On the night of November 5, 2006, the Barrick family was driving home from church when their van was struck by a drunk driver. Fifteen-year-old Jen suffered multiple skull fractures and severe brain trauma and was not expected to survive the night. But against all odds, she did. As she lingered in a coma, doctors warned that if Jen ever woke up, she would be cursing and screaming in confusion due to her brain injuries. Instead, after five weeks she opened her eyes and began praying and praising God. Jen didn’t remember her middle name, recognize her parents, or recall that she had a little brother–but she remembered Jesus and every word to every praise song and scripture she had hidden in her heart before the accident. As any loving mother would, Jen’s mother Linda wanted God to heal Jen–make her like she was before. Normal. But a loving God had something else in mind–instead of making her normal, God is making Jennifer–and the whole Barrick family–extraordinary, miraculous. “Miracle for Jen” is the remarkable true story of a family who overcame tragedy and learned to trust God’s plan for their lives in a whole new way.

My Review:

Jennifer Barrick is a faith-full teenager who wants to be used by God in big ways. But, due to her quiet demeanor, she prays often for boldness to share her faith. One night, on the way home from a concert, the Barrick family’s lives are forever changed when they are involved in a horrific car accident which leaves Jen severely brain damaged.

The book is told from her mother, Linda’s, point of view, as this is ultimately a book about a family. The faith of the whole family is tested through this trial. Each member is affected differently by the accident, but, out of this tragedy, God reveals Himself in amazing ways. Jen is transformed into a bold vessel for Christ, sharing the light of His hope, love, and grace to others. Throughout her medical crisis and subsequent trials stemming from the brain injury, this book reveals how Jen’s relationship with the Lord is strengthened beyond anything imaginable. Her child-like faith and hope are contagious. She is not down and out about her condition – she is happy to be able to proclaim the love of Christ to others, if that is how God wants to use her. I’m just amazed by this young girl and her testimony. Her story is incredible.

There is some repetitiveness to the story, which is why I give it 4 stars instead of 5. The story is a bit choppy in places and does not flow well, but, as a whole, the story is amazing and one I highly recommend.