Book Review: "An Ordinary Story of Extraordinary Hope" by Ken R. Abell

It is my distinguished honor today to review a published book by one of our fellow hubbers, Ken R. Abell! Many of you read and follow Ken, and I imagine many of you have had the distinct privelege of having him read your work. Ken was one of the very first to welcome me to the hub community, and ever since I have been overjoyed to read his compelling stories. Ken has an amazing storytelling ability; he is one of the few true storytellers left in the world who put you in the moment. As a thirty something woman from a small town in Idaho, it wouldn't seem like I would be able to relate to a tough young boy learning how to box, yet when Ken shared Truths My Father Told Me, I really felt like I was there. Whether it be a heartbreaking story of tragic loss or a humorous retelling of a steelworker's adventures, the reader is instantly transformed into Ken's world. You aren't reading about it.....you are experiencing it.

So when I found out that Ken had published a book, I was instantly intrigued! I ordered the book and impatiently awaited its arrival. When the book arrived, I couldn't put it down. By the way, the cover art is lovely, (cover design by Matthew Stock); I know they say to never judge a book by it's cover, but anyone who knows anything about marketing will tell you that's a bunch of hooey.

"An Ordinary Story of Extraordinary Hope" is anything but an ordinary story. In the first few chapters, your heart will break over and over again as you learn of the heartbreaking tragedy that Ken has faced in his life, much of it in a very short time span. However, along with all of the tragedy, there always lurks that certain something....hope. I don't want to ruin the story for you, as I really think I would be doing you a disservice if I tell all and you don't read the book, so I will simply say that in the face of adversity, trials, and tears, Ken finds hope in unlikely places, and finds himself embarking on a spiritual journey that he never expected to follow.

If you have ever grappled with your spirituality, if tragedy or loss has touched your life, you very much need to read this book. Everyone has a purpose in life, and regardless of your faith, denomination, beliefs, background, etc. we all must travel our own unique path in order to unearth our individual purpose. Being invited to share in Ken's journey to do just that was an experience that I will never forget, and I truly hope you will all do the same.

Thank you, Ken, for sharing your amazing story with the world, and I wish you the best of success in your endeavors!