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Find the Helpers: What 9/11 and Parkland Taught Me About Recovery, Purpose, and Hope
Fred Guttenberg loved watching Mr. Rogers with his daughter and his son when they were little. Their favorite piece of wisdom was: In the midst of tragedy and catastrophe, find the helpers.
“Always look for the helpers. There will always be helpers. Because if you look for the helpers, you’ll know there’s hope.” ―Fred Rogers, interview with Television Academy, 1999
Life changed forever on Valentine's Day 2018. What was to be a family day celebrating love turned into a nightmare. Thirty-four people were shot at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Jaime Guttenberg, a fourteen-year-old with a huge heart, was the second to last victim. That she and so many of her fellow students were struck down in cold blood galvanized many to action, including Jaime’s father Fred who has become an activist dedicated to passing common sense gun safety legislation.
Fred was already struggling with deep personal loss. Four months earlier his brother Michael died of 9/11 induced pancreatic cancer. He had been exposed to so much dust and chemicals at Ground Zero, the damage caught up with him. Michael battled heroically for nearly five years and then died at age fifty.
This book is not about gun safety or Parkland. Instead, Find the Helpers tells the story of Fred Guttenberg’s journey since Jaime’s death and how he has been able to get through the worst of times thanks to the kindness and compassion of others. Good things happen to good people at the hands of other good people─and the world is filled with them. They include everyone from amazing gun violence survivors Fred has met around the country to former VP Joe Biden, who spent time talking to him about finding mission and purpose in learning to grieve.
If you have read books such as Born to Shine; Just Mercy; or If I Don't Make It, I Love You; then your next read should be Find the Helpers.
“Always look for the helpers. There will always be helpers. Because if you look for the helpers, you’ll know there’s hope.” ―Fred Rogers, interview with Television Academy, 1999
Life changed forever on Valentine's Day 2018. What was to be a family day celebrating love turned into a nightmare. Thirty-four people were shot at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Jaime Guttenberg, a fourteen-year-old with a huge heart, was the second to last victim. That she and so many of her fellow students were struck down in cold blood galvanized many to action, including Jaime’s father Fred who has become an activist dedicated to passing common sense gun safety legislation.
Fred was already struggling with deep personal loss. Four months earlier his brother Michael died of 9/11 induced pancreatic cancer. He had been exposed to so much dust and chemicals at Ground Zero, the damage caught up with him. Michael battled heroically for nearly five years and then died at age fifty.
This book is not about gun safety or Parkland. Instead, Find the Helpers tells the story of Fred Guttenberg’s journey since Jaime’s death and how he has been able to get through the worst of times thanks to the kindness and compassion of others. Good things happen to good people at the hands of other good people─and the world is filled with them. They include everyone from amazing gun violence survivors Fred has met around the country to former VP Joe Biden, who spent time talking to him about finding mission and purpose in learning to grieve.
If you have read books such as Born to Shine; Just Mercy; or If I Don't Make It, I Love You; then your next read should be Find the Helpers.
198 pages, Hardcover
First published September 15, 2020
93 people are currently reading
2037 people want to read
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October 18, 2020
FIND THE HELPERS is a book that never should have had to be written. What I mean is that Fred Guttenberg should never have had to lose his daughter in a "school shooting." His daughter, Jaime, should be at home right now thinking about her life goals, competing in dance competitions, and giggling with her friends over boys. Instead, she has been dead for the past two years and her family is grieving the loss of a vibrant, intelligent, and caring young woman.
Gun violence and mass shootings have become commonplace in the United States and that is the horrific truth.
After losing his daughter in a school shooting in Parkland, Florida, grief-stricken father Fred Guttenberg dedicated himself to fighting against gun violence in America. He did not want any other family to have to lose a loved one to gun violence.
This book does talk about the shooting and it's aftermath, and does talk about the epidemic of gun violence in America today. However, FIND THE HELPERS is more about the people he has met and who have appeared in his life at the exact moment he needed someone.
"This book is not about gun safety or what happened at Parkland. Instead, [the Author] share[s] the story of the journey [he has] been on since Jaime's death and how [he's] been able to get through the worst of times thanks to the love and kindness of others." Fred Guttenberg states that his book: "...focuses on when good things happen to good people at the hands of other good people." He states that "To fight, you have to have hope. And this book is about nourishing the soul so that you have the stamina to fight. This book is meant to be a beacon of love and hope and compassion."
The stories he relates in FINDING THE HELPERS all speak of the people he has met since his daughter's death and how each of those people have been "helpers" to him and to his fight against gun violence.
"Guns don't discriminate; bullets don't discriminate. When they hit you, they do not know if you are a Republican or a Democrat. They do not know if you are for or against gun safety. They don't know if you are black or white. When they hit you, all that you know is that they are likely to kill you."
"We do have a real crisis in this country, a real emergency. In the United States of America, over 40,000 people now die every year from gun violence. That is a higher rate of death than from traffic accidents."
The two quotes I included above are, to my mind, very telling. Now, just to make it clear, I am a Canadian, not an American. Being Canadian means I grew up in a country where gun violence happens, but nowhere near as often as it does in the United States. Fred Guttenberg asks a question in his book that I, and millions of others, would love to have answered. Fred asks: "Why doesn't President Trump consider 40,000 people dying a national emergency?" The author also writes: "It is sad to realize that if all gun violence were only committed by illegal aliens, this President would be working overtime to do something about it." I believe that to be true.
Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, invited Fred to the 2019 State of the Union address, and once again invited Fred Guttenberg to be her guest at the 2020 State of the Union address. He was hopeful, but knew it was unlikely, that the President might address the gun violence issue during his speech. Fred Guttenberg was right to be skeptical. During the speech, Fred's emotions got the better of him when Trump's only reference to violence against American citizens was once again blamed on illegal immigrants. "He was blaming violence on them, and that was inaccurate." When Trump announced that he would protect the second amendment, and Republicans in the audience jumped up and cheered, "... [Fred] lost it. [He] had been quiet all night, but at that, [he] stood up and yelled back, saying only nine words: 'What about victims of gun violence like my daughter?' Within seconds, [he] was confronted by security... [His] outburst got [him] handcuffed and detained by the Capitol Police." He was detained and questioned, but was ultimately released (but not until Trump's speech had concluded) when Speaker Pelosi intervened on his behalf. These events made national and international news. I say, GOOD FOR HIM. Someone needed to say something to the current President who seems to care only about violence caused by illegal immigrants and ignores the epidemic of gun violence that is prevalent in U.S. society.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Fred Guttenberg, his family, and his mission to stop other parents from having to bury their children due to some 🤬 with a gun.
I am rating FIND THE HELPERS as 5 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My only semi-negative comment is that the title can be misconstrued and I hope that people will look past that and will run out and buy this book. In fact, Christmas is coming soon and this book (along with a t-shirt and orange enamel pin from the ORANGE RIBBONS FOR JAIME charity) would make a fabulous gift for every parent, first responder, and educator on your shopping list.
*** Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book. ***
To learn more about this book and the Gun Violence charity, please visit my blog at
http://bit.ly/FindtheHelpers
Make sure to enter the proper lower and upper case
Or go to
http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
Gun violence and mass shootings have become commonplace in the United States and that is the horrific truth.
After losing his daughter in a school shooting in Parkland, Florida, grief-stricken father Fred Guttenberg dedicated himself to fighting against gun violence in America. He did not want any other family to have to lose a loved one to gun violence.
This book does talk about the shooting and it's aftermath, and does talk about the epidemic of gun violence in America today. However, FIND THE HELPERS is more about the people he has met and who have appeared in his life at the exact moment he needed someone.
"This book is not about gun safety or what happened at Parkland. Instead, [the Author] share[s] the story of the journey [he has] been on since Jaime's death and how [he's] been able to get through the worst of times thanks to the love and kindness of others." Fred Guttenberg states that his book: "...focuses on when good things happen to good people at the hands of other good people." He states that "To fight, you have to have hope. And this book is about nourishing the soul so that you have the stamina to fight. This book is meant to be a beacon of love and hope and compassion."
The stories he relates in FINDING THE HELPERS all speak of the people he has met since his daughter's death and how each of those people have been "helpers" to him and to his fight against gun violence.
"Guns don't discriminate; bullets don't discriminate. When they hit you, they do not know if you are a Republican or a Democrat. They do not know if you are for or against gun safety. They don't know if you are black or white. When they hit you, all that you know is that they are likely to kill you."
"We do have a real crisis in this country, a real emergency. In the United States of America, over 40,000 people now die every year from gun violence. That is a higher rate of death than from traffic accidents."
The two quotes I included above are, to my mind, very telling. Now, just to make it clear, I am a Canadian, not an American. Being Canadian means I grew up in a country where gun violence happens, but nowhere near as often as it does in the United States. Fred Guttenberg asks a question in his book that I, and millions of others, would love to have answered. Fred asks: "Why doesn't President Trump consider 40,000 people dying a national emergency?" The author also writes: "It is sad to realize that if all gun violence were only committed by illegal aliens, this President would be working overtime to do something about it." I believe that to be true.
Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, invited Fred to the 2019 State of the Union address, and once again invited Fred Guttenberg to be her guest at the 2020 State of the Union address. He was hopeful, but knew it was unlikely, that the President might address the gun violence issue during his speech. Fred Guttenberg was right to be skeptical. During the speech, Fred's emotions got the better of him when Trump's only reference to violence against American citizens was once again blamed on illegal immigrants. "He was blaming violence on them, and that was inaccurate." When Trump announced that he would protect the second amendment, and Republicans in the audience jumped up and cheered, "... [Fred] lost it. [He] had been quiet all night, but at that, [he] stood up and yelled back, saying only nine words: 'What about victims of gun violence like my daughter?' Within seconds, [he] was confronted by security... [His] outburst got [him] handcuffed and detained by the Capitol Police." He was detained and questioned, but was ultimately released (but not until Trump's speech had concluded) when Speaker Pelosi intervened on his behalf. These events made national and international news. I say, GOOD FOR HIM. Someone needed to say something to the current President who seems to care only about violence caused by illegal immigrants and ignores the epidemic of gun violence that is prevalent in U.S. society.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Fred Guttenberg, his family, and his mission to stop other parents from having to bury their children due to some 🤬 with a gun.
I am rating FIND THE HELPERS as 5 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My only semi-negative comment is that the title can be misconstrued and I hope that people will look past that and will run out and buy this book. In fact, Christmas is coming soon and this book (along with a t-shirt and orange enamel pin from the ORANGE RIBBONS FOR JAIME charity) would make a fabulous gift for every parent, first responder, and educator on your shopping list.
*** Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book. ***
To learn more about this book and the Gun Violence charity, please visit my blog at
http://bit.ly/FindtheHelpers
Make sure to enter the proper lower and upper case
Or go to
http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
April 21, 2021
I cried at parts but the book wasn't written to be a tear jerker. Fred tells a compelling story, aided by a helper. I am in awe of his advocacy and determined to help. I recommend this book to anyone who is appalled at the gun violence in our country and wonders how to be a helper.
October 11, 2020
Fred Guttenberg lost his daughter, Jamie, on Valentine's Day of 2018 in the high school shooting in Parkland, Florida. I was not aware of the situation that took his brother's life just months earlier. Fred is a major player in the fight to change gun laws.
I am a teacher in a school just a mile from where this tragedy took place and it is a day I will never forget. Turning on the national news after a 2 hour lockdown, and seeing our little community in the spotlight was completely surreal and frightening.
I cannot and do not ever want to know what it is to lose a child, especially in such a horrific manner. Fred has channeled his grief into trying to protect others from the same fate as his beautiful daughter. I learned so much about his fight and the way he has dealt with losing his loved ones.
Although this is a story about the tragedies he's endured, it's also a focus on all of the individuals who have stepped in to help him along the way. He has truly received support from all around him and this book is a "thank you" to all of those who have held him up through it all.
I am a teacher in a school just a mile from where this tragedy took place and it is a day I will never forget. Turning on the national news after a 2 hour lockdown, and seeing our little community in the spotlight was completely surreal and frightening.
I cannot and do not ever want to know what it is to lose a child, especially in such a horrific manner. Fred has channeled his grief into trying to protect others from the same fate as his beautiful daughter. I learned so much about his fight and the way he has dealt with losing his loved ones.
Although this is a story about the tragedies he's endured, it's also a focus on all of the individuals who have stepped in to help him along the way. He has truly received support from all around him and this book is a "thank you" to all of those who have held him up through it all.
March 3, 2024
This is a heartbreaking story about the author and his family's loss on the day of the Parkland High School shooting in Florida, Feb. 14, 2018. It focuses on the helpers who came into their lives when Fred Guttenberg lost his brother Michael to eventual cancer from the carcinogens he had inhaled as a first responder at the World Trade Center on 9/11 and when they lost Jaime to a shooter less than 6 months later. The helpers varied: other first responders, the other Parkland parents, family, friends and even strangers and politicians. Notably, he remembers not hearing any empathetic statement from non-helper President Trump but getting a long and surprising phone call from helper Biden, who said all the right things and kept the focus on the family's grief and stories of their daughter, lending an unselfish and sympathetic ear.
The book also focuses on his goal after Jaimie's death--to get common sense gun safety laws on the books. Many helpers have helped him with this focus, too, both Republicans and Democrats and Americans like himself. He insists he's not against the second amendment, but he does want to see military style weapons out of the hands of everyday folks and other laws like raising the age for gun ownership, better background checks, safe gun storage, etc. I agree with his mission. I'm a gun owner myself, having inherited some guns from my hunting kin. A few years ago, a gun out the kitchen window came in handy to shoot a groundhog eating the cabbages in my garden! Common sense gun laws would not have affected my gun ownership or the fate of that groundhog! Those laws might, however, save a few more human lives.
Gun violence is, of course, a complex issue. Societal deterioration, lack of enforcement of red flag laws, mental illness and lack of easy access to therapy, Internet influencers and social media, and many other problems lead to gun violence. It will take much more than just better gun safety laws t0 resolve the issue, but it's a start.
I give this book 3 stars because it's a difficult book to read and I sometimes found the author a little too confrontational in his goal, though that may be understandable considering his anger and grief. For one thing, he insists on standing when he is talking about Jaime and gun control because he doesn't want to be comfortable in the discussion. This seemed strange to me as standing while others are sitting seems like a threatening posture. Otherwise, the book is well-written and presents a compelling, thought-provoking story.
The book also focuses on his goal after Jaimie's death--to get common sense gun safety laws on the books. Many helpers have helped him with this focus, too, both Republicans and Democrats and Americans like himself. He insists he's not against the second amendment, but he does want to see military style weapons out of the hands of everyday folks and other laws like raising the age for gun ownership, better background checks, safe gun storage, etc. I agree with his mission. I'm a gun owner myself, having inherited some guns from my hunting kin. A few years ago, a gun out the kitchen window came in handy to shoot a groundhog eating the cabbages in my garden! Common sense gun laws would not have affected my gun ownership or the fate of that groundhog! Those laws might, however, save a few more human lives.
Gun violence is, of course, a complex issue. Societal deterioration, lack of enforcement of red flag laws, mental illness and lack of easy access to therapy, Internet influencers and social media, and many other problems lead to gun violence. It will take much more than just better gun safety laws t0 resolve the issue, but it's a start.
I give this book 3 stars because it's a difficult book to read and I sometimes found the author a little too confrontational in his goal, though that may be understandable considering his anger and grief. For one thing, he insists on standing when he is talking about Jaime and gun control because he doesn't want to be comfortable in the discussion. This seemed strange to me as standing while others are sitting seems like a threatening posture. Otherwise, the book is well-written and presents a compelling, thought-provoking story.
September 30, 2020
Bash President Trump and the NRA should be the title
I thought this book would be about Jaime's life and tragic death. Instead it's another let's bash the president and NRA and all Republicans are useless and every Democrat is terrific book. My entire family are certified, registered gun owners. My husband is a former police officer and a avid gun collector. Do I think better gun ownership laws need to be in place? Absolutely. Do I think serious mental health issues are mostly to blame? Absolutely. Is there pure evil in this world? Absolutely. Do I think Joe Biden or Nancy Pelosi will.contribute anything of worth to the gun violence issue? Absolutely not!! While I am very sorry for the loss of the authors brother and daughter to tragic events, I did not like this book. Too much politics and not enough about the life stories of the individuals. If you are a Democrat anti-NRA or a Biden supporter you will probably like this book.
I thought this book would be about Jaime's life and tragic death. Instead it's another let's bash the president and NRA and all Republicans are useless and every Democrat is terrific book. My entire family are certified, registered gun owners. My husband is a former police officer and a avid gun collector. Do I think better gun ownership laws need to be in place? Absolutely. Do I think serious mental health issues are mostly to blame? Absolutely. Is there pure evil in this world? Absolutely. Do I think Joe Biden or Nancy Pelosi will.contribute anything of worth to the gun violence issue? Absolutely not!! While I am very sorry for the loss of the authors brother and daughter to tragic events, I did not like this book. Too much politics and not enough about the life stories of the individuals. If you are a Democrat anti-NRA or a Biden supporter you will probably like this book.
March 27, 2024
Wow. This book blew me away. It was so heart wrenching to listen to and never before have I cried so much during one single book.
This is the story of a man who has lost a brother to the consequences of 9-11 and a daughter to a school shooting, and what he has done with his life since. It shows his incredible strength in moving forward with a beautiful goal in mind without ever forgetting the tragedies that set him on that path.
I received this ARC before I became a mother but due to various reasons, I just now got to this book. My own daughter is two years old now and despite being a few years out, sending her to school in the US has been a topic of much anxiety for me, partially because of the issue of gun violence. I grew up in Europe in a country that doesn’t have this issue and the contrast since moving here has grown more and more in my mind over the last decade and a half.
Reading this book was terrifying, emotional, and informative for me. I am so glad there are people like Fred Guttenberg that are putting so much energy into changing things for the better in regards to gun violence. I hate that he had to go through these harrowing experiences but I am thankful for having been able to listen to this book to learn about the various ways people can stand and have stood up for a cause that is so personal and important to so many people.
This is the story of a man who has lost a brother to the consequences of 9-11 and a daughter to a school shooting, and what he has done with his life since. It shows his incredible strength in moving forward with a beautiful goal in mind without ever forgetting the tragedies that set him on that path.
I received this ARC before I became a mother but due to various reasons, I just now got to this book. My own daughter is two years old now and despite being a few years out, sending her to school in the US has been a topic of much anxiety for me, partially because of the issue of gun violence. I grew up in Europe in a country that doesn’t have this issue and the contrast since moving here has grown more and more in my mind over the last decade and a half.
Reading this book was terrifying, emotional, and informative for me. I am so glad there are people like Fred Guttenberg that are putting so much energy into changing things for the better in regards to gun violence. I hate that he had to go through these harrowing experiences but I am thankful for having been able to listen to this book to learn about the various ways people can stand and have stood up for a cause that is so personal and important to so many people.
October 5, 2020
Being from Parkland, I thought Fred's story would difficult to get through but I found it inspiring. I am in awe of the strength, courage and tenacity exhibited by Fred and his family. Well written and a beautiful tribute to his daughter Jaime and his brother Micheal, it speaks to the profound loss that gun violence takes upon society. I came away with renewed hope for the future and the desire to be a helper, always 🧡
February 3, 2021
This book can be described as pure political propaganda.
I knew something was off when the book was being praised with quotes from thinkers such as Alyssa Milano and Debra Messing.
The forward by Bradley Whitford started to hint at this book being Anti Trump, Anti NRA, Anti RNC and so on.
Which then jumped into Biden calling Fred Guttenberg on the anniversary of his daughter’s death. But the book says Fred will not endorse a candidate but then tells us the only way to be safe is with Biden and the Democrats.
This book also keeps calling him vice president Biden. The term ‘former’ never pops up.
Instead of getting the story about his daughter’s life and tragic death we are treated to the staged Justice Kavanaugh moment as well as something that happened at the State of the Union.
This book also keeps saying that he wants to work with everyone. You clearly don’t.
We are of course told that Democrats are the best thing since sliced bread and the Republicans are bad and Trump is awful. Yet no mention of him ever trying to even sit down with the president.
Yet you want to work with everyone? I think not.
As I said Propaganda.
https://theworldisabookandiamitsreade...
I knew something was off when the book was being praised with quotes from thinkers such as Alyssa Milano and Debra Messing.
The forward by Bradley Whitford started to hint at this book being Anti Trump, Anti NRA, Anti RNC and so on.
Which then jumped into Biden calling Fred Guttenberg on the anniversary of his daughter’s death. But the book says Fred will not endorse a candidate but then tells us the only way to be safe is with Biden and the Democrats.
This book also keeps calling him vice president Biden. The term ‘former’ never pops up.
Instead of getting the story about his daughter’s life and tragic death we are treated to the staged Justice Kavanaugh moment as well as something that happened at the State of the Union.
This book also keeps saying that he wants to work with everyone. You clearly don’t.
We are of course told that Democrats are the best thing since sliced bread and the Republicans are bad and Trump is awful. Yet no mention of him ever trying to even sit down with the president.
Yet you want to work with everyone? I think not.
As I said Propaganda.
https://theworldisabookandiamitsreade...
February 3, 2021
Heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. It is the most difficult book I have ever read. Please read.
January 26, 2021
When I first learned about Find the Helpers, I added it to my Want to Read list right away. And then when I found out that I actually won a copy from the publisher through Goodreads, I was really excited. Fred Guttenberg is a hero to me. I am also a parent who has lost a child, and so I have looked at his strength, courage, and advocacy as something incredibly special. Guttenberg has taken one of the worst experiences in anyone's life and used it to make the world better for others. Although he writes about the helpers he has found in his own life, he is a helper to many others.
Fred Guttenberg lost his beautiful 14-year-old daughter, Jaime, in the Parkland shooting in 2018. Reading about the horror of what began as just another school day hit me hard. No parent should ever hear “there’s an active shooter” at their child’s school. No parent should ever have to live through the agony of waiting and not knowing if their child has survived.
Find the Helpers is not a long book, but it contains much that is thought-provoking and much that is hopeful despite the difficulty of its subject. Fred Guttenberg lost his beloved brother Michael just a few months before Jaime. Michael was a first responder to 9/11 and died as a result of the toxins that he was exposed to when he put the needs of others before himself. Michael was a helper. Although Jaime was only 14 when she was killed, she, too, was a helper. She was a talented dancer and someone who advocated for those on the margins.
Fred Guttenberg’s life is filled with helpers—the friends and neighbors who surrounded him, his wife, and son after Parkland and the many people he has met since as he took on his role as advocate against gun violence. The stories included in the book bring hope, but also frustration. Fred Guttenberg fights on to break the control the NRA has over legislators on the national and state levels. It can be embarrassing to read about the politicians who refuse to even speak with Guttenberg on the issue.
I’m so glad I had the chance to spend time with Fred Guttenberg. His courage, determination, and passion make him one of the helpers, and the helpers are the ones who help us all move forward.
Fred Guttenberg lost his beautiful 14-year-old daughter, Jaime, in the Parkland shooting in 2018. Reading about the horror of what began as just another school day hit me hard. No parent should ever hear “there’s an active shooter” at their child’s school. No parent should ever have to live through the agony of waiting and not knowing if their child has survived.
Find the Helpers is not a long book, but it contains much that is thought-provoking and much that is hopeful despite the difficulty of its subject. Fred Guttenberg lost his beloved brother Michael just a few months before Jaime. Michael was a first responder to 9/11 and died as a result of the toxins that he was exposed to when he put the needs of others before himself. Michael was a helper. Although Jaime was only 14 when she was killed, she, too, was a helper. She was a talented dancer and someone who advocated for those on the margins.
Fred Guttenberg’s life is filled with helpers—the friends and neighbors who surrounded him, his wife, and son after Parkland and the many people he has met since as he took on his role as advocate against gun violence. The stories included in the book bring hope, but also frustration. Fred Guttenberg fights on to break the control the NRA has over legislators on the national and state levels. It can be embarrassing to read about the politicians who refuse to even speak with Guttenberg on the issue.
I’m so glad I had the chance to spend time with Fred Guttenberg. His courage, determination, and passion make him one of the helpers, and the helpers are the ones who help us all move forward.
February 15, 2021
Fred Guttenberg's book was provided to me through a Goodreads Giveaway.
I recommend avoiding this book.
"Find Helpers: What 9/11 and Parkland Taught Me About Recovery, Purpose and Hope" does not stick to the thesis of finding helpers. The book appears to be taken from a journal. There are many passages that repeat. I wish the editors had been better.
It is unfortunate the writer lost his brother after 9/11 and his daughter in the Parkland shooting. These are very difficult incidents in anyone's life. The author uses the book to go after the NRA. The irony is he never criticizes terrorism.
Mr. Guttenberg uses a very black and white litmus test: Democrats are good and Republicans are bad. He twice is stopped by security for disruptions. Both times powerful politicians intervene to prevent his punishment...something not available to the average citizen. He labels the use of these 'friends' as 'helpers'.
The greatest disappointment in reading "Find the Helpers" is the author's lack of any proposals for solving the problems he cites. At the same time, his credibility comes into question when data is not proven. As an example, he cites 40,000 people or more die each year from gun violence. There is not one footnote in the book to show where this data can be researched.
In summary, if I picked up this book in a store and flipped through it, I would have put it down. Read something else.
I recommend avoiding this book.
"Find Helpers: What 9/11 and Parkland Taught Me About Recovery, Purpose and Hope" does not stick to the thesis of finding helpers. The book appears to be taken from a journal. There are many passages that repeat. I wish the editors had been better.
It is unfortunate the writer lost his brother after 9/11 and his daughter in the Parkland shooting. These are very difficult incidents in anyone's life. The author uses the book to go after the NRA. The irony is he never criticizes terrorism.
Mr. Guttenberg uses a very black and white litmus test: Democrats are good and Republicans are bad. He twice is stopped by security for disruptions. Both times powerful politicians intervene to prevent his punishment...something not available to the average citizen. He labels the use of these 'friends' as 'helpers'.
The greatest disappointment in reading "Find the Helpers" is the author's lack of any proposals for solving the problems he cites. At the same time, his credibility comes into question when data is not proven. As an example, he cites 40,000 people or more die each year from gun violence. There is not one footnote in the book to show where this data can be researched.
In summary, if I picked up this book in a store and flipped through it, I would have put it down. Read something else.
October 25, 2020
Find the Helpers is a book Fred Guttenberg wished he never had written. He describes the aftermath of the death of his brother Michael from the effects of being an EMT at the World Trade Center on 9/11 and the murder of his daughter Jaime at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. He describes how he transformed his pain and grief into activism and the support and challenges he found along the way.
Whether you agree with his politics or not, you can't help but be moved by the pain he and his family suffered and the determination and sense of family and social responsibility he developed growing up. He also paints a beautiful picture of his daughter Jaime, a dancer and stellar student who "was born with the tough gene...She didn't put up with others being treated poorly." He also describes the horrible moments of learning about his daughter's death and the heartbreaking moment when he had to bury his own child.
In the United States, we bound from tragedy to tragedy, ignoring one to focus on the next. Even the 225,000 who have died so far of COVID-19 are often shoved into the back of our minds. But Parkland, like 9/11, is a horror we can never set aside. In Find the Helpers, Fred Guttenberg showed us how he deals with both. In his story, we can all find inspiration to move forward.
Whether you agree with his politics or not, you can't help but be moved by the pain he and his family suffered and the determination and sense of family and social responsibility he developed growing up. He also paints a beautiful picture of his daughter Jaime, a dancer and stellar student who "was born with the tough gene...She didn't put up with others being treated poorly." He also describes the horrible moments of learning about his daughter's death and the heartbreaking moment when he had to bury his own child.
In the United States, we bound from tragedy to tragedy, ignoring one to focus on the next. Even the 225,000 who have died so far of COVID-19 are often shoved into the back of our minds. But Parkland, like 9/11, is a horror we can never set aside. In Find the Helpers, Fred Guttenberg showed us how he deals with both. In his story, we can all find inspiration to move forward.
March 21, 2021
Fred Guttenberg is the father of Jaime Guttenberg, a 14 year old girl who lost her life at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Jaime was a kind soul, always sticking up for her fellow students and intervening to protect students against bullies. She was mere seconds away to safety when a teenage gunman ended her life with a bullet to her back with an AR-15 rifle, a weapon designed for war. Fred shares the story of his family, his daughter Jaime, and his mission to serve those affected by the scourge of gun violence here in the United States. His book is a reflection on his and his families strengths and struggles in overcoming the death of Jaime. He tells of his mission to bring forth considerable change in the United States to lessen the severity of gun violence. Fred Guttenberg is unwavering, strong, and courageous in bringing forth his message and calls to action. He discusses his conversations with members of congress and challenges with dealing with them. The message of this book is a call to action. To bring forth a movement that will save lives and change the United States and communities throughout the land for the better.
March 21, 2021
Graciously received a free copy through good reads.
Fred's daughter was murdered, and I won't ever pretend to even know what that heart ripping, life shattering moment was like.
However, I was hoping this was a motivational book and instead read a book about gun laws.
I currently work with large gun violence prevention researchers, so I'm not against the idea, but what I don't enjoy is when the focus is entirely on the weapon of choice. We know that the majority of mass shootings are domestic related, but domestic violence campaigns don't solely focus on gun laws, they focus on the why. We need to take more of a look at the mental and sexual health of people, because violence is usually related to this. Advocate for health classes with certified health teachers for every grade level.
Let's make the world a better place by focusing on people and fixing childhood experiences, lack of parenting skills, and less selfishness in the world.
I don't take away the author's experiences, I just was hoping for more in this book than I got.
Fred's daughter was murdered, and I won't ever pretend to even know what that heart ripping, life shattering moment was like.
However, I was hoping this was a motivational book and instead read a book about gun laws.
I currently work with large gun violence prevention researchers, so I'm not against the idea, but what I don't enjoy is when the focus is entirely on the weapon of choice. We know that the majority of mass shootings are domestic related, but domestic violence campaigns don't solely focus on gun laws, they focus on the why. We need to take more of a look at the mental and sexual health of people, because violence is usually related to this. Advocate for health classes with certified health teachers for every grade level.
Let's make the world a better place by focusing on people and fixing childhood experiences, lack of parenting skills, and less selfishness in the world.
I don't take away the author's experiences, I just was hoping for more in this book than I got.
May 19, 2021
This was a quick read and a good albeit heartbreaking reminder of how we never know what tommorrow will bring. Mr. Guttenberg has dedicated the rest of his life to getting safer gun laws passed in the US after losing both his brother and his daughter within 4 months of each other. His daughter was just 14 and a victim of Parkland... killed while in High School. Unimaginable... yet it happens all to frequently. His story is very interesting and his inside stories of dealing with politics and politicians while only seeking common sense laws is also eye opening. I came away wanting to help the mission, yet I am sad to say I still feel somewhat helpless. I felt his pain though, and I came away much more appreciative of what I have... yet frustrated that so little has been done to stop guns getting into the wrong hands.....
November 28, 2021
I received this book as part of a giveaway and am thankful for the chance to review it because of the depth of the message of this story. I think we always assume that when tragedy strikes, people will shut down and crawl into themselves. Fred’s story is one of not one but two tragedies, both a result of violence in the US. He did not shut down or crawl into himself. Instead, he fought hard to fight legislature that makes gun violence OK. He fought people of high status and received support from people of high status. He took his daughters untimely death and used it as a catalyst for conversation and systemic change. It was a beautifully done book and Fred too is a helper in the fight against gun violence in the US.
September 21, 2020
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read and review Find the Helpers. On February 14, 2018 the innocence of Valentines Day ended for Broward County, Florida and beyond. As a teacher in Broward County, Valentines Day was always dreaded. The popular kids roamed the halls with balloons,candy, and stuffed animals. Then there were the other children who had nothing to show for the day. It all ended on that Valentines Day in 2018. The innocence of the day would never be the same. Nothing would ever be the same for anyone... especially the families of the victims of the MSD High School in Parkland, Fl.
February 18, 2021
Find the Helpers is a tragic, touching book driven by a father’s grief and his work for a brighter, safer future in honor of his daughter. The book details the events of the Parkland shooting, what Jaime’s loss meant to the author’s family, the concrete steps toward reducing gun violence that the author champions, and the value of identifying helpers along the difficult journey. The chapters about Jaime’s death were tear-jerking and physically painful to read. I am sorry that Mr. Gutenberg had to write this book, but I admire his tenacity and optimism in the face of unspeakable loss.
** Thanks to Mango Publishing for a copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.
** Thanks to Mango Publishing for a copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.
December 1, 2020
I just finished reading Fred Guttenberg's "Find the Helpers" and I feel very moved. It is an inspiring read. Mr. Guttenberg channeled his grief into activism, and along his journey he encountered others who helped him, often when he needed it most. It is quite amazing to reach the end of the book and realize that all this has happened in the last few years. I predict that Mr. Guttenberg's fight against the NRA is far from over. Great things are in store in his futre. I would love to see Mr. Guttenberg run for public office. I would vote for him in a heartbeat. I highly recommend this book.
May 14, 2021
Fred Guttenberg has never met me, but after reading this book I can say that he is one of my helpers. I don't feel I can do justice to the impactful story within these pages, just read it. I've had more loss and struggle in my own life than I care to discuss, but I do know that it is the painful things in my life that have taught me the best lessons, given me strength and hope that I may not have had without it. Pain is so often our teacher, and yet something we naturally run from. Fred's story is at once heartbreaking and profoundly inspirational.
February 26, 2021
The fact that this country continues a policy of only “thouggts and prayers” to combat the senseless gun murders whether on the streets, schools, social clubs, shopping centers or entertainment venues is a STAIN OF SHAME AND MADNESS! This author reflects on his experience as a parent mourning his daughters death, his activism to implement common sense gun laws and the lovely “helpers” along the way.
October 1, 2020
Just Help
This book was captive from page 1
I cannot image the pain and heartache this family has endured. Fred will make the world a better place and someday the Gun control will come true. Just continue down your road to make a difference and know there are many people praying for you and your family!
This book was captive from page 1
I cannot image the pain and heartache this family has endured. Fred will make the world a better place and someday the Gun control will come true. Just continue down your road to make a difference and know there are many people praying for you and your family!
Read
October 20, 2020I bought this book to support the author, who has been a tireless fighter for gun safety laws after his daughter was tragically killed by a shooter in Parkland, Florida. I couldn’t read it all at once because it is so heartbreaking, but his concept of focusing on all those who have been helpful is inspiring. Have tissues handy.
May 14, 2021
Gun violence is dreadful and all too American
I support the message here completely. Even the foreword had me tearing up. I hope with all my heart to never know the grief of loss due to gun violence personally, and can only imagine I would be as intensely motivated as Fred to hold “the bad guys” accountable. Gun violence must be prevented. Action must be taken NOW.
I support the message here completely. Even the foreword had me tearing up. I hope with all my heart to never know the grief of loss due to gun violence personally, and can only imagine I would be as intensely motivated as Fred to hold “the bad guys” accountable. Gun violence must be prevented. Action must be taken NOW.
September 13, 2021
I love this book. It is inspirational.
It focuses on how helpers will emerge in every tragedy. I often get bogged down being dismayed at the callousness of many people. The author of this book has faced so many opponents in his advocacy of gun safety, and he ignores them. He focused on his helpers.
It focuses on how helpers will emerge in every tragedy. I often get bogged down being dismayed at the callousness of many people. The author of this book has faced so many opponents in his advocacy of gun safety, and he ignores them. He focused on his helpers.
January 29, 2024
I'm a big supporter of Fred and his cause, and I really wanted to like this. Unfortunately, it's just not well written. It's all over the place and hard to follow, ideas kind of thrown out there as they popped into the author's head and with very little purpose or interesting discussion. Tough to read for a much different reason than I anticipated
January 15, 2021
I won this through Goodreads Giveaways. I literally did not want to put this story down. Mr.Guttenburg and his family's losses broke my heart. Please read this book and become aware of your surroundings. Who you interact with. Look for the helpers.
January 23, 2021
Turning Tragedy Into Action
Fred has become the voice of gun reforms. This book is powerful in that it doesn’t focus on Fred’s tragedies but on the people who came to his aid and inspired him after tragedy. I’d recommend this book.
Fred has become the voice of gun reforms. This book is powerful in that it doesn’t focus on Fred’s tragedies but on the people who came to his aid and inspired him after tragedy. I’d recommend this book.
March 28, 2021
Highly recommend this book, I even had a very pleasant exchange with the author (Fred) on LinkedIn. I live in Boulder, CO and have been impacted by the recent mass shooting, as a father this book really hit home.
June 13, 2021
The chapters seem to have been written separately and not as a whole as many topics repeat. I had to keep looking back to make sure I wasn’t re-reading a chapter. I feel for what the author’s been through and how to find your way forward through great tragedy.
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