"A graceful, moving, emotionally impactful read." --Garth Stein, New
York Times bestselling author of The Art of Racing in The Rain
Saugatuck, MI, springs to life in this nostalgic, gentle story of
lifelong love along with the emotional support and care that families
and friends can provide. --Library Journal
The discovery of one woman's heirloom hope chest unveils precious
memories and helps three people who have each lost a part of themselves
find joy once again.
Ever since she was diagnosed with ALS, fiercely independent Mattie
doesn't feel like herself. She can't navigate her beloved home, she
can't go for a boat ride, and she can barely even feed herself. Her
devoted husband, Don, doesn't want to imagine life without his wife of
nearly fifty years, but Mattie isn't likely to make it past their
anniversary.
But when Rose, Mattie's new caretaker, and her young daughter, Jeri,
enter the couple's life, happiness and the possibility for new memories
return. Together they form a family, and Mattie is finally able to pass
on her memories from the hope chest she received from her mother.
With each item--including a favorite doll, family dishes, an embroidered
apron, and an antique Christmas ornament--the hope chest connects
Mattie, Don and Rose to each other and helps them find hope again in the
face of overwhelming life challenges.
A beautiful story about the unconditional love and support of family,
The Hope Chest by Viola Shipman will remind you that hope can be found
where and when you least expect it.
