LUCY’S RAINBOW
A journey of hope
By Judy Hopkins, with Helen Porter. Authentic Media. 184 pages. £8.99
ISBN 978 1 850 789 543
I shall ask and try to answer two questions about this book: why was it written, and why should we read it?
Judy writes a brave and detailed account of her life, covering the sudden serious illness of her husband Russ, and his death after just seven years of marriage. She was left with the care of her two young daughters, and we learn what that meant for a bereaved young mother.
I think the book was written with the motive of helping others to cope with grief and bereavement, but also very clearly to help the author come to terms with her own grief. We are left with the strong sense that she achieved a certain closure and strength to face the future.
It could be helpful for others in similar circumstances to read her account, although her highly subjective and individualised view of what it means to be a Christian will not strike a chord with all readers.
Anyone who has no first-hand experience of dealing with bereavement and the bereaved will benefit from the insight into the painful, shadowy world of grief. We feel, alongside Judy, the awful unexpected waves of even physical pain, which are all part of the grieving process.
So, yes, read it, learn something about empathy, and be encouraged by Judy’s faith.
The story of Russ’s early life is a lovely account of how God can change people.
I found the early chapters a bit tedious, but would still recommend this book; you will be encouraged to ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart’ and ‘in all your ways acknowledge him’.
Clara Dowling,
pastor’s wife, North Finchley, London; Staff Nurse in hospice care
