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

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