Amber Smith ‘Broke’ Down When She Wrote About Her Son River Drowning — and Couldn’t Remember His PJs (Exclusive)

Amber Smith Recounts Emotional Journey While Writing Her Book

Amber Smith recently shared her emotional experience while writing her new book, “The Girl on the Bathroom Floor.” The book delves into the heartbreaking tragedy of her 3-year-old son, River Kelly, drowning in their family pool, and the subsequent healing process she underwent. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Amber, 43, opened up about the challenges she faced during the writing process.

As she poured her heart out onto the pages, Amber found herself unexpectedly breaking down at certain points in the book. She revealed, “It was hard. I cried on parts that I wouldn’t think that I would cry about. It surprised me as I was writing which chapters I would cry through.” Despite the emotional turmoil, she found solace and healing in revisiting the past and acknowledging the faithfulness of the Lord in carrying her through the darkest moments.

One particularly poignant moment for Amber was when she struggled to recall what pyjamas River was wearing when he drowned. The inability to remember this detail weighed heavily on her, prompting her to seek out the police report for confirmation. Seeing the photos of River’s pyjamas in the report deeply moved her and evoked a wave of emotions.

The tragedy of River’s passing was shared with the world by Amber and her husband, Granger Smith, a country singer-turned minister, in 2019. Since then, the couple, along with their three other children, have kept River’s memory alive by incorporating him into their daily lives. From celebrating his birthday with a cake to engaging in activities he loved, they honour his legacy in a positive and uplifting manner.

It took Amber several years and the release of Granger’s memoir for her to feel ready to share her perspective through her book. Through “The Girl on the Bathroom Floor,” she hopes to convey a message of hope and resilience to readers facing their own challenges. Amber wants others to remember that, no matter how bleak the circumstances may seem, there is light at the end of the tunnel and that they can find joy and purpose again.

The book serves as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance in overcoming unimaginable grief. Amber’s story is a poignant reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is a glimmer of hope waiting to be discovered. “The Girl on the Bathroom Floor” is now available, offering readers a glimpse into Amber’s journey of healing and strength in the face of adversity.