The Shiloh Renewal

This story is pretty loud and alive. I recommend it a lot.

I read the author's newest, Ghost in the Rainbow, first. It deals with addictions, internal strife, and external failure very well; you begin to feel this woman's suffering. Should be a requirement in any substance abuse program. I was compelled to then read Neighbors. Funny, endearing, and such upbeat characters. Finally I read Shiloh Renewal. I almost didn't because I thought it was a young adult book. Believe me, this is a very mature story. If you ever loved someone and lost them, you've got to read this book. Absolutely wrenching.

Joan Leslie Woodruff deserves to be read. "The Shiloh Renewal" is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Apparently someone decided that because the protagonist is a teenaged girl, the book must mostly appeal to younger readers. However, this 50+ adult man enjoyed it very much. The story looks at the boundaries between life and death, magic and realism, the past and the present. The focus is on healing, but it's not an easy process. A bonus in this particular modern story is that the reader also learns something about the civil war. As the main character recovers from a brain injury, we gain sensitivity about the plight of such people. Give it a try.

The Shiloh Renewal is a powerful and extraordinary story dealing with sorrow and courage and told with wry humor. Ms. Woodruff writes about Sandy's fascinating journey into the past where she searches for acceptance regarding the untimely death of her sister. This author has once again written a story that not only entertains, but moves the reader's spirit.

"Shiloh" is a story full of imagination, and what appears a tremendous effort to develop characters true to the south; true to the southwest. I find in reading the work of Joan Woodruff a pleasant resistance to formula. My enthusiasm for this work grows with my appreciation that I have been provided a story - not simply a book. If you are like me - looking for a genuine story - a genuine creation, you will enjoy the work of Joan Woodruff. Her prior work "Neighbors" is another great example of her talents, abilities and craft for taking you to a place and inviting you to sit and visit for a while... Suggestion: If you read "Neighbors" first, and then read "Shiloh" you may also follow the development of her literary style. My thanks to Woodruff for continuing to prove that gimmick is not all that is entertaining these days. (smile)