Customer Reviews

Bittersweet: The Restoration Continues

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In 1984, Gay Lewis wrote a book titled "Bittersweet" about her family's journey through teen pregnancy, adoption, and emotional healing. Now, in "Bittersweet: The Restoration Continues", the reader gets to see the original story and the rest of the story twenty-five years later. I enjoyed following the story of Gay's daughter Laurie and the rest of the family. Readers are sure to connect emotionally with this family. With a mother who hears "I'm pregnant" and a father who says goodbye to his first grandchild. With a daughter wrestling with a decision and whose college dreams are on hold. With a sister who takes a back seat. Whatever the connection, Gay's family will find their way into the reader's heart.

From a writing standpoint, this story unfolds in Gay's first person point of view, but woven throughout the book are letters between family members. Sometimes it reads like a glimpse into Gay's journal, and other times it's a narrative of events, a good variety. The author does a nice job of including dialogue to hold the reader's interest, but I think it would be even more powerful if the author incorporated more showing in her writing rather than telling. Also, with some editing of adverbs and passive voice, this book could have been even stronger.

All said, I was moved by the book and liked the author's vulnerability in showing her own shortcomings, the reality of parenting, and the reality of adoption. This story demonstrates how God can use any circumstance for his glory.