Each of us plays many roles in life.
Each of our days is filled with many disparate moments.
How do we make sense of all of the moving parts?
How does each unique piece connect with the next to form a unified whole?
These are the questions that Amy Gaither Hayes ponders on Wednesday mornings. She chronicles her discoveries in A Collection of Wednesdays: Creating A Whole From The Parts. This anthology of poetry and essays centers around 14 aspects of Amy’s life. As Amy writes, she begins to see how God weaves together the seemingly random pieces of life into a unique tapestry that is part of a larger picture. She shares her discoveries in the hope that we will take what we need from the book and begin an exploration of our very own.
This is a book I wanted to love. I thought the concept was great – but I walked away with mixed feelings about it. On the positive side, I loved Amy’s eloquent poems and the wonderful quotes she shares throughout the book. Overall, she is a competent essayist.
At the same time, there was an uneven quality to the book that surprised me. Sometimes, I couldn’t wait to quote the author because she shared a brilliant insight. Other times, I found the text dry and my mind wandering. Perhaps this has to do with the personal and topical nature of the book – or, perhaps, certain essays were just more interesting than others.
I think that the right type of person will enjoy this book – but I don’t think it’s for everyone. If you are a creative person of any type – if you enjoy memoirs, essays, or introspective writing of any kind – if you like books that make you think – and if you like poetry – then by all means, get this book! If you prefer books that are written purely for entertainment value – this is probably not your cup of tea.
Overall Rating
Three & A Half Out Of Five Stars
Book Review Resources
For more inspirational books, please visit Create With Joy – Book Reviews!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from Zondervan Publishers for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation and was not required to write a positive review.
Thank-you for sharing this book. It's nice to read about different books here at Spiritual Sunday.
Blessings,
Ginger
I love to read and it is always disappointing when you get a book you just can't fall in love with and want to re-read over and over.
Enjoyed your review.
Stopping by from Hop a Little Tuesday and following you here on GFC
Love the cover. I've read a few books I've been torn between thoughts over. There's nothing more refreshing than an honest review.
Blessings,
Pamela
It's an interesting concept. Too bad it didn't completely work. I'm visiting from the Book Club Party. Nice review!
A thoughtful review. I typically enjoy books that combine poetry and prose, such as 'Cause and Effect' by Chessly Nesci.
Hey, its tara from undeserving grace and i've been following your blog for awhile and I would like to include you in something new i'm starting over at my blog….In lieu of receiving several questions that have to do w/ blogging (not necessarily about content) i'm starting a series titled" taking notes from a blogger" .
I have 438 followers and I still don't feel as though i've "arrived" so i'm looking up some of the great blogs that I follow to give some insight to the blogging idea. If you're interested in being featured in the series that would be awesome but if not I totally understand. I will also include w/in the post the latest from your blog and encourage my readers to visit you.
i've included the questions for you to answer if you choose to help us out 🙂
How long have you been blogging?
3 of your blogging secrets or tricks?
3 things you wish someone had told you about blogging before you started?
3 chunks of wisdom for a new blogger?
How did you get started with adding advertising or decide not to go with the advertising/sponsors route?
I hope you come along for this experience!
Thank so much for your time too!
-tara
I like your honest review. When you buy a book hoping and looking for inspiration it is very dissappointing when you dont get that. Maybe it is meant for someone else. You think?
I am following you via Sit and Relax Weekend blog hop. Please follow me (Mamaw).
http://itsabouttimemamaw.blogspot.com/
It sounds like a book I would like to read. Thank you for sharing.
Ordinary Words….Poetry can be challenging to review….you have to match the mood of the poet sometimes to really appreciate the prose. Sounds like you do great justice to your reviews and really analyze for the sake of future readers. Commendable♫♪
Twitter: CreateWithJoy1
says:
Thank you Laurie for your kind words… I do my best to give an honest assessment that does justice to both the author and any prospective readers in my reviews! 🙂
I liked this review as well. I’m on a journey similar to Amy’s and understand that not everyone will be interested in the mundane belly-button gazing that is sometimes helpful to me. Hopefully, as you pointed out, the poetry is timeless and connective. Thanks for reading it through and finding the best parts to share. 🙂
Twitter: CreateWithJoy1
says:
Thanks for sharing your feedback Lorraine – I think you would like this book! 🙂
Sometimes anthologies do that to me.
It’s like the pieces are great but the whole doesn’t quite meld together.
Thanks for your candor in your evaluation of this book!
I really enjoyed reading your take on it.
A+