If you’re an American Idol fan, then chances are you remember watching a few seasons ago as Scott MacIntyre became the first blind finalist in the show’s history. Born with a severe case of tunnel vision, MacIntyre’s entire life has been a story of overcoming obstacles many others would consider insurmountable: not only has he learned to live with virtual blindness, but he is living proof that one can thrive even amid the most difficult of circumstances – including being diagnosed with stage 4 renal (kidney) failure at the age of 19.

Equally as amazing as Scott’s resilience and musical ability is his academic success. At only 14 years of age, he was admitted to Arizona State University's Barrett Honors College and Herberger College of the Arts. He later obtained his masters degree at Royal Holloway, University of London and the Royal College of Music while still living independent of the assistance one would think necessary while living with blindness and a chronic disease.

While I do think some segments of this book were drawn out a bit too much, the underlying story is so inspiring that I still consider it a very worthwhile read. It’s definitely not necessary to be an American Idol fan in order to enjoy this book since that aspect of his story is largely sidelined until the closing chapters and, honestly, of all the books I’ve reviewed so far this is the one I’m most likely to recommend. Even if you don’t have a local library, consider picking up a copy at your local Christian Bookstore. It’s that good.