Saint Agnes' Garden - by Diana Klueh (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The inspiration for Saint Agnes' Garden came from the book The Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of Saint Therese of Lisieux by Therese Martin. Saint Therese referred to herself as "a little white flower" because she had learned in a revelation from God that, in this world, we are all different kinds of flowers: We are not meant to be alike. We are all loved equally by God whether, in His eyes, we are a rose or a wild violet.

The main character, Jodie, is definitely a wild violet. She lives her life for the Lord and what she believes He is calling her to do. Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi, Jodie and her mother must make their own way after Jodie's father left them. They relocate to Terre Haute, Indiana, and must try to fit in to this strange northern city.

This novel illustrates how hard it is for young women to navigate the early years of adolescence and how loving the Lord makes it a bit easier for them to know what they're truly meant for. The author hopes that, through this novel, people will understand that children are all valuable and precious in the sight of the Lord.

About the Author

Many years ago, Diana Lynn Klueh expressed in her personal diary her strong desire to become an author. Could she do it? Did she have it in her? She awoke one morning to a strong calling in her head: "Weeds in the Garden." She was mystified, as she did not see how weeds in the garden related to her desire to write books for young adults.

After years of volunteering with child survivors of domestic abuse, it is clear that, although most people might see these broken kids as "weeds," she knew they are actually precious flowers that belong in the garden. She experienced firsthand these children "wilting" from abuse and family trauma, however, most of them thrived and "bloomed" with care and loving affection.

Mrs. Klueh now enjoys life with her husband, two grown children, and three lively grandsons.

Review Quotes

This is a sweetly told story about childhood and all the questions, hopes and disappointments that come with it. Klueh is particularly skilled at description. Her grandmother's voice "sounded as though she had swallowed sand." In describing a nun, she writes: "Everything about her was round; round face, round blue eyes that looked surprised by everything, and a little mouth that puckered to almost nothing."

While the novel isn't strong on plot, its descriptions and characterizations make for a satisfying read-- one that's likely to be enjoyed by those who enjoy a tender tale about life in another era.

-BlueInk Reviews