I truly enjoyed this book. There’s an eternal aspect to it and a temporal one - dealing with daily realities of getting old, and the how and where we might find ourselves in the twilight years while awaiting our real “final destination.” The setting of the book is naturally very conducive to that and it’s well developed here. Not many books have elder care as a setting so it’s unique from the start and subtly underscores the importance of making everything count when time may be shorter than we realize. The characters are very well developed too which is important to this reader if I’m going to glean the most I can out of a book. I hope the author writes a sequel.
5.0 out of 5 stars A delightful read! By MKWash As a caregiver for several family members over the years, I have a special interest in books about the elderly. This one met all my expectations and more, so much so that I enjoyed it as much the second time I read it as the first.
As the story opens, Sadie has just moved into a beautiful nursing home. The description of her adjustment to her new life is delicately-managed. The author carefully introduces additional characters, the various residents, their families, and the staff members whose lives intermingle with Sadie’s, and then fleshes out their stories beautifully, allowing each person to grow throughout the story.
The author adds color to the story by including details about the beautiful facility, The Hickories, and with occasional mentions of specific foods served to the residents—we should all eat so well! There is a hint of mystery and a sweet romance, along with many insights into how families interact with older loved ones. Especially effective is her handling of how families, residents, and staff face end-of-life issues.
Ms. Foth-Regner’s writes from her own personal experiences in caregiving and as a longtime nursing home volunteer. Her Christian faith is reflected in this delightful story that features real characters facing real problems who grow through them. A delightful read! As the story 5.0 out of 5 stars What a wonderful story By Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite
Sadie is the main star of The Song of Sadie Sparrow by Kitty Foth-Regner, but she is not alone; she shares her days with Meg and Elise and the other residents. Jamie is a preacher who comes regularly to talk with the ladies and to offer them Bible classes and the chance to have a better relationship with God. Sadie quickly accepts God and truly believes that she will get to spend eternity with Him and see all of her loved ones again. Elise spends lots of time at The Hickories because her grandfather Papi is a resident and she has always been a believer, even though she has some questions that need answering. Meg does not believe and is unwilling to listen, learn or consider giving her life to Jesus or perhaps she does in the end (one can only hope so). The three ladies form a tight bond despite their ages and differences of opinion, and readers are blessed to share in their everyday life at the nursing home.
What a wonderful story is told in The Song of Sadie Sparrow. It was impossible not to love this dear sweet lady who is in the twilight of her life living at The Hickories, a high end nursing home. The Song of Sadie Sparrow can and should be read by believers and non-believers as it is a heartwarming, sweet story. I enjoyed the discussions on different verses of the Bible, but did not find it to be too preachy as is sometimes the case in this type of book. I cried when Sadie was taken home and felt as though I had lost a true friend. I cannot say enough good about The Song of Sadie Sparrow and I highly recommend it to all readers.
5.0 out of 5 stars Well-written, thoroughly enjoyable! By W. McCall
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is a well-written, thoroughly enjoyable book about three women in three different stages of life who meet at the Hickories retirement home.
Sadie Sparrow lives at the Hickories. She is nearing the end of her life and must make the mental, emotional and physical transition of living in a retirement home. Meg Vogel works at the Hickories. Meg’s atheism is being challenged by being around many people who believe in God. Elise Chapelle’s grandfather is a resident at the Hickories. Elise is now questioning what God wants her to do with her life since she has been her grandfather’s caretaker. As the three ladies intersect with each other and build a relationship, God touches each of their lives and weaves a beautiful tapestry that affects the here and now and possibly eternity.
Author Kitty Foth-Regner does an excellent job of fleshing out each character. You fall in love with them, cry with them, and even get mad with and at them! The book made me laugh, has a mystery and made me appreciate, even more, the elderly who are a part of my life.
I highly recommend The Song of Sadie Sparrow. This is now one of my favorite books and I will read more than once!
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
A story of lives intertwined by hope and faith By Tina J.
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is a beautiful story of lives intertwined by hope and faith in a nursing home. I like the emphasis on an eternal life beyond this fallen world. The storyline also showcases the truth that God is merciful and He doesn't forsake His children even in old age.
Don't assume a story set in a nursing home would be slow and only have sadness. I have friends in assisted living and know what a soap opera their world is. Consequently I opened the book with anticipation and loved the way each character experienced the cover challenge 'It's never too late to change your tune'. Appropriately every character's experience was affected by the Song of Sadie Sparrow. The main characters are three women of different ages: Sadie an 86-year-old widow placed in The Hickories nursing home by her overly busy career-minded daughter.
Meg, a recent widow at 58, has closed down her home business, works at The Hickories and is an agnostic. Meg's favorite part of her job is to write biographies of the residents.
Elise, a 32-year-old is emotionally wounded by her mother's desertion. She quit her teaching job to care for the grandfather who raised her and who now lives at Hickories. Elise attends a class on how to build a website about heaven. www.EverlastingPlace.com is a real website written by the author.
Making the story interesting are Elise's grandfather and Jamie a young pastor hosting a Bible study which at first has only one attendee - Sadie Sparrow. Jamie also develops a relationship with Elise, an answer to prayer for Elise's grandfather.
Sadie and some best friends in Hickories share humor, suspicions, questions, and concerns that bring up many topics of caregiving, end of life and the importance of being heard. Meg's character apparently derives in part from the author's early personal life.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew. "A thoughtful and touching story about the life lessons being taught all around us, if only we dare to pay attention."
Editor's note: Here’s an interesting secular review from The BookLife Prize group of BookLife, Publishers Weekly’s small-press/independent-publishing arm. Unfortunately, there are no “Christian,” “inspirational” or “spiritual” categories here. Ergo, the reviewer didn’t understand, or perhaps care, that Sadie Sparrow’s “original intent” was to share the gospel, and that it was indeed meant from the start to be a gospel-centered story. Otherwise, it’s a nice review.
Title: The Song of Sadie Sparrow Author: Kitty Foth-Regner Genre: Fiction/General Fiction (including literary and historical) Audience: Adult Word Count: 100,000
Assessment Plot: While the story flows at an even pace and the characters are distinct and likable, the religious overtones here are heavy-handed and excessive. The author could easily scale this back and still maintain the integrity of the work and original intent. Otherwise, the plot is engaging and holds reader interest.
Prose: Foth-Regner is a gifted writer whose prose flows smoothly. She creates a compelling, beautifully written story with subtle nuances.
Originality: This is a touching, well-told story that feels original and fresh.
Character Development: Foth-Regner creates memorable characters. The reader sympathizes with them in their struggles and roots for them to find fulfillment and contentment. Blurb: A thoughtful and touching story about the life lessons being taught all around us, if only we dare to pay attention.
It was a wonderful novel. I often found myself having a hard time putting it down. Kitty does a great job weaving the lives of the 3 main characters throughout. It is thoughtful, enlightening and honest. I have never read a book that focuses on the lives of people in a nursing home. Kitty captured the thoughts, fears, feelings, suspicions and humanity of the nursing home residents. I highly recommend this book!!! Defintely a five-star novel By Debbie
"The Song of Sadie Sparrow" by Kitty Foth-Regner is a wonderful book about life in a nursing home and three woman in particular. It is definitely a five-star novel.
This book caused many tears to fall because of the way she effectively portrayed [life in a nursing home] or [the places life takes us as we age].
I felt the loneliness of these three woman. I have to say that Sadie was my favorite character because Sadie was my grandmother's name. She had many of the same characteristics as my grandmother.
This book made me realize anew that more people need to visit nursing home residents to make them know that they are still valuable and still have a purpose till God calls them home to Heaven.
I would read another book about the character meg if the author should write one, the ending makes me think there could be another novel. The ending is perfect and while, not a cliff hanger, would make a great start to a new book..."
The ending is a bitter sweet reminder of what real life is like and that there is hope for a happy ending if we believe in Jesus.
I would recommend this book to everyone that likes true to life fiction with this warning, this book is a tear jerker but it brings hope.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Christian Women Affiliate. These opinions are my own.
The Song of Sadie Sparrow, by Kitty Foth-Regner, is a book that will speak to you. Whether you are approaching retirement years or have family members at an age where they need help with their care, this story will really bring out some topics to consider.
The story focuses on three women of different ages:
Sadie is an 86 year old widow who has been moved to The Hickories nursing home by her daughter. Her daughter is so busy with her own life, she does not take much time for her mother.
Meg has recently lost her husband and at the age of 58, she has made major changes to her life. She has ended her business and has taken a job at The Hickories.
Elise is a 32 year old single teacher who gave up her job to care for her grandfather. Her mother left when Elise was very young and they have not heard from her or seen her for a very long time.
Jamie is a young pastor who visits the nursing home. He leads the Bible study Sadie has joined, he spends time witnessing to Meg and he develops a relationship with Elise.
First off, I love this story, and when I get old I want to be just like Sadie. She is so full of life and her imagination is very vivid. This story is so realistic, it is hard not to feel sadness for the residents whose families are so busy they do not visit them. I also like the idea of the nursing home having a staff member get to know the residents well enough to write a biography of sorts for them and their families. I wish that were something all homes would do.
I really think the book will be enjoyed by many regardless of age or gender. I think it will open many people's eyes to the need to visit the elderly family members who cannot get out.
I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
Insightful, profound, thought-provoking By RobbyeFaye https://captivedreamswindow.wordpress.com/
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is one of those unique books that only rarely comes along. The story focuses on Sadie Sparrow after she must move to a nursing home, a needed step up in care from a retirement home unable to accommodate her wheelchair use.
Kitty Foth-Regner has written a book that is at once like watching a movie and also like living in the story. The characters are all so likable (even the not so likable ones!) and instantly endearing.
The Hickories, the nursing home facility, is a beautiful place to behold. I wanted to assist Sadie with her wheelchair and stroll through the gardens or take a tour of the building. If I am ever in need of a nursing facility, I hope to find one similar to Sadie Sparrow’s home.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I received this insightful, profound and thought-provoking book. I had read an excerpt which intrigued me with its multiple character storyline. As I read, I realized the focus was mainly on three women at very different stages in their respective lives, sharing their experiences, knowledge and insights with each other and those around them.
You will encounter the most credible and well thought out arguments for the infallibility of Scripture you are likely to find in a work of fiction.
Be prepared; the novel deals with emotionally draining material in its 395 pages, but please don’t let that scare you away from reading it.
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is a book that will keep you up reading it and will make you sad when it is over. I sincerely hope that Kitty Foth-Regner will write another book about the people of The Hickories.
I was also intrigued to learn (from reading her bio on the back cover) that Foth-Regner was once a feminist atheist, converted to Christianity through her own quest to disprove the Bible.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book/eBook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
Critique: Set in a nursing home known as The Hickories, The Song of Sadie Sparrow is an extraordinary novel of true friends. Three women from three generations cross paths at The Hickories; they have different views on religion, life, and afterlife, but the bonds they share are destined to transform each of them. Heartwarming, thought-provoking, and beautiful, The Song of Sadie Sparrow is highly recommended. It should be noted for personal reading lists that The Song of Sadie Sparrow is also available in a Kindle edition ($2.99).
Let me begin by saying that I am not normally a huge fan of fiction, even Christian fiction.This latest book by Kitty Foth-Regner however may have just changed my opinion. From the first chapter to the last, I was enthralled with her creative writing style, a style that draws you into each scene just as if you were in the room with Sadie and her friends.
The story is constantly adding new characters and situations that keep the reader on the edge of their seat wondering what’s next? I especially appreciate how the author gives an up close and personal look into the world of assisted care. Her research into what can be a depressing environment is spot on and leaves the reader wondering about the future of elderly care. I have personally spent many Sunday afternoons in nursing homes and Kitty describes the atmosphere perfectly. So much so that one is left feeling a bit uneasy, or should I say guilty, about how we treat our elderly.
Foth-Regner has written a book that is a love story, a who done it, an expose’,and a suspense novel all in one. I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a book that draws you in and refuses to let go of you. You will find that your emotions will run the gamut while reading this book. From falling in love with Sadie, to feeling disgusted with her daughter that cannot be bothered with her,to hoping that a certain young couple fall in love and marry,this book is a sure fire winner!
I cannot wait for the next installment. One more thing, I highly recommend reading Kitty Foth-Regner’s book “Heaven Without Her” as well.
Sadie Sparrow was an extremely satisfying book to read. The way I gauge this is by my reluctance to finish the book. The further I read, the more I knew it would eventually end and I was having so much fun reading it that I wanted it to go on forever. I got pretty attached to the main characters, each of them relatable in distinctly different ways.
I read Foth-Regner's previous work, "Heaven Without Her" which I really liked and it had a completely different tone to it. Whereas "Heaven" was a very astute intellectual and emotional journey, one that Foth-Regner traveled alone, "Sadie" is a celebration of people. It invites the reader to get to know a unique community of saints and sinners who are flawed and endearing. Every time I picked up the book to continue reading I felt right at home in this cozy little world she created. What more can I say? I laughed, I cried. It was exactly enough, but I still want more!
I really hope the author does a follow-up book featuring these same characters--even a prequel would be welcome.
A remarkable story with endearing characters By JR
Once I entered the halls at The Hickories, this remarkable story drew me in with its rich setting and relatable and endearing characters. The author handled the complex interpersonal issues and important spiritual struggles faced by the characters with sensitivity and insight. I savored every chapter and only hope this will be the first in a series. An excellent book to share with friends and family! A brilliantly written Christian novel By J. Craft The Song of Sadie Sparrow is a brilliantly written Christian novel that tells the story of three women, all at different stages and ages of life. The setting is in a nursing home that is well appointed. This magnificent facility, the Hickories includes activities that are just a dream in most nursing homes.
The one feature that I liked the most was the task that one of the main characters, Meg Vogel performed; the interviewing of residents with the purpose of publishing their biographies. What a marvelous and creative way to engage the minds and hearts of the elderly.
Each of the three characters: Sadie Sparrow, Elise Chapelle, and Meg Vogel are well developed and highly believable. The challenges met by each character brings them into contact with one another and the issue of eternal life beyond this universe. Each of the main characters has her own belief system and source of truth. A dash of intrigue, a bit of mystery and slice of romance adds spice to the story.
Since this is a Christian novel, appropriate scripture is spread throughout the story. The book is clearly evangelistic in nature. It is not preachy, briefly put it tells the message of salvation simply, clearly and persuasively.
It is abundantly clear that the writer has been immersed in the culture of nursing homes and understands well the loneliness of residents left to wither away without regular contact with family; or the paid workers and volunteers that adopt a resident whom they come to love and interact with on a regular basis. A book of this importance should not be passed over for a story that is superficial in all respects.This is a must-read for anyone from the age of 25 to 100 who appreciates the distinct qualities of the elderly.
This is a sweet and touching tale of a young woman who finds personal satisfaction in helping others rather than indulging herself. It does a masterful job of illustrating how unfulfilling life is when its chief goal is the pursuit of material gain. The peace the characters find because of their pure and doubt-free faith in God, heaven and redemption made this a "can't-put-it-down" read for even this cynical human being! You will not regret reading it; it is uplifting in many ways. Enjoy! (This would also be a GREAT Christmas gift for people in your life who are tired of bad news, people indulging their own desires rather than considering others, or who think we lose our human value when we develop wrinkles or a limp!)
Fans of author Kitty Foth-Regner take note: this is her best yet! Kitty weaves her narrative around Sadie Sparrow, newly arrived at The Hickories, an upscale skilled-nursing facility. The storyline keeps us rooting for characters from widely different backgrounds as their paths intersect. Kitty’s careful research shines through the authentic details of daily life at this best-in-class residence for seniors. (If only every nursing home could be so pleasant!) Each person’s arc plays out in small steps, so that their character transformations seem not only plausible but inevitable. Fans of faith-based literature, in particular, will find wonderful affirmations woven carefully throughout the story.
Fantastic! I didn't want it to end and surely hope Foth-Regner will write sequels. She created such fascinating, real characters, she could write a spin off novel on every one. I'm a Christian fiction snob. I think most Christian fiction novels are cheesy and pity. But this I would recommend to Christians, seekers, those of any faith who like a good story and all who live an assisted living facility or love someone who does. The other reviews say so much I agree with about the plot, characters, message, writing style, so I won't repeat their words. Suffice it to say you may not like or agree with every character or Foth-Regne's entire world view but this book is for you no matter what. Her plot twists, arguments, unanswered questions really get you thinking and praying.
A wonderful story to share with family and friends. It brought forth memories of caring for sick parents and looking after a dear Aunt with Alzheimer's. Sad memories mixed in with many happier days, always with the hope of a better future.
My wife read this book and related to me numerous parts which we often discussed. My wife's mother was in a nursing home for several years and my wife related to Kitty's story to the degree that at times it brought her to tears. The book reveals much insight to the problem of parents, friends and others in Nursing homes and their concerns and struggles. It also helps us on the outside to understand those in the nursing home. It would have helped us greatly to have read the book first, and the reading would have enabled us to better cope with the common nursing home experience. A great very well written story based on the reality that many of us many someday face, written from a Christian standpoint. A masterpiece of writing and insight.
A friend recommended this book for my mom who is going into a nursing home. It’s purely a good fictional story, but based on truth and real people, describing the lives and relationships of a group of folks in a nursing home where the writer apparently volunteered for many years. It’s an entertaining read and very heartwarming. Great gift for an elderly parent of grandparent! (I bought 3 copies).
Many of us have distinct beliefs as to what happens to each of us upon death; others of us believe that’s it – we then no longer exist anywhere, except in the memories of those we’ve loved. Still others believe there has to be something more, perhaps much more – and we’d like to know precisely what that will be; but can we know until it happens? And often, we have what, to us, are sound reasons for those beliefs. Why this diversity of opinions and arguments on what is clearly of such importance to many of us, especially as we all age?
Author Kitty Foth-Regner clearly respects the intelligence and sense of each of the three multi-generational women, and the young man, who become fast friends in her book while living or volunteering in The Hickories nursing home. Despite the fact that each of the women has a different set of beliefs about the post-death experience, ranging from Meg’s feminist atheism to Sadie’s conservative Christianity!
This is a book you can feel safe in offering to, and discussing with, those you care about -- without fear of insulting your reader – which makes it unusual within the realm of such sometimes-anger-provoking works. Which opens the long-closed door to many much-needed conversations. You’ll be offered a broad, cross-generational exploration of the evidence available within each belief system among the people you care most about. Especially as the years roll by, and each of us loses dearly loved ones.
You may very well be surprised to find yourself and others seriously considering ideas other than your own from another, happier point of view … or feel even more trust in what you’ve long believed (or often, longed to believe!) … based on the weight of evidence Kitty has documented, and woven gently into her sweet story.
To get the most from this book, be sure to share it – and then prepare for many productive hours of very meaningful, clarifying conversations.
This is not the sort of book I'm used to reading, being a fan of suspense and political thrillers, but my wife encouraged me to read it. I'm glad she did. It's a great story, involving unforgettable characters (especially Sadie Sparrow). A welcome change of pace for me and highly recommended for any reader, especially if you have a loved one who is elderly, or expect to grow old yourself.
I enjoyed this book very much. The characters are very real and the story keeps you interested. It's a book that won't sit on my shelf. I'll be loaning it out to others.
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is an amazing book! It is both interesting and engaging . The characters are so real to life that I did not want to say goodbye when the book ended. This book brings a message of encouragement, hope, and healing. Most importantly, it gives insight into how to find the true meaning of life. (Marsha Headley author of “Prayer Dynamics”)
I just finished The Song of Sadie Sparrow, it was wonderful!
The characters really draw you in and you give the reader such a great description of the The Hickories, it's fun to visualize it. I want to go there.
I enjoyed being a part of Megs journey through the book. It's a very realistic story of denial or skepticism, then, ultimately, reflection and realization. Elise and Jamie's story is refreshing. Sadie Sparrow is endearing and you feel sad about the void her daughter creates, however are comforted by her time with Jamie and her friends at The Hickories, also her happiness toward the end of her days.
One of the best books I've read in years....and I'm old. I highly recommend this read to anyone. It's clean and realistic, too. Buy lots of them to give as gifts! I did.
A great book by a very caring lady. Kitty writes about faith, aging, and the joy of changing beliefs. Kitty does a wonderful job of volunteering and getting to know the residents. She spends time with the people and makes their lives better in the process. She gives and receives love, and that is expressed in her writing. This book is a good read.
It was amazing By Kathie Jordan
I really REALLY enjoyed this book. I like when the writing flows so well that you don't notice it and the story just grabs hold of you and you can't wait to see what happens on the next page. Yet I had such a wonderful time in the "world" of Sadie Sparrow that I dreaded coming to the end of the book.
My mother was a nursing home R.N. and also Director of Nursing for more than 20 years and loved every minute of it. When I read this book I could see how my mother got so attached to many of her patients. I got attached to every character in this book. I laughed and cried over them and I still want to know what most of them are doing now--LOL! Perhaps the author will grace us with a sequel or prequel.
I highly recommend this book to both Christians and non-Christians as "Sadie" isn't heavy on doctrine but more about the struggles of each Christian and non-Christian character.
I LOVE this book! By Loretta Marchize
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is such an encouraging and inspiring Christian novel. Sadie is so sweet, Meg so real, and Elsie... I particularly like her. Also Nurse Julia... the ending...
This is definitely a book I would recommend to all of my friends! (Especially the Christian friends) I enjoyed the style of writing too, and the only thing I'm wondering about is the thickened liquids. That was never really explained or finished, but everything else was and I loved it!
The author allowed me as a reader to not only see a nursing home for what it can be a home enabling residents to bond. In her story, she has several friendships that bond, but the most important bonding is with the Lord.
Sadie Sparrow touched my heart. She to me was the "leader of the bunch." Her personality was so warm that others welcomed her around them unless she was talking about the Lord, but she did not let that stop her. She pulled me in where I saw my "Oma" telling me about Jesus at the time when I did not want to hear.
There was heartache, love, compassion and inspiration throughout the story of the different lives of the resident's at The Hickories.
... Kitty Foth-Regner presents an honest and first hand memoir of three women, Sadie, Elise and Meg that just wanted to be loved, needed and cared for. As you hear the final words of Sadie delivered to Meg you will understand that some bonds, as it says on the back cover, will change lives forever and will not even be broken in death. Listen carefully and you too will hear The Song of Sadie Sparrow loud and clear!
Very few books become so real to me that I am brought to tears. This is not a sad story but a glorious one in which the characters become so real that you feel like you know them. This is an intriguing story - sprinkled with humor but heavy on realism! ... A delightful read that you will look forward to each time you have a few minutes. Five stars!
Once I began this book, I was quickly turning pages and enjoying, and found myself rooting for these people, whom most of their family seems to have abandoned.
This book takes place, mostly, in a beautiful nursing home, now I don't find them to be beautiful, sems that weekly I hear something bad happening at them, but this one seems to be an exception. I wanted to walk in the beautiful gardens, and eat what sounds like gourmet dining.
What I found the most compelling was the faith of many of these folks, and then how they are reinforced by the majority of the people that were surrounding them, and the warfare of trying to save others.
This is one sweet read, and along with life's challenges, there are some chuckles, and the forming of some wonderful friendships, and yes love. The author made this story so real to me, and when you read how she spent her life, she really knows what she is telling us, and it is so well done.
If you like a story that brings to light how bitterness, sorrow, and loneliness affects the elderly, this book is spot on, while showing Jesus is the only answer here on Earth and when we die and go to Heaven if we believe in Him. (Read more)
An excellent, well written book. It encourages the reader to more care and love others. It motivates the Christian to share the Gospel to those who do not know Jesus as their Savior.
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is an Absolutely wonderfully read!!! So excited to share with others, especially my dear new 87 year old friend. Heartwarming By Maureen
Once I began this book, I was quickly turning pages and enjoying, and found myself rooting for these people, whom most of their family seems to have abandoned.
This book takes place, mostly, in a beautiful nursing home, now I don’t find them to be beautiful, seems that weekly I hear something bad happening at them, but this one seems to be an exception. I wanted to walk in the beautiful gardens, and eat what sounds like gourmet dining.
What I found the most compelling was the faith of many of these folks, and then how they are reinforced by the majority of the people that were surrounding them, and the warfare of trying to save others.
This is one sweet read, and along with life’s challenges, there are some chuckles, and the forming of some wonderful friendships, and yes love.
The author made this story so real to me, and when you read how she has spent her life, she really knows what she is telling us, and it is so well done.
The Song of Sadie Sparrow is the story about three women whose lives intersect in a nursing home. Even though there are differences, solid and meaningful relationships develop. This is a beautifully written, moving and inspirational story that is well worth reading. Highly recommended.
"It's never too late to change" By Sherryl Wilson, www.SherrylWilson.com
Growing up I was not a fan of visiting people in the nursing home. As a child, I thought they were scary places. They looked strange, the smells were not always nice, and everyone was really old. It wasn’t until I was in my thirties and we had to place my father in law in a home that my views changed.
In this book by Kitty Foth-Regner, The Song of Sadie Sparrow, the author creates this world within the walls of a nursing home. The tag line ‘It’s never too late to change your tune – is perfect. This is a story three women and their faith, or rather their differences in belief systems.
My Thoughts: It’s been said that life isn’t a race..it’s a journey. We all have a course that we are following based on our beliefs, backgrounds, challenges, and or privileges. Most of us barrel along through life just reacting to what life throws at us. It isn’t until we reach mid or later years that we stop and look around…often quite alarmed at where we ended up.
When my father in law became too ill for us to care for at home, we made the decision to place him in the nursing home that thankfully was in our back yard. I say thankfully, but honestly, it was really hard on him and us knowing that we were only a few yards apart. He didn’t want to be there, we didn’t want to have to leave him there…it was tough on all of us.
Well, except for one of our boys. Derek loved going to the nursing home. He would bolt over there anytime he could sneak away. He knew all the staff and residents by name! They called out to him if he was outside in the yard. It really made me take a look at the lives of the people that were living in my back yard.
Sadly, most were placed there and for all appearances..forgotten. Sure they would get a card on their birthday or maybe a visit around the holidays but for the most part they were alone.
This is where the book touched my heart. Like the residents in the nursing home with my father in law, the residents in the book were from all different walks of life. As the story unfolds, the friendship develops between three unlikely women. They have different backgrounds and beliefs; but they grow to appreciate each other as they work through their different positions on life, love, forgiveness.
As this book says of the cover..It’s Never too Late to Change Your Tune. Life is fleeting when compared to eternity. And you don’t have to stay on the same course that you are following. If you open your heart and allow yourself to really see others and yourself.
My thoughts returned to the days that we spent in the nursing home. It also convicted me in that there are several older family members that I haven’t spoken to or visited lately. It also convicted me that I need to be more vocal in sharing my faith to those around me. Overall, I enjoyed the book. I didn’t agree with all the positions or views on the topics of faith, but the overall story line and the encouragement I drew from it was worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew. "A fascinating story. 5.0 out of 5 stars" By Cindy Navarro
Sadie Sparrow, Meg Vogel, and Elise Chapelle, the three main characters in The Song of Sadie Sparrow, are from three different generations and different views of Christianity. The three women also have experienced feelings of abandonment and are drawn to one another after meeting at The Hickories. And, you will want to meet Jamie... a man who has an impact on each of these women.
Sadie is an elderly widow who is forced to move into The Hickories assisted-living center when she can no longer live on her own. Feeling abandoned by her only child, Sadie does start to fit into the lives of the residents, staff, and visitors. Although having uncertainties about her future, her faith, and her song, grow stronger.
Meg is a recent middle-aged widow who feels that her husband abandoned her for his new-found faith after his health failed. It strengthened her belief that there is no God. She seeks a fresh beginning when she accepts a position at The Hickories as an Activities Assistant with a special task of writing the life story of each resident.
Elise is a young woman who frequently visits her beloved grandfather, another resident of The Hickories. Abandoned by her mother as an infant, Elise was raised by her grandparents. Her grandfather and her faith are both valuable to her and she is seeking for a way to share her faith once she is alone.
The lives of these women are intertwined in a well-told story set in an unusual location. Kitty Foth-Regner tells a fascinating story that also included touches of humor and intrigue. The minor characters lent additional content and depth to the story as people you would also like to know better while not intruding too much on the main characters as distractions.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
"I highly recommend this book." By Racheal
I highly recommend this book. It brings both awareness of the elderly forgotten and the gentle reminder of the need to share the gospel and plant seeds in the lives of those we know, who don't yet know Jesus. And all this presented in a very engaging plot line.
