good book: Just 18 Summers

humorous. touching. inspiring!

   Rene Gutteridge and Michelle Cox present a new book which will touch your heart. Soon to become a motion picture, this novel is sure to appeal to and inspire all audiences- men as well as women, parents, siblings and anyone who is a part of a family.

  Although focusing on parenting, this book is wonderful for all members of families.
I know because I cannot claim that honored title of parent, yet I was greatly moved by this thought-provoking book.
I could hardly put it down, so real are the characters who come to life through the pages. At first I did find it a little confusing remembering all the characters but if you take the first few chapters slowly, you will have no problem getting to know the characters, who are all introduced in the first chapter.

   Four different families are struggling with parenting problems, whether they realize or admit it or not. All have been impacted by the joyful life of Butch Browning's late wife Jenny. Jenny's sister Beth is struggling with regret over lost time with her children who are now leaving home, Helen has spent her years as a mother vicariously, pouring into her children all that she wanted as a child yet is at a loss as to why she doesn't have her children's hearts, and first-time mom Daphne is driving herself-and even more so, her husband- distracted with attempts to create a perfect environment and future for her soon-to-be born child. The lessons presented in this novel are wonderful. The main purpose of this tale is to impress on parents and indeed, every individual, the importance of using our time wisely. As the admonition which inspired this book goes....''Don't forget- you have just 18 summers...take time to make some memories.''
I really appreciated the fact that at least two of the mothers in here were stay-at-home moms. It made it easier to relate to them. However, any women-stay-at-home or not can relate. And although I highlighted the women who are struggling in this book, the men have a major- and oftentimes humorous- part of this novel. Therefore I can imagine fathers enjoying it as well.

The authors write with a definite first-hand knowledge of human nature, human weaknesses, and God's unfailing power and mercy.

I was pleased to receive this book through Tyndale's blogger program. I was encouraged to state my entire opinion.