OF STILLNESS AND STORM: a novel

by Michèle Phoenix

Published: 2016

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Summary:

Sam and Lauren sell everything they own in the US to move to Nepal. It has been their dream to share the gospel with the distant tribes of the world. But it wasn’t their son’s dream. Sam treks the mountains for weeks at a time. He comes home tired and smelly but doesn’t want any luxuries because many in Nepal live in worse conditions. Lauren’s sense of adventure soon flattens after their move as she bumps along daily to a job she doesn’t like, fights a losing battle with the electricity, and watches her son slowly change from a fun and happy kid to a teen who just exists and resents her for everything. As the situation tenses on the home front, Lauren has an online encounter with a friend from her past. Her isolation leads to disillusionment, and things come crashing around her.

My Thoughts:

One of the reviews I read compared this book to THE POISONWOOD BIBLE, and I agree. Both stories drew up some deep emotions in me. With that said, if you experienced emotional trauma as a child, this book could be a trigger. So, read with caution.

 Michèle Phoenix is an MK (missionary kid) and has worked with MKs for many years. Her expertise and her personal experience give this story the raw emotions many who work overseas do not want to face. It asks the hard questions indirectly by watching this family try to survive while doing what they believe the Lord has called them to do.

I know that not everyone who reads this blog is a Christian, but the issues/themes in this book can be related to anyone who is trying to raise their family in a different culture than their own. Often, the children may not feel they have a choice in moving.