The Power of the Powerless A Brother's Legacy of Love

Honestly, this is the best book I have ever had the pleasure of reading. It sent me through a whirlwind of emotion, discovery, and affirmation. I cried through the whole book, sobbed even. The messages of human value, compassion, love, and hope are so inspiring and real. Each story is artfully tied into de Vinck's goal of writing about life and purpose. This is a book for everyone. I couldn't recommend a book more strongly than this one. It's astonishing really, pain is part of the process.

Thank you, Chris de Vinck, for sharing your journey of love with Oliver. Your book has been an inspiration and guideline since 1984 in our choice to care for and nurture our own litle Oliver, Gregory David. Although he died recently, it gave us courage and strength to know that someone else has been where we have. He gave us a vision of life that transcends the life we knew before his birth. It's all about love. It's ALL about love. You will always remain in our prayers for writing this little portrait of the gift of knowing someonewho has nothing to give but love.

If you have ever wondered why God allows people to be born with handicaps of any type, read this book. Oliver was born blind, mute, physically and mentally handicapped, yet his life had a greater impact on more people than many of us who are "normal" can ever hope to have. This book reminds us of the value of life and is very inspiring. I found it most touching that Ronald Reagan wrote to Mr. DeVinck about the power of his powerless brother and now former President Reagan is also one of the powerless due to Alzheimer's. I would highly recommend that you read this book. I also recommend Harold Kushner's "When Bad Things Happen to Good People."

I want to let anyone know that is interested in this book to buy it. I first read this book about 8 years ago, and have made a point to read it at least once a year. It has a way of reminding me what is important in life, and what is real. Read this book and you will never be the same! I have given my copy to anyone that will read it, it is good for young teens and up!

This book has tremendously affected the way I view severely handicapped persons. I am completing a master's degree in special education and a friend of mine sent me a copy so that we could discuss it later. I thoroughly enjoyed re-discovering why God allows us to get to know and love people who seem powerless without our help. It is truly we who are ministered to (helped). Thank you Lord for giving the DeVincks, Oliver, for a short time on this earth. I am looking forward to meeting him in the future.