Love You More by Jennifer Grant

This book chronicles the author’s journey of adopting her daughter, Mia, from Guatemala in 2003. It serves both as her personal account and a narration of what potential adoptive parents can expect from the adoption process. The author readily acknowledges that adoption is not for everyone; she is not a zealot who believes that if you can adopt, you should. Yet she makes the case for adoption for those who are looking at their desires, motivations, and reasons.

Jennifer Grant writes well, and every chapter was interesting. She gives a compelling account of Mia’s story while giving a full picture of people’s response to Mia, from both her adoptive parents to her siblings to friends and even strangers. If you are not an adoptive parent, the author will make you think about your response to adoption.

There are few references to the Bible and a smattering of references to prayer and God’s working in the author’s situation, but that is not a criticism, for this book is an account, not a manual. I would recommend this book to those considering adoption. At the end of the book are useful questions and helpful resources listed.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Stained Glass Hearts by Patsy Clairmont

This newest offering by energetic, funny, master storyteller Patsy Clairmont is a treasure. Stepping away from her usual wry and witty style, the author pulls the curtain back on her life, her thoughts, and her deep perspective. She writes thoughtfully of challenge and loss, reflecting on how those times have shaped her into someone who values the brokenness in herself and in others that results. Patsy offers practical steps to help when facing challenging times.

Patsy reveals a side of herself that is at once aware, articulate, and deep. One of my favorites of her statements in this new book is, “Words that give us pause are often a window to our needs.” It is that kind of thoughtfulness that permeates this work.

In addition, every chapter ends with suggestions of art to view, music to hear, and written words to consider if further exploration of the topic is desired. This is an offering not often seen in books and is a way to pursue anything that resonates.

This little book is a keeper, one to consider time and again when life creeps or crashes in.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.