Mark Schultz
with Travis Thrasher
(Howard Books)
ISBN: 978-1439197318
September, 2011/288 pages/$19.99
Letters from War shows Beth Thompson’s struggle to keep her son alive. Each night, she writes a letter to her son. Just in case. It’s been two years since James went missing while saving the life of a fellow paratrooper in his division. Beth writes about her battles with faith, occasional clashes with her headstrong daughter, Emily, and all the people and events that remind her of James. While he's away, his young wife gives birth to his first son--and James doesn't even know his name. Though well-meaning friends encourage Beth to move on, she refuses to give up on her son. So for two long years, Beth prays, cuddles her grandson, and writes letters.
One day, just as Beth is leaving her house, she sees a car pull up onto their long driveway. She knows that the Army has come to officially tell her that her son is dead. Breaking down completely, she doesn’t realize that the man who is knocking at the door, who is now standing over her helping her up, the man who wears the insignia of a captain—is her son. In his hands are the letters she wrote to him. He recounts the words she told him before he went off to basic training—to stay safe and make it home.
With so many American soldiers overseas today, Letters from War is an emotional and relevant story that readers can relate to on several levels. The story grabs the reader from the very beginning as they connect with Beth throughout her ride of uncertainty.
Plus, kicking off on September 22, in Zanesville, Ohio, the “Letters From War” Tour, sponsored by Food For The Hungry, is hitting the road this fall with Mark Schultz, 33 Miles and special guest Finding Favour. Celebrating God & country in support of Mark Schultz’s novella by the same name, the “Letters From War” tour will inspire audiences with a variety of fan favorites from Mark Schultz and 33 Miles. Schultz will also play songs from his debut instrumental album Renaissance.
A current list of tour dates can be found at www.MarkSchultzMusic.com, www.33milesonline.com, or www.findingfavourmusic.com/.
"The first time I heard Mark Schultz's song, 'Letters from War,' I was speechless. Now, seeing the heart of that message poured into a full-length novel, I'm not just speechless, but amazed at the sacrifice our men and women in uniform--and their families--so willingly make to protect our freedom. Thanks, Mark, for reminding us all of the cost of liberty."
-- Dave Ramsey, host of The Dave Ramsey Show, bestselling author of The Total Money Makeover
"The first time I met Mark Schultz I heard him sing in Estes Park. He closed out his set with 'Letters from War' accompanied by a very moving music video. I wept when I listened and watched the story unfold. What makes Mark special is that he is an advocate through song and story for the forgotten people of this world. He causes us to see our story in theirs, uniting through brokenness and hope. Letters from War is a must read."
-- Sandi Patty, Women of Faith speaker, most awarded female vocalist in Christian music history
"As Americans we understand and admire the courage and strength of our military, but now Mark Schultz has taken us into the hearts of these freedom fighters. We, as the reader, can almost feel the love, worry, and pain that they and their families experience during their service."
-- Lee Greenwood, multi-platinum-selling recording artist, Grammy Award winner, composer/singer of "God Bless the USA"
As a friend and a fan of Mark Schultz, I have always been amazed at his ability to tell a great story through his songs. With his new book, Letters from War, Mark shows that his storytelling extends far beyond his music. Once again, Mark tells a compelling story that is going to touch the hearts of those who read it."
-- Matthew West, Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Mark Schultz
2 comments:
Thank you for your review, it is very helpful.
Ha I so agree with you Linda about the song taking place at least in WW 1 or 2 or even a civil war era. I don't like the modern twist either. I picture a mom coming out in her apron (since none of us where those around any more LO!) and greeting her boy with the actual letters. Good take on it all. Love the song, but I get what you are saying about the book!
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