I’ve been a fan of Robin Jones Gunn’s books since I read the Christy Miller series in high school. In college, I was ecstatic to learn that she, too, attended Biola University. Then, with my Mom’s encouragement, I reached out to Robin for an interview this past summer (the completed article, praise the Lord 😊, is slated for June publication in More to Life Magazine).
I recently received a copy of Robin’s newest gift book, A Pocketful of Hope for Mothers. I gave the book to my amazing mom, and read it, myself.
So, I’m not a mother, and the book is absolutely meant for new mothers. But (as is always the case with Robin’s books), there are really great reminders about any person’s identity in Christ. The book weaves together poetry and prose by Robin with heartwarming Scriptures and quotations. And as far as gift books go, it’s particularly delightful and eye-catching. The graphics are simply lovely– not to mention cozy!
In terms of content, I really liked the fun quotations paired with cute artwork. And I do appreciate the translation choices for the Scripture! She chooses versions that are accessible (inviting, really), as well as heartwarming.
But at the same time, her book doesn’t sugarcoat the mothering journey. It’s very honest– things won’t be picture-perfect, but God will cradle you even as you cradle your new one.
Robin divides the book into two parts. The first is her advice, now, to women just beginning their lives as mothers.
Part two is writing from the time when she was a new mother. I really enjoyed the anecdotes in part two, but one of my favorite quotations comes from part one:
The moment you open your eyes each new day, God’s tender mercies are being poured out on you. Decide afresh that you will put aside all past failures. Don’t start the day reciting a long list of everything that has gone awry. Instead, believe that He is with you and in you and for you, in all things He is accomplishing His purpose for you.
Again, I’m not a mom, but I do recommend the book to mothers. 🙂
You can purchase it here.
P.S. For young, unmarried (at least, that’s who it seems geared for, though it’s versatile for women of any age), I recommend Spoken For, a book about Jesus romancing us. It’s a collaborative work by Robin Jones Gunn and Alyssa Bethke 🙂
Stephanie's Ninth Suitcase 