My Next Breath: A Memoir

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

The gripping and inspiring story of acclaimed actor Jeremy Renner’s near-fatal accident, and what he learned about inner strength, endurance and hope as he overcame insurmountable odds to recover, one breath at a time.


Two-time Oscar nominee Jeremy Renner was the second most googled person in 2023… and not for his impressive filmography. His searing portrayals on film ranged from an Iraq-based army bomb technician in The Hurt Locker and a Boston bank robber in The Town to a crooked Camden mayor in American Hustle before he became heir to the Jason Bourne franchise (The Bourne Legacy). Amongst other iconic roles, he also captured hearts as fan-favorite comic book marksman Hawkeye in seven Marvel films.

Yet, his otherworldly success on-screen faded to the periphery when a fourteen-thousand-pound snowplow crushed him on New Year’s Day 2023. Somehow able to keep breathing for more than half an hour, he was subsequently rushed to the ICU, after which he would face multiple surgeries and months of painful rehabilitation.

In this debut memoir, Jeremy writes in blistering detail about his accident and the aftermath. This retelling is not merely a gruesome account of what happened to him; it’s a call to action and a forged companionship between reader and author as Jeremy recounts his recovery journey and reflects on the impact of his suffering. Ultimately, Jeremy’s memoir is a testament to the human spirit and its capacity to endure, evolve, and find purpose in the face of unimaginable adversity. His writing captures the essence of profound transformation, exploring the delicate interplay between vulnerability and strength, despair and hope, redemption and renewal.

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Published Apr 29, 2025

224 pages

Average rating: 7.72

46 RATINGS

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✨ Summarized by Bookclubs AI

Readers say *My Next Breath* is a raw, emotional, and gripping memoir that vividly recounts Jeremy Renner’s near-fatal accident and intense recovery. ...

ValerieRuiz
Apr 06, 2026
7/10 stars
In My Next Breath, Jeremy Renner recounts the devastating snowplow accident that nearly took his life and the intense recovery that followed. He describes the physical and emotional toll of his injuries, including many broken bones & surgeries. The memoir delves into his near-death experience and the clarity it brought about what truly matters. It’s a deeply personal story about survival, transformation, and finding strength in the face of trauma. Jeremy Renner’s memoir My Next Breath was incredibly compelling and powerful—an intense, emotional experience that I listened to via audiobook. What makes it stand out is the way the story is told: not just from Jeremy’s perspective, but woven together with the voices of those who were there during the accident and in the aftermath. It even includes the real 911 emergency call, which adds a raw, chilling layer of realism. The entire recounting of the snowplow accident that nearly killed him was so vivid and detailed, it felt like I was living through it myself. What drew me to this memoir, aside from the gripping premise, was the overwhelming number of positive reviews. And honestly, they were right. The biggest takeaway? Never take anything for granted. Life is fragile, unpredictable, and so incredibly precious. Even when we’re going through hard days, Jeremy’s story reminds us to focus on the love, the laughter, and the people who make our lives worth living. Every breath truly is a gift. I do recommend this book—especially if you’re a fan of Jeremy Renner, but also if you just need a kind and friendly reminder to not take life for granted.
DANTAR
Apr 23, 2026
7/10 stars
audiobook
Kelly Violette
Jan 22, 2026
6/10 stars
My Next Breath is an emotional and inspiring story that explores resilience, healing, and the power of hope. The author delivers a heartfelt narrative that feels raw and authentic, drawing readers into a journey of overcoming adversity and finding strength in the most challenging moments.
Erinlester
Nov 27, 2025
An honest and surprisingly tender look at Jeremy Renner’s healing journey after his accident. He writes with a raw, intimate tone that makes the reflections on pain, gratitude, and slowing down really land. It’s a quick read that lingers—a reminder of the strength in vulnerability and the power of taking life one breath at a time.
wendyhale
Nov 01, 2025
10/10 stars
I loved this book and am a Renner fan! He’s no writer but his story, told from his own voice was gripping. I book marked & underlined a lot! His take on trauma & grief were really relatable and applicable to my season.

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