At Close Range

At Close Range is a story about a mother’s loss and fury, and ultimately how those emotions are transformed into something meaningful and positive. I would not consider this a story of redemption. Rather, I consider it a story about a path to activism that I do not wish on anyone.

If you read the synopsis, you’ll know what the story is about – but what you won’t know unless you read the book is the dogged strength this mother portrayed as she investigated her own son’s death, and then recreated her personal boundaries to give a voice to her anguish that would lead her to being a sought-after gun safety advocate.

“Shutting down and shutting out was my self-defense mechanism.”

The message this author wants to convey is clear, yet her writing brings an energy to the table that I hope will turn into action for parents and educators. I think that’s why she told this story to the world.

I admire her willingness to revisit the traumatic emotions she experienced following the death of her oldest son to a lack of basic gun safety. I think she did a great job of communicating her raw thoughts and emotions. I doubt that was very easy for her to do, but I’m glad she persevered.

“My voice was getting strong enough that I felt I could say whatever the ending held for me.”

The book is a short read, yet it is thoroughly engaging. I couldn’t help but empathize through most of the story. I imagine that the author’s position on gun safety – not to be confused with gun control – could have mixed reactions from readers. However, I think there is a valuable lesson for everyone within these pages, regardless of which side of the gun control fence you call home.

I highly recommend this book to all parents and all educators. I don’t think anyone is too young or too old to learn this message.