A Stone Bridge North

by Kate Maloy

This is the author's own story of miracles found and fears allayed in the journey out of a confining urban existence and into a simpler, more joyous life. To tell this story fully, she must look through changed eyes at her past - at childhood anxieties, family disaffections, failed marriages, late motherhood, restless boredom and, paradoxically, a native talent for joy. She learns that she has been guided by faith even when she thought she had none. She begins to discern purpose and design both in her stories and in the light by which she sees them - a light refracted through a Quaker lens that searches for the sacred in all people. As the four seasons turn, she celebrates the loves of her new life - family, friends, language, silence and the extraordinary landscape of Vermont.

Genres: Nonfiction

336 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

About the author

Kate Maloy is the author of the memoir A Stone Bridge North: Reflections in a New Life. Her work has been published by LiteraryMama.com, VerbSap.com, and the Readerville Journal. She has forthcoming pieces in the Kenyon Review and two anthologies: For Keeps and Choice. She lives with her husband on the central coast of Oregon.

Reviews

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When Kate Maloy rediscovers her Quaker faith, she leaves behind a con fining urban life anbd goes in search of a simpler, more joyous existence. the journey takes her to Vermont, and a series of spiritual risks and revelations. Looking through changed eyes at her past -- at family anxieties, family disaffection, failed marriages, late motherhood, restless boredom, and, paradoxically, a talent for joy -- she learns that she has been guided by faith even when she though she had none. An extraordinary story of 'miracles found and fears allayed.' A Stone Bridge North is an eloquent testimony to seeking the sacred in all people."
~~back cover

This book is so incredible is so many ways. Her explanation and exploration of the Quaker faith are enticing, beckoning me to reconsider what I thought my spiritual path is. Her absolute emphasis on trust is intriguing, and at the same time frightening -- could I possibly become so proficient in letting go and letting God? Her new love practices "blessing and releasing" another compelling, terrifying concept: who would I be if I let go of my resentments?

I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone who wishes to explore their concepts, their persona, or their spirituality.

[Birdie Nuckols · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting look at life in New England and life as a Quaker.

[Beth]

dnf the font was so small and pale I couldn't read it. Disappointed.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. While I do not share the author's precise faith, the book was calming and thoughtful. There were many moments of inspiration for me while reading, and that qualifies as a good read for me. Definitely a good read for anyone who is in a time of introspection and quiet study of life and themselves.

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honest reflections of Maloy's life. Lots of golden nuggets of wisdom found in the pages.

What attracted me to the book was her interest and practice as a Quaker.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

wonderful imagery

[Paula McConnell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is pretty and well-written but still underwhelmed me. Recommended by Robinne Grey.