Chasing Grace - by Martha Manning (Paperback)

About the Book

Named a "best bet" by "USA Today, Chasing Grace" is a hilarious and touching memoir of a Catholic childhood and a lifetime spent in pursuit of grace--from the "talented and thoughtful writer" ("New York Times") Martha Manning, author of the critically acclaimed "Undercurrents". "Poignant, witty, often caustic. . . . Manning's meditation will appeal to thoughtful readers of every persuasion".--"Library Journal".

Book Synopsis

"Poignant, witty, often caustic... Manning's meditations will appeal to thoughtful readers of every persuasion."
-- "Library Journal"

"I used to think that grace is what happens when your toast falls butter-side-up. But that's not grace, it's good fortune. Grace is what helps you celebrate the joy of a good landing and tolerate the disappointment of a bad one."
--Martha Manning

From the author of the "absolutely absorbing" ( "USA Today" ) memoir "Undercurrents" comes an unforgettable portrait of childhood, family and community. The eldest child of a devout Irish-American Catholic family, Martha Manning weaves her story around the seven holy sacraments: baptism, penance, communion, confirmation, holy orders, marriage and last rites. She recalls her childhood pratfalls, adolescent yearnings and entrance into motherhood with wisdom, wit and remarkable honesty. At once poignant and laugh-out-loud funny, "Chasing Grace" is a wholly original tale of family and friends, happy times and difficult ones -- and the painful, joyous journey from childhood to adulthood.

From the Back Cover

From the author of the "absolutely absorbing" (USA Today) memoir Undercurrents comes an unforgettable portrait of childhood, family and community. The eldest child of a devout Irish-American Catholic family, Martha Manning weaves her story around the seven holy sacraments: baptism, penance, communion, confirmation, holy orders, marriage and last rites. She recalls her childhood pratfalls, adolescent yearnings and entrance into motherhood with wisdom, wit and remarkable honesty. At once poignant and laugh-out-loud funny, Chasing Grace is a wholly original tale of family and friends, happy times and difficult ones -- and thepainful, joyous journey from childhood to adulthood.

Review Quotes

"Poignant, witty, often caustic... Manning's meditations will appeal to thoughtful readers of every persuasion." -- "Library Journal" "I used to think that grace is what happens when your toast falls butter-side-up. But that's not grace, it's good fortune. Grace is what helps you celebrate the joy of a good landing and tolerate the disappointment of a bad one." -- Martha Manning