The Ben Ripple by Lisa Elliot is one mother's story as she walks with her son through his Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. It is a sad story, though full of hope and joy as well, the hope and joy that we find in Christ! This book was made up of Lisa's facebook updates from the duration of the illness, her personal diary writings, as well as a running commentary to keep the story flowing. I found this book an encouragement to read. Ben's positive outlook and obvious joy in Christ is easily felt through the reading. You will definitely want to have a box of Kleenex beside you as you read, especially knowing that this is a true story that is played out far too often and far too close to home. I could see this being a good book to read if you are going through a similar situation or really any situation of living through loss and it keeps Christ the focus throughout and is an encouragement in that way. This story flows from the time right before the diagnosis to after Ben's heavenly graduation and touches a bit on how the family has dealt with Ben's death. I enjoyed this book alot (is "enjoyed" the right word?) and found it hard to put down, making for some very late nights!
