Sunday, October 5, 2014

Christian Book Review- Playing By Heart by Anne Mateer

Finding the time to read has been so difficult, so finding the time to write about reading has been almost impossible. I don't regret beginning my Master's degree, but despite having just begun I am counting down. I look forward to lazy afternoons with a book and nothing to do.

Playing By Heart takes place at a perfect time period. There is a bit of technology, but still a more simplistic way of life. I loved the fact that the sport of Basketball was just being introduced to the world, and the challenges faced by players, particularly girls.

Lula Bowman is a woman pursuing higher education at a time when women are pretty much expected to get married, stay home and raise children. Lula has a reputation for being flaky and her family does not consider her or her pursuit of education to be worthwhile. Circumstances force Lulu to live with her sister Jewel, providing financial support through her job as a teacher. Lulu holds on to resentment as she is forced to leave her education and scholarship behind.

Of course Lulu meets Chet, a teacher struggling with his own problems. I was dubious at the thought of Lulu abandoning all thoughts of education to be with Chet. I was very happy when Lulu and Chet arrived at their happy ending without Lulu sacrificing her own dreams. I have not read many books that take place in this time period and enjoyed the perspective and story. I think that teachers will especially appreciate this book, as it shows what teaching was like during a different era.

A free copy of this book was provided  by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my review.

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