Summer by Karen Kingsbury

I truly was impacted by the message behind this book. So many times you read a book - it is a nice story, but doesn't have any lasting affect. I have thought about this particular Kingsbury novel several times since I finished reading it. The main theme is about life and its value - especially the value of an unborn child. Maybe because of my history and struggle with this very topic it touched my heart.

Kingsbury gently approaches the idea of the joy of having a child then given the diagnosis that will be fatal to the baby once it is born. She always allows her characters to show all sides of the issue - even her Christian characters. This story was less about Katy and Dayne, and more about Ashley and Blake. I so want to be strong and courageous like her (I know that she is pretend). To be rooted in her faith in God, to pray fervently and trust that the outcome doesn't make God any less than God.

I cried and cried at the end. Not because it wasn't a happy ending (it is sad), but because the possible impact a life can have on others. The amazing things that can happen when we choose to follow God in ALL things - not in just the easy things. I want my life to make that kind of difference - no matter how long or short it is.

Great read as always!

Blessings