Saving Cicadas, by Nicole Seitz

Review by Brenda Seward

Saving Cicadas is the kind of book that takes you by surprise. It comes across as a story of a family struggling to get through a crisis, and on the surface, that is exactly what it is. On the other hand, it is so much more.

The book starts with the revelation that single mother Priscilla Macy is pregnant again. Already struggling to make ends meet and care for a special needs child, Priscilla is in a quandary as to what to do. The father of her children has disappeared yet again, and her only sense of support comes in the form of a precocious eight-year-old daughter, Janie, and a critical and outspoken mother, Mona.

Unable to face making any sort of decision about her circumstances, Priscilla decides to pack her family into the car and head out for a road trip. Unable or unwilling to share her intended destination with her passengers, Priscilla’s first stop is the last known address of her children’s father. When that leg of the trip doesn’t go as desired, Priscilla heads south again, ending up at her old family home in South Carolina.

Saving Cicadas is a very apt example of the saying, “… it’s not the destination, but the journey that matters”. In this novel, the journey isn’t just about geography, but the emotional paths that must be traveled in order to reach a necessary destination. The journey that Priscilla takes with her family is told, for the most part, from the point of view of the precocious eight-year old, Janie. Through her young and unassuming eyes, we see the purity and innocence of love, devotion, faith and duty. We also see how one decision can affect many, not only in that moment, but also for years to come. In my opinion, the most powerful message in this book lies in beauty and restorative power of forgiveness. Of all the paths traveled in this story, they all lead to that singular destination: forgiveness.

Touching on some poignant and difficult topics, Saving Cicadas is in turns tender and compelling. Harsh realities are viewed through innocent eyes, as well as innocent wonder in the power of faith brought to the eyes of the jaded and weary.

This newest offering by Nicole Seitz is an engaging, thought-provoking and inspirational story that I highly recommend.

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Review by Brenda Seward,Owner, Simple Pleasures Books & Gifts

Saving Cicadas released through Thomas Nelson Books, December 2009, is available for purchase at Simple Pleasures Books & Gifts.

Simple Pleasures Books & Gifts is a family owned independent bookstore. Owned and managed by my three daughters, and myself. Our focus is toward women, while seeking to offer a little bit of something for everyone. From books, chocolate, unique custom gift bags and note cards to tea towels and bath products, Simple Pleasures offers just that- the simple pleasures of life. All titles reviewed here are available at Simple Pleasures Books & Gifts in Ashland, VA (804-378-7736) or online at: http://www.alibris.com/stores/spbooks1