I’ve just finished an amazing book that begs to be reviewed!
Christie Purifoy’s “Placemaker” (Zondervan, 2019) offers readers shiny treasures of perspective on the concept of “home.” Her experiences and insights gleaned from her desire to “cultivate places of comfort, beauty, and peace” raise intriguing, often probing questions; the answers found in the unexpected–including grief, barren land, hollow trees, and ramshackle sheds.
I don’t consider myself as much of a placemaker in the literal sense. I don’t garden much (okay, I don’t garden at all). Or shop tirelessly for that perfect piece of art for my wall. But what does matter to me, and came up often in Purifoy’s memoir, is the issue of: is the effort (to build something) worthwhile, even if it’s not perfect? Even if it is costly, chaotic, messy, or broken? Like us.
The spiritual journey she takes along with all of her relocating addresses this issue in a satisfying and comforting way, as she discovers that “we complete such small tasks, yet with each one, the whole earth moves nearer to a promised future.”
Purifoy’s writing is exquisite, lyrical, and sometimes ethereal. And can I also mention, the book design (the cover, the paper, the flyleaf) is gorgeous. You just want to hold it in your hands. Don’t settle for the e-book on this beauty.
I took my time reading “Placemaker,” not wanting the experience of cultivating places with her to end. Makes me want to read it again…before I send it to someone I know who’s THE BEST EVER at placemaking, because she will love it and I love her.
I received “Placemaker” from Handlebar in exchange for an honest review.
Frances Judge says
Your wonderful review has convinced me to add this book to my want list.