The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip

by Sara Brunsvold

Aidyn Kelley is talented, ambitious, and ready for a more serious assignment than the fluff pieces she's been getting as a cub reporter for the Kansas City Star. In her eagerness, she pushes too hard, earning herself the menial task of writing an obituary for an unremarkable woman who's just entered hospice care.

But there's more to Clara Kip than meets the eye. The spirited septuagenarian may be dying, but she's not quite ready to cash it in yet. Never one to shy away from an assignment herself, she can see that God brought the young reporter into her life for a reason. And if it's a story Aidyn Kelley wants, that's just what Mrs. Kip will give her--but she's going to have to work for it.

Debut author Sara Brunsvold delights with this emotional multigenerational story that shows that the very best life is made up of thousands of little deaths to self. You'll want to be just like Mrs. Kip when you grow up!

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Contemporary, Book Club, Historical Fiction, Audiobook

363 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 5, 2022

About the author

Sara Brunsvold is a Christy Award- and Carol Award-winning author who creates stories that speak hope and life. Her stories boldly engage modern issues through the lens of hope and unshakable faith. From the time she was a country girl spilling imagination onto notebook paper, she has believed in the power of story to shape a better world for us all.

Reviews

[Victoria Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words.

It’s times like these that I wish there were more than 5 stars to rate books. Because I would smash the highest rating so hard I would break the buttons.

This. *sobs and clutches book close* This is what Christian fiction should be. It’s what I want to read until the end of time.

It’s the kind of book that is life-changing. Life-giving. It doesn’t just satisfy the desire for a good story, it fills your soul with so much truth, and joy and poignancy and peace and compassion and sorrow that you spill over, probably with tears.

How a book about death can be so brimming with life is a question for the ages and one that Sara mastered with the talent only a child of God can. This book is truly inspired.

From Aydin Kelly, the journalist who is searching and trying to climb the corporate ladder while alienating more than she tried to endear, to the beloved Mrs. Kipp. A woman who is alone in the last days of her life, but is so full of the Holy Spirit that she is using her aloneness to usher others into the kingdom of heaven; This book has some of the most memorable characters I’ve ever read.

I’m literally crying simply trying to write this review. *dashes tears out of my eyes* I have no words. This story is one I hope everyone reads. I don’t use the words ‘life-changing’ lightly but I was truly marked by this book. It filled me with so much hope and beauty of a life well lived. A life spent and wasted on the dry dirt, poured out for our king. And then the threads of beauty and harvest that the Lord crafted from a heart willing to serve.

Please read this book. If it’s the only recommendation you take from me, you will not regret it. Your heart will be filled even as it’s emptied and hollowed out by the beautiful and breathtaking longing to see the Kingdom of God brought to earth.

Thank you Sara, for writing a book that not only honors life, but pours into everyone who reads it.

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden warriors can be hard to find sometimes.

This inspiring read from local author Sara Brunsvold is definitely going to be one of my favorite reads for 2022. The story of young reporter Aidyn Kelley and her friendship with Clara Kip is sure to warm your heart and make you think twice about your own life. Included in the narrative is the humanitarian crisis that arose when Laos fell to the communists in the mid 1970's. I clearly remember refugees from Laos coming to my small town in Iowa and having a boy and a girl join our fifth grade class. My teacher that year is someone who continued to minister to the Asian people for decades later. When I was married and living in Kansas City we were at a church with a young man who had been a boat refugee during that time. His story of the harrowing escape was heartbreaking and tragic as not all of his family survived the trip. Those connections most certainly made this book more dear to my heart. I do believe that many will read it and find they are blessed by the story and encouraged in their faith walk just as Aidyn was by Mrs. Kip, "a child-saving, Communism-fighting, Jesus-professing warrior."

I always let the LORD guide me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

[Kristina Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Characters: Mrs. Kip was definitely my favorite character. I loved her determination and personality. She added some moments of humor as well as some really sad moments. Aidyn was also a great character. I enjoyed seeing her learn from Mrs. Kip and mature.

Language: Clean.

Moral/theme: This book had a ton of great themes. Telling others about Jesus and loving others were a couple of these themes.

Plot: I have to admit that this was a tough book for me to read. There was just so much about death, cancer, and hospice that I had to switch to another book for a few days. Those parts did add to the story though, and there were happier moments as well.

Romance: This novel didn't contain a romance.

Writing: Sara Brunsvold's clear, thoughtful style worked great for this book. I'm looking forward to reading more by her in the future.

Overall: The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip was a thought-provoking book that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and contemporary fiction.

[Jocelyn Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

So refreshing. I love Mrs. Kip! I want to be like her when I grow up. This is a fantastic debut, I can't wait for what Sara writes for us next. This is also a great example of a fulfilling book that doesn't rely on romance. (I'm not against romance, but there are many more stories out there to be told, so I love having variety.)

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About this book:

“Aidyn Kelley is talented, ambitious, and ready for a more serious assignment than the fluff pieces she’s been getting as a cub reporter for the Kansas City Star. In her eagerness, she pushes too hard, earning herself the menial task of writing an obituary for an unremarkable woman who’s just entered hospice care. But there’s more to Clara Kip than meets the eye. The spirited septuagenarian may be dying, but she’s not quite ready to cash it in yet. Never one to shy away from an assignment herself, she can see that God brought the young reporter into her life for a reason. And if it’s a story Aidyn Kelley wants, that’s just what Mrs. Kip will give her—but she’s going to have to work for it.”


Series: As of now, no, a stand-alone novel.


Spiritual Content- 2 Peter 1:15 at the end; Many Scriptures are mentioned, read, quoted, & repeated; Bible reading; Many, many prayers, praising, & thanking God; Church going & helping at a mission; Witnessing to others (including Mrs. Kip witnesses to a man and prayers hard for his salvation, there is a scene of him apparently seeing Someone after their witnessing, before his death); Many, many talks about God, His will, trusting Him, & witnessing; ‘H’s are not capitalized when referring to God; All about many, many mentions of God, His will, & trusting Him; In a flashback scene, Mrs. Kip is mad at God and doesn’t understand why He allowed something to happen and in another scene, she thinks that God is a bully (in the next flashback scene, she’s a new Christian); Many mentions of God, witnessing, & His will; Many mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, books of the Bible, those in the Bible, & Scriptures; Mentions of Heaven & longing to be there; Mentions of churches, church going, Bible classes, Sunday school classes, pastors, worship, & songs; Mentions of mission trips, missionaries, & martyrs; Mentions of angels & God’s hidden warriors; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; Mentions of a cross necklace (Aidyn wears one, but keeps it under her shirt at work since “newsrooms aren’t exactly harbors of faith”); A few mentions of God’s creation; A few mentions of different Christian denominations; A few mentions of godsends & God speed; A few mentions of Buddhists learning about Christianity because it gives hope; A couple mentions of baptisms; A couple mentions of devotionals; A couple mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of someone being like a saint; A couple mentions of a Chris Tomlin song; A couple mentions of a Faith section of a newspaper being the article is code for being “relatively buried”;
*Note: A couple mentions of Aidyn and her friend (Rahmiya)’s difference in faith and how they rarely talk about it (the end of the book leaves it open ended about Aidyn talking to her about it); A couple mentions of someone believing in Jesus, but struggling to deal with his own demons and “taking their power for granted”; A mention of a group of people having been through hell; A mention of a godforsaken place.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘freaking’, a ‘suck it up’, a form of ‘stupid’, two forms of ‘dumb’; A little bit of (playfully) eye rolling; Mrs. Kips is in hospice care (cancer), has pain, has to take morphine at times, and also needs help going to the bathroom (up to semi-detailed); Seeing signs of death approaching (written mostly in a medical way), seeing someone die, & helping clean them (up to semi-detailed); See an infant that died (up to semi-detailed); In a flashback scene, Mrs. Kips drinks Scotch after her husband’s death (though she doesn’t like it); A nightmare of a child being attacked by a beast (not gruesome, but in a spiritual-way, barely-above-not-detailed); While not technically lying, Aidyn fishes for information by acting like she knows what the other person is talking about; Many mentions of wars, fighting, deaths, families being separated, & Communists (including a new government that wants to murder someone); Many mentions of death, deaths, how they happened, signs of death approaching, & grieving (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a car accident, death, & how it happened (hinted to be drunk-driving, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of pain & injuries; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, someone who “battled the bottle”, & a bar; A few mentions of killers, thieves, and liars; A few mentions of prejudice & trying to help foreigners despite others being small-minded about it; A couple mentions of terrorists & bombs; A couple mentions of the Great Depression; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of smoking & a pipe; A couple mentions of humans being cruel to animals; A mention of the Japanese internment camps in the 1940s; A mention of a possible murder; A mention of illegal dogfights;
*Note: Mentions of social media & technology (FaceTime, YouTube); Mentions of Harley motorcycles; A couple mentions of a store & items (JCPenney, Barbie); A couple mentions of Elvis & a song; A couple mentions of car brands; A mention of Starbucks; A mention of McDonald’s; A mention of a brand name (Vuitton).


Sexual Content- A bit of Mrs. Kip recalling her husband’s embrace, warmth, and scent (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of an out-of-wedlock pregnancy (a businessman and a “naïve waitress”); A mention of rescuing young girls from the red-light districts;
*Note: A couple mentions of a younger brother’s rancid boxers.

-Clara Kip, age 79
-Aidyn Kelley, age 24
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 2016 & Flashbacks back to other times (1969, 1971, 1975-1979, & 1983)
368 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars

{ This book may be a hard read for those who recently lost a loved one due to the many mentions of deaths and death nearing, though, it could also help if the loved one was a Christian.}

To be frankly honest, I had been pushing reading this book off for the last couple of weeks. I was hearing great things about it, but I either wasn’t feeling it or wasn’t sure what to expect. So here I am two weeks later, finally have read this book with dried tears on my cheeks.

What a faith-filled story this was.

This is what Christian Fiction is in the best possible way: a story showing someone’s faith being steadfast during the hard times, not forgetting Him in the easy times, and also witnessing God’s love to others. I adored the message that this book carried.

I wasn’t the biggest fan of Aidyn at first (she grew on me about half-way, though), but Mrs. Kips quickly caught my attention. Nearly every word out of her mouth was a prayer or praise to God and it was truly inspiring to read. Part of me wishes that we would have learned a bit more about Aidyn or even more details about Mrs. Kip, but the important details—their faiths—were there. I thought it was interesting to be introduced to a character through one person’s eyes and then when the point of view switches, we learn different things about that same person. I loved the missions aspects of this book and foresee myself going on some research bunny trails soon.

For those looking for a Christian Fiction book that isn’t the normal book in the genre, I highly suggest you check this one out.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is hard to describe, I've not seen one quite like it before. But different is good in this case. The book is unique,unusual,extraordinary.
Yes, It's a given I loved Mrs. Kip, she is the grandmother type we all want.
There are some wonderfully joyful parts to the book but some incredibly sad ones as well.
Mrs Kip is a very unique woman,a trooper,a woman who will not be left behind.
Though she has entered hospice care she gives of herself and makes everyone's life better there .
We also meet a young woman named Aidyn Kelley, a cub reporter with the Kansas City Star.
She's out to prove herself that she can write an obituary about Mrs Kip, an "ordinary woman". After this gets approved she can then go on to write bigger and more important things.
I will admit to not overly liking the girl when I first read about her, she seemed to be just humoring the older woman as she spoke just to quickly get this assignment over and done.
As the story progresses it touches my heart to see the relationship between Mrs Kip and Aidyn. She becomes a more mature,self assured and religious woman who is also more empathetic . Going through boxes of Mrs Kip's news clippings that contained stories of her life and by interviewing her and listening to her speak we hear what an extraordinary life Mrs Kip has lived. She is a most exemplary person to model your life after. If she were a real person I would have loved to have spent time with her.
Loved this book and look forward to seeing what this debut author has out next.

Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Even when it cost me something dear, I loved. No effort in Jesus’s name is ever wasted."

"I simply tried to love people as best I could for as long as I was privileged to be with them."

I found this book moving and powerful. Mrs. Kip is at the end of her life, which I think is an important demographic that is often given the backseat in fiction. The author obviously has intimate knowledge of what the days are like for hospice patients, and I applaud her for shining a light on such a valuable and poignant part of life on this earth. I was hooked from the very beginning and highlighted so many quotes of this solidly Christian book. It's the type of book that moves you to love more deeply and challenges you in your walk with God. It could have been a sad and heavy book, but it wasn't. I did cry, and it does tug the heartstrings, but it's also filled with joy and even suspense.

This is a solid debut from Sara Brunsvold, and I am grateful for Netgalley and the publisher for providing the book in exchange for an honest review. I will be promoting this book of my own accord, because I believe so strongly in it.

"Without fail, he always found a way to comfort his beloved, despite the broken dreams and the prayers yet unanswered. He always was up to something good, even if she couldn’t see it. In fact, he did his best work in such times."

[Alysha (For The Love of Christian Fiction) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating this feels wrong. I don’t think there are words to truly describe this story, and its impact!

I’ll be honest, I almost set this book down. 120 pages into it and I just was not connecting to the characters. I wasn’t wholly invested in the story and I just…wasn’t there mentally.

And then my focus shifted. And I stopped just looking and finally SAW. I stopped just reading and finally FELT.

Around page 130-135ish the book took on new life for this weary soul. It stopped being a chore, and became a NEED. I had to read and ingest the wisdoms of a life lived well, a life full of extraordinary deaths, a life of love — no matter the cost.

I did something I never do…I annotated my ARC copy. And I cannot wait to go back through this story when I need reminders to be more like Mrs. Kip, and in all honesty be more like Jesus!

Lord, give me Your eyes for just one second. Give me Your eyes so I can see. Let me live an extraordinary life for you! Give me courage, wisdom, and strength.

All I can say is “wow”, and please go read this book. Go in with an open heart and a willingness to learn.

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a unique and wonderful book....I too, almost passed this over as I didn't realize that it would be one I would be interested in afterall. Some of it was based on real life courageous people during the Loatian refugee crisis during the Vietnam war... Mrs. Kip's character was remarkable as she was a ray of sunshine and encouragement while truly making a difference++. The young reporter Aiyden matured so much, both professionally and spiritually during her friendship with the elderly Mrs.Kip ... Enjoyable story!

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"My lips will glorify you because your faithful love it better than life." Psalm 63:3

"I always let the LORD guide me. Because he is at my right hand, and I will not be shaken." Psalm 16:8

"The mark of authentic love is dying a thousand deaths to self."

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip is Sara Brunsvold’s debut novel and touched my heart in many ways that I will never forget. This book was such a blessing for me to read and I thank the author for giving us such an authentic, beautiful, and unique story of faith, love, hope and adventure. This book may be my favorite of 2022 and I am so grateful to Baker Publishing and Revell for sending me a copy to honestly read and review. We don't see many books published with an elderly main character, so this was such a wonderful read to learn all about 79 year old, Clara Kip. She reminded me of my great-grandmother - full of spunk and energy!

In this story, we follow Aidyn Kelly, a reporter assigned to write an obituary about Clara Kip, a spunky, feisty lady that is dying, but not ready to leave this world just yet. Aidyn is given this assignment after being reprimanded by her boss at work. Everyone views this new assignment as the most basic and ordinary job she could be given in her career, but what Aidyn discovers along the journey with Mrs. Kip is more than she could have ever imagined.

Aidyn starts learning all about Mrs. Kip and she provides such beautiful insight about her life and journey with the Lord. Clara Kip is such a servant of the Lord and her example showed Aidyn everything it means to have a servant heart, help others and stand strong in the Lord in all circumstances.

The faith content in this story was beautiful. I appreciated it so much and feel like everyone can get something from it. So many beautiful scriptures and lessons - God brought Aidyn and Clara together for a beautiful reason and I am so glad.

I laughed, I cried and genuinely think everyone should read this book. We could all use a story like Mrs. Kip's. My heart is full and I will be thinking about this story for a long time. Thank you, Sara Brunsvold. In the words of Clara Kip, "The Lord's hand was moving" in this book and I can't wait to read more of your books to come.

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

God was good to provide a better story. His stories are better than anything we can come up with. He gave me lots of friends and love and adventure, right where I was. I was short on family, but I was never low on blessings.

I don’t know what to say. This book was outstanding. This is what Christian fiction is all about.

I feel like there is so much I could say about this book and wouldn't cover half of what makes this book special to me. I loved every bit of it. The characters, the story, the heart, the faith.

I am a caregiver, so I related to a lot of this book. It's so nice to see this side of reality shown in such a lovingly gentle manner. Sara doesn't shy away from the harder aspects of hospice and watching a loved one die, but she does it in a beautiful way.

This book could be hard for those who've lost a loved one recently or the memory is still fresh, but it is such an incredibly encouraging book. I most definitely got teary-eyed while reading it. Mrs. Kip embodies what it means to live and love for God, and to share that love with others.

As I said, there is so much to this book that I could touch on, but I couldn't do it justice. I loved this book so very much and I highly, highly recommend it to all readers.

[Carrie Turansky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed listening to this audio book. It was such a unique and meaningful story! It really made me think about taking time to get to know the older people in my life and appreciating their stories and all they have accomplished. The narrator did a good job, and the writing was excellent!

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could sum up this book in one word that word would be...extraordinairy. (Sorry, just couldn't resist...but it's true!)

This book wasn't anywhere on my radar and I stumbled upon it's rather subdued cover and larger than life title -- what does 'extraordinary deaths' as in plural actually mean anyway? Well, I could tell you now but that would spoil all the fun of discovering on your own so I'll leave you to ponder and puzzle like I did.

I honestly wasn't sure I'd like this book but then I opened it up and started reading...and found I couldn't stop! Burnsvold has a smooth, descriptive writing style that is easy to lose yourself in. She paints pictures with words and in no time at all these characters sprang to life and took over my imagination. What could I do but go on their adventures right along with them?

I laughed, I cried, I goose bumped and sighed. I winced over Aidyn's gauche ways -- brash at all the wrong times, and hesitant when it counts. She's an awkward mix of zeal and passion that she can't seem to rein in. She wants to break past the confines of her cub reporter mentorship and tackle hard hitting journalism head on.

Mrs. Kip starts out as a means to an end, a menial task to do penance for messing up in the newsroom, but the unassuming, terminally ill woman, has a lot of life yet to live and wisdom to impart. Aidyn finds herself roped into her shenanigans, learning important life (and faith) lessons along the way. Who knew Mrs. Kip was so full of surprises?!

An absorbing read that mekes you feel good, even during the sad bits. I want to be Mrs. Kip when I grow up!

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold is another contender for my favorite book of the year. The Christian fiction releases this year have been so phenomenal. A debut novel by an extraordinary writer that I think we will be seeing a lot more books from.

Aidyn Kelley is assigned to write a Woman's obituary after getting into trouble with her boss at the paper. It's an assignment that Aidyn really doesn't want to do and have to visit a woman in Hospice. But instead of an ailing old women, Aidyn gets Mrs. Clara Kip. A spunky, energized troublemaker who lets nothing stand in her way.

I really loved Clara's character, the warmth she had toward people and how the Lord brought her to every person that needed her throughout her lifetime. Aidyn soon realizes that Clara Kip is far more than she could have ever imagined, and Clara is the right one to help show Aidyn how much God loves her and how much God will help her stay strong.

The faith content in this book was written so well and beautifully. Clara was a true force in the book that did as much as she could for the Lord. She thought her life was ordinary and unimportant, but Aidyn comes in to write her story and share with those that really need to hear it.

I think this is an important story for nowadays. It shows the importance of sharing God's love and strength even until the last minute.

[Keisha | A Book Like You · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing could have prepared me for the impact Mrs. Kip would have on my life. 😭🩷

I truly don't have words for what this story did to me. Clara Kip is the inspiration and light we all need in our lives. Her story is powerful and good. She truly understood what it meant to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

I'm speaking of her as if she were a real person and not some fictional character from a storybook, but I truly feel like Sara Brunsvold brought this character to life so much that she felt tangible.

The world needs more stories like this. The world needs more Mrs. Kips.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

“What was it about Mr. Slesher that made you connect with him?”
“The fact he’s a human.”
“I mean specifically.”
[Mrs. Kip] turned to the girl. “That’s as specific as it gets.”

I really loved this sweet story! Feisty Mrs. Kip stays positive in spite of the indignities of dying & inspires everyone around her to make the most out of their God-given opportunities. Several of the bedside scenes brought tears to my eyes & reminded me of my own experiences.

Mrs. Kip's philosophy of life reminded me of Thornton Wilder's Our Town, where main character Emily says that most people spend their days as if they were shut up in little boxes & miss the beauty of life. Mrs. Kip sees that danger as well & determines to squeeze every last ounce of joy out of the life she's been given. I've been privileged to know a few Mrs. Kips in my time & this story reminded me of how they changed me.

[Chautona Havig · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book knowing I'd love it. With a title like that, how could I not? Then I read the first two chapters and almost cried at the idea of having to wait to finish.
It was worth the wait.
I made myself drag out reading this book for as LONG as possible. I made it six days. I could have finished it in three or four hours. I wanted it to last forever.
Everyone needs a Mrs. Kip in his or her life. I happen to be blessed with one I call Mom. Seriously, there were times I wondered how Sara Brunsvold had met my mother. She had to have to know just how Mom would respond to some things. Other things--totally opposite.
But these characters all became friends as I read this book. I wanted to pray for one gal's softening and for a peaceful passing for another. I almost wish I'd read it with a highlighter so I could grab the nuggets that touched my soul.
And then I get done and wonder how on earth I can write anything worthy of the book--anything that would make someone go, "I HAVE to read that."
This isn't good enough, but here goes. Imagine that you never met the person who has made the greatest impact on your life. Imagine all the lessons you didn't learn, the joys you never experienced, the communion with the Lord's people that can't happen if you are never there with them. That's what will happen to people who don't read this book... and they'll never know it. Sara Brunsvold reaches through the pages and plays aching melodies on your heartstrings as she shows the beauty of a Christian life well (not perfectly) lived.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful debut!

Mrs. Kip is full of energy, sass and the love of Christ. Journalist Aidyn Kelley simply sees her as the means to an end. Aidyn soon finds she has much to learn from Mrs. Kip and her story. Love that part of the story line is based upon actual events.

Highly recommended for fans of contemporary fiction with a healthy dash of humor and heaping of heart.

[Grandma Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite books. It’s also a book I plan to reread. High faith content.

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scripture Connection

I always let the LORD guide me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Psalm 16:8
Spiritual Themes

Brunsvold explores the question of what it means to live. The answer is so clearly found in Jesus! Mrs. Kip doesn’t live a perfect life, but she certainly lives a meaningful one— deeply in love with her Savior, walking in close relationship with Him, loving others with the love Jesus shows.

Faith is deeply integral to the plot line, which revolves around Mrs Kip.

What I Liked

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip is a warm, powerful novel that reminded me a bit of the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Death plays such a significant role in the book, but the true emphasis is on living life to the fullest. And, most importantly, Brunsvold highlights what that means— and where true life is found. The writing was excellent—beautiful and insightful.

Characters/Relationships

The characters were believable, interesting, and multidimensional. For most of the book, I really liked Rahmi and enjoyed watching her friendship with Aidyn. I appreciated that the characters weren’t predictable.

One of the elements that drew me to the book was the intergenerational friendship. While I would have liked to see Aidyn interacting with her own parents, too, I was looking forward to a book that portrayed a lovely relationship between a younger woman and an older one. Our twisted world has some very unbiblical ideas about how we should treat the elderly, so I anticipated a refreshing read that instead emphasized the wisdom of the aged. This book definitely offered that, and the best part was that the wisdom wasn’t based on worldliness, but complete, constant surrender to Jesus. This is exactly what I like to read about!

I enjoyed reading about Aidan’s career as a journalist. The Kansas City Star office made me think of the Daily Planet (mostly because I really like Lois and Clark) and the office hierarchy was interesting, too.

The treatment of singleness was neat. Usually, I think of singleness as “not getting married.” In Mrs. Kip’s case, she lives a long life of singleness, after a much-too-short marriage. This was a different perspective, for me.

Evangelism

Overall, I appreciated the author’s treatment of evangelism. I liked that Clara’s urgency to share Jesus was based on her desire for people to know Him, not based on a fear of hell. This kind of evangelism makes sense to me, because we, as people, are empty without Jesus. Clara’s evangelism flows from love, not guilt. Indeed, Clara’s entire life reflects a softness toward her Creator.

Historical Elements

The historical elements shed light on an important, but lesser known, event in the sixties, drawing attention to the disparity between our country’s promises in the Vietnam War and the reality for the refugees. I think it is very important for people to know what happened, in this era. This is a situation I would have been unfamiliar with, myself; however, my mom, like Mrs. Kip, helped to welcome a similar population, in Fresno, a while after the events of the novel. I do really appreciate books that explore lesser known history, which is also a form of advocacy.

Along this line, I appreciate that there’s clear mutuality in Clara and Mai’s friendship. It’s apparent that the two love and minister to one another. It’s not about Clara “saving Mai,” just because Clara happens to have been born an American citizen.

Heartwarming Elements

The continuous supply of chocolate chip cookies was so delightfully cozy-making. I very much notice the foods I’m reading about and was sorely tempted, multiple times, to purchase a giant chocolate chip cookie.

My favorite part of the book was absolutely the message, and, in particular, the scene that highlighted Psalm 16:8. So rich and powerful! It felt realistic, the way the verse was repeated meaningfully, rather than simply being stated once. I’m also really impressed that Brunsvold was able to employ repetition in the scene, but in a way that did not feel boring, or repetitive. Instead, it was powerful, memorable, and grounding. That was a scene I really felt “part of,” as a reader.

Content

This is an adult novel, but I honestly can’t recall any “content” concerns. For this reason, I think it’s a great read, even for teenagers.

Recommendation Status

Highly recommended! Although a bit “slower” than the books I usually choose to read, The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip was rich with insight. Recommended for fans of contemporary Christian fiction and those who enjoy books about intergenerational friendships.

[Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buddy read with the amazing Jasmine!! 🥰

Wow! This was one of those books that I probably wouldn’t read again, but I’m so glad I read it once if that makes any sense. Down the road in my life, perhaps, I’ll pick it up again to read and be reminded of the wonderful reminder. The faith content was so good, beautiful and refreshing to read! The reason I didn’t rate it 5 stars is because the beginning was kinda hard to get into. I didn’t really relate to Aidyn and I didn’t like how mean her coworkers were. It made me never want to be a reporter…haha! Mrs. Kip was a sweetheart with a beautiful heart for the Lord! The ending had me tearing up, not only the sadness, but also the joy of Heaven to come! For those of us who have accepted Jesus, what a beautiful hope we have! May we strive to live our lives in a way that glorifies the Lord and points to Him!

[Rosalyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely one of the times where the phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover" comes into play. Looking at the cover, and going by the title, this was not a book I'd have chosen to read. At all.
But...thanks to social media, I kept hearing from other people who read this book that it was such a good book, I decided to chance it and read it anyway...and I am so glad I did!
This story line is quite extraordinary. Unusual. Fresh. Humorous. Inspirational.
All of these wrapped up into one unique story.
Aidyn is a young reporter trying to find her place in the world.
Clara Kip is an old lady, dying of cancer, who moves to a nursing home, which she assumes will be her last earthly dwelling place.
The two ladies meet. Mrs. Kip has so much she wants to share with the younger lady. Their interactions are just lovely.
If you enjoy a heartwarming, inspirational story, one that might even make you shed a few tears, then you definitely won't want to miss this one!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Hannah Beth (Hannah's Book Cafe) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book! One that teaches us to love others boldly, as long as they are in our lives. To show them Jesus, even if just for a short time.

A very convicting and powerful book. I love that the authors books never end with a "happy ending", but a realistic one instead.

And, one could argue that Mrs. Kip got the happiest ending of them all.♥️

[Susie Finkbeiner]

Read for endorsement. SO good. Review to come.

[Keira-- OLD ACCOUNT · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIRST READ:
I... I did not expect this.
Let's back-track a little... I had heard generally positive things about it, but I was cautious... because I heard it was sad, and that you should be ready to cry. Because of this, I avoided reading this book for about nine months, but last month I had an extra Hoopla borrow on the last day of the month, so I used it to borrow this book. Because I'd hate to have wasted a Hoopla borrow... I read it.
This book was such a blessing.
I'm not going to try and re-write the synopsis of this story. It's... it's too good for that, so I'm going to just start talking about all the things I liked. Don't expect me to get to the parts that I don't like, because... I really can't think of a single thing. Trust me, I've actually tried.
First off, let me just talk about Mrs. Kip. Clara Kip is now on my list of favorite book characters ever. I desperately want to be more like her. I honestly believe that this story is one that I could see myself consistently re-reading, just because it's such a great reminder of what it looks like to give yourself to Jesus and die to your sinful self every day. To be honest, throughout this story, we just see Clara give every bit of herself to God every single day. It's just... it's just so wonderful, and beautiful.
This book dealt with grief and death, but it didn't feel dark. In fact, Clara Kip just showed exactly how... she wanted to go home. She just wanted to be with Jesus, but she didn't give up, either. Even when she knew that she was dying, she just spent every moment in hospice trying to share the Gospel and evangelize to others.
And... are y'all ready to be amazed? There was no romance.
If you've been part of the Christian fiction community for any time at all, there is always a romance. Christian fiction books that I've read without romance? I can count them on one hand. Seriously. This book was just so clean, and showed how God has different paths and plans for everyone, and that you just need to give everything that you can, and trust that He knows best.
In short, this book is just such an amazing book, and I can't recommend it enough. I really hope to own this book soon, so that I can read it again and again.
If you aren't sure if this book is for you... give it a try.
It might just change your life.
SECOND READ:
I still love this book so much. I wouldn't normally re-read so close to my first read, but when I received a paperback copy as a gift from my amazing sister, I decided to go through and tab all of my favorite quotes. I believe I found 65 of them, and now I have to transfer them all over to my Kindle edition. Needless to say, I still love these characters so much. I like Aidyn and Clara both so much, and this book... it makes you cry, but it also just inspires you so much! Definitely recommend this book!

[Anne (In Search of Wonder) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I underlined so many things... I love the themes of life, death, and new life and how the story was told warmly but unflinchingly. As far as Christian fiction goes, this ranks up high for me - it's not just a clean or whitewashed story, it's a challenge. A challenge wrapped up in story, my favorite kind.

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is Christian fiction. Not my usual choice. I have nothing against Christian fiction but I prefer if it is subtle. This is not. There is a Bible quote on almost every page. At page 101 I decided not to finish the book but found myself turning pages.

Mrs. Kip is seventy-nine, no family, dying of cancer and has just been placed in an assisted living facility.

Aidyn Kelly, cub reporter, in trouble with her Editor is given the uninteresting assignment to write an obituary for Mrs. Kip.

Once Aidyn meets Mrs. Kip she finds that the woman claiming to have lived an ‘exceedingly unimpressive’ life has lived anything but. Aidyn, fingering the cross around her neck, quickly knows she has come upon a most extraordinary woman and realizes that this will be no ordinary obituary.

The book is depressing, until it is not.

Mrs. Kip’s story is one of love and loss and then redemption and finding her faith after meeting a stranger in need and offering a caring word and a helping hand all of which leads us to the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the Laotian refugee settlement.

Mrs. Kip’s life story would have been enough - it did not require a Bible quote on every page. Because I found myself turning pages after deciding to stop reading past page 101, I have had to mark up from my original intention of 2-stars to 3-stars. I'm still thinking more likely 2-stars as I write this, but I'm leaving it at 3 for now.

[Deena Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

After seeing so many positive reviews for this book, I had to read it. I was not disappointed. I was drawn in immediately. Mrs. Kip's love and service for others many people might overlook tugged at my heart and brought me to reflect on my own attitude toward those in the late stages of life.

In 2021, my mother was in hospice care for about six months before moving to the hospice facility, where she passed away five days later. She received such amazing, gentle care from the hospice nurses, and this story brought those memories back. Instead of evoking sadness at my mom's passing, this book helped me remember the wonderful people who helped us walk her home.

The characters were wonderful, as was the entire story. I highly recommend this read.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of the book was not what immediately pulled me in, but rather the subject matter. In the past months, my husband has been hospitalized and required to be a live-in patient at a rehab center. It has been the most trying times of my life and when I saw this book, I knew it was meant for me at this particular time of my life. It was perfect. The characters were perfect and I fell in love with Mrs. Kip. She was amazing. She didn't let her situation keep her down. She was dedicated for doing good to others. As she and the reporter, Aidyn meet and become acquainted, I see such personal growth in Aidyn and the paths of life become clear and apparent.
I loved the caring people in the book and it hit home in my husband's own situation. Brought some tears to my eyes and peace in my heart. I really, really loved this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own.

[Latisha Sexton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm at a loss for words and I'm not sure any review could do this book justice. I know it deserves way more than five stars.

It's breathtakingly beautiful and leaves you searching your heart and soul and examining your life.

I highlighted more in this book than in any other book. There are so many amazing truths and hidden gems within the pages of this book that as soon as I was finished, I wanted to start over and just sit with it for a while.

If you only read one more book this year, read this one. It's that powerful.

Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy for my honest feedback.