The Bench: A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond

by Francesca Flood

Dive into the captivating world of "The A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond" by Francesca Flood, Ed.D., where five strangers' lives become intertwined by fate, trauma, and a mysterious bench that holds the key to their darkest moments. In this riveting novella, the author explores the depths of human experience, the thin line between life and the afterlife, and the eternal search for understanding humankind's true meaning.Set in a timeless and familiar place, the bench becomes a crossroads between worlds, a beacon of hope and transformation for those burdened by personal crises. As each protagonist takes their turn on the bench, they encounter a stranger who offers solace in the form of lost loved ones, sparking revelations and insights into the mysteries of life and death."The Bench" is more than just a story; it's an immersive experience—a meditation on love, grief, and our quest for meaning. Drawing inspiration from the emotional complexity of "The Shack" and the philosophical depth of "The Alchemist," Dr. Flood weaves a narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level.Perfect for those who crave stories of spiritual discovery and emotional depth, "The Bench" invites readers to reflect on life's biggest questions and discover the resilience of the human spirit.Embark on this captivating journey today and let "The Bench" linger in your thoughts long after you've turned the last page.

132 pages, Paperback

Published February 19, 2024

About the author

Francesca Flood, a native of Brooklyn, New York, has carved her path in the world of writing through a crucible of life experiences. Her award-winning work focuses on evocative speculative fiction that pushes the boundaries of imagination and explores spiritual realms. Her narratives create a tapestry of the metaphysical, mystical, and the mundane, inviting readers to delve into profound questions about life, choices, and reality. Crafting intricate plots and profound philosophical insights, Francesca’s work has garnered a diverse and dedicated following.

Dr. Flood is the second-place winner of the 2025 Virginia State Golden Nib Writer's award for nonfiction and the first-place winner in the Blue Nib Writer's award in both fiction and nonfiction. She has been published in multiple peer-reviewed journals and serves as an editor for Springer-Meteor. She has also been an editor/author for the American Bar Association’s book on suicide.

Francesca holds a Master’s in Pastoral Theology and a Doctor of Education.

Reviews

[Linda B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know how she has done it but Dr. Flood seems to have tapped into the Divine and brought back messages of tremendous love and hope. The book’s highly relatable characters and situations are able to touch the Divine themselves and bring us answers to many of life’s quintessential questions. Her crisp, clear writing brings soothing answers of awareness, peace and comfort that everyone should consider. The author’s best work yet! A great gift to your own heart as well as to anyone struggling in life regardless of religious affiliation. A warm healing soup for ALL souls!

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cried many tears throughout this novella! I won this book back in September, sat it on my bookshelf without reading it (busy life at the time with a baby along with homeschooling my other 2 children), and forgot about it. I received a thoughtful postcard from the author this week to remind me, and it couldn't have come at a better time. I needed to read this at this exact moment in time. My 4 year old has been missing her grandmother (my mother in law) whom she barely remembers so much this month. And, I have been missing all of my grandparents while telling stories to my daughter about her grandmother. This book filled me with hope, and reminded me our loved ones are always surrounding us. Thank you Francesca for this book!

[Abigail L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bench is a great little novella that left a lasting impression on me. Francesca Flood, Ed.D., masterfully weaves together the stories of five strangers whose lives intersect at a mysterious bench, exploring themes of fate, grief, and the search for meaning. What I appreciated most about this book is its ability to provoke deep reflection and introspection, encouraging readers to ponder the mysteries of life and the afterlife. Flood's prose is both lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. Overall, The Bench is a beautifully written parable that speaks to the universal human experience and the enduring power of hope.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway. I may not have picked up this book otherwise and really missed out! This is the type of book you can meditate on. The ideas presented are still with me after reading. I love the idea of our interconnectedness and our hardships placing us in a position to help another. I would definitely recommend it.

[TinaMarie_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book especially since I’d been through such extreme loss! Losing my 2 brothers and feeling such strong feelings of guilt anger and trauma this book brought so much healing it was such a good read!

[Cynthia Varlotta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love

If I could give 10 stars I would. I did give a hundred tears and just as many smiles. Thank you for this book.

[Vickie Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this.

Thank you for this wonderful read. Such a blessing and I will certainly pass it on for others to read.

[judith murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book S I g ave several others. You gave

I have enjoyed this book as I have several others you have authored. GOD has blessed you with a gift. Continue to share it

[Kendall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bench was an amazing book. One that makes you think, question, think again and smile! When bad things happen to us, how often do we ask why? Why me? Why my child? What did I do to deserve this? Questions, questions, questions and with no real answers. Yes, we hopefully have our faith that sees us through these times but still, some, maybe most of us, want more. We want answers.

The Bench changes that. What if we could get answers? What if there was a place to go, a bench in the park where we could sit and have our questions answered? Would you sit on it? I know I would. This is what the stories in this book are a chance to sit down with who you need to question.

The people in this book have all experienced a loss and want answers, they want to understand the whys. They all, one by one, sit on the bench and the person they need appears to answers their questions. No always with what they want to hear, but what they need to hear. Liam lost his father to an automobile accident. Joseph spent time in jail for something he did and lost a part of his life there. Cotton is an old man who lived through horror after horror. These were my favorite characters but there are more.

Who is it that they are talking to? I am-who you need me to be is how this person identifies themselves and gives spiritual answers to all the questions that are asked. These answers are given in a way that causes them to think differently, see things differently. I loved the quote "Open your eyes, but see with your heart." I found that beautiful and so true.

This book is a beautiful trip into who we really are, what we are really doing here and why hope is so important. The only thing we can control is our reaction to things and after reading this book I can almost guarantee that you will think a bit differently. I highly recommend this book. It is not preachy or religious, it's just beautiful and enlightening.

I never read books twice, but I am reading this one for the second time, aloud, to my husband. It is touching him just like it did me. We are all connected in this crazy world around us. We need to remember that and never lose hope.

"Hope allows you to move beyond the cruelty of the world and all it's hardships. Faith doesn't take away life's imperfections or suffering but it gets you through them

I received this copy free and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Stacey McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Hope Verdad Presents The Bench: A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond" by Francesca Flood is a novella that intertwines the lives of five characters who each experience profound personal crises. Set around a mysterious bench that serves as a crossroads between worlds, the book explores themes of love, grief, and the search for meaning in life and the afterlife. The narrative is well-written and absorbing, making it a highly recommended read for those interested in spiritual and emotional depth

[Robert Lewakowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's all about choice.

The timing of this book showing up in "recommended" reads was not by coincidence. We all have the choice to be a positive or negative force in this world. Make the choice to read this book and know we are all connected!

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of eBook

Kip Homestead’s wife Lara lies at the brink of death, cancer having stolen her life and all their resources.

Carmen Angelica Lopes de Santiago lights candles in the church, praying for her son, Thomas, a suicide victim.

Liam English, just seven years old, has his world turned upside down when his father, Phillip, is killed in an automobile accident.

Joseph Phung faces six years in a federal prison camp, the result of his involvement in an automobile accident.

Booker Taliaferro Mathers, nicknamed Cotton, has outlived his entire family and, at one hundred three, deals with the infirmities of old age.

Situations as different as each person. And yet . . . .

=========

Each unfolding story follows the same basic format: a problem or concern, life events, an exploration of the reason for life. As each story reveals its own particular truths, universal themes are addressed: grief, loss, sorrow, compassion, forgiveness, generosity, hope, and faith. And, above all, there is Love.

Serving as an allegory designed to address the adversity that is part of life, each character inevitably asks, “Why?” In each story, the central focus is a seemingly-unremarkable bench that, at some point during the telling of the tale, the character sits upon. As each story unfolds, readers hearts will smile as they discover an unexpected connectedness in these tales.

With highly relatable characters, a strong sense of place, and an incredibly moving message, the author invites readers to contemplate the interrelationships of humanity. Without being preachy, the author provides readers with opportunities to reflect on life’s experiences, the possibilities of an afterlife, and the meaning of it all.

Both compelling and captivating, this unputdownable novella is one that should be on everyone’s must-read list. Don’t miss it.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book through the LibraryThing Early Readers program and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Francesca Flood's novella, The Bench: A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond, brings together the lives of five strangers who encounter one another at a mysterious bench. This unassuming setting becomes a crossroads for profound reflection, where each character grapples with personal challenges related to fate, grief, and the search for meaning. The bench serves as a symbol of transformation, prompting introspection and offering the characters solace and revelation as they confront their deepest fears and losses. Readers are transported into a world that blends the familiar with the metaphysical, encouraging contemplation on the nature of existence.

The novella explores themes of hope, resilience, and interconnectedness. Through each character's story, Flood emphasizes the enduring power of hope, suggesting that while faith cannot erase suffering, it provides the strength to persevere. The interconnectedness of human experience is also central, with love, loss, compassion, and forgiveness woven into each narrative. Additionally, The Bench invites readers on a spiritual journey, exploring life's largest questions and contemplating the potential for an afterlife, all through the lens of these intertwined lives.

The Bench has lyrical prose and emotional depth and philosophical underpinnings. Author Flood's ability to present thought-provoking themes without being heavy-handed, creates relatable characters that resonate long after the novella concludes. This book offers an immersive, spiritually enriching experience that encourages readers to reflect on life’s challenges and the pursuit of understanding in the face of adversity.

[Jill Rey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A doorbell ringing, the lighting of candles for Mother Mary, or fetching a shopping cart of your belongings, Dr. Francesca Flood captivates as she introduces us to five characters, familiar with death in tragic ways.

“Hope Verdad Presents The Bench” follows five very different characters, experiencing loss and grief in different ways. Each of their stories includes an encounter with a bench that delivers them exactly who they need in that moment. Grappling with souls, energy, life after death, forgiveness, and the bitter taste of loss, this is an extraordinarily powerful read. Reminding us that we don’t know what others are going through, what path they’ve taken to get where they are, and showing us we are all connected in unexpected ways.

Dr. Flood’s story telling and the presentation of her message are a beautiful amalgamation of belief, spirituality, or the absence thereof. Offering a unique perspective while remaining diverse in their impact and the insights within.

Melding a tangible bench with a figure only seen by those who need them at that moment, Dr. Flood introduces powerful concepts, weighty beliefs, and formidable characters. Whether a pianist, a child, a mother, or a husband, loss doesn’t discriminate, beliefs come in all forms, and forgiveness isn’t always forthcoming. Yet “Hope Verdad Presents The Bench” spans divides, weaves across convictions, and presents an emotionally connecting read.

It is what you need it to be, like the figure within, as this parable of life, death, loss, and beyond sticks to the heart, the mind, and one’s emotions.

[Helen O · Rating 3 out of 5]

I totally understand the motivation for writing this book expressed in the preface, having been similarly motivated some years ago. And I appreciate the wish to help people embrace all of life and to negotiate the difficulties it can throw at us in a constructively spiritual way, learning and understanding the connecting power of love. But this is a very saturated market and there are many outstanding books out there, and sadly this does not compare favourably. Though The Bench is fairly well written it comes at the topic from a more religiously based perspective (though I suspect the author would disagree), and is a little obvious. It seems directed at an American audience rather than a global one. It compares itself to The Alchemist, which is aiming rather higher than it reaches. But it is written with heart and insight. We each have our own message to bring, and I feel sure that if this reaches its target audience it will be of real value.
One very notable practical problem, which could be easily rectified, is that the copy I received (for Kindle) had numerous errors which all entailed several words being stuck together, especially a vast number of sentences beginning with ‘A’ being attached to the next word. This made it look unprofessional and didn’t aid engagement with the content.

[Michael Klausner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Klausner
5.0 out of 5 stars COMPELLING INSIGHTS REGARDING EXISTENTIAL QUESTIONS WE ALL HAVE
Reviewed in the United States on March 3, 2024
In THE BENCH, author Francesca Flood does it again as she did in her book: SHORT STORIES FOR THINKERS.
She has written a book that addresses what sociologist Max Weber called questions of ultimate concern.
Questions regarding life, death, tragedy, the afterlife, and especially questions about meaning.

The book deals with these questions via the experiences of 5 people. Experiences that most readers have had or will have. Each person receives insights,hope and an increased degree of spiritual understanding and awakening from the "stranger."

The quest for meaning hat each of the 5 embark upon will resonate with readers, as will the insights they gain from the "stranger."

The Bench is not written to provide definitive "answers" to perennial existential questions. Instead,it offers an enhanced depth of understanding, new perspectives and, most of all, a higher degree of "hope" as well as being an entertaining read. If this is what you desire,The Bench is for YOU!

[Karen Axnick · Rating 3 out of 5]

This slender volume explores the intersection of five lives through parables that address sorrow, grief, loss, guilt, generosity, compassion and, above all, Love. Love with a capital L…universal Love that is all encompassing and the source of all life.

The author describes her inspiration for this tome in the preface, explaining that it came in a series of dreams that would not be ignored until written down. I appreciated her dedication and her ability to weave together the separate stories into a cohesive whole. While the content explores many spiritual principles applied to human existence, it does not cover any new ground – lacking a fresh perspective. For someone just beginning to question the “why” of life events, this novella is a good entry point in a search for meaning.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey, you! Yeah, you with the curious mind and the hunger for something deeper! If you're tired of the same old cookie-cutter stories and craving a juicy read that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about life, The Bench: A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond is your ticket to a mind-bending adventure! Imagine this: a mysterious bench, five strangers, and a whole lotta drama—you won't be able to put this book down, trust me! With its gripping plot and thought-provoking themes, this novella will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end. So grab a copy, buckle up, and get ready for a wild ride—you won't regret it!

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

What could be more unassuming and safe than a park bench. A place to rest your weary bones and take a break from thinking big thoughts. But in Francesca Flood's 'The Bench' becomes another character in the story.

The five short stories in this collection work together to help all of us think more deeply about the circumstances of our lives. We don't always get an answer to the question of WHY, but Dr Flood masterfully weaves the details of everyday life into a beautiful and satisfying look at how we are all connected through love, faith, hope, loss, sorrow....

*I received a free ebook from LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review.

[Carina Bramley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Net Galley for an ARC copy of The Bench in exchange for an honest review.

The first couple of stories had me gripped but as they went on, I found myself getting easily distracted away from the plot.

I thought the idea for the Bench was great, and how in the final story, everything seemed to come together, but i felt disappointed in the route the author went.

The writing style was easy to follow, it definitely flowed and I will look forward to reading what the author writes next.

[Joseph Licari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be deep and thought-provoking to say the least. It captured my attention from the first few pages and I couldn’t put it down. It includes multiple stories and characters in each chapter who experience life altering events as the author explores life, death, and what lies beyond. You can’t help but reflect on your own life and faith, as we search for deeper meanings behind everyday events, some of which may be tragic and seem unfair. This is serious stuff. The book to be well-written and a valuable reflective read. Recommended!

[George Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bench is a quiet, deeply moving parable about grief, meaning, and the questions we carry after loss. Francesca Flood approaches heavy themes death, forgiveness, faith, and hope with gentleness rather than doctrine, allowing each character’s encounter to feel personal and earned. The book invites reflection without prescribing answers, offering comfort through shared humanity rather than certainty. A thoughtful, compassionate read for anyone navigating loss or searching for understanding beyond easy explanations.

[Mia Teal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was truly beautiful. As someone who very often thinks about family members I have lost, I felt hopefully, teary eyed, & filled with love. I gave this story 4 stars just because I often found myself having to re-read certain parts. Life-after-death is a confusing concept after all, so it made sense that not everything will be truly comprehendable.

My favorite lines - "I am who you need me to be." & "God is love."

[Olivia Holt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully crafted thought-provoking novel

I just finished this thought-provoking novella where five characters, each facing trauma, seek answers to their most pressing "Why?" questions. As their interconnected stories unfold, the book offers comforting insights into life's struggles and the search for meaning. Inspired by the author's personal loss, this spiritual and engaging read encourages reflection and understanding.

[Vickie Richey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the first half of the book! I couldn't put it down. But the last half was a little more of a snoozer and I don't know why. Plus, I guess I'm not smart enough to get the purpose of the stories .

Several stories of people going through hardships. In despair, they each sit on a bench and are visited by someone. Maybe representing Jesus?

[JoAnn Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

You are introduced to five characters whose lives are intertwined. Each character has undergone a major tragedy and life altering experience. Their narratives unfold on a park bench where they meet their guide. This is highly emotive and storytelling at its best.

[Cristian Marrero · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice book. Heartfelt. 5 different stories all with a beautiful connection. We don't always get an answer to the question of WHY, but these all weave the details of everyday life into a beautiful and satisfying look at how we are all connected through love, faith, hope, loss, sorrow....

[Ken N · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took awhile for me to understand and get into this book. Which is tough since it is a short book.

[Missi Rich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought provoking, quick read.

[Erin English · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good parables. My favorite sentence: I am who you need me to be.