One Small Step: How a Trans Am and the God of the Universe Saved Our Family
My friends and I like to throw around the phrase, “You can’t write that.” This is usually in reference to some crazy event or incredible encounter that’s so unbelievable that it has to be true (if not, somewhat embellished). Sometimes the best stories don’t come from the imagination, but from real life. One Small Step is an excellent example of this. Despite its small size and short page length, this book is full of relevant content and life lessons.
The Plot
In One Small Step, writer Rick Rekedal recalls the story of how his father struggled with alcohol addiction that nearly destroyed his family. However, despite the conflict, pain and struggle, God intervened and proved that His love for us is boundless. With the help of Alcoholics Anonymous and the courage to take that first small step, Rick’s father found God and the strength to reunite his family.
The Good
One Small Step is short and to the point, but it works. In this day and age, the average attention span tends to be quite brief, and the fact this book is easy to pick up and fast to read makes it accessible to anyone. The message is one that most people can relate to, and the fact that it is a true story makes it all the more inspirational. The thing I appreciate most is that it solidifies a personal belief of mine: no one can do it on their own. No matter how tough we think we are, sometimes life is impossible to overcome alone. A little help (or a lot) can mean the difference between overcoming one’s struggles or succumbing to them. On top of all that, there is a Trans Am story and a story about a bird that drinks alcohol. As a bird owner and a lover of classic muscle cars, this book speaks volumes to me personally. This book may be short, but it has more to say than most.
The Bad
The non-linear storytelling might make it difficult for some people to follow, I guess. I’m grasping at straws here.
The Verdict: 9/10
As a writer, I appreciate all forms of storytelling, not just film. One Small Step is a beautiful and inspirational short narrative that I highly recommend to anyone, especially if you are going through your own personal struggles.
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