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Writer and artist Lavendar here combines deeply communicative messages and etheric, glowing illustrations that vividly convey to her readers the possibilities open to those who choose a God-centered, Christian life. Each pairing of words and pictures is underpinned by a quotation from the Holy Bible, and all express the author's sincere and stated wish to reveal the vibrant connection between what may seem like a burdensome, ordinary human life and the nonphysical, ethereal rewards of allowing God the oversight of one's experiences, the guidance of one's path, and the fulfillment of one's highest wishes.
In the opening segment of this meditative collection, Lavendar reminds readers that we are all equal in God's eyes and that "we are made different for a reason." It is a blessing to all that these differences exist and do in fact "make our world more interesting." The author asserts that God always wants to help every individual, but in His infinite patience He must watch as human mistakes are made, from which disappointments inevitably arise. Fortunately for everyone, the all-knowing, readily forgiving Creator will always be waiting to provide pragmatic, loving, enheartening solutions.
Lavendar's view of "Awakening" underscores this mystic relationship, as she reveals God as "my shelter," who "holds me close through the seasons of life." This profound insight is backed by a biblical reference from the book of Proverbs: "...The righteous run to Him, and are safe." Her graphic accompaniment to this well-chosen segment shows a female moving steadily through a labyrinth of chaotic colors and confusion. In the portion titled "Chosen," there is a poignant, magnetic picture of a woman's face immersed in a calm blue atmosphere, her eyes glowing from the heavenly rays and stars that surround her. The accompanying text states that "God has adopted me as His child." The glowing "City on a Hill" accompanies the assurance that God has created His children to be a lamp to guide others to Him. Lavendar's volume concludes with a prayer to Jesus designed to draw Him closer through consistent, personal communication.
Lavendar has garnered significant awards for her Christian-themed books, among them a Mom's Choice Award for a spiritually inspired novel, Breaking the Silence. The illustrations that grace this latest work combine photography, painting, and digital effects, and have appeared in many magazines and websites. She describes herself as "new to God's word," having had to alter and upgrade her human instincts to fall into line with God's universal gifts to all. She believes that her deeply felt challenge to accept and understand biblical wisdom can be of aid and comfort to readers who, like herself, have struggled with earthly barriers as they move determinedly toward spiritual truth. Her insights, melding sincerely declared rational and touching writings enhanced by evocative images, are designed to evince a God-centered mood and meditation across a wide spectrum of age, interest, and seeking. Lavendar's well-chosen words and imagery will likely be recognized as truly profound by readers, carrying the power to lead them to renewed purpose to strengthen their spiritual path.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
A 2026 Eric Hoffer Book Award Category Finalist