Amazing Grace
A Hundred Magical Reasons by Laura DeNooyer is a powerful dual timeline Christian historical novel that I read in just one sitting.
The action is set in the early twentieth century and in 1980 as we hear an older woman telling a young woman, her life story.
Running throughout both time periods are the stories of Oz by L Frank Baum. Pilgrims Progress also features highly as well as many other literary works. Songs, old and new, are referenced too. This all helps to give a familiar feel to the book.
The book is also a journey of discovery – how characters move from distrusting God to resting in His arms, knowing that He can be trusted. “The Lord cares for us, even when we ignore Him.” God waits patiently for us to return home.
In the early twentieth century, women were expected to marry and obey men. In 1980 the young woman also has the weight of other people’s expectations on her shoulders. “I can’t live in their box anymore.” Self-awakening sees characters bud and blossom.
A friendship with the author, L Frank Baum, brings a young woman out of her shell. “He encouraged me no differently than his sons to pursue my dreams.”
Laura DeNooyer realizes the importance of dreams. “With him [L Frank Baum] you blossom.” His raisin d’etre is “making children happy and stirring their imaginations.”
There is pain and heartbreak for a single mum in the earlier period. Conventions of the day give impossible choices as we see sacrificial love in action.
Books are important. I love this description of them. “Books are to your imagination what sugar is to tea… stories… sweeten every day.” Stories fire our imaginations.
Earthly parents are seen as a disappointment in several cases. “She couldn’t seek approval from people she’d never please. She couldn’t earn love.” With God, His love is freely given to us. When Jesus died on the cross, He paid for our sins, enabling us to come directly to the Father.
A Hundred Magical Reasons was such a powerful book with so many nuggets of truth.
I will leave you with my favourite quote:
“When we look back on something that seemed discouraging and unfair, we eventually realise that God at all times has been on our side.”
I received a free copy from Book Sirens. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON
