The Journey Continues...

Plan B: Further Thoughts on Faith

By Anne Lamott / Penguin Putnam Inc.

This book is a sequel of sorts to Lamott's book, "Traveling Mercies" (TM). I read the first book several weeks ago and the moment I finished it, I got online and ordered this book. I did a little math and realized that it had been ten years since TM was first published and I was dying to know what had happened to Lamott and her son, Sam, since then. While TM is a chronological telling of Lamott's life (ending with Sam's eighth birthday), Plan B is not so linear. Instead it is a series of stories about events or themes in Lamott's life that have occurred over the last ten years.

I was extemely pleased with Plan B for three reasons in particular.

1. The wit and honesty are still refreshing and welcome. (Chapter One is entitled, "ham of god" and is oh so aptly named.)
2. It is evident that Lamott has grown. Her Christianity and faith are not a fluke or an ill-conceived divergence.
3. Like an overdue letter from a beloved family member, this book has put my mind at ease. All is well. Life is not without pain; not without challenges. Still, it is joyful, and fullfilling. These people that I have come to care about, Lamott, Sam, Pastor Veronica (and the other members of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church), Buddy, Father Tom, along with the rest of their friends and family, are supporting and loving each other all along the way... And it works!

There was one other bonus for me. Lamott gives a wonderful description of a wedding. I now include this quote in all my pre-marriage counseling. It is right on the money and so insightful.

You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll love this book. You might even find the strength to pray for President Bush... maybe even forgive him. I said maybe.