In a world where many families live in fear of domestic violence, stories of courage stand out—like that of Cara Brookins, a mother of four from Arkansas. In 2008, Cara realized she couldn’t afford a home large enough for her children. While driving past a house destroyed by a tornado, inspiration struck: if she couldn’t buy one, she would build one.

With no construction experience, Cara and her kids relied on YouTube tutorials and advice from local craftsmen. Piece by piece, they built a 3,500-square-foot home—each child getting their own room. The project wasn’t just about walls and a roof; it was about rebuilding their lives.

Their determination captured attention worldwide, with Cara’s story shared in over 75 countries and viewed more than two billion times. Her memoir, Rise: How a House Built a Family, chronicles the struggles and triumphs of turning a dream into reality.

Now the author of eight books, Cara uses her platform to inspire others facing hardship. Her journey proves that even in the darkest times, resilience and hope can build a new future—one brick, one lesson, and one act of courage at a time.