Book Review, Providence Book Promotions, The Story Plant

Review THE ROCKIN’ CHAIR by Steven Manchester

July 1, 2013 4 Comments

The Rockin’ Chair by Steven Manchester
Published by The Story Plant
Publication Date: June 18, 2013
ISBN: 978-1-61188-067-0
ISBN: 978-1-61188-068-7
Pages: 242
Review Copy from: The Story Plant
Edition: ARC Kindle
My Rating: 5+

Synopsis:
Memories are the ultimate contradiction. They can warm us on our coldest days – or they can freeze a loved one out of our lives forever. The McCarthy family has a trove of warm memories. Of innocent first kisses. Of sumptuous family meals. Of wondrous lessons learned at the foot of a rocking chair. But they also have had their share of icy ones. Of words that can never be unsaid. Of choices that can never be unmade. Of actions that can never be undone.

Following the death of his beloved wife, John McCarthy – Grandpa John – calls his family back home. It is time for them to face the memories they have made, both warm and cold. Only then can they move beyond them and into the future.

A rich portrait of a family at a crossroad, The Rockin’ Chair is Steven Manchester’s most heartfelt and emotionally engaging novel to date. If family matters to you, it is a story you must read.

My Thoughts and Opinion:

I was first introduced to this author, through The Story Plant’s, Spread The Word Initiative, when I read his debut novelTwelve Months, which blew me away. I then read his subsequent book, Goodnight, Brian, and again, another amazing read. With each book, Mr. Manchester touches upon a poignant topic that the reader has experienced, or can relate to, in their own life, which makes for a very emotional read. Could number 3 be as good?

The Rockin’ Chair is a moving story of the McCarthy family that is faced with Alzheimer’s Disease, aging parents, memories, wisdom, regrets, realizations, faith, and above all, familial unconditional love and understanding.

Mr Manchester has an incredible writing style that, not only can the characters and settings come to life and vivid imagery formed, but also allows the reader to feel the cast’s emotions.

On a personal note, there was a section in the book that truly hit home and is so true, which I would like to share. For many years, I worked in the Geriatric field and countless times, I saw how the elderly were forgotten and/or discarded by family and friends. But these special folks had so many memories to share and wisdom to bestow.

“Anyone who pities the elderly is a damned fool!……”The elderly should be envied”…..“They had realities of the past, which nothing or no one could take away”.

The Rockin’ Chair is a tender but powerful read. A book that will stay with the reader for many years to come. Engrossing and emotional! Will tug at your heart strings! Not only do I highly recommend this book, but believe this story should be a mandatory read for all.

I asked if number 3 could be as good? My answer. Not only did Steven Manchester hit a grand slam, he won the championship with The Rockin’ Chair!

REVIEW DISCLAIMER
This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
DISCLAIMER
I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me,in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
ADDENDUM
I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am an IndieBound affliate. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.

(2013 Challenges: Just For Fun, EBook, Count The Ways, A-Z Where Are You, FreeReads, 52 in 52, Outdo Yourself, Read-A-Latte