One of "our favorite books of 2007" 
— Chicago Tribune

McCarthy relates the tragically captivating story of one man's near-death experience and the medical advancement that saved his life...This is a gripping account of struggle and triumph and the vital but dangerous life of Midwestern farmers.
— Strand Bookstore, New York

One of the "great reads" of summer of 2007
— Time Out Chicago

You won't soon forget the story of Ted Fink...It captures the resilience of life—when it gets painful, tough and overwhelming.
— Sauk Valley Newspapers

McCarthy...provides edge-of-the-seat drama...
— Chicago Tribune

A tribute to human endurance. This...is a story of dogged courage in the face of terrible odds.
— Dwight W. Hoover, author of A Good Day's Work

The story of the Finks is compelling; Ted's bravery and Rhoda's faith and constancy are lessons to us all.
— St. Louis Post-Dispatch

 A gripping tale of courage, perseverance, and devotion as well as the astounding development of an artificial skin that offers hope to all burn victims.
— R. Douglas Hurt, author of American Farm

This fascinating account is well researched and smoothly written....McCarthy's intelligent probing of extremity allows us to see advances of medical care, vulnerability in humans, and, as well, their deep strengths.
— Albert Howard Carter, III, author of First Cut: A Season in the Human Anatomy Lab