Overall: 4.5 out of 5

We have all seen the images of Katrina. Years later we still see images and our hearts are broken. But (besides actually being there) there is nothing like the spoken word. Reading a first hand account of what it was like to get there before, live during, and rebuild after.

Kathleen Koch paints a true to life picture of what residents had to endure and are still dealing with all these years after. If you thought you knew all there was to know about Katrina, you’re eyes will be newly opened while reading this book. From first hand accounts as to how long it took to receive help, to how quickly communities began helping each other regardless of past issues.

One thing I kept thinking about while reading this, was how emotionally tolling it must have been for Kathleen. She was there reporting on all this carnage not really being able to help in a large scale way, but only having to step back and report on it. I commend her on writing about it.

The story is a tough one to get through. There is no side-stepping or kid-glove treatment. It’s an honest account. The best there is. ( )