Story Time . . . MY HEART REMEMBERS by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Since last Story Time Tuesday I wrote about a book that dealt with turn-of-the-century orphan issues, I thought today I’d talk about the other one I’ve recently read with the same topic–though the similarities end there.
My Heart Remembers by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a must-read. No surprise that it’s a finalist in ACFW’s Book of the Year contest!

Maelle promised her father that she’d watch after the wee ones in the rush to escape their burning apartment building. All night long, she cared for her little brother, Mattie, and the baby, Molly. But when her parents never emerge, the care for them in taken out of her hands–and not long after, they’re on an orphan train, headed west. As her younger siblings are torn from her arms, Maelle swears she’ll find them again–and sends with each a token to ensure they’ll recognize each other when they meet again.

Through the years, the three siblings lead very different lives. Maelle, known as Mike, becomes a photographer. Her passion? Capturing the plight of the orphaned children who are overworked and under-loved across America. Mattie learns all about ranching–and the hard price a boy might pay if he finds himself under an unfair “guardian.” Molly is raised as a wealthy socialite . . . who is tossed onto the mercies of others when her brother forces her from her home, penniless and alone, after their parents’ death. Will anything bring them together again?

There are so many things I love about this book. First, though it’s not technically a romance, there’s a strong enough thread of that to keep my romantic’s heart a-pumping happily. As always, Kim delivers characterization that will make you sigh, laugh, and cry (or nearly, in my case;-). The plot has hints of suspense, tons of passion, and clearly demonstrates the redemptive and restorative powers of an Almighty God.

This book is like a tapestry–richly woven, beautifully hued, saturated with feeling and depth. I enjoyed following each thread, learning more about each sibling, and their Joy was mine in the end.

For an awesome story of homecoming, faith, and the kind of deep-set love that doesn’t fade, even through the decades, open up My Heart Remembers. It’s a book you’ll never forget.