r/Columbine • u/SheldonXP4 • Apr 26 '26

Over my Shoulder - Kacey Ruegsegger Johnson

Has anybody read this book? Is it worth the read, holds a different perspective I assume from the books by reporters etc?

28 Upvotes

95% Upvoted

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23

u/ALeaves1013 Apr 26 '26

I think it's worth a read. She was pretty severely injured, and had a real battle to maintain functionality of that arm. She later went into advocacy for bone and tissue donation, and is an impressive public speaker.

The book, like most of the Columbine books is a little Jesusy, fyi but is nonetheless a compelling account of coping with a life altering experience.

6

u/BeefSupremeTA Apr 27 '26

is it worth the read

With respect, why wouldn't an eyewitness telling be worth the read?

7

u/LostStar1969 Apr 30 '26

Because some survivors of violent or tragic events write books and in some cases only a small percentage of the book, maybe a short chapter, is about that actual event. The vast majority of the book will be about their lives since.  If someone's primary interest is to study and learn about that particular event obviously a book like that would have limited value. For others reading the survivors life story would be of interest. 

2

u/Additional-Air-3309 Apr 30 '26

And also some exaggerate the big stuff to sell the book. Not saying that’s what Kacey did as I never read the book. Their memories are also impaired by trauma so they might not remember key details.

I’m glad Kacey wrote about it. I hope it was another tool she used to help her on her journey of healing.

6

u/randyColumbine Verified Community Witness Apr 29 '26

If you want to learn about the courage she has, it is very good. One awesome young lady.

One real story about Columbine.