Summer of the Ladybugs - by Marilyn Wragg (Paperback)

About the Book

This concise book explores early seasons of grief and shares ways to move forward with hope. A bonus section has questions for further reflection or group discussion.

Book Synopsis

"Grandma, Daddy used to take me over to my school to hunt for ladybugs. Do you think we could do that?"

That simple request from the author's 8-year-old granddaughter melted her heart. The days of ladybug hunting that ensued over that first summer after the death of her adult son brought healing, hope, and stirrings of the joy she trusted eventually would return to their lives, even as she remained in the throes of grief.

Summer of the Ladybugs shares the author's journey through those difficult, early seasons of grief, which are filled with so many tender "firsts."

From initial shock and disbelief-"Dear God, our son can't really be gone"-to gradual lifting of the fog... From being able to manage only the very next thing-"One step at a time, one foot in front of the other"-to gradually becoming able to plan for a day and then a week... The author shares challenges and heartaches common to intense grief, along with encouragement and simple suggestions to get through and keep moving forward.

Intentionally designed to be manageably brief, the book is written in terms that are easy for the grieving mind to process. Also included is a bonus section with questions to facilitate further reflection or group discussion on principles and practices for getting through grief.

Written by one of many fellow climbers farther down the road of grief, Summer of the Ladybugs offers to those in earlier seasons the assurance that, "If they got through it, I can too."

Review Quotes

"Summer of the Ladybugs is a short, little book that provides a big bang. Marilyn, who like all great authors exposes her heart to the world, writes about her continuing struggle with grief in the aftermath of her son David's passing into Heaven after a battle with cancer in his early 30s.

This is a beautifully written and uplifting look inside the heart and faith of an extremely spiritual woman.

If you are experiencing grief right now or know someone who is, get this book. In the rare circumstance that you have never had a tragedy in your life, get this book so you will know how to help someone who is suffering from grief.

Great things sometime come in small packages. That certainly was my experience today!"

"I got your book today and read it immediately! Thank you for baring your soul and heart but especially thank you for sharing your faith!"