In 2003, 13-year old surfer, Bethany Hamilton, lost her arm to a shark attack.
Soul Surfer tells the story of her miraculous recovery and re-entry into the world of competitive surfing.
The movie was released in 2011 and stars AnnaSophia Robb, Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt and features singer Carrie Underwood in her first film role.
This is not a movie for young children, but it is definitely a must-see for parents. Bethany’s parents support and embrace her in every direction she takes. The love and the positive affirmation she receives from her family are major contributing factors in Bethany’s acceptance of herself. When Bethany joins a Christian mission in tsunami and earthquake-ravaged Thailand, she discovers that while she may have lost her arm, others have lost everything. This experience helps Bethany put her situation in the proper perspective and she is able to encourage and motivate others to have the courage to live.
For more information about the movie, you can visit Soul Surfer on Wikipedia.
Home movie night is just one way for families to cut down on expenses. I got the DVD of Soul Surfer from our local library for free.
Do you and your children have a library card? Do you make good use of this amazing community resource? If you haven’t already done so, please check out your library…many libraries have amazing programs for children and adults of all ages. The librarian can assist you in finding wonderful picture books that you can share with us in the 2012 PPP Challenge to read every day with your children.
No Rules…Just Read!
VIVIAN KIRKFIELD - Writer for Children 
Libraries rock! I haven’t see that movie, but I am familiar with her story. Amazing young woman.
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Thanks for the link with your site, Nancy! I hope EVERYONE goes there…what awesome free fun activities abound in your area…and I know there are similar ones in most cities and towns across the country…one just has to look and ask. 🙂
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Yes, I saw and bought this movie. A very powerful movie. Anna Sophia Robb did such an outstanding job. Have also seen the young woman on TV and she was very inspiring.
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Thank you, Pat. I appreciate you stopping by and commenting. There are so many great movies out there…but so many that aren’t worth much…maybe by reviewing the ones I watch and think are worthwhile, other parents won’t have to waste time watching the garbage. 🙂 Of course, I’ve learned in life that what is one man’s trash is another man’s treasure…so, I guess I can only suggest.:) Just like with picture books, I love movies that have a message we can take away and use to make our life better.
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I have to agree – our library is a favorite destination. We frequent ours often for books and films. Another plus of having your kids get their own cards, it teaches them responsibility (taking care of the books they check out and making sure they get returned on time). Another great post!
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Thanks Barb, for pointing out yet another great reason for families to get involved in local libraries. Allowing and expecting our children to be responsible for their possessions is an important component in building self-esteem.
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I remember the story and read interviews on it. Good to know about the movie… She shared a very painful yet inspiring story.
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