Here’s how this week’s arts and culture column begins:
Lent is upon us. Pray, fast, and give alms, saith the Lord.
Apropos of fasting, I recently read a food-based memoir that is about very much more than food.
Agata lzabela Brewer, author of “The Hunger Book: A Memoir from Communist Poland” (Mad Creek Books, $24.95), grew up in Lviv during the 1980s with a terrifying, unstable, alcoholic mother and a little brother whom she adored and protected.
READ THE WHOLE PIECE HERE.
I always find some amazing book recommendations from reading your blog, Heather. This one’s going on my reading list. A blessed Lent to you!
And more reading suggestions to come, Melisa…thanks for reading!
Ditto – Melisa!
Thank you, Heather for such a GREAT book review. Who but Jesus could heal the wounds from our imperfect relationships, if we would just invite Him in?
Wondering if you’ve read a book of fiction, “Green Dolphin Street” by Elizabeth Goudge? I heard it recommended by Mother Natalia of Christ the Bridegroom Monastery in Burton, Ohio. I’m only 1/4 the way through and there’s as much to digest there about human nature than if I were reading a book of philosophy.
Anne, I have to reply to your note and second your recommendation of Green Dolphin Street by Elizabeth Goudge. That was my first introduction to her work, and I have been happily reading through any of her titles that I can get my hands on. They are so beautiful. One is immersed in a gentle world and gleans deep insights into life and human nature. Elizabeth Goudge is so quotable! I’ve got a quote book (or a “commonplace book”, if you will) and her words are quite prolific in it.
No, Anne, have not read Green Dolphin Street, but another friend swears by Goudge’s The Rosemary Tree. I haven’t read that either, but I did read a memoir by Goudge called I believe The Joy of the Snow. Which I liked a lot. I love these old-fashioned childhoods full of warm kitchens and family readings on the hearth rug. Thanks so much for the tip! Pray for us, Mother Natalia of Christ the Bridegroom…
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