While I was laid out with my back problem, I spent more than a little time indulging in what has become one of my favorite pastimes lately, reading just about anything penned by Janette Oke. This Canadian author has written more than 72 books, and over the past few months I have read a good number of them. While I am not, in general, a fan of Christian literature (it is often a bit too heavy-handed for me), I have yet to read a novel by Ms. Oke that I did not thoroughly enjoy...and I recommend her books to anyone who loves a well-plotted, deftly-charactered tale of faith, love, determination, and family.
Oke is primarily but not exclusively drawn to pioneering stories and frequently creates a series that spans several generations, rather like Little House on the Prairie for adults. I must warn you that the titles can be almost painfully maudlin, but the stories are emphatically not (though her first outings were more pedestrian about sharing her faith than later efforts, where she weaves religion seamlessly through the fabric of each story). Subtle or less so, these books are well worth reading for the characters, drama, diversion, and gentle wisdom they offer. My spirit was uplifted, charmed, and warmed by every one of them.
Can literature that is beautifully simple take you on a journey that is soul-deep? I say yes, and I think you will agree that the work of Janette Okes proves me right.
16 comments:
yes, i think it can...these sound intriguing...will pass over to T as she loved little house...
I have heard really wonderful things about her books!
I'm not familiar with her writing - I'll have to give her a read! I always love your reading tips.
I absolutely love the fact that you have transferred all of her books to my Kindle. I am starting the series just as soon as I finish this tedious one I'm presently reading. I know, you think I should just bag it, but I am pretty pertinacious when it comes to something that in many ways is good for me. I read it just before it is time for me to go to bed and it puts me to sleep. Actually, the story is pretty good, but it is so long and drawn out. The characters are a bit hard to remember too because of their weird names, having taken place in the year 1008 in the wars between England and Denmark. I won't even name the book because I wouldn't want anyone to even think about reading it. I am over 50% along so it won't be too much longer. I only read for about a half hour before I go to bed. When I start this new wonderful series, I will probably be hard put to even lay it down and will read for about three hours each day, maybe more.
I haven't read any of her books but I have see all of the Love Comes Softly Series movies and we enjoyed those. I know being down with a bad back is yucky, but isn't it nice to have time to read? :-)
I for one just adore her writin' and the stories behind 'em. Thanks for sharin' this remarkable woman with us.
Have a blessed day sweetie!!!! :o)
They sound wonderful! I am not familiar with her but I am a fan of your reading suggestions. Now, I need to get organized and write down all the authors I have been hearing about for my "To Read" list.
Thanks for the recommendation, Sue.
I love it when you recommend books and shows. (I'm still loving the OWN channel!)
Do you have a specific book I should start with by this author? Or rather, which one was your favorite so far?
Hi Sue, Thanks so much for your sweet comment about my story on Grandma Yellow Hair's blog, I appreciate it so much. Even though I left some stuff out it was still too long. Just more to discover later, right?
I have to be frank with you, I don't recall reading Janette Oke's books but then sometimes I can't remember lots of authors. I remember the titles of books more than the authors. Although I don't consider myself religious I do own and read lots of spiritual books.
I hope that you back feels better very soon.
I would love you to come by my blog Of Petals and Wool for a little visit. I've enjoyed my little visit with yours. Take care. JB
I will have to check her out.
Thanks for the recommendation - I'll have to look for her books.
I hope your back is feeling better!
So glad I came by tonight because I am looking for some good reads.
I am looking forward to finding her books.
Must write her name down now or will not remember tomorrow. lol
Hope your having a great week
Love
Maggie
always up for another good recommendation from Granny Sue. For the record, Cutting for Stone is one of the best books I've read in a long time, but I have quite a few YW from my stake that read my blog and I wanted them to know that it was adult fiction.
Thanks for the insight.
Good authors and books with high recommendations..priceless
Sigh. I sure wish I had time to read again. This sounds wonderful, though. Thanks for the heads up.
Good tip! I need some new good reading. I think 72 books ought to do it! I hope you are feeling better.
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