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Open Circle
Mindy Lee "Minnie" Carlson's dream job has dropped into her hands, but there's a catch. She has four months to revive Open Circle, the town's only Senior Adult Day Center, or the doors will close, leaving her beloved seniors stranded, and eliminating the only job she's ever wanted.
Globe-trotting photographer Jackson Young documents the forgotten people of the world, focusing on the poor and elderly. After decades on the road, he's stunned to learn his beloved Grandma Em is still alive in the small town he'd had to leave decades earlier.
Overjoyed, Jackson races back into town to reconnect with her and discovers she's been Minnie's adopted grandma for the past twenty years. When Grandma Em has a stroke, his ideas about her care pit him against Minnie's determination and expertise. For Grandma Em's sake, and the future of Open Circle, they'll need to do the impossible—find a way to work together.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2018
17 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
June 14, 2018
This was an enjoyable read as much for the delightful community that made up Open Circle as it was for the way in which Jackson and Minnie’s relationship developed from its initial hostility into friendship and love. If you’ve ever had much to do with the senior members of our communities, you’ll know that social activity can have a huge impact on quality of life, and it’s that knowledge that drives Minnie Carlson to throw everything she has into giving Open Circle the chance to stay open, despite its dire financial straits. That and the fact that it’s a second home for the woman who has been her defacto grandmother for most of her life.
But Grandma Em has a biological grandson—one whom she hasn’t seen for twenty years—and when he suddenly shows up after she suffers a stroke, it not only provokes Minnie’s disdain; it awakens her insecurity, as Grandma Em welcomes him with open arms, declaring it an answer to prayer. Minnie can’t help feeling displaced, and by an unworthy candidate at that! And Jackson naturally resents Minnie’s proprietary care of his grandmother and the way she seems to think she has the right to make decisions about Grandma Em's care and recovery.
There’s no love or attraction at first sight here, that’s for sure, and when you add in the pressure Jack and Minnie are under in their respective jobs, it’s little wonder neither presents their best side in the company of the other. They had to be encouraged to examine their attitude toward one another and make a conscious effort to reach out in friendship, and that was not only well handled, but made for a refreshing change. Their relationship developed organically, and the romantic element was subtle and sweet.
I also loved the way in which the story celebrated the dignity and humanity of its elderly characters, even as it presented the realities that come with aging. And Grandma Em was the sweetest of them all. Oh, that we all had our own Grandma Em!
Enjoyable, and engagingly-written.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
But Grandma Em has a biological grandson—one whom she hasn’t seen for twenty years—and when he suddenly shows up after she suffers a stroke, it not only provokes Minnie’s disdain; it awakens her insecurity, as Grandma Em welcomes him with open arms, declaring it an answer to prayer. Minnie can’t help feeling displaced, and by an unworthy candidate at that! And Jackson naturally resents Minnie’s proprietary care of his grandmother and the way she seems to think she has the right to make decisions about Grandma Em's care and recovery.
There’s no love or attraction at first sight here, that’s for sure, and when you add in the pressure Jack and Minnie are under in their respective jobs, it’s little wonder neither presents their best side in the company of the other. They had to be encouraged to examine their attitude toward one another and make a conscious effort to reach out in friendship, and that was not only well handled, but made for a refreshing change. Their relationship developed organically, and the romantic element was subtle and sweet.
I also loved the way in which the story celebrated the dignity and humanity of its elderly characters, even as it presented the realities that come with aging. And Grandma Em was the sweetest of them all. Oh, that we all had our own Grandma Em!
Enjoyable, and engagingly-written.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
June 21, 2018
Open Circle by Stacy Monson is a marvellous and heartfelt contemporary Christian novel that surrounds the topics of dementia and Alzheimer's. It was refreshing to have a tale that focused on the over sixties.
Far from being a gloomy read, Open Circle is uplifting, caring and full of love. The characters are elderly but not unseen. They still have a part to play in life and are encouraged to live life. To be active and not passive. "When we're young, we have a purpose. As we get old, it's harder to find reasons to get up in the morning." The book emphasises the importance of seeing the individual and of tailoring their needs. To celebrate what they can do and not what they no longer can do. It is encouraging their strengths and playing down their weaknesses. "Celebrate uniqueness."
The people suffering from dementia played crucial roles in town life when they were younger. They lived and they loved. Now in old age they need to be treated with dignity and respect.
The leading lady is wonderfully drawn. She exudes warmth and love. She sees the individual and desires to give them all a purpose. The day care centre is a safe place, "where the lost could be found."
Another theme is life lived unselfishly. Characters are "eager to make a difference." We are all just passing through this life and we need to help others along the way.
The old and the young have a beautiful friendship. It reminded me of my bond with my Nanny. The older generation has much to impart into the younger one. The pair support, love, care and complement each other with their strengths.
Characters drawn create tension. The reader reads on eagerly to see how it is resolved.
Now that Open Circle has ended, I feel sad. I did not read the book. I 'lived' the book and now I have left behind my new friends who will live on in my heart.
Stacy Monson is a new author to me and a highly talented one - but don't take my word for it, read Open Circle today. You are in for a real treat.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Far from being a gloomy read, Open Circle is uplifting, caring and full of love. The characters are elderly but not unseen. They still have a part to play in life and are encouraged to live life. To be active and not passive. "When we're young, we have a purpose. As we get old, it's harder to find reasons to get up in the morning." The book emphasises the importance of seeing the individual and of tailoring their needs. To celebrate what they can do and not what they no longer can do. It is encouraging their strengths and playing down their weaknesses. "Celebrate uniqueness."
The people suffering from dementia played crucial roles in town life when they were younger. They lived and they loved. Now in old age they need to be treated with dignity and respect.
The leading lady is wonderfully drawn. She exudes warmth and love. She sees the individual and desires to give them all a purpose. The day care centre is a safe place, "where the lost could be found."
Another theme is life lived unselfishly. Characters are "eager to make a difference." We are all just passing through this life and we need to help others along the way.
The old and the young have a beautiful friendship. It reminded me of my bond with my Nanny. The older generation has much to impart into the younger one. The pair support, love, care and complement each other with their strengths.
Characters drawn create tension. The reader reads on eagerly to see how it is resolved.
Now that Open Circle has ended, I feel sad. I did not read the book. I 'lived' the book and now I have left behind my new friends who will live on in my heart.
Stacy Monson is a new author to me and a highly talented one - but don't take my word for it, read Open Circle today. You are in for a real treat.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 3, 2018
A Story to Cherish
Another winner from Stacy Monson! As usual, Stacy gives the reader a story different from what is typically found in the Christian fiction market. Set at Open Circle, a senior adult day center, this story shines the spotlight on the amazing caregivers who tenderly love on our senior citizens and those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. The story welcomes the reader in on the first page, and pretty soon you want to volunteer at Open Circle!
I loved the palpable tension between Jackson and Minnie, two very well-developed characters who share a love for Grandma Em and only want what's best for her--even though they differ greatly in their idea of what is best. The romance between them (which was more of a side-story) grew slowly and naturally without the eye-rolling moments often found in romance. Jackson and Minnie felt like real people you would meet on the street. As did all the wonderful and quirky seniors in the care center, along with the caregivers.
OPEN CIRCLE is a story that any reader will cherish, but it will be especially meaningful for those with loved ones in care centers or for those who have loved ones suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. I’ve already purchased (4) copies and will likely be buying more to share!
Another winner from Stacy Monson! As usual, Stacy gives the reader a story different from what is typically found in the Christian fiction market. Set at Open Circle, a senior adult day center, this story shines the spotlight on the amazing caregivers who tenderly love on our senior citizens and those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. The story welcomes the reader in on the first page, and pretty soon you want to volunteer at Open Circle!
I loved the palpable tension between Jackson and Minnie, two very well-developed characters who share a love for Grandma Em and only want what's best for her--even though they differ greatly in their idea of what is best. The romance between them (which was more of a side-story) grew slowly and naturally without the eye-rolling moments often found in romance. Jackson and Minnie felt like real people you would meet on the street. As did all the wonderful and quirky seniors in the care center, along with the caregivers.
OPEN CIRCLE is a story that any reader will cherish, but it will be especially meaningful for those with loved ones in care centers or for those who have loved ones suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. I’ve already purchased (4) copies and will likely be buying more to share!
May 14, 2018
This book was special to me because I was one of several caregivers for my father and years later the sole caregiver for my husband--both of whom suffered with Alzheimer's. My sister was so affected by the experience of caring for our father that she returned to school for a degree in social work and has spent her career as a social worker working with elderly patients, many with dementia.
Minnie reminded me so much of my sister, and many of the techniques she uses to work with dementia patients. Naturally I loved her character and wanted to see her find love and happiness.
The faith elements of the story and the wonderful romance with Jackson make this a fabulous read.
I received an advanced reading copy of the book from the author, but I voluntarily wrote the review, which expresses my honest opinion.
Minnie reminded me so much of my sister, and many of the techniques she uses to work with dementia patients. Naturally I loved her character and wanted to see her find love and happiness.
The faith elements of the story and the wonderful romance with Jackson make this a fabulous read.
I received an advanced reading copy of the book from the author, but I voluntarily wrote the review, which expresses my honest opinion.
May 6, 2018
This is an awesome story. Both the author and the book's characters treat the seniors with so much love, respect, dignity and understanding. There is also a compelling love story between two workaholics. I could not put the book down. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for an excellent romance.
August 4, 2018
There will always be elderly people among us, but ultimately our perspective will determine whether they are a burden or delight.
True-to-life characters reflect varying issues that come along with advancing age in Open Circle. I loved the many different seniors who appeared throughout the story, although Em had to be my favorite.
While I understood the struggle Minnie faced in accepting Jackson, sometimes her shifting attitudes seemed too much for her character. A few loose ends left me wondering what happened to them.
I read this story at an interesting time, as God has opened doors recently to build relationships with some seniors around me. With them in mind, I loved the perspective Minnie shared and teared at the thought of "my seniors" being loved like that. What a precious thought!
We all know at least one senior, but do we take time to love on them? I encourage you to read Open Circle and allow yourself to be challenged by the message in this sweet story!
(I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
This review was first published on my blog (sarahruut.com.)
True-to-life characters reflect varying issues that come along with advancing age in Open Circle. I loved the many different seniors who appeared throughout the story, although Em had to be my favorite.
While I understood the struggle Minnie faced in accepting Jackson, sometimes her shifting attitudes seemed too much for her character. A few loose ends left me wondering what happened to them.
I read this story at an interesting time, as God has opened doors recently to build relationships with some seniors around me. With them in mind, I loved the perspective Minnie shared and teared at the thought of "my seniors" being loved like that. What a precious thought!
We all know at least one senior, but do we take time to love on them? I encourage you to read Open Circle and allow yourself to be challenged by the message in this sweet story!
(I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
This review was first published on my blog (sarahruut.com.)
September 21, 2019
I truly enjoyed this book. What a great look at a senior day care center. The financial downward spiral becomes Minnie's concern when she takes over the directorship. I loved the actions and interactions of the seniors and their love of Minnie. This is a very well written book that caused me to begin wondering what I will find at a time when I may need this. Great blueprint!!!!! Highly recommend.
June 22, 2018
Such wonderful feisty characters! With a surrogate grandma of my own in childhood, I could easily understand Minnie’s insecurity when her beloved Grandma Em’s real grandson shows up after twenty years absence. The setting of a senior activity center is delightfully different, and I was thrilled to know that such daycare places actually exist. The frustration of employees who are there for the job instead of really caring for the seniors made my blood boil right along with Minnie’s. I found my own frustrations and lack of patience mirrored in Jack’s character arc as he moved from disparaging the seniors for their failing faculties to respect and eventually fighting for them. The details of his photography made me wish I could visit the fictional gallery where he had his show.
The resolution to the center’s financial problems was satisfying. What I didn’t like so much was that the major conflict between the protagonists for the first half of the book was a misunderstanding that could have easily been avoided. If there was motivation for Jack keeping his mouth shut while Minnie yelled at him for disappearing for the past twenty years, I missed it. I would have yelled right back at her. Otherwise, Monson’s writing is smooth and for the most part believable as she invites readers to share her huge heart for seniors.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The resolution to the center’s financial problems was satisfying. What I didn’t like so much was that the major conflict between the protagonists for the first half of the book was a misunderstanding that could have easily been avoided. If there was motivation for Jack keeping his mouth shut while Minnie yelled at him for disappearing for the past twenty years, I missed it. I would have yelled right back at her. Otherwise, Monson’s writing is smooth and for the most part believable as she invites readers to share her huge heart for seniors.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2018
Open Circle by Stacy Monson tells the story of Minnie who has the job of reviving Open Circle the town’s only Senior Adult Day Center in four months’ time. She has an adopted Grandma Em that lives in the town and attends the day Center. Em’s grandson, Jackson a world traveler photographer, was told she had died years ago. He finds out she is still alive and returns to the town. Minnie and Jackson have to learn to work together to care for Minnie after she has had a stroke.
I first became interested in this book because my Mom has dementia and I know the book was going to talk about this. I also know other people who are dealing with Alzheimer’s disease. Stacy does an excellent job of describing Senior citizens and how they feel and react towards life as they age. She reminded me of what I’ve learned in how to understand and talk with people who have dementia.
This book is not only a romance but one that can be a learning tool for someone working with people that have dementia. It’s a reminder that no matter what age you are and what disabilities you have, you do matter.
June 21, 2018
Open Circle is one of those few books that can tackle a tough subject like aging but leave you encouraged and hopeful. I loved the well-developed characters and their relationships, especially the grandmother and adult grandchildren. There’s a sweet romance.
Stacy Monson draws pictures with words. ““Minnie held in a giggle as she watched the police officer try to get the flighty woman closer to the door, feathery red boa floating behind her. Keeping Bertie focused resembled herding one cheerfully confused, neon colored cat.” Can’t you just see that scene?
There were plenty of twists and turns that kept my interest high. Open Circle is a well-written and enjoyable book. I highly recommend it. I definitely want to read more of Stacy Monson’s work.
I received an ARC. I chose to review and share my opinion of this excellent book.
Stacy Monson draws pictures with words. ““Minnie held in a giggle as she watched the police officer try to get the flighty woman closer to the door, feathery red boa floating behind her. Keeping Bertie focused resembled herding one cheerfully confused, neon colored cat.” Can’t you just see that scene?
There were plenty of twists and turns that kept my interest high. Open Circle is a well-written and enjoyable book. I highly recommend it. I definitely want to read more of Stacy Monson’s work.
I received an ARC. I chose to review and share my opinion of this excellent book.
September 16, 2021
Excellent story
I loved this story. It was about real life and people as they age. It was obvious the author had done extensive research on the subject of the aged. I think this book will be widely enjoyed because of the subject matter. Excellent book!
I loved this story. It was about real life and people as they age. It was obvious the author had done extensive research on the subject of the aged. I think this book will be widely enjoyed because of the subject matter. Excellent book!
September 24, 2021
Really enjoyed this story. The way the MC’s moved from hostility and misunderstanding to friendship and more. Lovely tender story focussing on caring for our seniors. My mom is elderly and I’m her primary support. And I have a close older friend with Alzheimer’s so this story meant a lot to me
October 19, 2022
an unbroken circle
I very much, enjoyed this story about a senior center. It just goes to show that God can always make a way. We just need to trust Him. Two strong-willed people can even find love because of one person they both love. Very good!
I very much, enjoyed this story about a senior center. It just goes to show that God can always make a way. We just need to trust Him. Two strong-willed people can even find love because of one person they both love. Very good!
December 31, 2021
Wonderful story that centers around an Alzheimer's day care. Interesting premise and unique storyline. Great characters.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews