DIASTER FALLS by STEPHANE GERSON

This is a very emotional and heartbreaking story to read. I found myself needing to take breaks from the book many times. Losing a child has to be the most difficult thing to go through. As Stephane tells the story of his son Owen I could feel the gut wrenching pain he and his family have gone through. Do you ever get over the loss of a child? I don't think you ever do and I'm sure there are days that are more difficult than others.

A fun family rafting adventure turns to tragedy when Owen tragically drowns. There is no way to predict that the day would turn to grief as the family enjoyed their trip on the Green River. I can't imagine hearing your son saying "this is the best day of my life" and in a blink of an eye Owen is gone. How safe is river rafting? Did the guide make sure that the family understood all the dangers involved in the excursion? I can't imagine the guilt and torment Stephane feels at the loss of his son. The decision to put Owen in a smaller raft that fateful day will haunt Stephane for a very long time. Parents do everything they can to protect their children. Sometimes accidents  happen that we have no control over.

Owen's family they must have been in shook when the realization hit them that he  was gone. Stephane writes with a  gripping and honest look at the toil it takes on him and his family. I appreciated his willingness to share his story.  There are no parent books that warn us about every danger our children may face . We do the best we can to protect them but sometimes something happens that we have no control over. The book is well written with emotions that are felt on each page.

The book reminds me to make each moment count with your loved ones. We are not guaranteed one moment on this earth, so make the best of it while you can. If there are relationships that need mending don't wait till it's too late to repair them. Take time to appreciate what you have and most importantly  cherish each moment with loved ones.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Librarything Early Reader program . The review is my honest opinion.