through medical procedures. Reading his experience through his eyes was interesting - I especially appreciated his summation at the end of the book as to why he sees his situation as a privilege from God.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing story of survival. It was so inspiring to read how he has achieved so much in his life in the face of such adversity, medical and otherwise. It really is a must read for parents of children with disabilities. His parents are truly exceptional people.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will change your life. Joel's story is unique and none other is quite like it. The fact that through all he's been through and he can still give glory to God for it, is simply amazing. God is an amazing God and he can work through any situation.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel Sonnenberg graduated from Taylor University and was a senior when I was a freshman. This book is his story about how God used an awful tragedy in his life to bring hope and sincerity to the lives of so many - including him. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

[Whispering Chapters]

I read this book back in 9th grade and I remember loving it! I completely forgot about the title when I was searching for it a year ago, but today I decided to search and search and I found it! I definitely would love to read it again.

[Collin · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing another book that made me cry. So sad, GO READ IT.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book... everyone should read this book!

[Julianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing. This young man is an inspiration of biblical proportions. I loved his thought processes and his outlook on life. A wonderful read.......it will uplift you.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel is an amazing example of who you can be if you are content w/ God's will...you will be forever changed!

[Jocelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing young man. What a way to take a disability and turn it into an ability. I really enjoyed every moment of this book

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, inspiring story!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joel, at age 2 was burned in a car accident over 85% of his body. His autobiography tells the amazing challenges and triumphs of his life. Really inspiring to me!