Lying Awake


Mark Salzman
Contemporary Fiction
September, 2000
Alfred A. Knopf
ISBN: 0-375-40632-8


Sister John of the Cross has found God and peace after a period of empty dryness, lasting more years than anyone should have to endure. She hears and sees His presence in multiple ways which remain her comfort and inspiration for her daily life as a cloistered Carmelite nun. The inspiration moves her to write a book which becomes an instant and long-lasting best seller, touching the hearts and minds of thousands of readers.

Suddenly, Sister John discovers she is ill and her illness may prove her God-inspired moments to be nothing more than madness or a byproduct of her illness. We, the readers, see through a very realistic window into the simply blessed and irritating life of this close-knit community's daily existence. We wonder, question, rejoice, and yes, even suffer with this awakening woman's doubts and honest inquiry into her past and present experiences. Are her holy moment's a development from prayer, a scarred and empty younger life, blessed moments, or the effect of this newly found cross? The reader finds he or she has to make a medical decision. How do we know which decision is right or wrong?

This is a small (187 pages) but rich presentation by an author who manages to fully enter the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of every novel he pens.

I read this book in one sitting, and promise you the same total immersion and enjoyment which too quickly passed. The only negative thing I experienced was that it had to end.

Happy Reading!



Viviane Crystal



January, 01
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