3 comments about Literary Giants, Literary Catholics.

1. Please excuse me my bad English; I can read well but it's difficult for me to write. In spite of this, I am very pleased to comment this book, so interesting for me as all the Pearce's things. This book in particular permitted me to read a lot of otherwise out of my reach articles, published in magazines, etc. It's so a broad vision of the more important authors of the literary catholic revival in last century, with some pleasant surprises, such as the intelligent observations about one of the Beatles!!!, that much increased the interest and respect for Pearce in my elder son. I am really delighted.



2. British author and literary biographer Joseph Pearce applies his talents in Literary Giants Literary Catholics, an examination of the lives, works, and creativity of numerous authors of Catholic prose and poetry, including G. K. Chesterton, Hilaire Belloc, Maisie Ward, John Seymour and many others. Of especial note are the multiple essays concerning J. R. R. Tolkien, one of which seeks to answer the question: would Tolkien have given Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" movie the thumbs-up? A measured and scholarly account that balances critical insight with an understanding of the life and history of each author scrutinized, recommended for college library and literary criticism shelves.



3. _Literary Giants, Literary Catholics_, published by Ignatius Press, by the traditional Catholic convert and apologist Joseph Pearce, consists of essays on a variety of topics dealing with Catholic culture and the primary literary figures involved in the Catholic revival which were originally published in various journals and especially in the _Saint Austin Review_. These essays focus on Catholic writers and thinkers who incorporated their Catholic beliefs into their art and writings and sought to defend the tradition of the Church against modernity. Joseph Pearce, a convert to Catholicism, regards himself to be a "cultural apologist" as opposed to a theologian or an apologist who relies strictly on rational arguments to defend the faith.
   
   This book covers a wide variety of topics all dealing with the Catholic literary revival. The book begins by discussing this revival among the Victorians including the romantic movement influenced by Coleridge and Woodsworth, the traditionalist revolution in Anglicanism led by Cardinal Newman (who eventually converted to Roman Catholicism), and the art of the pre-Raphaelites. In addition, the Catholic revival came to effect the Decadents, who sought God in their own way as a means to overcome sin by facing the darkness, including Baudelaire, Huysmans, and Wilde (all of whom converted to Catholicism). Throughout this discussion, the relationship between tradition and conversion is explained. Pearce also discusses the role of tradition in modern English literature including T. S. Eliot, Evelyn Waugh, and Siegfried Sassoon. The second section of this book is devoted to essays featuring the apologetic duo, Hilaire Belloc and G. K. Chesterton (nicknamed "the Chesterbelloc" by George Bernard Shaw). Pearce shows how Roman Catholicism came to play an important part in the life of Chesterton who eventually converted. The writings of Belloc and Chesterton are both highly apologetic in nature and both focus on the economic theory of distributism, based on the social teachings of the Catholic church. Distributism provides a third way alternative to the excesses of both socialism and capitalism and is in agreement with the encyclical _Rerum Novarum_ of Pope Leo XIII. Pearce presents several interesting essays focusing on both Chesterton and Belloc, including an essay where he argues that both would oppose the modern European Union (contrary to the suggestion of another writer) and in which he exonerates Chesterton of the fascism smear (distributism being fundamentally and diametrically opposed to fascist statism). Essays on Maurice Baring, R. H. Benson, Maisie Ward, and John Seymour are also presented. The third section of this book deals with "the wasteland", particularly the aftermath of the First World War and the despair which followed. Pearce discusses poets who opposed the horrors of mass warfare including Siegfried Sassoon and Wilfred Owen. Pearce also discusses the modernism versus traditionalism at the root of T. S. Eliot and his epic poem _The Wasteland_ as well as the influence of Dante on Eliot. Pearce also discusses the modernist turned Catholic writer Evelyn Waugh as well as Roy Campbell who came to embrace Catholicism in Spain. The fourth section of this book is devoted to J. R. R. Tolkien and "the Inklings". Pearce discusses the Inklings including Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Owen Barfield, and Charles Williams as well as the role of Christian orthodoxy in their writings. Tolkien's _Lord of the Rings_ trilogy presents a profoundly Catholic and Christian epic which has lent itself to many different allegorical interpretations. Indeed, the role that a "true North" as opposed to a false "Protestant" North plays in Tolkien's work is fully explained by Pearce. Finally, the fifth section of this book includes essays of a miscellaneous sort. These include essays discussing the Decadent path to Christ through darkness and sin as well as discussions of Oscar Wilde. Pearce argues that Wilde, who is perhaps most well known for the scandal that grew out of his homosexuality, had always had a profound love for the Catholic church leading to his eventual conversion towards the end of his life. According to Pearce, Wilde has been misunderstood as a proponent of homosexual rights, instead of properly understood as a man who sought peace and regarded his homosexuality as a sickness. Pearce also discusses Hollywood, both as a source of evil and as having the potential to do good, particularly noting the recent films _The Lord of the Rings_ and Mel Gibson's _The Passion of Christ_. Pearce also discusses poetry, including both Dante and Shakespeare (both of whom may have been Catholics). In addition, Pearce discusses the Catholicism and mystique of Salavador Dali, whose surreal paintings were underlain with Christian imagery. Pearce ends by dedicating an essay to the late Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, by providing a biographical piece detailing his own conversion from a militant anti-Catholic to the faith, and by ending with an essay on the Christmas season.
   
   This book presents an important contribution to the study of Catholic literature. It provides not only an opportunity to study the faith through the works of some of this century's greatest writers, thinkers, and artists, but also with a unique selection of essays that enable one to see the true beauty that is the Catholic church.

No comments about Edith Stein: A Philosophical Prologue, 1913-1922.

5 comments about On the Road with Rabbi Steinsaltz: 25 Years of Pre-Dawn Car Trips, Mind-Blowing Encounters, and Inspiring Conversations with a Man of Wisdom.

1. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz was and still a source of inspiration to me, to my family and to my friends.
   Do not look upon him as simply a Jewish scholar, because he is much much more than that. He is a man for all seasons; a man of goodness, intelligence, knowledge, and wisdom. A philosopher, a teacher, a mentor and a pillar of our civilized world.
   
   His wisdom, and his teachings enriched our hearts and minds. This book reveals the multiple aspects and facets of this great man. It is a heart felt book rich with stories that come directly from the heart and a brilliant mind.
   
   I loved it. What a treasure!!



2. Arthur Kurzweil has been a leading figure in Jewish publishing in America for more than 20 years. In this delightful book, he shares the wisdom and humanity of his spiritual teacher, Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, with readers. The author is honest, straightforward, and enlightening in this thought-provoking book. Highly recommended.
   Edward Hoffman, Ph.D., author
   THE WAY OF SPLENDOR: JEWISH MYSTICISM AND MODERN PSYCHOLOGY



3. This is a wonderful collection of anecdotes by Mr. Kurzweil, a wonderful teacher in his own right. However he just doesn't quite communicate what he finds so inspiring about his own teacher, Rabbi Steinsaltz. The book left me a bit frustrated and wanting more examples of those teachings.



4. We are instructed by 'Pirke Avot' to get ourselves a Rabbi, a teacher, a spiritual guide. Arthur Kurzweil took this teaching seriously and has for many years questioned, dialogued with and learned with his own chosen teacher. In this very rich and instructive intellectual and spiritual adventure story Kurzweil tells of his meetings and talks with his revered teacher, Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz.
   Kurzweil also tells his own story of return to Judaism, and something of Rabbi Steinsaltz's story. Rabbi Steinsaltz whose father was a kibbutznik himself returned to religious Judaism at the age of seventeen. The fact that he went on to became the great 'talmid chacham',maker and presenter to the Jewish world of a remarkable new translation of the Talmud , and is today considered one of the greatest of all Jewish spiritual leaders is devotedly described in this book.
   Arthur Kurzweil in searching for a teacher volunteered to be of any kind of help he could to the Steinsaltz organization. He was given the task of meeting Rabbi Steinsaltz at the airport and chauffering him during his visits to New York. For twenty- five years Kurzweil has chauffered and gained valuable hours of discussion with Rabbi Steinsaltz.
   However even before meeting Steinsaltz , Kurzweil was on a path of returning to traditional Judaism. His genealogical researches which are pioneering and central were first undertaken before his meeting with Rabbi Steinsaltz. And this though Rabbi Steinsaltz subsequently greatly encouraged him in these researches, insisting upon the spiritual importance of each person knowing their own roots. Out of this knowledge Rabbi Steinsaltz feels there will certainly come deeper religious obligation.
   Arthur Kurzweil in this book is constant in his praise of his teacher. This focusing on his teacher in a way leads him to underplay his own great contributions to the 'Jewish world' As editor he has helped bring to the public many outstanding works of Judaica including works of extremely great spiritual value , such as Yitzhak Buxbaum's 'Jewish Spiritual Practices' Nachum Amsel's work on Jewish Morality and Ethics and Seth Kaddish's work on Jewish Prayer.
   Kurzweil describes Rabbi Steinsaltz's meetings with Jewish intellectuals and writers in New York upon the appearance in English of two volumes of his Talmud translation. In citing Steinsaltz's answers to some of these writers' questions he in a sense clarifies a good part of the meaning of the Steinsaltz enterprise. Rabbi Steinsaltz sees the Jewish people , or the greatest share of them as having lost a vital part of their body and soul. They do not know their own religious tradition. In a sense his translation of the Talmud is meant to help them restore that soul.
   In other words Steinsaltz is not simply a rabbi for individuals but for the Jewish people as a whole. Here Kurzweil too chronicles Steinsaltz's connection with Habad ( His wife comes from a Habad family) and the whole outreach effort in the Jewish world. But Kurzweil makes it clear that Steinsaltz does not put himself under the rubric of any particular Jewish group but rather works for the Jewish people as a whole.
   Kurzweil is not simply a student. He is a vivid and active admirer. He has helped publish much of Rabbi Steinsaltz's work in English. Kurzweil in searching for guidance and wisdom in raising his children also turned to Rabbi Steinsaltz and was helped. The Rabbi advised him among other things that teaching of children need not be confined to what they literally understand.
   While it is impossible to question Kurzweil's admiration and devotion to his teacher it is possible to ask whether he is not a bit too uncritical. Even Moshe Reibenu is after all seen in the Jewish tradition as having his faults. And it might even be said that there is something 'non- Jewish' in the kind of total worship various Hasidic groups have displayed towards their 'tzaddikim'.
   Yet it must be said that Kurzweil is a devoted student, a person of great intelligence who in his dialogue with Rabbi Steinsaltz also provides knowledge and insight. There may not be equality between student and teacher yet what is felt here is a great mutual respect. And my sense is that Rabbi Steinsaltz has a great appreciation of Arthur Kurzweil as more than simply chauffeur and student, but as true friend and 'mensch'.
   I loved reading this book and I think that all those who care about Jewish learning and life, will also do so.



5. Anyone who reads this book will find him or herself to be very fortunate indeed to go along for the ride. I have read numerous books, but never one so powerful. It evokes such a wide range of emotions with a turn of a page. You'll find yourself laughing out loud, with tears in your eyes, perplexed or contemplative. Once you finish, you'll want to read it again. Don't be surprised if you find yourself quoting this book to family and friends. I highly recommend it!

2 comments about Corrie Ten Boom: Her Story.

1. this is the best book I have ever read on a missionary. Actually her story would awe anyone - easy to read and understand, encouraging in that she tells you all her faults which are just like ours, and God used her mightly.
   
   You will learn and rejoice with her in the telling of her story.
   Blessings included:)



2. I read this book several years ago after the loss of my first child, when I was doubting my faith in God. Ms. Boom is an amazing woman who has overcome many trials throughout her life. She gave me encouragement when I was going through a horrible time in my life. And showed me that there is always hope and to never give up on the most important thing of all GOD. I am so grateful to her for putting her life onto paper for the rest of us.

   Thank you Ms. Boom!

5 comments about Blessed Miguel Pro: 20th Century Mexican Martyr.

1. Miguel Pro was one of the greatest priests of his country and of the Catholic Church. Refusing to go to exile in another country, he stayed in Mexico City and helped countless souls with the Sacraments of the Church.
   
   The book is brief but very informative about his life. I hoped that one day he will be canonized a saint.
   
   Viva Cristo Rey!



2. I enjoyed reading this book so much because my father had talked to me about that era in Mexico. What a beautiful person Miguel Pro was. This would make a great movie! A lot is written for such a small book. Couldn't put it down.



3. The life of this great martyr and St is filled with so much laughter, danger, fun and excitement. It tells the story of a brave young man that dodged the police in the time of the persecution in Mexico to bring the Sacrements to the dying. His life ends in the most heroic way, after serving God and man on earth, he became a martyr for Christ. He is a shining example of what a true Christian should be. He is my hero. His life is so humorous and exciting you won't be able to put the book down. This is definitely the greatest book. I would recommend it for everyone, young and old.



4. Thank you Ann Ball for bringing to life for us this beautiful saint in such a beautiful way. Truly inspiring.



5. BLESSED MIGUEL PRO--20th-Century Mexican Marytr. Ann Ball (author of Modern Saints). 119 Pp. PB. 48 Illus. Fast-paced true Catholic adventure story of the famous young Jesuit who was executed in1927 for the "crime" of being a Catholic priest. His underground ministry via bicycle, narrow escapes, great sense of humor and saintly heart. A gripping and inspiring story for all ages!

5 comments about Finding Faith, Losing Faith: Stories of Conversion and Apostasy.

1. For some, faith is not life long. "Finding Faith, Losing Faith: Stories of Conversion and Apostasy" is a scholarly look at conversion, evangelism, and those who change their faith and those who encourage them. Saying that most conversion is the result of a crisis and people responding to it, it is an explanation of the whole process, which will enlighten readers about their faith and those who convert and try to convert others. "Finding Faith, Losing Faith" is educational reading, a solid choice for religious collections.



2. Reviewed by Carol Hoyer for Reader Views (11/08)
   
   While this might not have been a book I would have chosen on my own, once I began to read the contents I really enjoyed it. The authors spend time discussing why people convert to other religions and what we need to do to assist them in the process.
   
   The question always comes up as to why individuals convert? There are many reasons, but a few of them feel they are not getting their spiritual needs met or that the church really is not interested in them, only their money. Pastors of all faiths need to re-evaluate their congregation and see what their needs are and make changes to meet those needs.
   Many times we see that individuals have lost faith and will go to several churches to see which one meets their needs.
   
   The authors have written a very much-needed book and have provided food for thought for those who read this book. This reviewer really took a hard look at her own religion after reading "Finding Faith, Losing Faith: Stories of Conversion and Apostasy" by Scot McKnight and Hauna Ondrey.



3. Well I enjoyed this book, but my main concern was that about 20-30 pages were completely blank of any words. It started from page 130 and word-void pages were riddled throughout till the end.



4. This book is a very helpful toolin understanding what factors cause people to convert. Having grown up fundamentalist and now evangelical I have been intrigued by what attracts some evangelicals to Catholicism and others to agnosticism. The authors provide a clear, easily read and understood account. They are balanced in their approach and yet also shares some of their own thoughts on the subject. I also follow his blog at www.jesuscreed.org.



5. I was interested in this book by the title alone. Coming from an academic approach the patterns found by the authors research regarding faith experiences are thought provoking and raised some good discussion for me to work through and is good fodder for me to dialog with friends.

5 comments about The Narrow Road : Stories of Those Who Walk This Road Together.

1. The Narrow Road is a reprint of Brother Andrew's `God's Smuggler' that has been distractingly repackaged by the Christian alternative band, Jars of Clay. When a friend lent me tNR, I must admit that I was cautiously put off by the overt graphical `hipness' of the book design. This has apparently been conceived as the `cool' contemporary version of God's Smuggler. More distracting than the gussied-up look and feel, are the story-in-story-vignettes that have been dropped into many pages. These disjointed side-stories often feel artificial and even dubious (i.e., a Muslim boy of the Comoros Islands thinks he has a romantic interest in a certain "very beautiful" Christian girl but eventually decides that he has actually been interested in studying the Bible with her father); it seems that some of these questionable snippets have been composed and interjected essentially because the design scheme demanded them. Style dictates substance; this isn't worthy of Brother Andrew's autobiography.
   
   Sorry for the long complaint. Unfortunately, it wasn't merely a digression; the superimposed design features get in the way here. At least that is my opinion. Brother Andrew's story, printed and reprinted since the late 1960's using the title `God's Smuggler,' is a fast-paced and fascinating first person telling of Andrew's courageous work behind the Iron Curtain. The story itself won't let you go, the pages almost turn themselves, you'll probably read it in two or three sittings. Contained in The Narrow Road is a "five star" story ("God's Smuggler"); but you might want to read a different edition.



2. Though I have published thirty-one titles on the Biblical roots and history of the Early A.A. Christian Fellowship, my efforts have, of late, turned very specifically to the simple program developed in Akron by the pioneer A.A. Christian Fellowship. Its ingredients were abstinence, faith in the creator, obedience, growth in fellowship through Bible study and prayer, intensive work serving and helping other alcoholics to get straightened out. The more I looked at the early program--as distinguished from the one fashioned by Bill Wilson in his basic text published four years later in the Spring of 1939--the more I could see the believing and healing that were an integral part of the astonishing early A.A. cures. In despair, those wretched individuals turned away from booze and to their Creator for deliverance. They did it by accepting Christ. And they were not only cured but said so for a decade. Those observations took me to the books on believing and healing. The Narrow Road and the story of Brother Andrew's relentless efforts to serve his Creator by smuggling Bibles to foreign areas where they were far from welcome--even forbidden--this book was at the top of my reading list on trust in God. The Brother Andrew part of this title presents a cogent reason for believing that God is able and willing to do what He promises to do. And that is where Brother Andrew put his mind. Believe and receive. The story contains great language on this matter of truly believing that God can and will keep His promises. This is a belief factor that is fast vanishing from the alcoholic treatment picture today though it was immensely important and necessary to the unusual success of the A.A. pioneers between 1935 and 1938. Over and over, Brother Andrew put his trust in God and believed that God would enable Him to serve and love through Bible distributions, despite overwhelming obstacles. This is a book of commendable service and value.



3. Brother Andrew strikes many a harmonious chord in this latest book of his. His stories of people are fascinating and how God uses the simplest people to accomplish His purpose. Wonderful reading material for anyone needing a boost to their faith in God's promises!



4. The book, The Narrow Road, by Brother Andrew and Jars of Clay was inspiring. Brother Andrew tells his life story of serving God through the smuggling of Bibles and spreading the word to those who do not have access. His life story is incredible in how he put his life on the line every day just so that other would hear the Word of God. Jars of Clay also journeyed to China and Vietnam to lead services in the underground churches. The experience did not only teach the people there, but Jars of Clay themselves. What greater an experience that to witness first hand, the martyrs for Christ in China and Vietnam. The many stories throughout the book were so inspiring also. Account after account displayed the unending compassion these people had for Christ, and how they would stop at nothing to live for Him. I would highly recommend this book. The stories never get old, and the compassion of one man is jaw dropping. Page after page unravels the coming of nations to Christianity and how one man can make such a difference.



5. This is an heirhoom edition which includes the text of Brother Andrew's world-wide best seller, God's Smuggler, plus snatches of other stories of the Persecuted Church. Also a CD of Jars of Clay. Highly recommended.

5 comments about Sundays in America: A Yearlong Road Trip in Search of Christian Faith.

1. What a fun book, and the author writes in such a way that the reader feels as if they are in the church being discussed. I could almost see the visuals, and hear the sounds.
   
   And such fun learning how wee small churches like the Quaker of Sabbathday Lake in Shaker Village New Gloucester Maine worship as well as mega churches like Lakewood in Houston TX with Joel Osteen, or Saddleback in Lake Forest CA with well known pastor and author Rick Warren.
   
   Then I loved the Colorado Springs Cowboy Church in Colorado because I attend a cowboy church here in Calaveras County California. And the author also visited Maranatha Baptist in Plains Georgia where President Jimmy Carter attends and teaches at.
   
   Virually all Sunday worship churches or denominations are covered, from all areas of the United States.



2. The writing in this book is lovely, with a flow and smoothness that warm the heart. But it stops the reader dead in his tracks when the author makes no qualms about declaring that Christianity is wonderful as long as it's not mainstream, white or advocating traditional values. Apparently it's not ok to differentiate between right and wrong! I did not finish the book (borrowed from the library) after realizing what her theme was. Too bad!



3. Suzanne Strempek Shea is a master storyteller whose non-fiction is as creative and imaginative as her novels. I was eagerly looking forward to reading this book and it lived up to my expectations.
   
   The idea of visiting one church a week for a year is daunting, considering the preparation and travel involved. However, the author walked into every one with an open mind and a photographer's eye, gifting us with minute descriptions of everything from the church's building and decor, demographic profile and attire of the congregation, scripture readings, liturgy, music, sermons, bulletins, the weather, and the intangible --- without wasting a word. Each chapter is prefaced with a brief history of the particular denomination, in itself very educational. There is humor and introspection throughout.
   
   Politicization of religion, both on the right AND the left, has probably alienated enough Americans to explain why church attendance is down. Even so, several of Suzanne's spotlighted houses of worship were inviting. SUNDAYS IN AMERICA is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Amen.



4. Mormons and mennonites; Quakers and Shakers; Baptists and Spiritualists. A Fifty-two week journey featuring a different religion every Sunday. This was quite a task to undertake, but Suzanne Strempek Shea stays right on course and takes the reader on a yearlong journey across the country as she seeks to understand both the similarities and differences between the ways Christians worship. Attending both megachurches and places of worship where most of the congregation consists of ghostly presences, lapsed-Catholic Strempek Shea also rediscovers what is important to her in a spiritual sense. The book is witty and passionate, and Strempek Shea doesn't shy away from what turns her off and why, and what fills her with the spirit. It took me a bit of time to read this book, as too many religions in one sitting is a bit overwhelming, but each chapter contains both personal and public observations that clue the reader in to what the author was feeling on the day she walked into each church. I like this writer's energy and commitment to her task. I've never read anything quite like it, and I enjoyed it very much.



5. This was a book I had to keep reminding myself to slow down and savor - it's so engaging and so delicious - yet I kept wanting to read on and discover more. After all, this could not be a more timely topic. At a point in history when we are surrounded by spiritual starvation - people leaving churches in droves - and faced again and again with religious fundamentalism at home and abroad, Suzanne Strempek Shea's response is a personal one - she goes out and actively samples church services around the country, experiencing what they have to offer and asking herself if this is what it is all about, truly.
   
   By the end of this book I felt I had not only traveled roads to outlandish and inspiring places, but I also felt I had reached a personal revelation of what spirituality could be, whether or not it was tied to a religion, a creed, or a parcel of dogma. As I read I was amused, astonished, and sometimes shocked by the types of worship she observed, and ultimately I had to admit I was profoundly moved by what she showed me about faith and belief. For when we witness others' faith, we allow our own to grow.
   
   I cannot think of a book that is more relevant to spirituality today in the USA. I shall be giving copies to those friends I know who are sampling churches and chapels, looking for something that feels genuine.
   
   We should be profoundly thankful for this book.
   
   Allan Hunter
   Author of "Stories We Need To Know: Reading Your Life Path in Literature'
   www.allanhunter.net

5 comments about The Last Dance but Not the Last Song: My Story.

1. Renee brought a great gift to the students of San Clemente High School in the late eighties. She had the most tremendous love. Through her incredible talent combined with this great love, she engendered structure, discipline, and true accomplishment among her choir students. Wandering souls were drawn to her; she helped them discover their own value, find a direction of purpose, and set and accomplish goals. Renee used her own triumphs over life's difficulties to empathize and motivate those around her to look to and seek the highest whatever the circumstances.
   
   The spirit that shines through this book is so much that laughing, hard-working, wiggling, jitter-bug-dancing-when-you-hit-the-notes 28-year-old who in her first year achieved superior ratings for her choirs and helped spur the high school cast of Evita on to win the Macy award for drama in Southern California. None could foresee that such tragedy could befall this star - this angel on earth - in the year following.
   
   The book captures Renee's true personality and wit and allows us to glimpse some of the depths of despair that required tremendous spiritual, emotional, and physical strength to endure and pass through.
   
   I highly recommend this book for all readers.



2. Wow! What a privilege to share in the life of Renee Bondi through the pages of this book. Left fully paralyzed after a freak accident, Bondi, through the love of her family and her strong faith in God, found the courage to go on living.
   
   The reader will find much to admire in the life of Renee Bondi, a story which is inspirational and uplifting, as well as undeniably sad. She never downplays the pain of her life, watching others do the things she once took for granted. Bondi's paralysis is complete; she describes not even being able to blow her own nose, but the book is remarkably free of self pity.



3. Reneé is not only a great singer, a truly moving speaker, a devoted mother and wife, but she is also a beautiful woman, inside and out. She believes that God has a purpose for her life, and she lives as though there is eternal meaning in everything she does and says. I have had the great joy and privilege to know her for nearly ten years, and everything positive, hopeful and joyous in her book is very real.
   
   Yes, she has had low times. Yes, she has been discouraged. Haven't we all? But her message to us is about the goodness and grace of the God she loves. Despite a physical handicap which might have caused her to retreat and never emerge, she has instead resumed her singing career and has chosen to speak in order to spread the word that God is, indeed, good. A wonderful and truly inspiring story for the handicapped, but even more so for those of us whose handicaps are not as readily visible as hers.
   
   This is not only Reneé's story, it's Mike's as well. He is a very special person and the essence of a "gentle man."
   
   Read the book. Buy her albums. You'll be glad you did.



4. I first heard Renee Bondi nearly 9 years ago at a Women's Luncheon at my mother's church. Awesome voice, awesome book, awesome testimony, awesome person! When I found this book at my Christian bookstore, I was really excited. And it certainly didn't disappoint. In fact, I went back several years later to that same Christian bookstore to pick up a copy for my best friend. Unfortunately, it was out of print! Thankfully, I was able to find one -- CD included -- through Amazon.com!
   
   Not only did I appreciate her upbeat attitude toward all that life had thrown at her -- and all the miracles that God did through her -- but I also appreciated her honesty in revealing her not-too-Christlike -- but very human -- feelings toward her sister's accident and some of the day-to-day frustrations of being a quadriplegic.
   
   One minor thing, though. I think the actual date of her accident might have been Sunday, May 15, 1988 instead of Sunday, May 16, 1988, as my husband and I were married on Saturday, May 14, 1988! But that's minor.
   
   I would recommend getting the book that includes the bonus CD in it, for it not only showcases her lovely voice but also the depth of feeling behind her singing. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!



5. Finished reading this enjoyable autobiography yesterday. As a woman who has never been confined to a wheelchair and who has no disabilities, I am in awe of Bondi's balanced attitude, practicality, and her admission that the lack of privacy a paraplegic endures is difficult.

   The strong cable of love that helps Bondi survive and thrive is amazing. It makes life a little easier for her; maybe a lot easier. The cable of love is comprised of the author's former students, her husband, friends, clergy, immediate family, and extended family. The cable is anchored by Christ.

5 comments about Hope's Wish: How One Girl's Dream Made Others Come True.

1. This is a very well written book that allows the reader to really get to know remarkable, young Hope through the eyes of her parents. I would highly recommend it.
   
   It is a very engaging book, full of not only poignent moments, but funny ones as well. The story is inspiring on many levels and is a tremendous testament to what one person and one family can do.
   
   While there are many families that face death with courage, there are fewer who use it as an opportunity to grow closer to God and to bring others closer to God as well. People who read this book will be made aware of what is really important.



2. I just moved to Charlotte in May 208 with my husband and sons. Not a week after moving here, I got the call quick to go to Houston...my dad had developed a terrible life threatening infection from stage 3 colon cancer surgery and asked me to come...in case he didn't make it. Over that two weeks, I paced Barnes N Noble and picked up a few books...ironicallly on June 23...a VERY important date in this book. I picked this book for the title and picture...didn't know anything about it and certainly did not know that it was in my new hometown and part of my new church community. I finally read on July 31st as I was pining over my dad. It's AMAZING! I'm sharing it with everyone I know...I can't wait for the whole world to know about this little gal...and her very neat and courageous family. Not to mention, a reason to show why we fell in love with Charlotte when we looked for houses in March...the people here are beautiful...on the inside especially. You have to read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



3. Sometimes it is so easy to get caught up in the "me, me" rat race of life that we forget about the "Big Picture" Mr. and Mrs. Stout and of course Hope Stout has taught me so much about the true meaning of life and the desires to help people, even though we may be faced with tragedy or serious illness. Never give up Hope and always strive to make the world a better place for those who are less fortunate then ourselves. Reading about a young girl going through so much pain and suffering and yet who still is thinking about how she can help other children in need and give up her gifts to help the other children is truly a amazing story of selfless love and sacrifice. This story of Hopes Wish truly has changed my life for the better and enabled me to put my heart and energy into volunteering my time and energy into helping those less fortunate. For that inspiration that this book and Hopes story has provided I owe the world to this wonderful family. Thank you so much Mr. and Mrs. Stout for sharing this story with us and may God Bless you and your family forever and ever. Hope's wish truly continues to keep on giving to the world and for that I am ever thankful.



4. I received my copy on April 7th, 2008, started reading it as soon as I opened it and never put it down until I was finished.
   I really wished I could give EVERYBODY a copy to read. I will be asking all my family to read this wonderful story of faith, family, love and the power of prayer.



5. Stuart and Shelby Stout have incredible faith in God and this story is proof thereof. It has times of laughter, times of tears, and shows how truly faithful some can be in God to bring you through trying times.
   The wish that Hope requested from Make-A-Wish was so incredible that the media in Charlotte, NC picked it up and ran with it! One little red-head with cancer raising $1 million for those less fortunate than her is truly inspirational. And not to mention it was done in less than 2 months!!
   The power of Hope's wish still lives on today through the friends and family of Shelby and Stuart. I am blessed that I was able to witness some of this journey with the Stouts.