I have to admit that Lachelle Avitia’s book and its content would not be my immediate go-to for a new read but in this world of disquiet, I found myself wanting to read something with meaning and presence, something which would smooth and calm my vaguely troubled mind. I wanted something modern, a 21st century text which drew on established morals and values of faith but I didn’t want something that preached or was didactic with a zealous Christian message. I did want stories to which I could relate which spoke of the goodness and rationality and ultimately, hopefulness of people; of finding a way out of dark times into places of reconciliation and growth, where the balance is re-established and progress is possible. I wanted there to be questions proposed by the text to prompt thoughtfulness and deeper thinking.
And that’s exactly what I discovered here.
I would say that Avitia’s book is a collection of modern day parables. She has taken allegory and crafted tales of guidance, each with a message. This is not overt with the moral being spelled out for you. Avitia is more subtle than that. Rather, these are quiet tales of discordant circumstances, situations of human experience presented and shown through Avitia’s quiet prose. She leads you through each scenario and to me, the allegory was clear in each but even if you’re not seeking deeper meaning, these are stories well-told – gentle, soft reflections.
The stories are accessible, each one focusing on a different situation and a person in that, usually one where sense is being made of what has happened or a way out is sought to reach equilibrium. There is no external conflict here – these are about finding inner strength or indeed, leaning on faith if you have it in times where it’s needed to bolster and support.
These are uplifting, optimistic tales. They are not of heroism or outrageous courage – but they are strong, their strength lying in their lack of showiness. If I had to describe it in allegorical terms, I felt like I was being taken on a walk around a garden with an arm around my shoulder to assist and comfort me, shown things if I wanted to look there but with no pressure being exerted on me to see them one way or another.
A gentle read, thoughtful and coaxing.
Rachel Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
This review was first published on Reedsy Discovery where I was privileged to read it as an ARC.
Scuffed Granny 