The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow: A Novel of Bright's Pond

Did you ever anticipate something so much that you feared it would disappoint you? I wondered if I had done that as I turned the first pages of this book. I knew the author had a distinctive voice. I knew it was a "village" story in the tradition of Miss Read's Fairacre or Jan Karon's Mitford novels. I knew it had at least some relationship to prayer. And I knew it had received high praise. All this meant I was more pleased than surprised to find the book among the New Books at our local library. After all, Library Journal named it one of the top five Christian titles of 2009. Half-excited, half-fearful, I snatched it from the shelf. The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow failed to meet my expectations. It surpassed them in ways I'm not sure I can articulate. How could I have anticipated a novel whose heroine, resident of a former funeral home, weighs more than 600 pounds? How could I have expected one small story that combines codependent relationships, lingering childhood wounds, and the obsessive hungers of love and hate in such an intriguing way? I don't know quite how she did it, but Magnin drew me into the world of Bright's Pond--and kept me there. The relationship between sisters Griselda and Agnes Sparrow perplexed and enthralled me. The complexity of all her characters, in fact, moved them off the page and into my heart. When trust broke and an idol fell, I mourned. But I also celebrated Magnin's skill as an artist and skillful teller of truth. The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow mixes the power of prayer and the frailty of human relationships in a readable, believable, humorous, and horrifying way. Magnin's amazing debut novel caused me to examine what I believe. It also caused me to consider the impact of my own woundedness, seen and unseen. Visit Bright's Pond soon, but don't carry your expectations with you. This book, like the town's celebrated Full Moon Café, carries a full menu of original, delightful treats. Take the time to read--and to savor--each one.

Applause to author Joyce Magnin for her story-telling skill in "The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow" (also available for Kindle). The characters are well-defined by their actions, and the plot includes unpredictable twists. The story is set up well for a sequel (or series), and I hope this is in the works!

Joyce Magnin has beautifully written a creative, engrossing tale of the two Sparrow sisters...600+ pound Agnes and her dutiful caregiver Griselda. Set in the small town of Bright's Pond, Pennsylvania, they live in the family's former funeral home. One day, Agnes simply concluded that going outside was just too difficult, so she confined herself to her bed and began praying for the townsfolk. When Agnes' prayers lead to some amazing miracles, the proud townspeople declare her a miracle worker. Against her wishes, they erect a new town sign, "Welcome to Bright's Pond - Home of Agnes Sparrow". When a shocking tragedy occurs, the story takes a surprising twist. As the story unfolds, several dark secrets are revealed. Ms. Magnin is a gifted storyteller. She has brilliantly created an engaging, intriguing storyline with a wonderful cast of compelling, endearing characters. Narrated through the voice of Griselda gives the story a unique perspective...that of a devoted caregiver. Also, Ms. Magnin's detailed, evocative writing superbly brings each scene to life and wonderfully captures the ambiance of life in a small town. In addition, this story is an insightful one, as there were many valuable lessons within. I thoroughly enjoyed this truly entertaining novel and I highly recommend it!!

The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow by Joyce Magnin is a masterful novel about the power of unconfessed sin. Griselda has devoted her life to taking care of her obese sister, Agnes. Agnes has devoted her life to taking care of the town of Bright's Pond. Her prayers have become so famous for bringing miracles in the small town that its residents are preparing to erect a sign outside city limits advertising it as the "Home of Agnes Sparrow." But Agnes has never wanted publicity, and no matter how hard she tries, they refuse to see the answered prayers as the work of God, but instead of as the acts of Agnes. When a new man moves to town looking for a miracle from Agnes, the town will be forever changed. Magnin has created in Bright's Pond a vibrant and fascinating small town. She never reverts to stereotypes, although there is plenty of quirkiness. Griselda's character is really the heart of the novel, and the character feels frustration, betrayal, outrage, and hope right along with her due to Magnin's wonderful portrayal. The story takes a distinctly unexpected turn giving it added depth and heart. Magnin is definitely a writer I have put on my must read list.

If the title weren't enough to pique my interest, the characters drew me in almost immediately. They're quirky, well-portrayed, and remind me all too well of the people from the small town where I grew up--that is, except for Agnes Sparrow. She's unique, to say the least. The plot is well-developed and guaranteed to keep the reader guessing. All in all, it's a quick, fun read that conveys a message. If you get to know Agnes and the townspeople around her, you won't soon forget them.