Title: “Her Mother’s Hope” 

Author: Francine Rivers 

Reviewer: Sarah Laughmiller 

This story – completed in the second of the two-book saga, “Her Daughter’s Dream” – explores the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters over several generations.  

Near the turn of the 20th century, Marta leaves Switzerland determined to find life on her own terms. Her journey takes her through Europe and finally leads her to North America.  

Hildie, Marta’s oldest daughter, has a heart to serve others, and her calling as a nurse gives her independence, if not the respect of her mother.  

Each woman is forced to confront her faulty but well-meaning desire to help her daughter find her God-given place in the world.  

This book has it all. There’s a variety of world history for the adventurous history lover, and this family is extremely relatable. The story also highlights struggles, romance and hope and faith of God. There’s generational heartbreak and healing. Marta is strong–willed and a bit like her father, even if she doesn’t want to admit it. She’s determined to live her life and raise her children differently from how she was raised.   

Even though their story takes place a lifetime ago, it will hit home for many today.  

Title: “Snail Crossing” 

Author: Corey R. Tabor 

Reading Level: 2.3 

This cute picture book is one of those wonderful stories adults can use to open up discussions with young children. In this case, it is about treating others with kindness and respect even if they are not treating you that way. 

Snail sees a field with delicious cabbage. It’s across a road, but he does not let that discourage him. He is a determined snail.   

Some not–nice ants show up and make fun of Snail for being so slow; the ants’ opinions change, however, when they are caught in a rainstorm and Snail invites them to weather it with him in his shell.  

After the storm, Snail continues his trek across the road. Unfortunately, he gets turned around and ends up back where he started.  

However, his kindness pays off, and in the end, he still gets his cabbage – and some new friends to share it.  

This is a fun book to read to young children, and the illustrations are perfect!   

I hope to see you soon at the library!