About the Book

Book: Finding Joy

Author: J.C. Lafler

Genre: Christian Fiction, Generational Fiction

Release Date: November, 2019

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“No matter what complications life throws your way, search until you find something to be joyful for.”

Elisabeth Davis has lived by these words for most of her eighty years. Through good times and bad, this mindset has served her well, and she hopes and prays that her grandchildren will carry this sentiment forward when she is gone.

But Max has heard his grandmother say this so many times, he is almost oblivious. And while he understands her point, putting it into action is not always easy.

When his girlfriend demands he make a choice between her and his best friend—in the same week his grandmother has a stroke!—Max struggles to find joy anywhere. He is forced to reexamine his life, his relationships, and even his faith in this heartwarming story of coming of age and leaving a lasting legacy.

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About the Author

J.C. Lafler has always enjoyed writing and dreamed of being published, but it wasn’t until she retired in 2015 that she realized her dream. J. C. and her husband, David, live in Battle Creek, Michigan—except in winter, when they escape to sunny Texas. Along with writing, she enjoys public speaking, reading, puzzles, traveling, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Finding Joy is J. C.’s fifth novel to date. Her other books, also released through Redemption Press, include Lost and Found, Amazing Grace, Hope Everlasting, and Leap of Faith.

More from J.C.

“Finding Joy” by J.C. Lafler is a story about the challenge of finding joy in life’s most trying circumstances, and corresponding verses in the Bible that lead us to choose joy. This story came about because of a comment made by one of my children, who’s middle name just happens to be Joy. She (Lynsey) made the comment to me one day that her middle name reminded her that every day it is up to her to choose joy. Jokingly telling her that “Choosing Joy” would be a great title for my next novel, I let it go for a couple of months. While preparing to began said novel, I wrote “Choose Joy” at the top of the page and started writing. During editing I changed the title to “Finding Joy,” but the whole story developed around the idea of choosing to find a bit of joy every day, no matter what is happening in your life.

This book came at the right time for me to read. I haven't found much joy lately and was beginning to wonder if there would be happiness again in my life. Reading this book has breathed new hope into me. I wish I had a grandma like Elisabeth while growing up. Her wisdom and gentle spirit brought warmth to me. She loves God and is forever in love with her husband who passed away. I loved the moments she shared with Max. Their bond is very special and I especially liked how Max watched over his grandmother without complaint. There is much to learn from our older generation and this is a perfect example of that.

The message throughout the book is to find joy in everything. Elisabeth was able to share joy with her family and instill in them to embrace every moment. We are not guaranteed one moment in this world and this book has reminded me to shake off the grief I have been dealing with and find joy in the memory of two family members I have lost this year.

The story does have a sweet romance in it but for me the main theme was Elisabeth and how she was able to exemplify joy in her life. I don't think she ever complained as her health started to fail. It was like she was comforting her family as her time on earth drew near. I can't forget to mention Sam. Her friendship with Max started when they were children and as time went on, their bond never wavered. It is a relationship that Elisabeth wanted for her grandson and the joy she shares as they draw closer warms her heart. I loved the message in the book and appreciate being reminded that there is joy out there, we just need to be able to recognize it.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.