A review of Blended Families An Anthology by W.H. McDonald, Jr. of The American Author Association

Few books actually address the real concerns and issues facing "blended families"; those are the new families that come about through the remarriages of parents. In her book Blended Families: An Anthology, Valerie L. Coleman complies a group of outstanding short essays, life experiences and even a couple of fictional tales that fully illustrate this new family status. She starts off with her own personal story and some of the issues and problems that she ran into. This story alerts the reader that this is not going to be an easy task for most couples that want to build a new family; great faith and love will be needed.

The anthology is not only entertaining, interesting and full of little personal wisdoms but it is also an inspirational look through the eyes of a Christian. There are also some practical tools and biblical principles at work in the editing process as Coleman places appropriate Bible passages for the stories.

The book is an insightful look at the real world of modern life. It is a well written and intelligently edited. The book has a place on the bookshelves of all divorced and remarried parents. You will find that you are not alone; and some of those very issues that you may be facing others have already experienced. Their experiences and thoughts just may be of help to you in working out your own family issues. I recommend this book for Christian families who are dealing with this same kind of issues.

Reviews of Blended Families An Anthology 

“No one can give a better perspective of blended families than one who has a first-hand account. In this eye-opening anthology, a wealth of talent combines with a wealth of experience and the end result is heartwarming, empowering and inspiring! Each offering, be it scripturally based or a slice of the author’s own reality, will give the reader a better understanding of what family is really all about.”

~Kendra Norman Bellamy, Essence bestselling author of Crossing Jhordan's River and More Than Grace

"Valerie Coleman provides an opportunity to learn and become more sensitive to the challenges of those living in blended families. This book is a quality resource for pastors, ministers and lay persons."

~Marion Witcher, author of Sowing My Tears, Reaping His Joy

"Blended Families An Anthology brilliantly illustrates the obstacles and triumphs that often occur within blended families. Each story serves as a powerful testimony of God’s love and encourages believers to forge ahead with confidence. This book will positively impact all who are open to receive the messages it relays."

~Lynel Johnson Washington, freelance editor

"Blended Families An Anthology was filled with words of wisdom and grateful advice, opening my eyes to a very different side of the word ‘family.’ One learns that although ‘bad things may happen’ there is always hope and a way to repair damages of the heart and soul, if two people really want to make it work. I was captivated and moved from the first story to the last, realizing as I read this anthology that with a lot of love and faith, families have a way of healing. Blended Families An Anthology is definitely an anthology worth reading and treasuring for centuries to come.

~Sylvia Hubbard, author and founder of Motown Writers Network