Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him

Nathan and Sally speak volumes as they share from their heart in this insightful book about living with an out-of-the-box child. Raising Nathan during a time when many of these disorders (ADHD, OCD, etc) were not well-known and there weren't many solutions to the issues at hand, Sally bravely attempted to bring Nathan up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Dealing with his attention issues and other obsessive compulsive problems day in and day out were a challenge and struggle for Sally. Yet, she continuously sought to love her son and reach out to him. Sally and Nathan share the ups and downs of their years together. Nathan shares his feelings, and what it was like to have these disorders, and his deepest desires. Sally shares the encouragement she received from God's word, the insights she got and practiced daily, as well as, the difficulties, including criticism and advice from well-meaning people. They have become vulnerable to help others. We get an inside look, but we also get encouragement on our own journeys with out-of-the-box kids. This book helped me tremendously in recognizing the needs in my own children's lives. Neither have the equal amount of challenges Nathan faced, but there are certain things I can pick out in each child that relate. And Sally's encouragement and support was just what I needed to be reminded to seek God, cater to their hearts, and remember that they were each created individually in God's image for a purpose here on earth. They are unique and loved by their Creator. When I am baffled, confused and at the end of my rope, He is the one I need to turn to. I believe this book will be an asset to any mother, but also to those who may have already been on this journey and need some extra encouragement. Maybe you just know some kids like this, work with them, or have family members with these struggles. Nathan's point of view can help one who is going through this even as a grown up, as many times the challenges are not out-grown. For me... this book offers hope, insight, and a better outlook. I am so thankful they took the time and made the effort to share their story. I received a free copy of this book through the Tyndale Blogger Network to read. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.