The Water Giver: The Story of a Mother, a Son, and Their Second Chance

Through her son's near death accident and the journey her family takes towards recovery, Joan Ryan takes the reader through a roller coaster of emotions. You might think you would be crying from cover to cover, but that's not the case. There are humorous and wonderful moments that will have you laughing out loud. There are also frightening moments that will keep you turning page after page. And, yes, there are moments you might shed some tears. But throughout it all, every moment is REAL. Ms. Ryan's courage to share her experiences so honestly is what makes you root for this family and is why you should read this book.

I thought I might have a hard time reading this, because I have a son, also an only child. I started reading and literally couldn't stop. Ms. Ryan recounted the story of her son's accident and recovery in such a concise and "lack of drama" manner that it really was easy to read. Perhaps because she is a reporter, and knows how to write about very emotional subjects, or perhaps because I knew from the book jacket that Ryan did recover from his accident, the book just roped me in without wringing me out. The story of Ryan's accident and journey to recovery is a great story in itself. Ms. Ryan's own journey as a mother is equally inspirational. I think any mother who reads this book will be able to identify with Ms. Ryan, and even feel relief to find their own feelings about their children so eloquently expressed. We all have such doubts about our ability to parent well, and our children's ability to fit in and be happy. Ms. Ryan's attitude really makes this a wonderful book - her belief that Ryan's accident "reset" her relationship with her son shines. Read this book - you will be glad you did!

The Water Giver is beautifully written and interesting, beginning to end. The horrible accident and medical journey are balanced with tales of family and friends, work and delightful anecdotes. One can laugh, cry, feel empathy, and relate. As soon as I finished, I wanted to read it again.

As a parent who lost a child when he was 14, and now with my two daughters grown up and healthy, I highly recommend The Water Giver to any parent who needs reassurance that we may not all have been perfect, but we did the best we can. Joan Ryan shares how she felt like her son's "manager" (I was guilty of that with all my kids too)and how her son taught her to just be his mother. The book choked me up at times but also inspired me and made me laugh. I loved it and have bought seven copies for friends.

Every parent doubts their parenting style and every child presents unique challenges. By writing her story with brutal honesty regarding her own mistakes, doubts and fears we are all able to feel a bit more human and accepting of our own failures. We can better accept and love our own children whoever they are. And that is priceless. Thank you, Joan.