Ingrid

by Lynnette Kraft, Jared Kraft (Composer), Abigail Kraft (Illustrations)

Download the Free Companion Soundtrack: www.ingridbook.com

–The village of Scot is on the brink of change, and its people are in need of hope, but hearts must first change, and difficult sacrifices must be made. Ingrid Harrison is sixteen years old and completely mute. Her silence has become a barrier to happiness. But will the silence she’s always resented be the voice that changes everything?–

Ingrid is a character driven juvenile fiction, especially tailored to illustrate courage, sacrifice and the power of forgiveness. The backdrop is a charming village setting mixed with a bit of the supernatural. The characters are complex and likable. The story goes places the reader doesn’t expect and the inspiration is lasting.

Genres: Fiction

412 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2014

About the author

Lyn­nette Kraft loves a good story—real or imaginary, inspiring or hilarious. She uses her own stories to entertain, to illustrate lessons, and to celebrate individuality, crediting God as the giver of all inspiration. When she’s not writing (or telling) stories, she’s likely chewing on herbs and wild plants, doing yoga in the sunshine, admiring pieces of nature, reading something light, or watching movies and playing games with her family. When she’s doing regular stuff, like cooking dinner and sorting laundry, she’s also dreaming about living on the beach, because she’s a sensible dreamer.

Reviews

[Andrea Stoeckel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, downloaded while searching for interesting covers was a very charming, pleasant surprise. I just finished the book and can hardly wait to tell you about it

The small town of Scot is on the brink of change, and the villagers aren't looking to it. After all, its always been the way its always been. Scot is known as a fairly isolated town that cares for its own...and not outsiders.

Ingrid, born mute, is the only daughter in the family. Although she is quick and smart, she is sheltered. Her best friend is the only son of the wealthiest and bitterest man in town.

Circumstances cause change,and change brings growth and maturity within and without. Ingrid meets two beings that remind her just how important she is, but she must make a journey to prove it to herself.A journey within as well as without.

Struggles ensue, but with it,understanding dawns and and change and growth occur.

Part "Pilgrim's Progress", part "What Dreams May Come" with a dash of "Hind's Feet on High Places" with an optional musical CD, this is a great book, a great story, and would be a great young adult church study text

[Ellie Rinkenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Science fiction and fantasy type books are my absolute favorite, I feel that I learn more through them than factual books any day. When I first found this book, I began to read it as a friend of the family and wasn't sure what I would think. Now I can truly say, I'm so glad I knew the Kraft family and found his book! Wow! From the beginning, this book drew me in. From the beautiful describing detail of every person and every scene, I couldn't help but paint an amazing picture in my mind and almost become a part of the story. I've read many books in my life, and I can honestly say this is one of the best! This is a beautiful book of family, friendship, and the power of true love.
P.S. The Doctor Who quote in the thank you page definitely didn't hurt either! ;)

[Tyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ingrid by Lynnette Kraft is an absolutely fabulous novel, with lovable characters, beautifully written themes, and a very enjoyable story. I cannot recommend this book enough! Not to mention the book has a masterfully composed soundtrack that helps the world jump off the page, And the artwork is so whimsically drawn that you end up looking forward to the beginning of each chapter to see the gorgeous illustrations! Overall, I can tell that the Kraft family have an vast love for giving readers a full sensory experience, and every word keeps you hooked, looking for more!

[Nicole Howie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ingrid was an amazing read. Easy to follow, but captivating above all. The music was beautiful and I will continue to listen to it even without following the book - it added an interesting perspective to the feelings a book can give you, allowing me to immerse myself into Ingrid and Adair's world even further. I couldn't put it down, and I can't wait to read more of Lynette Kraft's books.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing book! I'd gotten it from Noisetrade when it first came out, I think, and I was never so grateful to find an amazing thing from there. The soundtrack was awesome, the art was beautiful, and the story was amazing. As an avid fantasy reader, I can't wait for more! In the meantime, I'll be reading this book over and over again.

[Karin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! I couldn't put it down! I really enjoyed it, and have already recommended it to a friend. I would definitely recommend it to any fans of the fantasy genre. I look forward to reading any more books this author may write.

[Mitchell Cain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. It kept me captivated throughout the journey. I found myself trying to visualize the setting that was described. I loved it!

[Sianna Perz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. It was one that I had a hard time putting down. The music going along was perfect for a relaxing evening and the artwork fits so well!

[Michael Woods · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very captivating ready. I really enjoyed!

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary:
Ingrid is a beautiful but mute teenage girl. She is lovely outwardly and inwardly. She lives with her parents and several older brothers in the community of Scot. We are not told where Scot is located. The story is fantasy fiction so the location of Scot is the fantasy land of the author's creation. My guess is Scot is a land similar to Ireland or Scotland. The time period is a mystery. My guess is the medieval period. Ingrid's best friend is Adair Pole. Adair is slightly older than Ingrid. Both Adair and Ingrid grieve for something missing in their lives. Both are kindred spirits in need of help. Ingrid meets two Kunbion in the forest. They have come to assist and advise Ingrid. She is given a gift to be used to help Scot.

My Thoughts:

The first thing I've loved about this story is the the Kraft family has worked together on the book. Lynnette is the author of Ingrid, her son is the composer of the accompanied music, a daughter contacted me to review the book. Lynnette Kraft has a website devoted to the book. Everything is done professionally. Great care and attention to details has been executed. I'm a fan of independently published books. Some of my favorite reads have been independent works.
I love the creativity of the story. The Kunbion are not magical creatures in respect to a dark art. They are magic in respect to they are not human, they are a mystery. They do not coerce. They do not invade another human's body. They are to advice and encourage people to make the right decision in regards to helping people.
Ingrid is a moral story. There is a teaching lesson in the story: love, kindness, thoughtfulness, respect, and gentleness. To notice, think, and care for the "least of these" is an emphasis.
The story is not labeled Christian, but it has strong elements of Christian teaching.

There were a few times in the story when I felt it snagged a little, meaning the story became a bit slow. Over-all I loved the story.

[Camilla Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not often that a story can be applicable to anyone from ages 9 to 99, but Lynnette Kraft absolutely "crafted" a story that works just so! Refreshingly engaging and easy-to-read wording introduces us to well-rounded characters, heart-touching sentiments, and more than one moral to the cause the reader to pause and chew, or think a bit longer. Abigail Kraft's illustrations are perfectly situated throughout the chapters, and are beautifully accomplished. Her work truly adds depth to the situations that occur and to the characters' personalities. Jared Kraft's music is like the "cherry on top", that last extra touch that causes this project to be extra special. What a spectacular expression of cooperation, creativity, and talent- and all within the Kraft family. There is adventure. There is a touch of romance. There is drama. There is soul-pulling truth and heartache. It's a tale reminiscent of George MacDonald's style, in my opinion; and he is one of my favorite authors. I count it as a new classic that will entertain the story-loving mind, tease imaginations, and leave one feeling hopeful and glad for years to come. It's a new breed of fairy tale, but without the fairies; a fresh masterpiece to savor and enjoy. I love it!

[Marjorie Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple, yet strong!this

When you learn to put others first, then you can become the person you want to be. The author did a great job of putting the readers in the characters shoes. I will gladly read her next book.

[Andrew Kline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh, okay, so I'll start by saying I feel like a schmuck. I won this in a giveaway, and it took me four years to read it. I'm glad I finally did, though, because it is a lovely read.
The hardback edition is an example of why physical books can never be replaced with digital. It might be a weird thing to point out, but the weight and feel of the paper really stood out to me :)
I think that when I tell you the story is about the people in a small, tight-knit village called Scot, you'll get an immediate picture in your head about the setting, the pacing, and probably some of the characters, and you'd probably be right. Essentially, it a coming-of-age for the main character and about a town dealing with inevitable progress. Some might think it too slow, but the story moves at a constant and deliberate pace. While it may seem tame at first, there are some reveals that are pretty dark, but they are treated as an (unfortunate) part of humanity and dealt with as such. It is refreshing to read about level-headed people in the reactionary times we currently live in on the internet. I really enjoyed the cast of characters, which is extensive, but not overwhelming.
The prose is accompanied by great art at the top of each chapter and very nice music available for download. Little touches by a talented family that creates a full experience.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can be picky about books, but Ingrid had me hooked and has become one of my favorite works yet. Had me wishing at times that I lived in the village of Scot, which is where a good part of the story is set. The lovely illustrations and soundtrack that accompany this tale make it all the more immersive.

[Kate Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very fresh, cozy read that was unlike what I've been reading lately.

The Ups: Being so accustomed to either action-filled sci-fi's or drama-crazy contemporary's, this book was such a nice break that was actually very awarding. I could tell that this book was written with humbler thoughts than just making money or trying to appeal. It was trying to send a message.
I really liked the overall tone of the book. It was very homely, loving, innocent, almost like a fairytale. It made me feel like characters I'd never even met were family.
That's the next thing. All the different characters were so lovable, yet so real. They had huge flaws but in the end they were all good people. My personal favorite was Adair, because who can't love the cute guy who devotes himself to being best friends with a shy mute girl no one understands? The entire Harrison family (Ingrid's family) was so kind and bright. The characters' love for each other and their connections felt incredibly genuine and real.
I also loved Scot in general. I think it might fit into one of my favorite book settings of all time. The small village that didn't have much visitors but loved one another very deeply and the whole sense of community...I devoured it. I wanted to live in Scot, and I could totally picture the small village. The way it was described and written made me feel like it was home.
There was a very strong message in this book: love. The whole book was full of it, and I think that rather than annoying or sappy it was very genuine and heart-warming.

The Downs: That being said, I feel like Ingrid as a character could have had a bit more depth. The story is told in 3rd person, which doesn't always reveal everything that a character is thinking, but I think that as a protagonist, Ingrid could have done more.
Before anything else, I think that it should have shown her character arc better and made the transition evident. I knew that Ingrid had changed and had grown, but it was not shown through emotions and I didn't feel like it showed.
In general, I would have liked to have been in Ingrid's head a bit more. I think that the point was that she had been so accustomed to not being noticed because of her muteness that she had learned to kind of keep it inside, but I think that rather I would have enjoyed if I could know what she was thinking because we had no way to find out otherwise.

Overall: A very lovely, fresh book with a phenomenal setting and tone, but could've used more from the protagonist.

[Allison Ruvidich · Rating 3 out of 5]

I saw this lovely volume floating around Goodreads for some time before I actually read it. Even then, the elegant title and the enigmatic expression in the heroine's eyes might not have fully tempted me if I hadn't learned some background information on the book. Ingrid, by Lynnette Kraft, features the artwork of her daughter, Abigail Kraft, and music by her son, Jared Kraft.


(Unfortunately, since it seems right up my alley, I can't review the music because my Kindle wouldn't download it. So I'll just go ahead and say it was lovely.)


In the village of Scot, two children are born on the same day: rich, healthy Adair, son of the most hated man in town, and poor, mute Ingrid of the happy Harrison family. Despite their different backgrounds, the two grow to young adulthood as best friends. But railroads and industry are changing the world, and Scot must change with it. When two strangers come to town, Ingrid must embark alone for a chance to understand herself, uncover the truth, and find her own voice.


I wish, wish, wish that I had read Ingrid years ago. It is bursting with heart, lively characters, and adventure, but some treacherous grown-up part of me kept observing, "The fantastical element isn't well-integrated into the story. Kraft doesn't establish the setting. Could she have introduced the railroad earlier?"


But alas, all of these things are true. Although I wished I could be friends with the majority of the characters in Ingrid, I couldn't suspend my disbelief on the two magical strangers who were introduced a little too late into a story that felt a little too normal for fantasy. And despite the presence of a railroad and terms like French doors and newspapers, Kraft never specified where and when Ingrid takes place.


But as surely as those flaws are true, I must confess that I neglected calculus for a deplorable length of time in order to finish Ingrid. I recommend it highly to those in need of a literary pick-me-up. It is light, enchanting, and welcomingly reminiscent of the books of my childhood.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ingrid is beautifully Illustrated and written. I loved the artistry throughout this book. You could tell a lot of thought and love went into the creation of the characters. I was so impressed with the theme throughout this book of forgiveness, love and acceptance of all people. I especially loved that in this story those who others might look at as handicapped or underprivileged where looked at as been given a special gift used to help others and those like Ingrid who was mute in the story come to appreciate and even think of their own struggle as a gift as well and helped build self worth. I think the characters were so likable. The relationships between the characters like Ingrid and Adair were so tender and you just fall in love with the kind of friendship that they develop through growing up as best friends. It was fun to read about the people in the village of Scot that Ingrid and Adair grew up in. The closeness of the villagers and how they always sought out ways to help one another. The only criticism I would give is that the last part of the book felt hurried and after having most of the story flowed so well and kept me captivated it fell off a little for me at the end because it seemed like the story line got a little lost and then brought back really quickly to finish the story off. I am still giving it a 5 star rating though because I feel it was so well written and clean and gives a reader a feeling of hope and its uplifting. I also really loved the music and pictures that were included. I thought the author went above and beyond to make this story appealing to a reader.

[LAWonder10 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so impressed with the amount of thought and work that went into publishing this book!! It is amazing story covering so many subjects! Lynnette Kraft marvelously mixes fantasy and reality, along with the fantastic art work by her daughter, Abigail, plus, accompanied by the downloadable, phenomenal musical scores by her son, Jared. What an outstandingly talented family!

This is an unforgettable, endearingly entertaining story of a mute girl, Ingrid, and her friend, Adair who had his own personal difficulties in life to deal with. Throughout this book the reader can musically and visually witness the developing closeness of the two individuals friendship. Many more characters are added. Each individual character is well-defined and the reader becomes vey attached to each one. The scenes are very picturesque in a way the reader feels he/she is there. The variety of characters are smoothly interwoven into the pages of the book.

Handicaps are not portrayed as handicaps but as gifts to special individuals. What at one point may seem unjust often is shown to be misunderstood...sometimes needing forgiveness.

The moral lessons taught her are inspiring and uplifting. This is truly a story ALL should read. I would hope to see it in movie form one day soon!

The only negative I felt in this book was the feeling of too abrupt of an ending. Each situation was effectively concluded but with too much abruptness. It left the reader wishing they could have read more of an impending situation.

My review of this Book offers a Four and a Half Stars rating.

[Marren · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a heartwarming and engaging way to begin a novel: the descriptive birth of two babies entrusted with a mission at that early age. With the use of fantasy and the help of illustration at the beginning of each chapter, the author did a terrific work in showing the novel’s aim at forgiving, loving and togetherness both at the family and community level.

I am not a fantasy reader, so I was hesitant about the role of the mystic lights of the Kumbion creatures; however they played a salient part in showing the outstanding people of Scot, although I am still a bit questioning about their appearances. If you are looking for a novel about people living in a community with togetherness, this is the novel. It is a good story for nay age, the bad repents and the good heals. It is indeed a feel good story.
It is believable [except the Kumbion creature], the time each scene took, reflected on a period of real horsepower, where everyone knew each other in the settlement. I felt that when the author allowed the eventual railway construction into Scot, it was a way of spreading Scot love to everyone instead of trapping it within the city. Scot was on the verge of its modernization.

I was disappointed that Ingrid did not attain that extra blessing but since she was ok with the situation, then I should leave it alone. Most times people are hero(ines) not for what they could gain in the end but simply to help the ones in need. The character transformations were so magnificent and touching, it made me wish that I lived in a village like Scot.

[Joni Patterson]

Ingrid is a book different from what I normally read. But I think the fact it's not my usual taste is a testament to the strength of it's story.

Lynnette's writing is skillful in the way she weaves the tale, leading along the abundant cast in a way that isn't forced. The characters are solidly developed and the plot moves at a pace that makes one keep reading. I'd gathered that this was supposed to be an allegory and while I did see some representation, there were also some parts that I wasn't sure what they were trying to get at. (But, maybe I was just trying to read into it too much?)

Most of the comments I'd read talked about this being a story of forgiveness. It is, but that actually wasn't the part that stuck with me most. I was more drawn to Ingrid's journey and her decisions made in faith. I think it's good that different people get different things out of Ingrid and I think it's just another testament to it's Solid Foundation.

What makes this book stand apart is how it was such a harmoniously collaborative project. Abigail's illustrations add an extra layer, almost giving more roots to the tale, adding texture to the words in the most perfectly subtle way. And then Jared's music- THE MUSIC. Ingrid's soundtrack makes this a completely immersive story experience, heightening the world's impact in just the right measure.

I look forward to what these artists will produce next with great curiosity.

[Cecily Kraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ingrid, by Lynnette Kraft, is a story with heart. It proves that bitter hearts can heal and love can change people. There are many humorous moments too. It is one of my favorite books of all time!

[Tina Sorensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ingrid is a young adult novel set within a Scottish culture with a touch of magic and the paranormal. The book is written in such a way that the mystical elements are quite believable and spiritual. The time period is neither past, present or future, but placed in a setting that is nonspecific but can be imagined quite clearly. Ingrid is a special young lady with one flaw - she cannot physically speak. However, her childhood friend, Adair, does not see this as a fault. As the son of the town's loathed villager, he finds solace with his beautiful friend. As the story progresses, many characters are introduced and interweaved into the mysteries surrounding Adair's father, mother, and the gift that Ingrid offers to all, unknowingly. Her "flaw" becomes something more precious than anyone ever conceived. A curious pair of travelers enter into the plot and as the tale unwinds, a hated person becomes wrongly accused and jailed, forgiveness, redemptions and hearts are healed. This story is unique in nature. Young adult readers will enjoy the journey not only between Ingrid and Adair, but the epiphanies the minor characters experience. Spirituality, love, friendship and commitment are themes are constantly present. It will teach the reader that one can make mistakes in life, to forgive is truly divine and that the power of love is ultimately the answer.



The accompanying music written specifically for the novel by Jared Kraft is at times haunting, sweet and joyous. Each tune matches the mood of the subplots and heightens the senses to actually experience the pain, love and loss throughout the book.



The music, the story and the illustrations will be make the story highly original and unique in nature. Worth the read!

[Lavender Inspiration · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's been a while since I've read a book that is as uplifting as this one. In her new "light fantasy," young adult novel, Ingrid, author Lynnette Kraft uses her words to paint a beautiful story. The novel's rich and descriptive language emits a feeling of calm and peace that seems to glow from the pages. Kraft creates characters that are captivating and complex. This is storytelling at its finest!

What initially intrigued me about this book was the fact that three family members were involved in its creation. The stunning illustrations were provided by Kraft's daughter, Abigail Kraft, and the accompanying, original soundtrack was composed by her son, Jared Kraft. Hauntingly serene, the score has become my new favorite music to listen to while I write. Both mediums truly enhance the overall experience of reading this novel.

Ingrid is a lovely tale of how guilt, regret, and bitterness can tear away at the core of one's soul. It addresses how misconceptions can taint a society and how "life carries burdens that can change a man." However, in the end, it is forgiveness and hope that radiate from the hearts of the characters as our heroine faces tough sacrifices to give others a second chance at life.

This is an ideal novel for all fans of young adult fiction. I would highly suggest that middle and high school teachers add this one to their reading lists. The concepts and symbolism in the book will make for great literary class discussion.

[Monica Fastenau · Rating 2 out of 5]

The setting in this book is a bit vague. The story takes place in a village called Scot and a neighboring city called Martin. Possibly these are real places that I’ve never heard of? Even if so, there’s a lot of magic that is never really explained. And as to the time period… The villagers live without modern conveniences, but there is a railway coming through the village. I was a little confused by that.

The worst part was that there is no emotional nuance in this book–and unfortunately, it’s the same with the music and artwork. It feels like a really, really well put-together amateur effort, rather than a polished, professional work. The intricacies of the characters’ relationships reads more like a soap opera than real-life relationships. One character makes a literal deathbed conversion; another was raised by gypsies; still another turns out to be the previously unknown child of another character. It’s over the top and heavy-handed, which is unfortunate, because the story itself could have been very interesting. And the Kunbion… As I mentioned earlier, these magical beings are never really explained. They supposedly emerge from the earth whenever mankind is in great trouble, but was a jerk landlord being accused of murder really worth their time? Wasn’t there some persecution they could be stopping?

Read more on my blog: http://newberyandbeyond.com/ingrid/

[Brenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ingrid by Lynnette Kraft was an enjoyable read. Abigail Kraft did the illustrations, which were black and white and fit very well into the story. Jared Kraft composed the music for the book and can be downloaded from http://noisetrade.com/jaredkraft/ingr.... Reading the book on the computer with the music in the background definitely added to the pleasure of reading the book. The character, Ingrid, is mute, but is a well defined character and a well likable character as well. She is considered shy and reserved, but I found her to definitely have some spunk. The book is long, 412 pages, but a pleasurable read. The length does not seem to get in the way of the story developing and all the characters, including the town, have something special about them.

***This book was received in PDF form from Abigail Kraft in exchange for an honest review.***

[Kelly Gerken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ingrid is a beautifully woven tale of brokenness, healing, and restoration...the kind that comes not from outside circumstances being just right, but from healing that happens on the inside. The characters were compelling, and easy to connect with. The story is relatable and entertaining, with relevant life-lessons for all ages. For younger children, it would make a great nightly read aloud, or an excellent novel to study as a class, especially with the added multi-faceted pieces of arts woven together: literature, music, and art. I think not only is it wonderful for adults and children alike to read on their own, but would work well in the classroom setting and encourage my former education colleagues to consider adding it to their reading list. As a fellow author, I am impressed by this beautiful work from Lynnette Kraft, and thoroughly enjoyed every page!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mother, daughter and son have created an amazingly uplifting story whose main character is a mute girl named Ingrid. I have never before bought a book that came with a soundtrack but the music was beautiful and fit the story perfectly. It is different than the books I normally read and a refreshing change of pace. I loved the characters, I loved the story, and I hope another book by this trio is in the future. I will be recommending this book as a choice for my book group to read.

[Lynette Karg · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable story, with engaging writing. It is a matter of personal preference, but I found the magical elements to be a bit distracting and contradictory to the worldview of the book.