Are you looking for an incredible good read for you or your high schooler? These 4 real life stories are full of physical or mental challenges and interesting journeys out of the normal day-to-day life. All of these are stories of triumph over adversity and give clear examples of strength of character, purpose, and lasting effect on others.
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Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World
Shackleton’s doomed trip to Antarctica is not a new story to us. With the discovery of the Endeavor, we are reminded of the heroics of this true story. What I was not aware of was the absolutely grueling fight for life that ensued when the ship was abandoned. Without knowing the story, we might be tempted to not read it since we know that they all made it back. It must not have been that bad, right? The fact that they all made it back is what makes it so amazing after reading this book.
The epic effort it took just to make it off the floating ice, avoid stalking leapord seals and killer whales, the most dangerous waters of the earth in a little leaking lifeboat is truly worth the read. When Shackleton makes is to the base, he is untrecognizable and brought tears to my eyes. You’ll be sucked into this read- I’ll never think of seals and whales the same ever again.
The Richest Caveman
This story is set during the hippie era and follows a privileged young son of a hollywood actress on the road alone running. He finds himself living in a cave in California providing for himself. His life of finding food, keeping himself alive while on drugs, and how God ultimately reached out to him and turned his life around. The journey doesn’t end there, he relates what happens when he marries in a cave home, becomes a pastor, and what happens on an Indian reservation that he serves in. Full of hope and purpose, this story is a keeper.
God’s Smuggler
Brother Andrew smuggled Bibles into the Soviet Union during the height of the cold war. He recounts his experience of occupied life under the Nazis and the cold war era of blockades and guards. Experiencing truly miraculous events one after the other as he reached those who were stuck behind the iron curtain. One episode of having a load of Bibles in plain sight in his car miraculously become invisible to a checkpoint inpsection was incredicble. Just one of many amazing journeys to and fro through dangerous countries. After reading this, I re-evaluated just how much I don’t lean on God to provide.
Brushko
A young man heads out into the jungles to reach a tribe that has never seen a white man before. Alone with minimal provisions, he is blocked on the trail by arrows being shot at his feet. Taken prisoner, he recounts what life was like as a “guest” of this hidden people group. Escaping through the woods, starving and emaciated, he recounts returning to the the very same people to reach them for Christ. A story of epic courage, strength, and God’s protection that does not disappoint. This book was recommended to me by our pastor who’s son was a very real “Indiana Jones” of the jungle and I’m so glad I’ve read it.
I hope these books inspire and encourage you in ways that increase your faith in mankind and God’s provision and love for His people everywhere. Reading stories of courage and bravery in the face of trials is always a worthwhile endeavor. Have a wonderful day and God bless.
