Remember Me: A Novella about Finding Our Way to the Cross

Shades of Light #2

by Sharon Garlough Brown

"'It is finished, ' Jesus says. It's a bold declaration for us to make too. What does it mean to say 'It is finished' when so much is unfinished? It means we are people who live hope in two directions, both backward and forward. We long for the kingdom to come in fullness, even as it has already come. And we trust that the One who has begun the good work in us and for us will indeed complete it." In this sequel to Shades of Light, Katherine Rhodes, the beloved director of the New Hope Retreat Center, finds her own grief tapped by Wren Crawford's struggles with depression and loss. Through a series of letters to Wren, Katherine reflects on the meaning of Christ's suffering and shares her own story of finding hope. How does one begin to live again under the crushing weight of grief? And how can healing come when there's so much left unresolved? With Katherine as a companion in sorrow, Wren moves forward in her commitment to paint the stations of the cross for a prayer journey at New Hope, discovering along the way a deeper communion with the Man of Sorrows, acquainted with grief. Readers are invited into a similar journey of reflection through Katherine's words and Wren's paintings. At the back of the book, a devotional guide with Scripture readings, prayer prompts, and full-color art provides the opportunity to ponder the depths of God's love by meditating on Jesus' journey to the cross

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Faith, Mental Health, Christian, Religion, Prayer

144 pages, Hardcover

Published January 7, 2020

About the author

Sharon Garlough Brown (MDiv, Princeton Theological Seminary) is a spiritual director, retreat leader, and author. Her book "Sensible Shoes" was named one of television personality Kathie Lee Gifford's "favorite things" in March 2013, and her book "An Extra Mile" won Christianity Today's Fiction Book of the Year for 2019. She and her husband Jack have served congregations in Scotland, Oklahoma, England, and West Michigan, where they co-pastored a congregation for many years. They now direct Abiding Way Ministries, offering spiritual formation retreats and resources (abidingwaylife.com). Her latest book, "Feathers of Hope" (third in the Shades of Light series) released in April 2022.

Reviews

[Debra Slonek · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, reading this book was an experience like no other. I experienced empathy on an intimate level for Wren and for Kit, companions in sorrow. In the past, Kit had experienced debilitating sorrow, grief and depression. Wren was currently in the depths of great sadness, depression and deep grief. Kit became the best person to walk along beside and help Wren. She cared for her with extraordinary compassion and deep loving kindness. I so loved their relationship.

I was profoundly affected by a passage in chapter 5 where the author shared her deep and powerful thoughts about when Peter had denied Jesus, not once , but three times. Now, whenever I think of Peter and his failures, I will envision Jesus praying for Peter. As I ponder my own failures and those of close loved ones, I choose to picture Jesus praying for us, even and especially in the midst of our own poor choices and corresponding consequences.

I loved how Wren, a gifted artist, worked on a series of paintings to represent the stations of the cross. This was an incredible and enlightening journey of healing for her. What’s more? Wren’s beautiful and heartfelt paintings then ministered to others who viewed them in contemplation.

Reading this book was like going on a spiritual retreat with fellow, trusted believers who had deaths to mourn and brokenness to heal, all the while guided by a compassionate, wise and God-led spiritual director. I loved this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from InterVarsity Press through NetGalley and I also purchased my own hard cover copy. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Remember Me is a bit different from the other books I have read by Sharon Garlough Brown. It is a gentle, thoughtful book, following the grief and birthing of hope for both Wren and Katherine. The book progresses at a very slow rate, and much of the book consists of letters written by Katherine to Wren. While I found it more difficult to stay reading for this reason, its very slowness captured the restful, reflective nature of the theme, like watching a slowly opening flower. The book is free of clichés about grief and is instead a deep pondering of loss and restoration. It is a book I would like to return to and leisurely read through more slowly.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following the book “Shades of Light”, this second novel follows Wren and Katherine’s journey through loss, grief and restoration. The story is told mostly in letters written by Katherine to Wren, which makes you stop and ponder the very seriousness of loss in our lives and how we can get to a place of hope. This walk of faith is one that we all have walked in one form or another, so most of us can relate to the story. The author shows us that there is always light after the darkness.

As an artist, I love how Wren journals her grief through her art. I also loved how at the end of the book you get to see the art and also read through devotions based on the Stations of the Cross. I think I will read through that part again during the Easter season. I love this new series by Sharon Garlough Brown as she brings a cherished character from the Sensible Shoes series into a new light. I have read all of her books and this one touches yet another part of my heart. Thank you so much to InterVarsity Press, Sharon Garlough Brown and NetGalley for an advanced copy to read and review.

[Kate Baxter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sequel to author Sharon Garlough Brown's, "Shades of Light" is labeled as a novella given that it is 136 pages in length. Do not let its brevity fool you - there's a lot of substance and matter for reflection packed into this compact book. The prose is exquisite and impeccably written. The story is told from the point of view of retreat center director Katherine Rhoades as she shepherds her niece, Wren Crawford through depression and loss. Risking her own mental health, Katherine writes loving, instructive letters to Wren laying bare her own journey through depression and difficult moments in her life.

As part of her journey to recovery, Wren has agreed to paint images for the spiritual center's Stations of the Cross. The book includes eight color images from Wren's conceived stations along with accompanying artist statements and scripture for meditation. This book would serve well for Lenten study or navigating the Way of the Cross at any time. A definite keeper!

[Lynette · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thought provoking book which made me stop and think. This is a book I will be reading again. Highly recommend it.

[Ian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this during Holy Week and as I was currently experiencing my own grief found this a wonderful resource in both sitting in my grief but allowing myself to invite Jesus to engage with me in it.

Both Kit and Wren are survivors of grief. Kit, an older woman and spiritual director, had suffered from both the loss of a son many years ago and her marriage in more recent times. And in some ways she was still walking through it. She takes on Wren as a house mate, who has recently lost her best friend, Casey and is a little lost in life. BTW, it was wonderful to read of a deep friendship between a woman and man without there being any romantic association. It's so rare especially in church circles where it's often frowned upon.

Both ladies are artists and both use their art, particularly Wren, to channel their grief towards Jesus through the stations of the Cross which is a powerful motif for anyone suffering from grief. Meanwhile, Kit was writing letters to Wren in order to both work through her own grief and share her insights with Wren.

I love how Brown is able to combine the power and wonder of the spiritual formation journey with that of story telling. At times, this felt almost memoir-like, but is a work of fiction. We need more of this writing in Christian fiction, helping readers to go deeper with Jesus while enjoying the wonders of a great story just like Jesus did with His parables.

The chapters are short and end with one of Kit's letters. They cover the Lenten season and there is a section at the end where the artwork of the stations of the Cross created by the characters in the book are provided to enable a reader to walk the stations on Good Friday which is what I did.

It's really a beautiful work that helped me significantly in coping with my own grief.

[Vicki Cottingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Remember Me’ is the sequel to the book ‘Shades of Light’. Wren is coming to terms with the loss of her best friend, Casey, whilst at the same time trying to manage her poor mental health.

Once again it is her faith in God, her love of art, particularly the work of Vincent van Gogh, and her Father’s Aunt Kit with whom she is staying, which helps her on her journey.

Wren has been commissioned by Aunt Kit to produce artwork for the period of Lent at the Retreat Centre where her Aunt works. Through her painting, Wren is reminded of Christ as one who has also suffered, and she finds comfort in this and in knowing Jesus understands her suffering.

In this book, we learn more about Kit’s past and the loss she experienced as a mother and a wife. Wren’s journey of grief triggers Kit’s grief and Kit realises that she needs to go through her own journey of grief and healing once more. She shares her story and journey with Wren through the letters she writes her. These letters are not only healing for Kit herself, but they also help Wren’s healing.

I love the spiritual insights in Sharon Garlough Brown's book, "Remember Me". Her book helped me to better understand Jesus' journey to the cross. It also helped me to learn more about myself and my own journey of faith.

At the end of the book is a Reflection Guide in which the reader is invited to explore the eight prayer stations and Journey to the Cross with Jesus. This is a wonderful resource which can be used by individuals, small groups or by a whole church.

If you have read any of Sharon’s books and enjoyed them, then you won’t be disappointed by her latest one.

I recommend this book to anyone who suffers themselves with poor mental health or has someone close to them who suffers. If you are someone who is interested in not just reading a book but someone who looks for a book which will change you and encourage your spiritual growth, then this book is also for you.

[Leslie]

In August I read Shades of Light by Sharon Garlough Brown. Her soon to be released book Remember Me picks up with Wren and Kit in a briefer novella.

Wren continues to work through mental illness and to draw consolation from her art. While Wren continues to the a main focal point of the story, Brown turns her attention a bit more to Kit in this title. Kit is helping Wren not only because she is her aunt but because she has struggled with significant mental illness herself. While providing guidance and encouragement to Wren, Kit begins writing letters to Kit that share some of her own story. Her own experiences have helped her to be the spiritual director and wise woman she is today. Reading Kit's story reminded me of the book As I Recall as Kit definitely used and has used her memories and experiences to grow spiritually. Brown does a marvelous job of creating real characters who struggle with raw emotions and experiences. This definitely is not an "everything is coming up roses" typical Christian novel.

As in Shades of Light, using and creating art as part of a spiritual journey continues to be a strong component of Remember Me. In particular, Wren interacts with and creates artwork that will be utilized in the Stations of the Cross. As the story builds up to the traditional Stations of the Cross, it is a wonderful book to read during the Lenten season. The book includes devotional content and artwork that will also help readers in their spiritual preparation.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Remember Me from InterVarsity Press via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much as I have all of the writers' books!
This one was even better. I actually read a large part of it twice. This
is one I will keep in my library instead of passing it down!

Thank you so much, Sharon Garlough Brown, the publisher, and Netgalley
for the chance to read and review this wonderful book!

[Jena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the portrayal of Wren and Kit's journeys to hope in Christ's salvation. I also loved the storyline around Wren painting the stations of the cross and even more an artist's renderings of Wren's artwork and Kit's devotional text for each. Delightful, hope filled, and thought provoking.

[Colin Timbrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such deep wisdom in this story. So much to savour. Another great book from Sharon Garlough Brown.

[Michele Morin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loss is tricky. We rate ours on a bandwidth, pitting it against the stories of others, and it’s a no-win game. If our suffering has been severe, we are reluctant to draw attention to it. If, like mine that day so long ago, it feels minor, we’re embarrassed to complain about it. The characters in Remember Me: A Novella about Finding Our Way to the Cross embody this struggle and blaze a trail to hope for those struggling with depression or suffering from loss. Feeling our feelings, leaning into the gift of community, and enlisting the support of “companions in sorrow” are all ways of moving forward in our commitment to wholeness and health.

Author, Sharon Garlough Brown studied painting and enlisted artistic input from Elizabeth Ivy to bring realism to protagonist Wren Crawford’s body of work. In this sequel to Shades of Light, Wren reflects on Christ’s suffering in order to live her way into an understanding of the crushing weight of grief she carries. Drinking the cup of remembrance with Wren provides readers with the gift of space for reckoning with our own losses, big and small, past and present, and in the reckoning, here’s what we need to remember about loss:

1. Loss stretches in both directions
Like falling dominos, one loss awakens the memory of former suffering and sets the table for future sadness as we grieve empty chairs and events uncelebrated. We affirm the losses of others when we give them the gift of time and resist the urge to apply a deadline to sorrow.

I don’t think we ever stop grieving what we lost. I don’t say this to discourage you but to affirm your sorrow. The grieving changes. The manifestation of grieving evolves. Some losses are soothed and healed by the passage of time. Others leave gaps that are never filled.” (15)

2. Loss is complicated by mystery.
When we lose a loved one, we lose their memories, their stories, and their future. The “what-if” that hangs in the air evades closure and serves as a gritty reminder, like a pebble in the shoe, of our inability to control so much of our own life script. Garlough’s beloved fictional spiritual director, Katherine Rhodes takes on the momentous task of writing obituaries to all her past losses: the relationships, roles, and identities that were ripped from her long before she was ready to relinquish them.

Can you picture writing an obituary for the death of some dream or to commemorate some loss you are working your way through right now?

3. In seasons of loss, do not join the accuser in his work.
The truth is that sometimes our losses come in connection with our own sinful choices and poor decisions. God is sovereign even in this, and we cannot sin our way outside his grace.

Sometimes what the accuser speaks is true, especially regarding our sin. But the accusation is meant to destroy us with shame and guilt. In those moments I use the accuser’s voice as a prompt to remind me I have a Savior who has paid the price for all my sin.” (45)

4. Loss is also a testmony that can bring glory to God.
With prosperity-gospel heresy deep in our bones, we forget that our suffering reveals the power of Christ in important ways that are not present in a story of quick deliverance. Where would any of us be if Jesus had been delivered from the cross?

Even if [loss] is not the testimony you would choose, it is beautiful. And it is yours to share.” (76)

In this season of Lent, Remember Me brings to mind the darkness and the light around those very words, spoken first by Jesus with hope because he knew it was his to give, and then spoken to Jesus by the thief from a place of guilt–where hope grew, regardless. Whatever your loss, whatever suffering has brought you to the end of yourself, you can say those words to Jesus anytime. Let them lead you into a place of hope that no sorrow can diminish.

Many thanks to InterVarsity Press for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review, which, of course, is offered freely and with honesty.

[Vonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of Sharon Garlough Brown’s books to date (that I’m aware of). I didn’t love the prequel to this book. It was a bit depressing for me. It was still good, but just a bit heavy. However, I loved this one and I’m glad the previous one brought me here. I would say this is Sharon Garlough Brown’s best book to date, though the first series was excellent as well.

This story is about Wren, a young woman, who is coming to terms with the death of a close friend. She is dealing with depression and working through the trauma of that experience. She is able to live with an older woman, Kit, who is a friend and mentor to her. Kit, too, has been through traumatic life events and can relate to Wren’s depression. Kit writes very deep, encouraging and faith filled letters to Wren about her own pain and shares that Wren is helping her continue to heal from her losses as well.

Reading this book stirred up so many thoughts and feelings inside of me. Difficulties I’m continuing to work through in my life - forgiveness, working through pain, not taking on shame, accepting that others may have misconceptions about me. I feel like I want Kit to write me an encouraging letter to share her heart and help me work through my own stuff. I wonder what pain the author has faced in her life to help her write in such an understanding and wise manner. It’s almost like benefitting from a really good counseling session.

My only mild criticism is that the healing the characters experienced in this book was quite linear, with no bumps in the road at all. I know the previous book was more traumatic and was not so neat in its outcomes, so I appreciate the lighter content and the hope offered. It just felt like maybe Kit always knew exactly what to say or not say and Wren always had a favorable response to Kit’s encouragement and guidance. And Kit always agreed with Wren’s ideas.

All in all, I highly recommend this book for the spiritual content and the wisdom offered for working through painful life experiences. You will find this a deep, quick, enjoyable read.

I received an ARC copy from net galley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Myrna Folkert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book is a treasure! If you want to have a great book to savor during Lent, you need to pick this one up! The main characters are the ones the reader met in Shades of Light, but it can easily be read alone without previously reading that one, because Sharon weaves in just enough information. It's a beautiful thing how Kit and Wren, who are Great Aunt and Grand Niece, come together and call themselves "companions in sorrow," as Kit takes Wren into her home after Wren's very difficult season of her life in dealing with depression. Kit assists her during her healing, which in turn helps Kit herself heal from her painful past too. The letters Kit wrote to her niece are precious and honest. The book itself, is a beautiful small hardcover with a gorgeous cover, which could make a thoughtful Lenten gift. A reader could use one chapter per day or week, to ponder during Lent, although the book could be used at any time of the year. It brings out sensitive topics such as depression, other mental illnesses, overdose, grief and pain, but in such a soothing way. It is an uplifting read, despite the topics, because of Sharon's artful way of dealing with these issues. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would recommend it for anyone, not just those dealing with these kinds of issues. I will spend more time with the book, to savor the beautiful artwork which is like a small version of a "Journey to the Cross" in a book. Sharon has done a fabulous job and it makes me anticipate her next work!

[Kristin Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thought provoking book to read during Lent. It is broken into 14 short chapters and then 8 stations of the cross reflections with art. Thismade it easy to read a little each morning.

I appreciated how Sharon wove together the difficult and painful life stories of two women. The older woman who was helping the younger through her story, chose to be vulnerable and courageous as she faced her own past hurts. They each were finding Jesus to be a "companion in sorrow" in their journeys.

Sharon writes realistic dialogue and situations, she doesn't sugar coat life and put an easy fix on pain. She is willing to have her characters voice doubts, questions, and make unwise choices, as well as take time to heal, experiencing ups and downs along the way - mirroring true life.

The print copy of this book is beautiful. The hardback cover, thicker, glossy pages, and lovely artwork results in a lovely book to keep or give as a gift.

[Esther Bos · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sequel to Brown's book Shades of Light. It continues to follow the healing path of a young woman who lives with bi-polar disorder and has been deep in depression and loss. Her mentor guides her gently through healing over period of time, and discovers healing for herself in remembering her darkest days of loss and sharing them with Wren.

These are both fictional depictions of living with deep pain and finding healing through spiritual practices and the care given by a loving companion who has also experienced that kind of pain.

There is nothing cut and dried or miraculous about the healing of these two women. They are likely to continue experiencing this kind of illness, but the reader is offered spiritual practices that can bring self-revelation and understanding and relating to God during a time of healing.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deze novella is, ondanks de korte lengte, inhoudelijk erg sterk. Het karakter van Kit (Katherine Rhodes) is vervuld van zachtheid & wijsheid en de brieven die ze aan Wren heeft geschreven vond ik erg mooi. Ik vind het erg bijzonder hoe de auteur op een krachtige manier niet alleen de kunstwerken van Vincent van Gogh, maar ook de lijdensweg van Jezus heeft laten samenkomen in relatief weinig pagina's. Het boek getuigt van hoop te midden van rouw & verwerking, omdat Jezus Zelf dit heeft doorleeft. Ik denk dat het verhaal nog meer tot zijn recht komt als het gelezen wordt tijdens de 40-dagentijd!

Dit vervolg op 'Shades of Light' heeft er overigens ook voor gezorgd dat ik iets positiever ben gaan staan tegenover het eerste deel van de serie, omdat de karakterontwikkeling van Wren beter zichtbaar werd. Zoals de Engelse taal het zo mooi uit weet te drukken: it grew on me!

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this could be a stand alone book, I think it would have the most impact if you had read Shades of Light first. In SOL, Katherine (Kit) is the rock that Wren relies on during her struggles with depression and mental illness. In Remember Me, we learn more about Kit's own tragedies and her struggles. But, to describe this book as just a moving story would do it such an injustice. It's more like a devotional but more than that, too. It's like having a personal counselor who doesn't allow you to stay on the surface. Brown requires that you dig deep. I found some gems in this book that were meaningful to me and I think others would also find insights that would help them deepen their walk with God.

[Sherry Tobin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was unsure how to rate this book bc parts were super profound that I actually texted them to friends. Other parts were depressing and I was a little bored with the pace of the book. The fact that she included stations of the cross at the end as an appendix makes me want to own my own copy of the book for that alone. (I love books but also give the majority of my copies to free libraries in the neighborhood)

Overall I would say that I enjoyed seeing a new side of Katherine Rhodes and am glad she explored this. This series did not draw me in the way her Sensible shoes books did but Remember Me was better than Shades if light and I would recommend it to a friend.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent wrap-up to the post-Sensible Shoes plot begun in Shades of Light. I love that Brown included more on the Journey to the Cross at the end of the book (even if it meant I thought I had a lot more left in the book, and suddenly "The End" showed up! LOL!). Definitely worthwhile, and more in line with the feel and interactivity available in the Sensible Shoes series than Shades of Light was. I loved getting some more denouement for Wren, and reading more about Kathleen/Kit's story. A moving read.

[Carmen Imes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of the Sensible Shoes books, so I jumped at the chance to read this one. I haven't read Shades of Light yet, but that didn't hinder me from thoroughly enjoying this one. It's very short. I read it in just a couple of hours, but there are so many profound lines in it. I need to go back with a highlighter! As with the Sensible Shoes books, I found wisdom leaping off the pages and bringing tears to my eyes. Brown is a master at blending heartfelt fiction with profound spiritual formation. I'm so glad she wrote this book! Highly recommended!

[Sarah Loft · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful novella that points people to Jesus through the journey of depression and heartache. So many thought provoking moments that will challenge you to grow in your relationship with Jesus. I recommend reading 'Shades of Light' first as it has a lot of story that sets the scene for the journey in this book.

'Remember Me' also has a section at the end of the book with artwork, reflections, and an 8 part Stations of the Cross journey. This part could be completed without first reading the books (although I definitely recommend you still read them!) and is an ideal Easter/Lent resource.

[Nichole · Rating 5 out of 5]

With each book I read by Sharon Garlough Brown, my admiration for her writing grows. Most importantly, I’m able to feel God’s love and reassurance of His incredible grace for me. Reading about Wren’s recovery and Katherine’s continued healing was like reading a devotional. I read only one chapter at a time so that I could consider how to apply the truths in my own life. I’m confident I’ll be reading this novella again soon.

[Jennifer K · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I finished Shades of Light, I wanted to read the sequel. Remember Me is a beautiful book with a powerful message. It is a truly unique book with engaging artwork “done” by the main character. Kudos to the artists. I also appreciated the reflection questions with Scripture references at the end. I hope that there will be another book with these characters as I am invested in them and their stories.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words to express the beauty that is experienced in the ability to face our sorrow, guilt, shame, pain, hurt by walking with Jesus to the cross. I am so thankful for this novella to bring some closure and healing to Kit and Wren's story. It brings hope for the journey. May Sharon Garlough Brown's books continue to bless and encourage many.

[Elysa · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this novella, as in all of her books, Sharon Garlough Brown delivers an authentic story about well-drawn characters navigating tragedy and heartache with faith. I love the emphasis on art and the "stations of the cross" reflections throughout (with a special devotional section at the back!). I highly recommend all of this author's books, including this one!

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The portrayal of complicated mental health and gentle handling of such things is truly wonderful. I enjoyed getting more of Kit/Katherine's back story after reading five previous books with her involved. The spiritual practices the characters practice are beautiful because I can participate in them myself. I cannot say enough good things about Sharon Garlough Brown's books.

[Nelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short book, the completion of the story of Wren, the protagonist in "Shades of Light." Once again, the author has given us a moving story woven together with deep spiritual truths. The book ends with very meaningful pieces of art, accompanied by scripture passages and insightful questions.

[Emily Grabatin · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the Sensible Shoes series and Shades of light, I loved that this book was from Katherine's point of view. It had a beautiful cadence to it -- her inner world as Wren's grief and healing trigger some of her own, letters she writes, and reflections through the stations of the cross. Appreciation the fresh perspective, I'd read this again the weeks leading up to Easter.

[Beth Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful invitation to see in the suffering of Jesus all the evidence we need for how He is with us in our suffering, full of love, compassion and understanding. I highly recommend this for reading during Lent. It is part of a series but I think it could stand alone if you didn’t want to read what comes before it.