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The Penny
Jenny Blake has a theory about life: big decisions often don't amount to much, but little decisions sometimes transform everything. Her theory proves true the summer she's 14, when she makes the decision to pick up a penny embedded in asphalt and consequently ends up stopping a robbery, getting a job, and meeting someone who changes her life forever-Miss Shaw. Together they form a friendship that dares both of them to confront secrets in their pasts-secrets that threaten to destroy them.
Jenny helps Miss Shaw open up to the community around her, while Miss Shaw teaches Jenny to meet even life's most painful challenges with confidence and faith. This unexpected relationship transforms them both in ways neither could have anticipated, and the ripple effect that begins that summer goes on to bring new life to the people around them, revealing how God works in the smallest details-even in something as small as THE PENNY.
Jenny helps Miss Shaw open up to the community around her, while Miss Shaw teaches Jenny to meet even life's most painful challenges with confidence and faith. This unexpected relationship transforms them both in ways neither could have anticipated, and the ripple effect that begins that summer goes on to bring new life to the people around them, revealing how God works in the smallest details-even in something as small as THE PENNY.
243 pages, Hardcover
First published July 3, 2007
105 people are currently reading
1877 people want to read
About the author
Joyce Meyer
1,558 books3,871 followersJoyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A New York Times bestselling author, Joyce’s books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Through Joyce Meyer Ministries, Joyce teaches on a number of topics with a particular focus on how the Word of God applies to our everyday lives. Her candid communication style allows her to share openly and practically about her experiences so others can apply what she has learned to their lives.
Joyce’s programs, Enjoying Everyday Life and Everyday Answers with Joyce Meyer, can be seen around the world through television, radio, and the Internet. Joyce has authored more than 100 books, which have been translated into more than 100 languages and over 65 million of her books have been distributed worldwide. She teaches in cities across America as well as internationally. Joyce Meyer Ministries has offices in nine countries.
Joyce’s passion to help hurting people is foundational to the vision of Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Hand of Hope provides worldwide humanitarian outreaches such as feeding programs, medical care, orphanages, disaster response, human trafficking intervention and rehabilitation, and much more – always sharing the love and Gospel of Christ.
Her latest book, LIVING A LIFE YOU LOVE, releases Spring 2018.
Hachette Book Group has sold over 30 million copies of Joyce Meyer's books.
Joyce’s programs, Enjoying Everyday Life and Everyday Answers with Joyce Meyer, can be seen around the world through television, radio, and the Internet. Joyce has authored more than 100 books, which have been translated into more than 100 languages and over 65 million of her books have been distributed worldwide. She teaches in cities across America as well as internationally. Joyce Meyer Ministries has offices in nine countries.
Joyce’s passion to help hurting people is foundational to the vision of Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Hand of Hope provides worldwide humanitarian outreaches such as feeding programs, medical care, orphanages, disaster response, human trafficking intervention and rehabilitation, and much more – always sharing the love and Gospel of Christ.
Her latest book, LIVING A LIFE YOU LOVE, releases Spring 2018.
Hachette Book Group has sold over 30 million copies of Joyce Meyer's books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
June 21, 2024
God certainly does move in mysterious ways. Although the content can be quite depressing, the very clear message is that God is always there, even when you've given up hope, and believe that no-one can help.
The subject of child abuse never makes for an easy read, but there is another message also, that of forgiveness, which makes for (eventually) a real feel good ending.
The subject of child abuse never makes for an easy read, but there is another message also, that of forgiveness, which makes for (eventually) a real feel good ending.
August 10, 2020
"My big sister's temper matched the heat that July. Jean paced the house, as restless as the lynx that prowled its cage at the zoo, and about as moody, too. You could almost see the room get darker when she entered the door."
I requested this book, The Penny by Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford through Interlibrary loan because the title fulfilled the Bingo square "a form of money" in a GoodReads group and the book is written by two authors, which fulfills another requirement by the same group. Due to the pandemic, I have already read a book that fulfills both needs, but decided go ahead and read The Penny.
In the early 1950's Jean and Jenny Blake lived upstairs with their parents in a two-story flat in South St.Louis. The girls were on their way to Fox Theatre to watch Grace Kelly in Rear Window when Jenny reached down and picked a penny up off the street, setting off a chain of events that would transform her life and the lives of those around her.
"I'll always remember the summer of the penny. At this point in my life, I'm picking up pennies all the time. But that wasn't the case back then. Not before the penny, the important penny, the one that led me to Miss Shaw at the jewelry store."
Although I did not like Daddy Blake, there were several favourite characters in this story. I liked Jenny, Jean, and Miss Opal Shaw and the kindness and patience she had for Jenny. I liked Aurelia, her little cousin Garland, and her father Eddie Crockett who loved music and playing the trumpet.
The Penny is an emotionally gripping unforgettable story that while addressing issues of the 1950s is still relevant in today's society.
5 GoodReads stars ⭐️️⭐️️⭐️️⭐️️⭐️️
I requested this book, The Penny by Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford through Interlibrary loan because the title fulfilled the Bingo square "a form of money" in a GoodReads group and the book is written by two authors, which fulfills another requirement by the same group. Due to the pandemic, I have already read a book that fulfills both needs, but decided go ahead and read The Penny.
In the early 1950's Jean and Jenny Blake lived upstairs with their parents in a two-story flat in South St.Louis. The girls were on their way to Fox Theatre to watch Grace Kelly in Rear Window when Jenny reached down and picked a penny up off the street, setting off a chain of events that would transform her life and the lives of those around her.
"I'll always remember the summer of the penny. At this point in my life, I'm picking up pennies all the time. But that wasn't the case back then. Not before the penny, the important penny, the one that led me to Miss Shaw at the jewelry store."
Although I did not like Daddy Blake, there were several favourite characters in this story. I liked Jenny, Jean, and Miss Opal Shaw and the kindness and patience she had for Jenny. I liked Aurelia, her little cousin Garland, and her father Eddie Crockett who loved music and playing the trumpet.
The Penny is an emotionally gripping unforgettable story that while addressing issues of the 1950s is still relevant in today's society.
5 GoodReads stars ⭐️️⭐️️⭐️️⭐️️⭐️️
October 4, 2016
This book is hard to read. The beginning of it is almost as hard to read as The Lovely Bones. There is emotional, mental, physical, and sexual abuse of two sisters. Since it's Joyce Meyer (loosely based on her life story), I know it will get better, but it is hard to read about such things.
I have a new respect for Joyce Meyer. I always have sort of kinda liked her, but when I watch her on T.V., she rarely, if ever, alluded to her very bad beginnings. Now that I have read this book, I realize she truely has come from the pit of hell and back again. Three cheers to Joyce Meyer and it was a really good book.
I have a new respect for Joyce Meyer. I always have sort of kinda liked her, but when I watch her on T.V., she rarely, if ever, alluded to her very bad beginnings. Now that I have read this book, I realize she truely has come from the pit of hell and back again. Three cheers to Joyce Meyer and it was a really good book.
May 16, 2010
To me the book was very slow paced until about half way through. I couldn't read fast enough to get to the good parts. It focused on not taking God's presence for granted. He puts peolple in our lives for a reason and we need to be ever so conscience of that fact.
The book took a penny to resemble even a small thing like that can have a big impact on our lives. Faith and forgiveness played a big part of this book. Life is to short and we need to focus on the little things God gives us and watch what he does in our lives with that.
I would highly recommend this book.
The book took a penny to resemble even a small thing like that can have a big impact on our lives. Faith and forgiveness played a big part of this book. Life is to short and we need to focus on the little things God gives us and watch what he does in our lives with that.
I would highly recommend this book.
February 12, 2008
This was a book my husband bought for me for my birthday! Such a special gift, as I am a big Joyce Meyer fan! I enjoyed this novel, Joyce's first ~ it was a very neat story and gripped me until the end! I haven't looked at a penny the same since I read this book! In God We Trust!
March 23, 2024
I've listened to Joyce Meyer for about 20 years now, and know she's a fantastic writer. However, from reading the blurb about this book, I had the impression it was going to be a lighthearted and easy read. I should have known anything Joyce Meyer writes, is going to be deep and full of the hope of Jesus Christ. It was not lighthearted at all. It was intense, full of the horrors of child abuse, sexual abuse, control and hopelessness. It was interesting that there were snippets of things I've heard Joyce say she endured in her old childhood, written into the story line. There were a few times I had to put it down and take a break between chapters because of how sad I felt for the main character, a young girl named Jenny, her sister Jean, and their mom.
Jenny's life very slowly begins to take a turn after she finds a penny one day, and she ends up connecting to a woman named Miss Shaw. Miss Shaw and a few other people in Jennys life try to sow the hope of Christ into Jennys heart, but Jenny finds it really hard to hope in Jesus when she feels let down every time she suffers more abuse.
I was in tears at the end of the book. This was a hard read but was also so REAL. It takes a really hard look into the challenges we face trusting God when He doesn't immediately "fix it"...when He doesn't swoop down and swoop us up into safety. How hard it can be to trust Him when we pray and pray and pray and feel like He doesn't care about what we're going through. I highly, highly recommend this book.
Last note, this was written by both Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford. I'm mentioning Joyce Meyer in my review because I'm familiar with her writing and also how her own story seems at least partially woven into this book. I am not in any way trying to diminish Mrs. Bedford's contributions to the book, I am just not familiar with her or her writing at all. I'm sure it took the collaboration of both authors to piece together this incredible story! I did see she has other Christian fiction books and look forward to reading her individual books in the future.
Jenny's life very slowly begins to take a turn after she finds a penny one day, and she ends up connecting to a woman named Miss Shaw. Miss Shaw and a few other people in Jennys life try to sow the hope of Christ into Jennys heart, but Jenny finds it really hard to hope in Jesus when she feels let down every time she suffers more abuse.
I was in tears at the end of the book. This was a hard read but was also so REAL. It takes a really hard look into the challenges we face trusting God when He doesn't immediately "fix it"...when He doesn't swoop down and swoop us up into safety. How hard it can be to trust Him when we pray and pray and pray and feel like He doesn't care about what we're going through. I highly, highly recommend this book.
Last note, this was written by both Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford. I'm mentioning Joyce Meyer in my review because I'm familiar with her writing and also how her own story seems at least partially woven into this book. I am not in any way trying to diminish Mrs. Bedford's contributions to the book, I am just not familiar with her or her writing at all. I'm sure it took the collaboration of both authors to piece together this incredible story! I did see she has other Christian fiction books and look forward to reading her individual books in the future.
September 18, 2011
Have you ever found a penny and picked it up for luck? Well, Jenny Blake finds a penny one hot day as she was on her way with her sister, Jean, to the movies to see a Grace Kelly movie. She retrieved the penny from the hot asphalt street. The penny laid wheat side up, so dirty it was almost invisible. Jenny walked past the penny at first; but thought that she should pick it up as "little things make a big difference." Picking up the penny, a chain of events began: the Presley Dairy truck braked to keep from hitting Jenny, a woman came out of the five and dime with her baby in a car bed just as 3 bottles of milk from the truck fell and swung the car bed toward the building to protect her child. When the woman swung out of the way she blindsided a teen who had his favorite record "That's All Right Mama" by Elvis Presley under his arm. Now the disk hit the sidewalk and wobbled on it's edge and headed downhill toward the line waiting at the movie boxoffice. Bennett, the teen, took off after his record, grasping for it with all his might hoping it would come out unscathed. Then, Miss Shaw of Shaw Jewelers, was putting out her display in the window when a thief came along and grabbed all the jewels right out of her hand and took off. Right then Bennett fell attempting to get his record and tripped the would-be thief. Pete Mason went into the crowd after the thief and scooped up the jewels and asked Miss Shaw if they were indeed hers. This chain of events led to Jenny getting a job and Miss Shaw's jewelry store.
Jenny and Jean's home life was a disturbed one. Their father did things to them that no father should do to their children. Jean about to leave home for secretarial school was glad to be leaving that house. Only now Jenny had to live with it alone.
Jenny had befriended some negro children and families and had gone to their church. Her father so disagreed with this, threatening bodily harm. The mother just looked the other way.
Because of the penny, so much changed for Jenny in her life.
I really enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down until I had it all read.
Jenny and Jean's home life was a disturbed one. Their father did things to them that no father should do to their children. Jean about to leave home for secretarial school was glad to be leaving that house. Only now Jenny had to live with it alone.
Jenny had befriended some negro children and families and had gone to their church. Her father so disagreed with this, threatening bodily harm. The mother just looked the other way.
Because of the penny, so much changed for Jenny in her life.
I really enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down until I had it all read.
April 13, 2011
Wow. I was surprised to find I did not like this story.
I found the descriptions distracting as if the authors worked too hard at them. I found myself repeatedly cocking my head to the side and wondering what the descritive prhase meant or how it looked. Odd.
I also felt like I basically had the jest of the story at the opening and so struggled through the story because I had a pretty good idea where it was going. I would have preferred to have seen more fore-shadowing that would entice me along in the story.
Unfortunately, this will not be one of my favorite Joyce Meyer books.
I found the descriptions distracting as if the authors worked too hard at them. I found myself repeatedly cocking my head to the side and wondering what the descritive prhase meant or how it looked. Odd.
I also felt like I basically had the jest of the story at the opening and so struggled through the story because I had a pretty good idea where it was going. I would have preferred to have seen more fore-shadowing that would entice me along in the story.
Unfortunately, this will not be one of my favorite Joyce Meyer books.
April 7, 2015
(book, novel based on fact)
a. This is by far the best book I’ve read in a long time. It had me crying or close to crying throughout most of it. The love that was shown to the deeply hurting main character by a woman is enough to bring even the hardest heart to tears. I think everyone that borrowed this book from me loved it. It’s a book to read in one sitting because you can’t put it down. 5 STARS
a. This is by far the best book I’ve read in a long time. It had me crying or close to crying throughout most of it. The love that was shown to the deeply hurting main character by a woman is enough to bring even the hardest heart to tears. I think everyone that borrowed this book from me loved it. It’s a book to read in one sitting because you can’t put it down. 5 STARS
April 29, 2013
Expected heavy-handed, poorly written Christian fiction. Pleasantly surprised by interesting story, well written, although a little too neatly tied up in the end.
November 24, 2010
I myself am not a religious person, but I came upon this book by chance a couple of weeks after I had my daughter 4 months ago. It's a cute story:
My boyfriend is good friends with this couple that I find completely repulsive. They represent just about everything I detest and I have never held back in letting them know it. The female half of this couple had told me plainly to my face before that she doesn't like me either and we probably will never be friends. I agreed and was happy we saw eye-to-eye on this.
One day a couple of weeks after I had my daughter and was home by myself while everyone else was at work, my phone rang and it was this woman. We'll call her "Anne." Anne wanted to know if she could come over and spend some time with me and asked if I needed anything from the store while she was out. I was blown away, and said of course I'd appreciate the company.
When she arrived, she brought everything needed for pedicures, manicures, fruit smoothies, some prenatal vitamins, nursing pads, and a book called "The Penny." Inside the book was a piece of red cloth with a penny glued to it. I asked her what this was and she said it was a bookmark made out of her favorite shirt and I would understand once I read the book. We ended up having a spectacular afternoon and really enjoyed getting to know one another and see past some of the differences we had by focusing on the things we have in common.
I hadn't read the book because I was too busy trying to figure out this motherhood thing, but now that things have fallen a little into place, I have begun reading again and so far, it's very good! I can't wait til I get to the lesson I'm supposed to take from it. :-)
11.24.10 - I finished this today and it was the first book I've gotten to read since my daughter was born. What a great "first-book-in-a-long-time" to read! Although I'm not a believer in organized religion in itself, the message this story conveys is really beautiful. Even without believing in God or Jesus, the message of forgiveness is one that should be shared and enjoyed. Forgiveness is one of the hardest concepts to grasp, and I myself could really practice the art of forgiveness, tolerance, and patience more in my own life. I am glad "Anne" recommended this book to me and I will always appreciate that she did. Not that we'll ever be best friends, but it shows that somewhere in that rough exterior of hers that I have trouble appreciating, there lies a soft spot in her heart to which this novel spoke. Hopefully I can pass along that same feeling to someone I have wronged or who might be in pain or trouble, like she did for me when I needed a friend most after having my daughter. :-)
My boyfriend is good friends with this couple that I find completely repulsive. They represent just about everything I detest and I have never held back in letting them know it. The female half of this couple had told me plainly to my face before that she doesn't like me either and we probably will never be friends. I agreed and was happy we saw eye-to-eye on this.
One day a couple of weeks after I had my daughter and was home by myself while everyone else was at work, my phone rang and it was this woman. We'll call her "Anne." Anne wanted to know if she could come over and spend some time with me and asked if I needed anything from the store while she was out. I was blown away, and said of course I'd appreciate the company.
When she arrived, she brought everything needed for pedicures, manicures, fruit smoothies, some prenatal vitamins, nursing pads, and a book called "The Penny." Inside the book was a piece of red cloth with a penny glued to it. I asked her what this was and she said it was a bookmark made out of her favorite shirt and I would understand once I read the book. We ended up having a spectacular afternoon and really enjoyed getting to know one another and see past some of the differences we had by focusing on the things we have in common.
I hadn't read the book because I was too busy trying to figure out this motherhood thing, but now that things have fallen a little into place, I have begun reading again and so far, it's very good! I can't wait til I get to the lesson I'm supposed to take from it. :-)
11.24.10 - I finished this today and it was the first book I've gotten to read since my daughter was born. What a great "first-book-in-a-long-time" to read! Although I'm not a believer in organized religion in itself, the message this story conveys is really beautiful. Even without believing in God or Jesus, the message of forgiveness is one that should be shared and enjoyed. Forgiveness is one of the hardest concepts to grasp, and I myself could really practice the art of forgiveness, tolerance, and patience more in my own life. I am glad "Anne" recommended this book to me and I will always appreciate that she did. Not that we'll ever be best friends, but it shows that somewhere in that rough exterior of hers that I have trouble appreciating, there lies a soft spot in her heart to which this novel spoke. Hopefully I can pass along that same feeling to someone I have wronged or who might be in pain or trouble, like she did for me when I needed a friend most after having my daughter. :-)
September 8, 2009
Book club pick for September.
This is the first book of fiction by Joyce Meyer that I have read. Several ladies in my book club that voted for this book did not know who she was. I am bummed to be in Hawaii and miss the conversation for this book. It is the first faith based book that our club has read. I loved the way she spoke of hands and what they represented in her life from pain to love. I loved that there was a definite story line of unconditional love. I love that there was a definite story line that it doesn't matter what has happened before in your life but Christ washes it all away and you can and will be whole. Hurt people hurt people is relayed very well. Forgiveness is the final message. It always is......
Favorite lines in the book"
"Have you forgotten that there's just hurts you got to give over to the Lord, child? Because if you don't figure out how to do that, a body bigger than the whole world still won't be big enough to hold it all in."
And...
"I was beginning to understand the truth. The one prince who cared for me more than his own life wanted to take me by the hand and make me whole."
That is the truth for us all. We all may not have lived this story but we all have something and the truth is OUR SAVIOR died for us to make us whole and accept HIS unconditional love. We must accept and give forgiveness to be whole. Give our hurts to the Lord and let him grow us and make us whole........
This is the first book of fiction by Joyce Meyer that I have read. Several ladies in my book club that voted for this book did not know who she was. I am bummed to be in Hawaii and miss the conversation for this book. It is the first faith based book that our club has read. I loved the way she spoke of hands and what they represented in her life from pain to love. I loved that there was a definite story line of unconditional love. I love that there was a definite story line that it doesn't matter what has happened before in your life but Christ washes it all away and you can and will be whole. Hurt people hurt people is relayed very well. Forgiveness is the final message. It always is......
Favorite lines in the book"
"Have you forgotten that there's just hurts you got to give over to the Lord, child? Because if you don't figure out how to do that, a body bigger than the whole world still won't be big enough to hold it all in."
And...
"I was beginning to understand the truth. The one prince who cared for me more than his own life wanted to take me by the hand and make me whole."
That is the truth for us all. We all may not have lived this story but we all have something and the truth is OUR SAVIOR died for us to make us whole and accept HIS unconditional love. We must accept and give forgiveness to be whole. Give our hurts to the Lord and let him grow us and make us whole........
July 6, 2012
A very well-written and thought provoking book set in racially divided St. Louis in 1965. Jennie sets off a series of events that have life-changing implications when she stoops over to pick up a penny imbedded in soft tar while crossing a street one afternoon. The people she meets, the decisions she and others make and the life lessons she and others leearn are all set in motion by her decision to turn back to stoop down to pick up that penny.
How often does life n general or in teh specifics seem merely a matter of chance; just coincidental and dismissable. Yet is it? Can something so simple as listening to a thought about picking up a penny in the road really be a step toward life altering change for the good of many people?
This is Christian fiction; however, don't dismiss just on that basis. This book is well worth reading from a faith perspective, as well as a human nterest perspective regarding being a victim of abuse, racism and bullying and how people are given the opportunity and teh power to change and to impact others for good. I highly recommend this book and I'm really glad I read it. I'll be thinking about this book for quite a while and may even read it again.
How often does life n general or in teh specifics seem merely a matter of chance; just coincidental and dismissable. Yet is it? Can something so simple as listening to a thought about picking up a penny in the road really be a step toward life altering change for the good of many people?
This is Christian fiction; however, don't dismiss just on that basis. This book is well worth reading from a faith perspective, as well as a human nterest perspective regarding being a victim of abuse, racism and bullying and how people are given the opportunity and teh power to change and to impact others for good. I highly recommend this book and I'm really glad I read it. I'll be thinking about this book for quite a while and may even read it again.
July 27, 2012
Some books are worth more in their affect on the heart than they are on the senses. This book is one of those. Though I've read many stories, some of them splendidly written, this story touches a place inside that changes you. The storyline itself was at time ponderous. Much detail was given to the city of St. Louis, to the main character's friends, and to her school and her job, and though this did set the stage for the overall personality of the character, for me, someone now familiar with that time period of that city, it was a little much. Yet oh how the truth of God's Word shines though. I have been at the bottom of life, and although my story is different from this particular one, the battle upward is the same, and it was brilliantly portrayed. I cried that any child anywhere would ever have to go through something so horrible as physical and sexual abuse, and rejoiced that there is a God who cares. Wonderful writing, this is a book I highly recommend.
July 28, 2011
what an amazing story. this book definetly made me see things in a whole new perspective. this book goes a long way to proving that you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. I cried for so many fo the characters. I actually feel like I understood their pain in some instances. I have always believed that even a small thing that you do can cause a chain reaction but the way it was written in this book, not just in one circumstance but on so many different pages just made this book a delight to read. I actually could not put this book down. I READ IT IN 2 DAYS. I have never read a book by this author before but i will certainly start looking for more of them. i don't know if it was 1 writer that took the lead or if it was because it was a com bination of the two but it was a breathtaking book.
July 3, 2008
I did not know this was termed "Christian fiction", I just liked what the inside cover had to say about the story. I finished it yesterday & LOVED IT! It was an excellent story, though very heartbreaking at times, but with a wonderful "happy ending" for all involved in the story. It was about the power of God even when it seems like he's not there for us & how we may have to fight longer than we want to, but we will overcome. It also touched on forgiveness & it's healing power & about friendship in times of segregation between two sweet girls from very different families. It was an excellent, very touching story. Highly recommend & it's not that long so it's a great summer "beach" read.
May 26, 2012
I liked this book for many reasons but found it a bit unrealistic, which is why I only gave it 3 stars. It was well-written and a quick read. The narrator/protagonist was an appealing and realistic character.
What I found slightly annoying about the book was the conclusion. Without giving too much away, I'll simply say that as a child of a slightly abusive parent, I can tell you that codependent spouses do not turn on a dime and suddenly make a change. And I'm a Christian who prayed often for this kind of thing. I agree whole-heartedly with the main points of the book -- that God gives us both good and bad experiences for reasons, and that we have to forgive even those who don't deserve it -- but the resolution for all of the characters was just a little too pat for my liking.
What I found slightly annoying about the book was the conclusion. Without giving too much away, I'll simply say that as a child of a slightly abusive parent, I can tell you that codependent spouses do not turn on a dime and suddenly make a change. And I'm a Christian who prayed often for this kind of thing. I agree whole-heartedly with the main points of the book -- that God gives us both good and bad experiences for reasons, and that we have to forgive even those who don't deserve it -- but the resolution for all of the characters was just a little too pat for my liking.
October 2, 2010
A 1.5 review. I didn't actually dislike it, but it certainly wasn't "Ok" either.
If this had been a memoir I think I would really have liked it, because the style and story would have fitted a memoir well. Being a fictional story, however, it utilized a number of my literary pet peeves - lots of foreshadowing, stereotypical characters and very, very heavy-handed preaching. The book suffered greatly from having the story told rather than shown, and the testimony would have been so much stronger if the events of the story had been allowed to speak for themselves, rather than be constantly spelled out to the reader.
I pretty much only finished it because I got stubborn.
If this had been a memoir I think I would really have liked it, because the style and story would have fitted a memoir well. Being a fictional story, however, it utilized a number of my literary pet peeves - lots of foreshadowing, stereotypical characters and very, very heavy-handed preaching. The book suffered greatly from having the story told rather than shown, and the testimony would have been so much stronger if the events of the story had been allowed to speak for themselves, rather than be constantly spelled out to the reader.
I pretty much only finished it because I got stubborn.
October 26, 2015
This book was bittersweet for me to read.
The subject matter was tough and I felt unsettled and angry throughout the whole book. That's the nature of that topic though, and that type of reaction is what should come from terrible situations like that.
I was captivated right away and could hardly put this book down. I read it in a day and a half, and stayed up late to finish it last night.
I think the authors did a good job of combining the complexities of sisters, the racial issues of the times, faith, a little mystery and terrible, awful situations that are all too common even today, and braided them together in a beautiful book that left me exhausted of hopeful at the end.
The subject matter was tough and I felt unsettled and angry throughout the whole book. That's the nature of that topic though, and that type of reaction is what should come from terrible situations like that.
I was captivated right away and could hardly put this book down. I read it in a day and a half, and stayed up late to finish it last night.
I think the authors did a good job of combining the complexities of sisters, the racial issues of the times, faith, a little mystery and terrible, awful situations that are all too common even today, and braided them together in a beautiful book that left me exhausted of hopeful at the end.
November 10, 2015
Wow! First of all this is NOT an easy story to read. The story is based on Joyce Meyer's childhood and deals with abuse- both physical and sexual- so please know that before reading. I think that this book could bring healing for sure but I would think you would want someone you trusted who knew your story to walk with you through this if you haven't dealt with your abuse. I thought it was very well written and it was obvious that it had been written by someone who had gone through the abuse herself. Yet it is a story of hope too that healing can come with God's help. This book would also help someone to develop compassion for those who have been abused.
March 24, 2008
This story is based on the life of Joyce Meyer (motivational Christian speaker/author). After picking up a penny from the street a series of events are starting to take place. Jenny, abused and mistreated by her father, finds God through friendships she has never thought she would be able to develop. Aurelia, a black girl from the Ville, helps her see that she is accepted no matter what and the mysterious jewelry lady Miss Opal Shaw gives abundant grace to this young girl who feels like she is worth nothing. What a compelling story of trust, redemption, and forgiveness.
July 6, 2007
I enjoyed this book. It was a very deep book that made me cry. It definitely teaches you about inner strength, forgiveness and never giving up. Your future is not written by your past. This book is also about accepting those who are different and not judging others. I was glad that I read this one.
March 27, 2008
I really like Joyce Meyer's non-fiction books, but this one just left me flat. I love Christian fiction, so that wasn't the problem for me. The redemption in the story just came way too little too late.
December 12, 2011
This story is based on the Author Joyce Meyer's summer when she was 13 and the events that changed her life path. Joyce Meyer is a Christian author. It was a good book although very sad with the things that happened to her. Uplifting in the end though.
July 19, 2010
Fantastic. Gave it as a gift
December 3, 2018
I have not read any of the nonfiction books by Joyce Meyer but certainly have heard of her.
The Penny tells the story of a abuse in a family---both physical and sexual--and how the youngest daughter, Jenny, finds hope and strength.
The main character, Jenny Blake, reaches down to pick up a penny one day and this sets off a chain reaction of events which brings Miss Shaw into her life. Miss Shaw, the reclusive single owner of a jewelry store, is a huge mystery in the neighborhood where Jenny lives. She reaches out of Jenny and shows her unconditional love. Another major character is Aurelia, an African-American girl who attends the same school as Jenny although in separate portable buildings. Aurelia and her family are another major influence in Jenny's life and introduce her to the concept of Jesus as the One who will love and forgive her no matter what unmentionable things her father has done to her.
This novel is set in St. Louis in the 1950's when racism is still very prevalent. It is also the time when Grace Kelly was a movie idol. Jenny's sister, Jean, focuses on Grace Kelly to help her endure the abuse in her family.
There were so many things I liked about this novel even though it was hard to read at times because of descriptions of abuse the mother and 2 girls endured---although it was never described in graphic terms. Jenny's character is so well developed---showing all her inner emotional struggles and her strength in standing up for what she believes. The author has created also created memorable characters in Miss Shaw and Eddie Crockett---Aurelia's father. I loved how there was a blending of both white and African-American cultures in the plot of this story.
There is a strong Christian message in this novel. However, I would not consider this to be a 'preachy' novel. I appreciated the themes of unconditional love and forgiveness given by Jesus.
Despite all the aspects that I enjoyed in this novel, I only rated it 4 stars instead of 5 because of the quality of the writing. There were definitely flaws but the storyline made up for most of them. Perhaps Meyer will improve in her fiction writing if she continues.
The Penny tells the story of a abuse in a family---both physical and sexual--and how the youngest daughter, Jenny, finds hope and strength.
The main character, Jenny Blake, reaches down to pick up a penny one day and this sets off a chain reaction of events which brings Miss Shaw into her life. Miss Shaw, the reclusive single owner of a jewelry store, is a huge mystery in the neighborhood where Jenny lives. She reaches out of Jenny and shows her unconditional love. Another major character is Aurelia, an African-American girl who attends the same school as Jenny although in separate portable buildings. Aurelia and her family are another major influence in Jenny's life and introduce her to the concept of Jesus as the One who will love and forgive her no matter what unmentionable things her father has done to her.
This novel is set in St. Louis in the 1950's when racism is still very prevalent. It is also the time when Grace Kelly was a movie idol. Jenny's sister, Jean, focuses on Grace Kelly to help her endure the abuse in her family.
There were so many things I liked about this novel even though it was hard to read at times because of descriptions of abuse the mother and 2 girls endured---although it was never described in graphic terms. Jenny's character is so well developed---showing all her inner emotional struggles and her strength in standing up for what she believes. The author has created also created memorable characters in Miss Shaw and Eddie Crockett---Aurelia's father. I loved how there was a blending of both white and African-American cultures in the plot of this story.
There is a strong Christian message in this novel. However, I would not consider this to be a 'preachy' novel. I appreciated the themes of unconditional love and forgiveness given by Jesus.
Despite all the aspects that I enjoyed in this novel, I only rated it 4 stars instead of 5 because of the quality of the writing. There were definitely flaws but the storyline made up for most of them. Perhaps Meyer will improve in her fiction writing if she continues.
February 16, 2025
I picked up this book because I like Joyce Meyer and thought since it's a novel it would be light reading. But I discovered that it is a novel based on parts of her own life, which included physical and sexual abuse growing up. The main character in this book is a preteen girl dealing with the same issues and emotions. Very well written and kept my interest. Would highly recommend.
April 25, 2022
It was a lovely story. A lot of sensitive subjects were discussed. I enjoyed it but I probably wouldn't recommend it.
July 9, 2015
The 50’s; fun and care free images of girls in ponytails, poodle skirts, bobby socks and saddle shoes, and boys trained their hair into greased back duck tails, wearing rolled up t-shirt sleeves, and black leather jackets. The “Happy Days” with the Fonz; come to mind. The 50’s also had a dark side with images on TV of policemen fighting civil rights demonstrators, the challenge of integrating public schools,and racial tension. On another front scaring Americans even more Soviet Union and the US created the “H” Bomb. Many expected our world to blow up. Amongst scenes of “Happy Days” some really disturbing stuff was going on in the world Jenny Blake lived in. Until the day she bend down to pick up a penny. Her life would never be the same.
“You know what I think? I think that you picking up that penny was more than part of a random chain of events. I think God was giving you a message. I think he wants you to know that he’s watching over you all the time.” Miss Shaw says to Jenny who is having a really hard time believing that one. If Miss Shaw only knew what her life was really like she wouldn’t be saying these things to her.
Jenny had her doubts about the penny and about God. Things were starting to look different but how could she trust herself or anyone else for that matter? There was too much pain in her life; she couldn’t get close to anyone right now. When a thought came to Jenny. She was desperate to talk to someone or bust; maybe she could be friends with Aurelia Crockett; a negro girl at Harris School. Crazy thought she knew but somehow it seemed right. This girl would never ask to have a sleep over. A negro girl would never expect to be invited to a white girls house. This seemed like the perfect set up. Jenny wouldn’t be expected to let Aurelia get too close because of the racial situation they lived in. Her dad wouldn’t allow a friendship or anything else with Aurelia for that matter. Jenny would be able to keep her secrets safe and still have a friend. This could work . She just couldn’t let her dad find out.
Jenny’s sister is obsessed with Grace Kelly the movie star of the 50’s. Because of Jenny’s love for Grace Kelly I learned a great deal about the actress in this book. How she became a big movie star, what movies she was in and how she went on to marry Prince Rainer of Monaco. Every little girls dream in that day and age was to marry a Prince. One of Jenny’s friends says “With all the talk of Grace Kelly. It sounds like your sister Jean wants to life someone else’s life instead of her own.” How true that was. If only Jenny could do that too.
At age 14; Jenny finds the courage to stand up for things she really believes in . She steps out to do the right thing, counting the cost, no matter how scary things got. Jenny knew deep inside herself she was not alone. I remember doing that in my life as well and things were never the same. This book is definitely a story of hope, courage, and God’s redeeming love for us. It’s about the process and courage of giving God control over our lives. Giving control to no one else but Him. That’s when our world changes forever. It did for me. You will discover in this book as Jenny did it’s all about the little things in life that really matter. You’ll learn like she did how to smell the flowers and see with new eyes the beauty around you every day.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
“You know what I think? I think that you picking up that penny was more than part of a random chain of events. I think God was giving you a message. I think he wants you to know that he’s watching over you all the time.” Miss Shaw says to Jenny who is having a really hard time believing that one. If Miss Shaw only knew what her life was really like she wouldn’t be saying these things to her.
Jenny had her doubts about the penny and about God. Things were starting to look different but how could she trust herself or anyone else for that matter? There was too much pain in her life; she couldn’t get close to anyone right now. When a thought came to Jenny. She was desperate to talk to someone or bust; maybe she could be friends with Aurelia Crockett; a negro girl at Harris School. Crazy thought she knew but somehow it seemed right. This girl would never ask to have a sleep over. A negro girl would never expect to be invited to a white girls house. This seemed like the perfect set up. Jenny wouldn’t be expected to let Aurelia get too close because of the racial situation they lived in. Her dad wouldn’t allow a friendship or anything else with Aurelia for that matter. Jenny would be able to keep her secrets safe and still have a friend. This could work . She just couldn’t let her dad find out.
Jenny’s sister is obsessed with Grace Kelly the movie star of the 50’s. Because of Jenny’s love for Grace Kelly I learned a great deal about the actress in this book. How she became a big movie star, what movies she was in and how she went on to marry Prince Rainer of Monaco. Every little girls dream in that day and age was to marry a Prince. One of Jenny’s friends says “With all the talk of Grace Kelly. It sounds like your sister Jean wants to life someone else’s life instead of her own.” How true that was. If only Jenny could do that too.
At age 14; Jenny finds the courage to stand up for things she really believes in . She steps out to do the right thing, counting the cost, no matter how scary things got. Jenny knew deep inside herself she was not alone. I remember doing that in my life as well and things were never the same. This book is definitely a story of hope, courage, and God’s redeeming love for us. It’s about the process and courage of giving God control over our lives. Giving control to no one else but Him. That’s when our world changes forever. It did for me. You will discover in this book as Jenny did it’s all about the little things in life that really matter. You’ll learn like she did how to smell the flowers and see with new eyes the beauty around you every day.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
October 2, 2007
How many times have you walked past a penny on the ground without so much as a second thought? Jenny Blake did just that, and then for some unexplainable reason, turned, ran back and retrieved the penny from the hot asphalt. At the tender age of 14 Jenny had no way of knowing the significance of her actions on that blistering summer day in 1955. The Blake family lived in St. Louis, which during the 50’s and early 60’s was a hotbed of racial tension. So when Jenny, a white girl, befriends Aurelia, a black girl recently integrated into the same school, she must keep the friendship a secret. Although Aurelia’s family welcomes Jenny into both their home and church, the same acceptance could not be found within the Blake household. Jenny’s father in an abusive, horrible man, that mistreats his daughters in every conceivable way. Working for Miss Shaw, the local jeweler, Jenny begins to see Christianity at work, in small ways that others barely notice. Yet, no matter how hard she prays, her fathers abuse continues and she struggles to understand why God seems to be ignoring her pain. With Miss Shaw’s guidance, and Aurelia’s unwavering friendship she continues building her faith, one step at a time. Little by little God’s truth is revealed to her…..”God doesn’t always make something go away because we pray, He often gives us the strength to stand up to it.” And that knowledge changes her life and that of those around her.
The authors indelible ability to recognize the miraculous wonders of God, even the smallest of details, is but one of the many things that makes “The Penny” a beautifully moving reading experience. Despite your religious convictions, this is a wonderful story where the authors reveal their inspirations subtly and slowly, never preachy, over-bearing or offensive, “The Penny” is much like the soft-spoken, loving direction one receives from a beloved parent. There’s something for everyone in this heart-felt, inspirational story. The narration is exceptionally well delivered, adding depth and conviction to the reading experience. I highly recommend this novel to any reader that simply enjoys a strong, powerful story. (Just make sure you don’t start listening (or reading) until you have several hours of free time… you will not want to put it down.)
Happy Reading!
The authors indelible ability to recognize the miraculous wonders of God, even the smallest of details, is but one of the many things that makes “The Penny” a beautifully moving reading experience. Despite your religious convictions, this is a wonderful story where the authors reveal their inspirations subtly and slowly, never preachy, over-bearing or offensive, “The Penny” is much like the soft-spoken, loving direction one receives from a beloved parent. There’s something for everyone in this heart-felt, inspirational story. The narration is exceptionally well delivered, adding depth and conviction to the reading experience. I highly recommend this novel to any reader that simply enjoys a strong, powerful story. (Just make sure you don’t start listening (or reading) until you have several hours of free time… you will not want to put it down.)
Happy Reading!
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