Rescue at the Reef by Jameson Reeder and Mary Catherine Reeder is a true recollection of a horrible event that happened to their son. As with any life altering event, questions are raised of what could have been done differently, or if only. However, we know we cannot go back and change the past but can only move forward. This story is reminiscent of an event occurring near me in the Gulf off the coast of Florida in 2024 when an Alabama teen Lulu Gribbin was attacked and almost lost her life. A very moving story.

Releases July 22nd. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Jameson Jr’s story of perseverance, faith, and perspective is inspiring and full of hope. While what he and his parents went thru was horrific, they are a testimony that God can use the worst situations for good, and a a hopeful outlook and determination makes so much difference in the outcome. I look forward to hearing about what Jameson grows up to be and do with such an incredible faith and trajectory.

I appreciated much of the practical and down to earth parts of Jameson Sr and Mary’s struggles to parent as you watch your child suffer and struggle with something beyond their control. They handled well the concept of trauma-induced fear and not forcing the overcoming of it but not idling in the fear either. It was relatable and encouraging.

For the writing, the story is narrated from the perspective of both parents, Jameson Sr and Mary Reeder, as authors, volleying back and forth on their experiences or thoughts. After the initial part of the accident, the majority of the book reads much like an interview of the two of them.

I did find some of the book to be a bit repetitive and other parts were somewhat irrelevant, such as the sections on how the Reeders met and got married or Jameson Sr’s childhood. It wasn’t really pertinent to the son’s story and felt a little like we veered off from the overall intention and focus of the book there.

Overall I enjoyed reading of the Reeder family’s story and will be praying for the continued journey. It was inspiring and I’m glad to have known it.

Thanks to Worthy Publishing and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.

This is an exceptional true story about the truth that God is with us in our darkest hour and that God takes bad events to use them to reach others.
What Jameson had to endure we wouldn't wish anybody. A shark isn't anything you would be thankful for. His parents don't only describe the events very honestly, but also see the spiritual reality behind.

Where do I even begin... This book was such a page turner that I did not want to put it down! However, at the same time, it was so hard to read some of the parts. To walk through a families tragedy and heartbreak of dealing with a shark attack... while seeing the amazing ways that God walked along side them the whole way... It was incredible. I grew up in Florida and recognized their love of the ocean, but also the reverence for its power and the dangers that lurk inside. To think that they went through something horrific, but then still decided to get back in! And to read about this 10 year old boys story. The way he touched, and continues to touch, so many lives. He was so concerned about the well-being of those around him though he was bleeding out and broken! That boy really does have a God-given talent that will be used greatly.
This is a must read for anyone who is struggling and doubting the goodness of God in our world.

Great book! Inspiring story. Sometimes the pacing felt off, as it switched between the father & mother's POV. Otherwise I really enjoyed this inspiring story.

What a heart tugging, emotional, beautiful story of pure faith.
This story really opens up your eyes to how everything can change in the blink of an eye. The pure faith of a child, I was in tears. As a mother to four, this really spoke to me.
Absolutely recommend to everyone!


The way the chapters were split up was a little hard to catch on to at first but once you are in the story, it really begins to make sense and helps bring everything to life.

This was a powerful and impactful read. The incredible miracles that occurred paired with the bravery of everyone had me crying in the second chapter. There are so many unknowns when it comes to this life here on earth and we may never find out why certain things happen, but this story was just another example of why trusting and praising God in the midst of the uncertainties is what faith is all about.

It took me a little while to adjust to how each POV was written and there would be times where I would have to go back and see who was speaking. Other than that, this was a great read.

I received an ARC from Worthy Publishing via NetGalley. A positive review is not required & all opinions are my own.

How do you even rate a book like this? It’s so emotionally open it tears your heart out. It’s a painful reminder that nature and life can change everything you ever believed in a split second. Told by Mary and Jameson sr, about the shark attack on their young son, Jameson jr, they speak about how an innocent family vacation and a swim in a beautiful clear water area not known for sharks ended in shock and a test of faith. A bull shark bites off his right leg, his faith never wavers as he is rushed miles to the hospital, losing blood, saying “ Jesus will save me.” And Jesus surely must have been with them the whole way. I can’t imagine the mental anguish of his parents as they made medical decisions and tried to comfort their younger children during this situation no one ever wants to go through. Amazing book, very powerful and a strong reminder we are being watched over whether on land or in the water.