Family Don't End with Blood: Cast and Fans on How Supernatural Has Changed Lives Paperback – May 9, 2017

LOVE IT ALL!!

Such a great read, whether you are a fan of the show or not.

To be honest, I bought the book because, well, Supernatural! (duh!) I've been a fan of the show for a few years and have fallen in love with two brothers from Kansas who spend their time fighting monsters, "saving people, hunting things." At the same time, I fell in love with two guys from Texas who have shared so much with us, the Supernatural fandom. They're young enough to be my own; I'm so proud of all they manage to do for the Show, the fans, their families, all of it. That they and their friends are willing to share with us what this fandom, this family, means to them is special. The words written by fans and crew, folks we don't know? Some of whom we've never heard of? As Dean Winchester would say, "Awesome!"Lynn Zubernis does a wonderful job pulling together heartfelt stories from cast, crew, and fans alike. I laughed, cried, and then laughed while I cried. It's that good. She put the book together in a way that it flows, up and down, meandering through topics (some funny, some heart-wrenching, all good) gently and smoothly. At the same time, you can read a chapter and put it down to come back to later. No need to rush through it. (And there are several side articles that explain a few of the charities and organizations that some of these people started/are a part of. Contact information included.)If you're a fan of Supernatural, or if you just want to read what Misha Collins, Kim Rhodes, Jared Padalecki, Matt Cohen, or any one of several other cast members, crew, or fans who contributed, have to say about this Fandom, this is that book. If you're interested in learning more about the Fandom and how it's affected the lives of the people in and around it, this is that book. If you're looking for something that validates you as a fan of a little show that doesn't play by the rules yet still keeps going after 12 seasons, this is that book.

I didn’t start watching Supernatural until about two months before the series finale. I vaguely knew about the show, but had no idea what it was even about. The only good thing to come from COVID was the massive amount of boredom I had that led to me giving Supernatural a shot.As a first responder, especially a first responder during COVID, I found the show to be oddly relatable. Like Dean, there have been times during the pandemic where I just needed a win. Supernatural became that win for me.I binged the entire 15 seasons in less than two months and dove head first into the SPN fandom. Supernatural gave me a much needed escape from the doom and gloom of working on the ambulance. It was an odd feeling having a tv show become so important to me, but I’m beyond grateful that it did.I haven’t been in the SPN family for the last 15 years, but I’m here now and to me, that’s all that matters. This book cemented that for me. I started reading this book and didn’t put it down until I was finished.Jared’s chapter brought me to tears. Like many first responders, I struggle with mental health day in and day out. In general, society has worked so hard to normalize talking about mental health, but in the first responder world, it can still be a very taboo subject. But like many fans, I found comfort in Jared’s story, it was a gentle reminder that I’m not alone.Lynn, thank you for this book. You are such a talented writer. Keep sharing your talent with the world 💙

I never write any type of review, but I will for this. I would give it a million stars if I could, and not just because it is Supernatural.I put off reading it for weeks, because I had an idea of how hard Jared's part would be to read...not because it would be bad but rather the opposite. He and I share one major thing in common....definitely not height, looks, or talent...any of which I'd gladly take. No, we each suffer from depression.Many times he (and also the show) have helped me to keep fighting. My highlight in life was the moment i was able to share with him and Jensen about my struggles and their roles in helping me. It is and forever will be my profile pic...which may be awkward in 30 years, but it is what it is.With this being the final season of a show which is more than a show to me....a show that often gave me one thing to look forward to each week...I've tried my best to jot really think about it, and I knew this book would bring everything to light.It did. And it is still hard. But it is worth it. So all of that to say this...my simple review: if you struggle with anxiety, depression, or any other mental or emotional issue....if you know someone who does....if you want to understand people who do...if you simply want to see that there is still good in the world....read this book.And always keep fighting.Love,Jeff Ackenback