Book Review 6: Smack-Dab in the Middle of God’s Love

The title is a mouthful and the story is heart-warming. SMACK-DAB IN THE MIDDLE OF GOD’S LOVE by Brennan Manning and John Blase, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell, is a book that engages all the senses! 

Set in a Mexican village, amidst the summer air, hummingbirds, and delicious “sopapillas”, this book is about a beautiful conversation between a loving couple, named Willie Juan and Ana, and the children from their neighborhood. Willie Juan asked, “Little friends, someday, when you are in heaven, what do you think Abba will ask you?”  The children’s simple but honest insights and the wise words of Willie Juan and Ana fill the heart with joy and inspiration. 

The colorful and cheerful drawings made me imagine myself lounging in Willie Juan and Ana’s cozy home with the children, laughing and eating with them, and just feeling—happy! My daughter and I looked up what sopapillas are and mmmm, it made us crave for some!

We love reading this book and the way it transports us to a different place and culture. That meaningful exchange of thoughts they had—that’s the kind of magic moment I would love to have with my little girls. We keep this book smack-dab in the middle of our bookshelf because for sure, we will read it over and over again! 

Note for parent-teachers:

We can identify these character qualities in this story.

1. GENEROSITY – carefully managing one’s resources so one can give freely to those in need
2.  HOSPITALITY – cheerfully sharing food, shelter, or conversation to benefit others 

(Definitions came from Achieving True Success, How to Build Character as a Family–a must-have book for all homes!)

If you want to get a copy, you can order from Amazon in the link below:

Smack-Dab in the Middle of God’s Love

Amazon now offers Free Shipping to the Philippines on qualified items. 😊