Colleen

Oh, God..." I prayed. I ran frantically toward the house, the wind around me snatching my breath. My wet jeans clung to my legs like ice, hampering my steps. The sound of splintering glass rang in my ears as I shoved open the door. I drew back as shattered fragments slammed against the walls. "My picture! My paintings. They're all I have right now!"

Book: Colleen by Eva Gibson, Bethany House Publishers, 1985

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Target Audience: Girls 18-25

Subjects: Salvation, family relationships, peace

Summary:Colleen is just lost. She can't seem to find her way home. She has run away and can't bring herself to go back to her family. She loves them and knows they love her, but something is missing inside herself and until she finds that, she can not go home. She pours herself into her paintings, but when a storm destroys her home and gallery, she not only loses those she has already done, but the ability to make more. She just can't seem to create anything anymore.

Notes: This book is an interesting look at a character who desperately needs Jesus in her life. The emptiness she feels is portrayed very well. Her lack of ability go back home or to use her talents and paint are just the symptoms of what's really wrong in her heart. The series – SpringSong books is geared at teens supposedly, but the character is an adult – a young adult, but definitely not a teenager.

Recommendation Scale: 4

Reviewer: J:-)mi

 

John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.