Soul Surfer
Bethany Hamilton
Rating: 5/5
This uplifting book written by Bethany Hamilton herself is a story about when she was just 13 years old and experienced a tragedy that changed her life. Bethany’s passion was surfing all she ever wants to do is get in the water and paddle out on her foam board waiting for some big waves. But on a Halloween morning in sunny Hawaii Bethany and her family decide to go surfing at one of their favourite spots, Tunnels beach. That morning her dad was at the hospital getting his knee surgery done. When Bethany, her mom, and her two brothers get to the beach they don’t see many waves so Bethany’s mom and brothers go home. But Bethany stays because she notices that her best friend Alana Blanchard is also here with her dad and brother. After they have paddled out around the reef they lay on their boards waiting for waves, Bethany’s left arm is in the water and before she knew it she barely had a left arm. Many people and doctors say that the only reason she is alive today is because how calm she was when all of this happened, I mean she did lose 60% of her blood. After 3 weeks of recovery, Bethany was determined to get back in the water no matter had hard it would be but after many tries she was tired and just about to give up but her dad decided to put a small handle on the end of her board for her to get up easier. Bethany competed but didn't win though she wasn't upset with what she had placed, she was more happy for being able to be out there competing with everyone equally.
Social/Historical context:
The book’s main message is that you should never give up something you love, no matter how many obstacles come your way. It also show’s kid’s that thing’s might seem like everything's falling apart but really you just need some time to take off and realize if it is worth all the work or not.
Writing Style:
Since the story is about her it was probably easier for her to give more vivid details. This also let the book be more descriptive because she actually lived what is going on in the book.
My Thoughts:
As soon as I picked up the book I knew that it was going be right for me. Just looking at the cover I was hooked, and that I would definitely learn something from the book. After reading Soul Surfer I was amazed by how well Bethany overcame only having one arm and how she reacted to all of the struggles to do things, just like putting her hair in a ponytail or cooking dinner for her family. The most meaningful struggle for Bethany is how she will do at Nationals.
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