Changing the World in Kenya, One Child at a Time – Riley Unlikely {Review}

Riley Unlikely by Riley Banks-Snyder
Publisher: Zondervan (2016 - September 22)
eARC (176 pages)
Via: NetGalley
Rating:
Reading Challenges: Read 2016

Synopsis

Riley Unlikely is the inspiring story of Riley Banks, who first traveled to Kenya at age 13, and has been back every year since bringing backpacks of school supplies and hygiene kits for young girls, developing relationships and friendships, and is currently, as a young millennial, raising money to build a complete learning complex in Kibwezi, Kenya for those who have nothing.
At age sixteen Riley learned that, because of a rare medical condition, she would never be able to have her own children. Devastating news to most young women, especially those who love children and have always dreamed of having their own family. But Riley’s response was: Kenya has given me a thousand children.
Riley’s stories of her trips to Kenya, her struggles to figure out how to best serve and care for these people she has fallen in love with, and her own unexpected health issues are funny, compelling and gripping. Readers will find that God writes surprising stories in the lives of those who follow Him. Hard to put down, Riley Unlikely will inspire you to pursue your dreams and make a difference in your own world—and around the world.

Find the book: Goodreads, Amazon, Book Depository

My Review

First of all, this book is AMAZING! I started this book while sitting in airports (and on airplanes) on my way home from World Youth Day. To give you a hint about how much I loved this book, let me tell you something. I was literally in tears at the Chicago airport while reading this, twice. I guess that could be my first piece of advice concerning this book: Be prepared for tears!

Riley Unlikely is the true story of Riley and Kenya. Riley first went to Kenya to visit her aunt and uncle (They were missionaries there.) when she was thirteen. She didn’t know then what an impact Kenya would have on her and how that one trip would change the course of her life.

Kenya and the people there, especially the orphaned children, became very important to Riley. In fact, Riley began a foundation, Generation Next, to help get school supplies for the children in need in Kenya. Over the years this foundation has grown, and continues to grow, headed by Riley herself.

Riley is a young woman who has refused to give up. when life got tough, and it did get tough for her, she trusted that God would see her through and that He had a plan for her. She has put her faith before everything and given so much of herself to the people of Kenya.

This young woman is making a difference in the world, one child at a time. I truly admire her and her dedication and her faith. She has not let anything stand in her way.

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley for
review consideration. This in no way affects my opinion of the title
nor the content of this review.

Have you ever read a non-fiction book that truly inspired you? Please share!