Gabby

A Story of Courage and Hope

By: Gabrielle Giffords, Mark Kelly

Narrated by: Mark Kelly, Jeffrey Zaslow

Length: 11 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

From one of the most admired and beloved couples in recent American history, an extraordinarily moving story of public service, risk-taking, romance - and the journey toward recovery. This book delivers hope and redemption in the face of the tragic shooting, and introduces two unforgettable heroes.

©2011 Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and Commander Mark E. Kelly (P)2011 Simon & Schuster

Really great book

This book is truly an amazing story. I didn't want to put it down. Remarkable story of recovery and love.

Unbelievable Courage

Where does Gabby rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

In the upper third

What other book might you compare Gabby to and why?

Compres to the story of the brain scientist who had a massive stroke, and documented the entire experience as it was happening (the name of the book may be My Stroke of Genious, or I might have thought it should have been called that, I can't remember!).

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Because I, too, have a disorder that affects my brain, I felt a lot of sympathy for the frustration Gabby went through after all her hard work, and yet is still unable to find a word, or express a thought that once was so easy for her. It brought me to tears many times in the book.

Any additional comments?

I had a strong negative reaction to Gabby's husband and his controlling ways over her life once the shooting occurred. Having once been fiercely independent myself, and now under the 24/7 care of my husband, I am sensitive to what is between the lines, not just what is being said. If it works for her, though, who am I to complain?

Inspirational story of love, hope and courage!

I loved reading the story, Mark Kelly's voice brings that personal touch. I admire Gabby for her courage, tenacity and strength. Amazing how love has helped in her recovery, and how much progress she has made so far. I cried when Gabby read the last chapter. Her tenacity and courage in becoming a Congresswoman as well as in the face of that terrible day in January are amazing. She is an inspiration to me.

A love story

This book is incredible and beautiful. A great real love story. Listen it’s really good

An inspiring story

I highly recommend this account of Gabby Giffords journey from the day of being shot till her first appearance at the Capital years later.
Narrated by her husband,Scott, it tells a lot about his career as an astronaut as well as her arduous journey towards recovery through therapy. What an amazing woman she is.

courage love

Would you listen to Gabby again? Why?

Yes, never want to forget what happened

What was one of the most memorable moments of Gabby?

Gabby's last vote on the house floor

Have you listened to any of Mark Kelly and Jeffrey Zaslow ’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

no

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

yes

Any additional comments?

God Bless Gabby, thank you for all you do for others.

An Inspiring Story, Great Performance as well

Would you consider the audio edition of Gabby to be better than the print version?

I would consider this to be better than the print version because Mark himself is reading the book. His inflection and struggle add an entirely new layer to the book.

What other book might you compare Gabby to and why?

I would compare this with Bob and Lee Woodruff's book as it is another journey from TBI back to life.

What does Mark Kelly and Jeffrey Zaslow bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Mark brings a layer of humanity to the story, hearing him read his contingency letters added a wave of emotion where needed and humor to break what could be a very sad book.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The moment that particularly moved me was Mark's description of the plane ride to Tuscon when it was reported that Gabby had died. So moving and honest, he could have omitted it completely, but instead chose to tell his entire journey.

A Modern Day Love Story

Mark Kelly began documenting Gabby's treatment almost immediately after she was injured as a way to show her progress and to help encourage her when she was down. This book takes us behind the scenes and into the hospital room and even into his own mind as to what they were thinking and doing and why. It's been a hard road, but in spite of that, Mark and Gabby are taking this tragedy and turning it into something good. This book is sad at times, but also insightful and inspiring. Of course, the added bonus is that the book is narrated by the author. I can only imagine how difficult that was for Mark. So I hope you will cut him some slack as you listen and remember he's an astronaut, not an actor! . A worthwhile listen!

AMAZING!

Their story of tragedy, struggle and triumph is truly inspiring. To hear Gabby read the last chapter of the book absolutely made me cry with heartfelt joy for her and her family. Go Gabby and Mark!

Inspirational story I'll listen to again & again

This book is so much more than a story of courage and hope. It is the story of their love for each other and for this country--with the important message that we all need to renew our commitment to civility and respect for each other. I treasure the fact that Mark reads the book--he does an amazing job expressing his joys and frustrations. And hearing Gabby read the last chapter is perfect. Godspeed to Mark and Gabby!