President Bush Pleas For a Return to Spirituality

As President George W. Bush spoke to a stunned nation on the night of September 11, 2001, he asked for all people to pray that those who were grieving might be comforted by a Power greater than any of us." We have seen the consequences of that tragic day in many forms. One subtle change that has occurred within the walls of our countrys homes is an increased openness to faith and hope.

(PRWEB) March 1, 2004 --As President George W. Bush spoke to a stunned nation on the night of September 11, 2001, he asked for all people to pray that those who were grieving might be comforted by a Power greater than any of us." We have seen the consequences of that tragic day in many forms. One subtle change that has occurred within the walls of our countrys homes is an increased openness to faith and hope. Kevin Kroghs debut novel The Doll in McCallaways Store strengthens the return to spirituality experienced by so many Americans since 9/11.

The Doll in McCallaways Store is a tale of two gifted writers, their families, and the series of events that test their faith and bring them together. What places this work of inspirational fiction in a league of its own is its unique approach to storytelling. Charlene Hirschi, of The Herald Journals Cache Magazine observes that Up to now, Kroghs creative writing has been limited to poetry, and this talent is evident in The Doll in McCallaways Store. Not only because he integrates poetry into the novel, but also because he has the poets gift for using language and imagery in ways that go beyond the pedestrian." The Doll in McCallaways Store fills a niche that has long been empty with its unique use of poetry within a story.

This mix of poetry and prose came about as the author was composing a narrative poem, and, in the authors own words, Halfway through the poems composition, I realized that the story that was evolving would be better communicated as a novel. The notion of a novel where poetry was an important means of advancing the plot and the development of its characters was very appealing to me." The narrative and poetry combine to create this heartwarming tale of love and faith lost and recovered. Here is an example of the vivid language to be found in this uplifting work:

And if Santa brings you to me for Christmas, Ill keep you on my dresser next to my mothers picture. Nancy is there now, but she can go on the shelf with Ruthie and Katie.
She wont mind."

Molly stood as close as possible. Any closer, and the condensation from her breath on the glass would obstruct her view of the porcelain doll to whom she spoke. The doll sat on the corner of a green and red patchwork quilt, next to the trolley station. The trolley passed within inches exactly every ninety-six seconds as it slowly made its way around the display before disappearing into the station, only to emerge again, after traveling through another display inside the store. Molly had watched a few days before as some of her classmates counted out loud the thirty-four pendulum swings of the cuckoo clock above Santas desk as they anticipated its return. But this time, she wasnt interested in the trolley; her eyes were riveted on the doll while she patiently waited for the other children to leave."

When President Bush reminded us to return to our faith and to call upon a higher Power, many of us found a spirituality that had long been absent. That same depth of spirit can be found in Kevin Kroghs debut novel, published by American Book Publishing and available at a discount online at the Publisher Direct Bookstore at http://www.pdbookstore.com.