No Journey Too Far

 Everytime I read a novel, especially a historical fiction, I learn so much about a time and place that the author felt strongly enough about to create a story, and I am always richer for the learning. Carrie Turansky's newest release, No Journey Too Far, is a perfect example of fiction teaching about history.  I received No Journey Too Far, published by Waterbrook and Multnomah, as part of their launch team in exchange for an honest review.  

Turansky's novel delves into the adult lives of British Home Children and how the stigma of being a home child followed many throughout their lives "From the late 1860s right up to 1948, over 100,000 children of all ages were emigrated right across Canada, from the United Kingdom,  to be used as indentured farm workers and domestics. Believed by Canadians to be orphans, only approximately 12 percent truly were. These children were sent to Canada by over 50 organizations" (canadianbritishhomechildren.weebly.com/). 

Until I read Turansky's book, I had no knowledge of British Home Children in Canada, but I found the information fascinating.  No Journey Too Far caught my attention immediately as I began the book.  I was torn when one of the main characters, Grace McAlister is taken away from the only family she has, her sister Katie, and given to adoptive parents, not ever knowing what happens to her sister, mother, and other siblings.  The story then moves forward to Grace, now Grace Hamilton, as she is preparing for her social debut.  We learn that her parents have kept the information that she was originally a British Home Child secret all the years of her growing and feel that if others knew she would be shunned and not able to make a suitable marriage match.  Grace finds out her true past and does her best to reuinte with her family.

Througout the book, we meet other British Home Children, and learn their stories.  Some are mistreated, used as domestic help and indentured servants.  All feel shame to be referred to as a British Home Child, and are even suspicioned for crimes just because of their status.   Turansky's book is heartwarming story that leaves the reader satisfied with the end events for all the characters.  No Journey Too Far will be released to order on Amazon on June 8th and is a perfect summer read to enjoy.!

He Saw That it Was Good

 Sho Baraka's book, He Saw That it Was Good, is an honest look at some of the tough questions in our world.  Baraka explores how people, created by God, can live in His world using their gifts and creativity to better their lives and the lives of others. I received this book from Waterbrook and Multnomah as part of their launch team in exchange for an honest review.   I really didn't know what to think of Baraka's book when I first picked it up.  I was not familiar with his work and the topic was rather vague.  However, after reading just a few pages I began to really appreciate his concept and the writing.  Simple truths continued to be revealed as I read which inspired me to keep reading. The first thought that hooked me was,  "If our lives are music, stories are the instruments that arrange it." Baraka's words inspired me to think. Stories tell our tales, they inspire and motivate.  Just as music does.  Another quote that spoke to me was when he said, "If we passively float through life, reacting only to the actions of others, our story is likely to be far from its full potential.  But if we believe what God said about us, how we were made in the image of the Creator himself--well, wouldn't that change everything? Wouldn't that set us free to live our true story, our true creative life?" Hard questions like this, ones that make us think are what drive Baraka's book.  For anyone who enjoys spending time questioning the world and God's creation, take the time to read Baraka's book.  You won't be disappointed.