Firebird by Brent McCorkle

Firebird, written by Brent McCorkle and Amy Parker, is the story of a baby oriole who loves the sunshine Each time a storm comes, Firebird gets upset and asks his mama why God allows rain. During one storm, Mama decides Firebird is old enough to find out for himself about what is on the other side of the storm. The lesson he learns is one that changes his attitude forever.

This book, written for children 4-10 years old holds profound truth that needs to be learned at an early age. Even for those of us who have learned it, sometimes we need a simple reminder. This was a easy to read book, beautifully illustrated by Rob Corley and Chuck Vollmer. The bright colors are sure to hold the attention of the younger child, and it is not too difficult for an older child to read. I like that the message should be easily comprehensible for a child to understand while reading, yet also is one that can be turned into a family discussion and teaching moment.

By the way, this is the book that Samantha Crawford writes in Unconditional (book and film) and Firebird is a perfect illustration of the premise. If you haven't read the novel by Eva Marie Everson (based on Brent McCorkle's screenplay) or seen the film, I highly recommend that you do both.



I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Unconditional by Eva Marie Everson

In Unconditional, Samantha Crawford, an acclaimed storybook artist, seemingly had it all until losing the love she cherished most. Now fighting despair, she is obsessed with tracking down the murderer of her husband. With no leads and no hope, Sam prepares to take her life until providence intervenes and she is reunited with her childhood friend, Joe Bradford.
Dying of kidney disease, Joe spends his last days serving fatherless children in an under resourced community. Observing Papa Joe's tireless love for "his kids," Sam begins to find new purpose until she comes face to face with her heart's desire. The innocence and hope of a child competes with the lure of revenge in an effort to show Sam how, even in life's darkest of circumstances, Love is above all.

I had been hearing buzz about the film for several months, so my curiosity was already piqued when I was asked if I had interest in reviewing the book. I have read several other books by Eva Marie Everson and knew I loved her style. I was not disappointed. Within the first paragraph, I was already drawn into the story and could not wait to find out what would happen next. I quickly learned to care about each of these characters and read the entire book that day.

The power of making the best use of your time and knowing God is with you each step of the way still awes me. I was also reminded of the quote I have seen in a variety of places: “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” (I have seen the quote attributed to several people). I don't want to give away anything in the book, but it is one of those that has numerous characters who strike a chord within me. It also one of the few I will give a top rating to simply because...several days later, I am still thinking about these people and comparing what changes I should make in my own life to live the life God wants me to live and make the best of the circumstances I am in.

The film, Unconditional, (written by Brent McCorkle) releases this weekend, and it is one I certainly want to see! Check out the trailer for it:





To read the author's blog about writing the book, click here.
Like Unconditional on Facebook.
To learn more about Elijah's Heart (Papa Joe's ministry), you can Like on Facebook or go to the Elijah's Heart website.

This is a Must-Read book and a Must-See film!! Also, there is a children's book, Firebird. (It will be my next review.)

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book in exchange for writing a review. I was not required to write a good review. All opinions are my own.