The Bench

by Jen Brewer

Overwhelmed, Miranda feels she is failing to live up to her mother's perfect image. Perhaps running for Mom of the Year on the 25th anniversary of her mother's win would change that and atone for the role that Miranda believes she played in her mom's death. Unfortunately, Miranda's son's behavior might prove her failure and disqualify any chance she has in the contest. A desperate prayer leads her to a park bench where she meets a remarkable stranger. The bench becomes a path to purpose as old dreams Miranda set on the shelf are rekindled through wisdom imparted from this unlikely friend. When crisis hits and old family secrets erupt, will Miranda follow the woman's advice and continue her journey to personal purpose, or will she hide behind the façade that she, like her mother, worked so hard to build?

267 pages, Paperback

Published May 11, 2021

Reviews

[Louise Pledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

We need more synonyms in the English language for words like marvelous, wonderful, superb. Because this book was all of the above, plus inspirational. At first, I thought it was merely about a busy mom griping about the things that most of us mothers gripe about, and I have a good enough memory to be able to relate.

But THERE WAS SO MUCH MORE! What a good writer Ms Brewer is to have incorporated all of this wisdom into a memorable story! Even though, my five little ones have long ago "flown the nest", I gained so much insight and wisdom from reading this. I can hardly wait to lend it out.

[Brittany Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a mom, you need to read this book!
This was one of the best books I have read in a long time. I feel like it was a self-help book disguised as a fictional story. I found myself wanting to follow Mindy's advice to Miranda and wishing I had someone to sit on a park bench and talk with.
I plan on purchasing this book to give to my mom friends everywhere! It is wonderful book to help affirm to yourself that you are doing a great job.
*Trigger Warning-mention of suicide*
I did receive a free copy of the book to review, but all of these thoughts are my own!

[Brandee B · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 stars. If your a mom... read this. I really enjoyed this and it was so relatable. I got truly invested and saw myself in the main character. As moms, we sometimes forget ourselves, but we are much more than "mom". It is a Christian read and relatable to all denominations. Good stuff and every woman needs to hear that they are more, so much more...

[Mallorie Borup · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful. As a young mother I felt an instant connection with Miranda. I have often felt guilty for wanting to work on myself, feeling it would take away from my children. I loved the validation that improving myself helps my whole family.