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All manner of things
When Annie Jacobson's brother Mike enlists as a medic in the Army in 1967, he hands her a piece of paper with the address of their long-estranged father. If anything should happen to him in Vietnam, Mike says, Annie must let their father know.
In Mike's absence, their father returns to face tragedy at home, adding an extra measure of complication to an already tense time. As they work toward healing and pray fervently for Mike's safety overseas, letter by letter the Jacobsons must find a way to pull together as a family, regardless of past hurts. In the tumult of this time, Annie and her family grapple with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand, even as they learn to turn to the One who binds the wounds of the brokenhearted.
Author Susie Finkbeiner invites you into the Jacobson family's home and hearts during a time in which the chaos of the outside world touched their small community in ways they never imagined.
In Mike's absence, their father returns to face tragedy at home, adding an extra measure of complication to an already tense time. As they work toward healing and pray fervently for Mike's safety overseas, letter by letter the Jacobsons must find a way to pull together as a family, regardless of past hurts. In the tumult of this time, Annie and her family grapple with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand, even as they learn to turn to the One who binds the wounds of the brokenhearted.
Author Susie Finkbeiner invites you into the Jacobson family's home and hearts during a time in which the chaos of the outside world touched their small community in ways they never imagined.
441 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2019
432 people are currently reading
5019 people want to read
About the author
Susie Finkbeiner
10 books1,003 followersSusie Finkbeiner is the author of The All-American, All Manner of Things, and A Cup of Dust. She lives in West Michigan with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 563 reviews
November 13, 2018
Some books are meant to be read. All Manner of Things is meant to be lived in. The pages enfolded me into a raw and beautiful family journey which touched me on a soul level. This exquisitely rendered portrait of hope, courage, and love in a time of war is a triumph and a gift. Susie Finkbeiner at her finest.
(That is my official endorsement of this treasure. I will also add here, that I want to get this book in hardcover when it releases and put it on a forever shelf and you are all in for SUCH A TREAT.)
(That is my official endorsement of this treasure. I will also add here, that I want to get this book in hardcover when it releases and put it on a forever shelf and you are all in for SUCH A TREAT.)
June 16, 2019
Some book are meant to be read and you think nothing more of them, not so with this one. You will savor it and remember it for a long time. A emotional coming of age story set in the 1960's.
The Jacobson's could be your own family or your close neighbor friend's.
You will feel privileged to get to know them through the pages of this book, celebrate their happy times with them and want to comfort them through their sadness.
A true keeper, this book will keep your attention from first page flip through the closing of the back cover.
Published June 4th 2019 by Fleming H. Revell Company .
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
The Jacobson's could be your own family or your close neighbor friend's.
You will feel privileged to get to know them through the pages of this book, celebrate their happy times with them and want to comfort them through their sadness.
A true keeper, this book will keep your attention from first page flip through the closing of the back cover.
Published June 4th 2019 by Fleming H. Revell Company .
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 25, 2019
*I received this book to read from Revell in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.*
I adore this book.
I adore it, not because it's all sugary and perfect, but because it's real! The characters come alive, the daily, normality of life is relatable, and the ups and downs of family life was special to me. There is sadness, but also laughter too. There is disappointment, but also love. There is anger through confusion, but hope in the future.
This book has everything a book should have. I loved Annie and her family. Mike was such a great big brother, reminding me of my own. The setting was fabulous and the horrors of the Vietnam war very real. I can't forget to mention David either, who slipped in and out of the story so well <3 Oh, and Frank, Joel, and Oma...and Bernie!! <3
I love this book...so, go read it. It is clean with real emotions of romance and fears. It is a beautiful book in every way :)
I adore this book.
I adore it, not because it's all sugary and perfect, but because it's real! The characters come alive, the daily, normality of life is relatable, and the ups and downs of family life was special to me. There is sadness, but also laughter too. There is disappointment, but also love. There is anger through confusion, but hope in the future.
This book has everything a book should have. I loved Annie and her family. Mike was such a great big brother, reminding me of my own. The setting was fabulous and the horrors of the Vietnam war very real. I can't forget to mention David either, who slipped in and out of the story so well <3 Oh, and Frank, Joel, and Oma...and Bernie!! <3
I love this book...so, go read it. It is clean with real emotions of romance and fears. It is a beautiful book in every way :)
May 11, 2019
Oh, my...my heart is full.
Susie Finkbeiner has penned a beautiful story of family and the love we share in the many relationships we hold in life. That of a child, sibling, spouse or friend. This is a story of how we care for each other through the hardships life brings and how we should treasure the sweet everyday moments as memories are being created to last a lifetime. It is also a story of relying on our faith in God, that He knows of our suffering and promises that all will be well. This emotionally charged tale belongs on the keeper shelf, to be revisited again and again.
A few of my favorite quotes:
"All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well."
"Just remember, there's a light in the darkness. The darkness cannot understand it. But that light isn't for the darkness, It's for you. It's so you can find your way home."
"I believed that, as Oma said, we were meant for eternity. That life on this side was a prelude to the real life ahead of us. At least that is what I hoped for."
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Susie Finkbeiner has penned a beautiful story of family and the love we share in the many relationships we hold in life. That of a child, sibling, spouse or friend. This is a story of how we care for each other through the hardships life brings and how we should treasure the sweet everyday moments as memories are being created to last a lifetime. It is also a story of relying on our faith in God, that He knows of our suffering and promises that all will be well. This emotionally charged tale belongs on the keeper shelf, to be revisited again and again.
A few of my favorite quotes:
"All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well."
"Just remember, there's a light in the darkness. The darkness cannot understand it. But that light isn't for the darkness, It's for you. It's so you can find your way home."
"I believed that, as Oma said, we were meant for eternity. That life on this side was a prelude to the real life ahead of us. At least that is what I hoped for."
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 13, 2019
“Behind the clouds the sun is shining. If only we have eyes to see it.”
This is a beautiful, artfully done book. Not many novels move me to the point of tears, but All Manner of Things did. I finished several days ago, and I’m still thinking about it, still flipping through its pages and re-reading the parts of it that spoke to my heart.
Set during the Vietnam War, this poignant story is about family, forgiveness, and hope in the hard things. Annie’s family is well acquainted with hardship. Her father, beset by trauma from his own wartime experiences, leaves the family, leaving them to forge a new life and a new way of being a family. Despite it all, Mike, Annie, Joel, and their mother forge a new life and a new way of being a family, helped along the way by grandparents and a cantankerous diner owner, Bernie. These characters, this time period, are all so fully realized that reading this story took on a cinematic quality, playing out like the scenes of a movie in my head. I adored every detail; the seemingly mundane beauty of the everyday and the heightened tension perfectly reflect the ebb and flow of real life.
Sometimes fiction mirrors reality in such a way that you can’t help but remember certain events in your own life. You can’t help but think that some things never really change, there always seems to be another war, and always seems to be another loved one going off to war, always someone worried and praying for them. Having my own brother that deployed when I was a teenager, then later a boyfriend (now husband) deployed in college, I found myself engrossed by Annie’s character and her life. The back copy of the book calls this a story about grappling “with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand,” and that is honestly such a perfect description. And isn’t it so true of life? There is never a time that there is of perfect peace or complete happiness. Annie’s story transcends time and specific circumstance. Stories like this speak to the collective experience of what it means to be present in hope and pain – “Don’t duck and cover…there’s still so much good going on in the world around you.”
All Manner of Things is a story that I won’t soon forget. It’s one for a spot on the keeper shelf, one that I will be visiting again. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
This is a beautiful, artfully done book. Not many novels move me to the point of tears, but All Manner of Things did. I finished several days ago, and I’m still thinking about it, still flipping through its pages and re-reading the parts of it that spoke to my heart.
Set during the Vietnam War, this poignant story is about family, forgiveness, and hope in the hard things. Annie’s family is well acquainted with hardship. Her father, beset by trauma from his own wartime experiences, leaves the family, leaving them to forge a new life and a new way of being a family. Despite it all, Mike, Annie, Joel, and their mother forge a new life and a new way of being a family, helped along the way by grandparents and a cantankerous diner owner, Bernie. These characters, this time period, are all so fully realized that reading this story took on a cinematic quality, playing out like the scenes of a movie in my head. I adored every detail; the seemingly mundane beauty of the everyday and the heightened tension perfectly reflect the ebb and flow of real life.
Sometimes fiction mirrors reality in such a way that you can’t help but remember certain events in your own life. You can’t help but think that some things never really change, there always seems to be another war, and always seems to be another loved one going off to war, always someone worried and praying for them. Having my own brother that deployed when I was a teenager, then later a boyfriend (now husband) deployed in college, I found myself engrossed by Annie’s character and her life. The back copy of the book calls this a story about grappling “with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand,” and that is honestly such a perfect description. And isn’t it so true of life? There is never a time that there is of perfect peace or complete happiness. Annie’s story transcends time and specific circumstance. Stories like this speak to the collective experience of what it means to be present in hope and pain – “Don’t duck and cover…there’s still so much good going on in the world around you.”
All Manner of Things is a story that I won’t soon forget. It’s one for a spot on the keeper shelf, one that I will be visiting again. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
May 11, 2019
A well written story with incredibly well developed characters. The timeline being that of Vietnam made it fascinating as that’s not a common backdrop for a fiction novel. For me, this story was definitely driven by its characters...by the end of the novel, you feel a part of the family...the depth of the characters so real, genuine, and engaging.
First of all, I know people who read my reviews will want to know that words such as “Golly,” “Gosh,” and similar words are used frequently throughout the story. I’m guessing these words were common during this time, but they aren’t words I use. I know some readers of my reviews don’t use them either so I wanted to make sure I mentioned that. No, there are no swear words or bad scenes...other than what is mentioned. It’s a completely clean novel with a minor faith thread that starts about half way through the story. It’s a natural progression of the story and done quite well.
The first words that comes to mind in regards to this story is it’s Americana. It’s the story of an American family and community. Their tragedies and triumphs, the difficulties of coming of age, the burdensome problems of aging, the troubling ebb and flow of relationships...a well written drama full of life..real life. It reminds me much of Chris Fabry’s stories. Taking a piece of time, placing in it characters to love, and giving a tale of how lives are intertwined and how the dynamics of family play out. It’s a bittersweet story that could be similar to your neighbors. Nothing flashy, nothing suspenseful..life in all its beauty and heartbreak.
It’s a winsome story that will touch your heart because of its veracity and endearing characters.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
First of all, I know people who read my reviews will want to know that words such as “Golly,” “Gosh,” and similar words are used frequently throughout the story. I’m guessing these words were common during this time, but they aren’t words I use. I know some readers of my reviews don’t use them either so I wanted to make sure I mentioned that. No, there are no swear words or bad scenes...other than what is mentioned. It’s a completely clean novel with a minor faith thread that starts about half way through the story. It’s a natural progression of the story and done quite well.
The first words that comes to mind in regards to this story is it’s Americana. It’s the story of an American family and community. Their tragedies and triumphs, the difficulties of coming of age, the burdensome problems of aging, the troubling ebb and flow of relationships...a well written drama full of life..real life. It reminds me much of Chris Fabry’s stories. Taking a piece of time, placing in it characters to love, and giving a tale of how lives are intertwined and how the dynamics of family play out. It’s a bittersweet story that could be similar to your neighbors. Nothing flashy, nothing suspenseful..life in all its beauty and heartbreak.
It’s a winsome story that will touch your heart because of its veracity and endearing characters.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 7, 2022
Even though the 'tone' of this book felt melancholy to me, I really enjoyed it. I found it very easy to connect with Annie's narrative voice and with the entire Jacobson family as seen through her eyes. I felt as if I were in Michigan in 1967 with them as they navigated their small town, and the effects of the Vietnam war.
I absolutely loved that faith in God and trust in eternity was woven in and through the story in a very big way. It made me grateful to know that even though I don't know what tomorrow will bring, I DO know Who holds all my tomorrows, and I will yet trust in Him, and be content that, here or Then, all manner of things WILL be well!
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved that faith in God and trust in eternity was woven in and through the story in a very big way. It made me grateful to know that even though I don't know what tomorrow will bring, I DO know Who holds all my tomorrows, and I will yet trust in Him, and be content that, here or Then, all manner of things WILL be well!
4.5 stars
May 14, 2019
This novel brought me back to my 18th year in 1967. Annie could have been the girl next door, someone I once knew. It was a fear filled time with our young men being drafted and enlisting in order to fight the war in Vietnam. Families were closely knit, but not without their problems and heartache.
Annie's story takes place in West Michigan, a place I call home. Her Dutch heritage mimics my own, and the setting is familiar and filled with the conservatism of the Dutch that emigrated in great numbers to the area. Memories from the time period and the locale produced considerable nostalgia as I read the details of the Jacobson family and the obstacles they faced. A detailed and poignant depiction of the life and time brought me to tears on several occasions, but the love of family wrapped me in a warm blanket.
This author has a gift for developing a setting and characters that reflect life in its fundamental form, without sugarcoating our basic humanity. Social issues are broached with candor and sensitivity. There is a depth of reality in her books that touches the heart, and the author's faith is woven throughout her characters' lives. I have read all of Finkbeiner's novels twice, and will reread All Manner of Things again as well. I highly recommend this heartrending tale of life as I remember it from my own experiences!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All expressed opinions are my own.
Annie's story takes place in West Michigan, a place I call home. Her Dutch heritage mimics my own, and the setting is familiar and filled with the conservatism of the Dutch that emigrated in great numbers to the area. Memories from the time period and the locale produced considerable nostalgia as I read the details of the Jacobson family and the obstacles they faced. A detailed and poignant depiction of the life and time brought me to tears on several occasions, but the love of family wrapped me in a warm blanket.
This author has a gift for developing a setting and characters that reflect life in its fundamental form, without sugarcoating our basic humanity. Social issues are broached with candor and sensitivity. There is a depth of reality in her books that touches the heart, and the author's faith is woven throughout her characters' lives. I have read all of Finkbeiner's novels twice, and will reread All Manner of Things again as well. I highly recommend this heartrending tale of life as I remember it from my own experiences!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All expressed opinions are my own.
April 22, 2023
I am so glad I have found the author of Susie Finkbeiner, such an amazing writer. This is the story of a family who goes through ups in downs in life. Their father left after he couldn't handle coming home from war, and now the older brother leaves for Vietnam to fight in the war. This is told through the sister eyes and what is life like for her during this time. She is the glue to keep the family together. Now the father comes back and she is falling for a black man, hard during the 1960's. Will life ever be perfect for this family or will their lives never be the same after a tragic event. This was such a wonderful book. Sad and true this family faces much but they have each other and love can conquer all. Their faith is the glue that holds them together and it is well shown without this amazing read. I highly recommend this book! Get some tissues and sit and enjoy, because I know I did!!
July 27, 2019
All Manner of Things by Susie Finkbeiner is a story told through the eyes of Annie Jacobsen and of what her family life was like during two years of the Vietnam Era.
This talented author writes with a realism that tugs at my memory. Wow what a trip down memory lane. I graduated highschool in 1967 so there were lots of familiar things in this story. My girlfriend had a Corvair, I had cat eye glasses. I listened to the same music that Annie and her friends did. I hope readers will look up some of those songs mentioned in the book. They are still some of my favorites. I went to school with boys who were in Vietnam. I remember watching the nightly news about the war.
Ms Finkbeiner has a way of writing about everyday living that makes the ordinary very meaningful. Her words brought home to me the fact that God sees our lives as important no matter how insignificant we might think we are. He cares about us and what we do and we are part of His plan. Most of all, He us with us through all of life’s joys and sorrows.
Even though the novel is written in first person, it is very easy to read. The author uses dialogue to great advantage. The letters at the end of the chapters gave insight into several characters. I am glad to see she chose to include several generations of the Jacobsen family. It gave a more complete picture of family connections.
This was a beautifully written story. In my opinion, it is a must read for those who want a glimpse into a unique time in U.S. history. It will be one of my top reads for this year.
*A copy of this book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
This talented author writes with a realism that tugs at my memory. Wow what a trip down memory lane. I graduated highschool in 1967 so there were lots of familiar things in this story. My girlfriend had a Corvair, I had cat eye glasses. I listened to the same music that Annie and her friends did. I hope readers will look up some of those songs mentioned in the book. They are still some of my favorites. I went to school with boys who were in Vietnam. I remember watching the nightly news about the war.
Ms Finkbeiner has a way of writing about everyday living that makes the ordinary very meaningful. Her words brought home to me the fact that God sees our lives as important no matter how insignificant we might think we are. He cares about us and what we do and we are part of His plan. Most of all, He us with us through all of life’s joys and sorrows.
Even though the novel is written in first person, it is very easy to read. The author uses dialogue to great advantage. The letters at the end of the chapters gave insight into several characters. I am glad to see she chose to include several generations of the Jacobsen family. It gave a more complete picture of family connections.
This was a beautifully written story. In my opinion, it is a must read for those who want a glimpse into a unique time in U.S. history. It will be one of my top reads for this year.
*A copy of this book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
May 30, 2019
This book is worth far more than the measly 5 stars I can give it. It's like a perfect gem of a story, a glimpse into the life of a family who could have been any family during the Vietnam War. And people, it made me cry. I rarely, if ever, cry for books, but I did for this one. I won't tell you why, though, so don't think this is a spoiler. This one just edged right onto my Top Reads of 2019 shelf--the very top of the shelf. I loved Finkbeiner's first books, yet somehow she's getting even better with every book she writes, and she's shifting the way Christian fiction looks and feels while she's doing it. It's more REAL somehow, more like the people I see every day and the kids I grew up with. This book. Buy it. It's more than worth the read, and I'm betting it'll go on your keeper shelf.
April 18, 2022
June 1, 1969 . . . the day my dad left for his year of duty in Vietnam. Twenty-one (21) days after he married my mom, 365 letters back and forth between Iowa and Vietnam (yes, they wrote each other EVERY DAY). This story hit home with me a little bit, I could put myself in Annie's place, but for different reasons I guess. Nonetheless, an elegant read of life at home for a soldier, the way war changes people, and how growing up is the hardest thing to do.
This is the story of 18-year-old Annie. Her brother Mike has enlisted to fight in Vietnam rather than be drafted, run to Canada to dodge the draft, or any other alternative to not fight in a war he didn't believe in, but rather knew he would have to. Their younger brother Joel, in that coming of age at 13 and 14. Their parents Gloria and Frank, who have lived separate for 12 years because Frank went to Korea, but didn't come back the same Frank. Everyone knew Annie was the glue of the family, whether it was the only sister, daughter, they all clung to her to make things tolerable for them to continue living. It was a time of upheaval - both at home and abroad, and to be there for the family making peace between parents, grandparents, trying to find out who she wanted to be, and at the same time the support needed between a brother 1,000's of miles away and the family at home dealing with his absence.
A good book, the only part that really made me tear up was Mike's final letter. I enjoyed this book very much. I think this is a new to me author, but will definitely be checking out more of her works.
This is the story of 18-year-old Annie. Her brother Mike has enlisted to fight in Vietnam rather than be drafted, run to Canada to dodge the draft, or any other alternative to not fight in a war he didn't believe in, but rather knew he would have to. Their younger brother Joel, in that coming of age at 13 and 14. Their parents Gloria and Frank, who have lived separate for 12 years because Frank went to Korea, but didn't come back the same Frank. Everyone knew Annie was the glue of the family, whether it was the only sister, daughter, they all clung to her to make things tolerable for them to continue living. It was a time of upheaval - both at home and abroad, and to be there for the family making peace between parents, grandparents, trying to find out who she wanted to be, and at the same time the support needed between a brother 1,000's of miles away and the family at home dealing with his absence.
A good book, the only part that really made me tear up was Mike's final letter. I enjoyed this book very much. I think this is a new to me author, but will definitely be checking out more of her works.
August 23, 2019
I can't remember the last time I sobbed this hard over a book. I can't stop crying to the point of physical pain. Honestly. Can't even try for an eloquent review. 😭
August 29, 2023
*2023 update - I read this amazing book by Susie Finkbeiner for the second time since it’s the current pick of A Christian Fiction Book Club on FB. And oh my, it has touched me just as deeply and powerfully as the first time I read it when it came out in 2019. This book is so moving, so masterfully written.
It’s set in the 1960s Vietnam era and centers around one family and the challenges they face. It touches on so many life circumstances and issues that you are sure to connect with the characters on one or more levels. And you will be moved. No question about it.
One of my top reads in 2019 and one of my top reads this year as well. I highly recommend. If you want to go back and experience life, real and raw, as it was in 1967-1968, open the pages of this book and slip in. You will soon be immersed.
2019 Review
Wow, I loved this book so much. Definitely one of my top reads for the year. All Manner of Things by Susie Finkbeiner is such a raw and powerful story of a 1960s family dealing with real life and real emotions. The straightforward and even at times understated tone the author uses in telling the story is absolutely perfect and in fact causes it to pack a punch that truly lingers. This is one of those books that leaves you feeling not quite ready to move on to the next. As an added note, I loved the author’s use of the various letters the characters wrote to one another. Another perfect touch. I highly recommend this book.
It’s set in the 1960s Vietnam era and centers around one family and the challenges they face. It touches on so many life circumstances and issues that you are sure to connect with the characters on one or more levels. And you will be moved. No question about it.
One of my top reads in 2019 and one of my top reads this year as well. I highly recommend. If you want to go back and experience life, real and raw, as it was in 1967-1968, open the pages of this book and slip in. You will soon be immersed.
2019 Review
Wow, I loved this book so much. Definitely one of my top reads for the year. All Manner of Things by Susie Finkbeiner is such a raw and powerful story of a 1960s family dealing with real life and real emotions. The straightforward and even at times understated tone the author uses in telling the story is absolutely perfect and in fact causes it to pack a punch that truly lingers. This is one of those books that leaves you feeling not quite ready to move on to the next. As an added note, I loved the author’s use of the various letters the characters wrote to one another. Another perfect touch. I highly recommend this book.
May 25, 2021
Wonderful and hard, lovely and heartbreaking. Adjectives for a book I will not soon forget.
Annie was a loving young lady with a heart as big as Wyoming. She fiercely loved her family (Mom (Gloria), estranged dad (Frank), brothers Mike and Joel, grandmother, grandfather and Oma. They all loved her (but she put up with a lot from her grandmother who clearly favored her older brother, Mike).
The day Mike came home to say he enlisted was a hard one for the family. It was the 60s and the Vietnam War was far from over. But letters, sending cookies and even recordings were a constant highlight for this family as life went on around them.
What sets this book apart with the day to day lives of this family is the emotion, the relationships with the community and the loving support within the home, a sweet budding friendship/romance, but most of all the writing. Oh my can Ms. Finkbeiner write. I sighed, I cheered and I cried. I so enjoyed faith issues the family struggled with but also accepted into their hearts. Beautifully done.
Such a good book!! Oh and the narrator? Tavia Gilbert? She was impeccable! Her rolls, her deliberate pauses, her understanding of the intent, and the emotion in her voice brought me to tears more than a few times. My goodness, I need to see what else she's narrated! Loved it.
Annie was a loving young lady with a heart as big as Wyoming. She fiercely loved her family (Mom (Gloria), estranged dad (Frank), brothers Mike and Joel, grandmother, grandfather and Oma. They all loved her (but she put up with a lot from her grandmother who clearly favored her older brother, Mike).
The day Mike came home to say he enlisted was a hard one for the family. It was the 60s and the Vietnam War was far from over. But letters, sending cookies and even recordings were a constant highlight for this family as life went on around them.
What sets this book apart with the day to day lives of this family is the emotion, the relationships with the community and the loving support within the home, a sweet budding friendship/romance, but most of all the writing. Oh my can Ms. Finkbeiner write. I sighed, I cheered and I cried. I so enjoyed faith issues the family struggled with but also accepted into their hearts. Beautifully done.
Such a good book!! Oh and the narrator? Tavia Gilbert? She was impeccable! Her rolls, her deliberate pauses, her understanding of the intent, and the emotion in her voice brought me to tears more than a few times. My goodness, I need to see what else she's narrated! Loved it.
October 21, 2018
Susie writes books that bring you home. Set in the late 60’s this book is a great reminder that not everything is the same every where. A small town where sending boys to fight in Vietnam was a reason to honor them not call them names and turn our backs on them.
Well written and a delight to read. Make sure you put this book on your to be read pile.
Well written and a delight to read. Make sure you put this book on your to be read pile.
June 20, 2019
Um okay then. And even though I called that and could have told you exactly the chapter it would happen on ... I'm still not okay.
November 12, 2019
I fell in love with Susie Finkbeiner’s storytelling in her Pearl Spence series, exploring life during the Dust Bowl. Now, with All Manner of Things, she turns her historical lens to the Vietnam War and delivers a story no less beautifully told. I have not read many novels set during this time, but Finkbeiner brings it to life with vivid characterizations, heart-wrenching circumstances and choices, and poignant themes of hope and forgiveness.
All Manner of Things is one of those stories I will not soon forget. The feelings it stirred within me lingered long after I read the final page. It is wholly worth the read—I highly recommend it.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
All Manner of Things is one of those stories I will not soon forget. The feelings it stirred within me lingered long after I read the final page. It is wholly worth the read—I highly recommend it.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
April 17, 2024
4.5 rounded up
This is my first book by Susie Finkbeiner, and it won’t be my last. All Manner of Things tells the story of an American family in the midst of the Vietnam War, as they navigate trauma, relationships, loss and faith.
The book is slow-paced, but I think the writing and story telling was simply beautiful. I was drawn to the main character, Annie, from the beginning. She is a “normal” 18-year-old girl, but she is very the glue of the family.
This book deals with some heavy topics, chief among them PTSD and death. I have a parent and family members who served in the Vietnam war, and I think the author did a great job handling the topics.
The characters also exhibit relationships with God and I was pleasantly surprised to see how much faith was woven throughout the story. This book made me cry-which I almost never do while reading.
Highly recommended read.
This is my first book by Susie Finkbeiner, and it won’t be my last. All Manner of Things tells the story of an American family in the midst of the Vietnam War, as they navigate trauma, relationships, loss and faith.
The book is slow-paced, but I think the writing and story telling was simply beautiful. I was drawn to the main character, Annie, from the beginning. She is a “normal” 18-year-old girl, but she is very the glue of the family.
This book deals with some heavy topics, chief among them PTSD and death. I have a parent and family members who served in the Vietnam war, and I think the author did a great job handling the topics.
The characters also exhibit relationships with God and I was pleasantly surprised to see how much faith was woven throughout the story. This book made me cry-which I almost never do while reading.
Highly recommended read.
April 22, 2023
I don’t even know where to start...
This book was so good; the writing, the simple storyline; the characters.
The siblings were so awesome, I loved the sweet relationship between the main character and her brothers. The letters from Mike (her older brother) to the family are so pleasant and matter-of-fact. I thought the letters were dispersed throughout the book perfectly, not to much but not to little.
This book is one that makes you more grateful for the simple things in life; the things you sometimes take for granted. I unashamedly admit that All Manner of Things made me CRY (real cry). This author did a great job on making you realize what the men at war had to deal with (mentally and physically) when they were in the midst of battle and even when they came home.
This book was so good; the writing, the simple storyline; the characters.
The siblings were so awesome, I loved the sweet relationship between the main character and her brothers. The letters from Mike (her older brother) to the family are so pleasant and matter-of-fact. I thought the letters were dispersed throughout the book perfectly, not to much but not to little.
This book is one that makes you more grateful for the simple things in life; the things you sometimes take for granted. I unashamedly admit that All Manner of Things made me CRY (real cry). This author did a great job on making you realize what the men at war had to deal with (mentally and physically) when they were in the midst of battle and even when they came home.
June 13, 2019
I absolutely fell in love with the characters in this book from the beginning. I love how Susie weaves history with heritage and emotions In this book. I grew to LOVE the characters - not just the main characters, but all of them. I have some (A LOT) of Dutch heritage and love how that was included in this book. I wish I could have shared this book with my grandma, Rosemary. I am positive she would have fallen in love with the characters and their story too. I would not at all be opposed to a sequel. 😉😉
November 25, 2019
Beautifully written novel about the Jacobson family in 1967 and 1968. Oldest child Mike chooses to enlist in the Army. Left behind are his immediate and extended family that adore and miss him. I loved hearing this novel though the voice of Annie, Mike's younger sister. Letters scattered throughout the novel were a nice addition.
The description of a few secondary characters was spectacular: Frank (Mike's father), Bernie (Annie's boss) and Walt (Annie's classmate).
My gratitude to author Amanda Barratt for a complimentary copy of the novel.
The description of a few secondary characters was spectacular: Frank (Mike's father), Bernie (Annie's boss) and Walt (Annie's classmate).
My gratitude to author Amanda Barratt for a complimentary copy of the novel.
July 29, 2019
A beautiful, touching story. This is my first Susie Finkbeiner book, but it definitely won't be my last. I was completely drawn into the characters and the Vietnam time period, which was so well done. Susie is not afraid to explore the authentic, real places of a story, and I so appreciated that. Very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 1, 2019
Wow! This beautifully written story really tugged on my heart strings!
March 1, 2021
I don't recall how I stumbled on this book. None of my friends have read it (Goodreads or otherwise). Additionally, I rarely read Young Adult or Christian Fiction. It must have been the Historical Fiction genre that caught my eye, since I do read a lot of that!
Regardless of how I found this, I am so glad I did! This book focuses on a family in 1967...and how the world around them impacted them (Vietnam War, race relations). But it didn't feel too deep. I laughed at times and had tears streaming down my face at other times. I didn't want it to end. The main character is Annie, and 18-year old. I really felt as if I knew her and could relate to her.
I am not sure what makes a book Christian Fiction. This family went to church and there was some talk of Jesus and God, but to me, this just felt like "real life" for so many American families then and now. Nothing too deep or preachy - just woven in as religion is for so many.
So good. Looking forward to more by this lovely author.
Regardless of how I found this, I am so glad I did! This book focuses on a family in 1967...and how the world around them impacted them (Vietnam War, race relations). But it didn't feel too deep. I laughed at times and had tears streaming down my face at other times. I didn't want it to end. The main character is Annie, and 18-year old. I really felt as if I knew her and could relate to her.
I am not sure what makes a book Christian Fiction. This family went to church and there was some talk of Jesus and God, but to me, this just felt like "real life" for so many American families then and now. Nothing too deep or preachy - just woven in as religion is for so many.
So good. Looking forward to more by this lovely author.
May 23, 2023
If you like Wendall Berry you’ll enjoy All Manner of Things. This was a well written, character driven story of family’s experience with the Vietnam War. I mention Berry because he is known for creating a setting and characters that you are emotionally attached to and invested in. Susie Finkbeiner accomplished the goal of making the reader feel as if they were a part of the Jacobsen family and therefore all their joy, pain, healing was easily felt. Sadly I’ve heard her other books don’t live up to this book but this one was an easy 5 stars for me.
ETA: this is definitely not my normal genre so I was hesitant to read something normal-life.
I also loved that the Christianity was real and biblical ❤️
ETA: this is definitely not my normal genre so I was hesitant to read something normal-life.
I also loved that the Christianity was real and biblical ❤️
December 24, 2023
This was written in such a way that I didn't even realize I'd finished half of it in one day and sad when I had to put it down. It was cute and sweet, and yes, I cried. ♥️
May 24, 2019
"Sometimes he feels so far, as if to never reach us. We call for him, we beg him to come . . . Then we see his power on display and remember, he has gone nowhere."
Annie Jacobson has experienced a lot of "leaving" during her eighteen years. First, her father and now her older brother. Volunteering for service to his country, Mike Jacobson begins a journey that is guaranteed to send him towards the very epicenter of the Vietnam War. In the meantime, back at home, Annie's world tilts dangerously to the side when her estranged father rejoins what remains of his family, re-opening old wounds in a manner that displays both hope and heartache.
Using letters to form conversations that otherwise might never have been spoken, this family digs deep to believe that in the end, "all will be well". It's a story that practically begs to be told, and this author proves herself to be the perfect story teller.
"Live today and then tomorrow, and then the next day . . . . . Don't duck and cover."
I received a digital copy of this book from Net Galley as well as a print copy from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Annie Jacobson has experienced a lot of "leaving" during her eighteen years. First, her father and now her older brother. Volunteering for service to his country, Mike Jacobson begins a journey that is guaranteed to send him towards the very epicenter of the Vietnam War. In the meantime, back at home, Annie's world tilts dangerously to the side when her estranged father rejoins what remains of his family, re-opening old wounds in a manner that displays both hope and heartache.
Using letters to form conversations that otherwise might never have been spoken, this family digs deep to believe that in the end, "all will be well". It's a story that practically begs to be told, and this author proves herself to be the perfect story teller.
"Live today and then tomorrow, and then the next day . . . . . Don't duck and cover."
I received a digital copy of this book from Net Galley as well as a print copy from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
April 22, 2022
I'm surprised I enjoyed the book as much as I did. I'm usually the action kind of girl and this book was more about deep feelings and such. So I had expected that it would be an ok for me, but I was wrong. I really really enjoyed this story.
December 17, 2020
This book was one of heartbreak, but also a true feeling of the impact of PTSD on families in a time when it was not recognized. Well written!
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