Today I’m back, featuring another Abingdon Press release, The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow, by Joyce Magnin. I must confess that when I first saw this title in the launch lineup, I knew I was in good company. Anyone who can come up with a title this good must be onto something. I generally think if I wish I’d thought of a story, it means I admire it–and with Agnes I definitely admire the clever story.

Joyce’s book dives into the world of Bright’s Pond, an anywhere USA (set in Pennsylvania) small town with a twist: a resident named Agnes Sparrow prays for miracles that seem to pop up everywhere. But when the townsfolk vote to erect a sign honoring her, and a stranger comes to town requesting his miracle, things get interesting.

Joyce’s book has already created a buzz–and they’ve had to print more to keep up with demand. We can hardly believe this is Joyce’s first novel. I love quirk and Agnes is bursting with quirk. Buy The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow, settle in with a slab of pie and get ready for a miracle. Buy the book at Amazon, any bookstore or get a big discount at www.Cokesbury.com. You’ll need to bring your own pie.