I was looking forward reading this book, I was hoping for some inspiration as a full-time carer. Unfortunately I was disappointed. I was only able to read it on Net Galley App, and this proved quite a challenge. I had to keep changing the page orientation and zooming in to read. This was hard especially when a a carer I don't have lots of time to read. I want it to be an enjoyable experience, which this wasn't, sadly.

As I wound down my time with Topher Endress's "Accompanying Disability: Caretaking, Family, and Faith," I'll admit that I immediately began wrestling with how to rate and review a book that, when it comes down to it, is not primarily targeted toward a reader like me.

"Accompanying Disability" is an admirable effort that weaves together a tapestry of memoir, biblical reflections, and exploration of the theological roots that can guide those who serve as caregivers for adults with disabilities.

It is not a book on disability theology. Instead, it's more a book advocating for an accompanying theology and a guide toward creating relationships with loved ones who have disabilities that are based on mutual respect, dignity, and affection.

"Accompanying Disability" finds its heart through the writings of Endress's father, an active and vibrant man who became a quadriplegic later in life after a hiking accident. He would live for several years as a quadriplegic and much of what comes through in "Accompanying Disability" seems birthed out of the author's experiences with and on behalf of his father and his lifelong engagement with disability.

Endress finds truth and insight in disability rights principles and Scripture and seeks to offer up a shift in society's perception of disability and those who have disabilities.

"Accompanying Disability" will most resonate with family members, friends, caregivers, and allies of those with disabilities - especially, I'd say, those who are fairly early in the journey. I'd dare say that those who've been on the journey for a while, or those actually living with disabilities, will find room to quibble with some of the language and assumptions that are peppered throughout the book.

Ultimately, that's why I say that "Accompanying Disability" isn't really aimed toward someone like me - a lifelong paraplegic and now a double amputee, wheelchair user, and recently a 2-time cancer survivor. Where Endress succeeds is in painting a portrait of a church needing to raise its standards in terms of relationships with those with disabilities, though that's for the most part deeper than "Accompanying Disability" really goes.

For me, I occasionally found the language to be ableist despite Endress's obvious efforts to the contrary (which is a big reason why I'm so conflicted in writing this review). Some of the language reminded me of well-meaning encounters I've had over the years especially in church settings. Yet, for every moment where I cringed (and there were several), there were others where I found myself completely enchanted by Endress's insights and refreshing attitudes and deeply moved by his relationship with his father.

There's no question, in fact, that his father's letters are my favorite part of "Accompanying Disability," letters that reflect spirituality, grief, frustration, and many sacred moments along the disability journey.

So, there you have it. At least from me. Again, I do believe there's a readership for "Accompanying Disability" especially among those who live their lives caring for loved ones with disabilities - a journey that is difficult, often lonely, and occasionally difficult to reconcile with the way we lean into our daily faith journeys. For those early in the caregiving journey, "Accompanying Disability" offers insight, comfort, and Scriptural wisdom.

Likely more a 3.5 rather than a 3-star, I've wrestled with how to rate a book that didn't quite come together for me but which I believe has an important place in the world of disability and faith. Ultimately, this is probably a case where my words are probably more important than the actual rating as I truly want to acknowledge the heart and intention here and to point the right readers toward this important discussion.