Rescue at the Reef: The Miraculous True Story of a Little Boy with Big Faith
By (Author) Jameson Reeder
By (author) Mary Catherine Reeder
Little, Brown & Company
Worthy Books
30th September 2025
United States
General
Non Fiction
Hardback
224
Width 152mm, Height 229mm
In the vein of #1 New York Times bestseller Soul Surfer, this inspiring story of loss and resilience follows the Reeder family after a horrific shark attack.
A two-week vacation to the Florida Keys meant Mary and Jameson Sr. could share the beauty of their favorite turquoise-blue waters with their four children. On that serene day at Looe Key Reef, their oldest, ten-year-old Jameson Jr., was swimming among the marine life, capturing breathtaking footage of a sea turtle when a massive bull shark attacked. Nine miles from shore and even farther from a hospital, their son weakening, the Reeders prayed for help-and it came through a miraculous chain of events. Rescue at the Reef is the true story of a young boy who defied death with an unshakable faith in the power of Jesus to save him. Even in immense suffering, he focused on caring for those around him, so much that it surprised even hospital staff. His unshakeable peace made an impact on patients and visitors, and his story quickly spread, drawing the attention of strangers and the media. With reflections on faith, suffering, and the hidden gifts that often go unnoticed, Rescue at the Reef is a living reminder that with God, even the most fearsome challenges can be faced-and conquered. This unforgettable story will leave you on the edge of your seat, inspired by the ripple effects of hope that overcome impossible odds.O.S. Hawkins PhD, Author of the Code Series of Devotionals, Former Pastor, First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas
"Jameson Jr.'s testimony is incredibly inspiring and an amazing reminder of the hope that we have in Jesus. I'm cheering him on to continue to be salt and light to everyone he impacts!"--Bethany Hamilton, shark attack survivor, pro surfer, author of Soul Surfer
"A gripping, faith-filled testament to God's miraculous power in the face of life's most terrifying moments. Jameson Jr.'s courage, resilience, and unshakable trust in Jesus will inspire and challenge readers to see God's hand at work--even in suffering. This story is more than a survival tale; it's a powerful reminder that faith can shine brightest in the darkest of times."--Rich Wilkerson Jr., Lead Pastor, VOUS Church (Miami, FL)
"An extraordinary testament to faith, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit... Jameson Jr., is a living testimony of perseverance and hope, inspiring everyone he meets. This book will move readers to tears and triumph as they witness a family's journey through unimaginable adversity to miraculous recovery. It's a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration."--Vernon Rainwater, Chief of Staff, Full Sail University
"Few people truly understand what it means to survive a shark attack and come out stronger on the other side. Jameson Jr.'s story is one that deeply resonates with my own journey. I had the privilege of meeting Jameson Jr. and his family in Hawaii, sharing waves and witnessing firsthand the fire in this young man's heart. His story will inspire anyone facing life's greatest challenges to rise above fear and step boldly into their purpose."--Mike Coots, Surfer, Photographer, and Shark Attack Survivor
"For the skeptic wondering if God exists...for the outdoor thrill seeker...for the parent seeking to raise a world changer...This is more than a book- It's a real journey from tragedy to triumph through one of life's most feared and unlikely events."--Zack Spurlock, Father, Realtor, Waterman, and Outdoor Enthusiast
"I will never forget the phone call I received just after the shark attack, while Jameson Jr. lay on the operating table. Jameson Sr. reached out, seeking my perspective and advice on how to navigate the life-altering decision to amputate. At that moment, time seemed to stand still. I connected deeply with his heart as a father, wrestling with the weight of a decision that would shape his son's future. It was a conversation that left an indelible mark on me.
Rescue at the Reef will inspire and challenge you, reminding us all of the extraordinary ways we can endure, adapt, and overcome."--Daniel B. Chan MD, Chief Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Memorial Healthcare System
Jameson Reeder is the founder and president of Urban Village, a non-profit movement designed as church for people who don't go to church in global cities of the western world. Jameson speaks about this ministry frequently in churches around the United States. https://www.urbanvillageway.com/riseMary Catherine Reeder is a board-certified Assistant Behavior Analyst who coaches parents and other caregivers of children with Autism and related disabilities. She helps kids with Autism to live, work, and play in their communities as independently as possible. Jameson and Mary live in North Carolina with their four children: Jameson, Jr., Noah, Eliana, and Nehemiah.