Victim of Grace

April 1, 2013
Choosing to look at adversity as the outcome of God's grace instead of as the end of a dream, the bestselling author Gunn (Sisterchicks series) gives a new definition to the term "victim." Personal stories, mixed with biblical stories of women who undergo loss and challenge, help to create a big picture. First chapters serve more as an introduction to the author and the concept. Lessons come into sharper focus later when Gunn gives helpful advice gleaned from personal experiences like the death of her father, temptation in her marriage, and forgiveness of those who have betrayed her. What if we aren't victims of circumstance, but victims of grace? she suggests. That shift in perspective asks readers to ponder whether God might actually be accomplishing his greatest purpose for our lives in the midst of disappointment instead of dashing dreams. Gunn has a gift for shedding new light on biblical passages as well. Discussion questions in the back of the book offer opportunities for further insight. Agent: Janet Grant, Books & Such Literary Agency

April 15, 2013
Gunn is a popular Christian author who often writes for a young audience, so her latest book is a departure, a factual memoir of how God's hand shaped her life and career. In it she conveys many universal truths about unmerited grace, compassion, forgiveness, and another important concept, obedience to a higher power in making use of one's personal gifts. Gunn had wanted to be a missionary in Africa but was turned down as a simple laundress for not having the right skill set. The children in her Sunday school class were delighted that she would still be present to tell them her beautiful stories. Their reaction to her disappointment enabled her to recognize her skills as a storyteller. Gunn's longing for missionary work continuedand manifested. Her books would eventually reach Africa and other foreign lands to inspire countless women and schoolchildren on a scale impossible for a single missionary. Additional startling synchronicities in the book suggest the value of moving along right paths and convey the importance of recognizing ourselves as instruments of God's handiwork.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)