Wednesday 28 September 2011

Will we always have the poor and needy with us?

On the one hand I'm very excited about my new novel "Charlotte's Angel", being released. It's one of my favourite stories, and certainly important for those who've read Mary's Guardian, as it's the continuing story of William and Mary. But Charlotte's Angel is also the story of the next generation of Australians - those born to the survivors of the First Fleet. Charlotte, I believe, is a character who will capture the hearts of readers. However, hers is also a story which makes me remember again that generation after generation we continue to have living amongst us those who are vulnerable, endangered and at risk. In my writing of Mary's Guardian I think I've likened our earliest convict settlers to our current boat people; men and women who had to prove themselves worthy of acceptance and decency in a strange world, and who had to find extraordinary courage, faith and determination to survive. The children they bore were fortunate if their parents had the moral and spiritual fortitude to survive in healthy and safe ways. That didn't always happen of course, and so Charlotte's early life was anything but wholesome or safe. Hers is the story of growing up in a broken home, amidst violence and immorality. So sad that this is still so prevalent today, and if Jesus's warning to us is anything to go by, then we will always have these vulnerable and needy ones with us. In Charlotte's Angel I've tried to write a story of hope for the needy and a challenge for those of us who have the opportunity and the resources to reach out and touch their lives; to be God's angels to those in need who cross our paths. 

17 comments:

  1. Love your writing Carol. And I appreciate your research and great efforts to bring the reality of our nations roots. Thanks

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  2. Sounds great Carol. We are so blessed to be born here and we need to share what we have with those in need- being Gods angels where ever we are. :)

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  3. That's a lovely, yet challenging thought, Carol. As a historical writer, I appreciate all the research you've done to make this book authentic. Yes, true faction!

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  4. A sobering thought, Carol. I didn't realise "Charlotte's Angel" was already available. Can't wait to get hold of it.

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  5. Im about to read it this week cant wait as I loved Mary's Guardian.

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  6. Hi Carol, congrats on the release of Charlotte's Angel! Your book sounds like a fascinating read :)

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  7. Amen to that Carol. I loved Mary's Guardian and can't wait to read this one too :) My heart aches for the refugees that arrive on the boats. Every time I can't help but wonder what it would be like if it was our own family. Thanks for the thoughtful post.

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  8. I worry that the burgeoning human population, and the attendant problems that that causes, may increase the proportion of poor and needy people compared to current Western standards. If so, calls for us to be more sensitive to those in need, including via fiction such as this, will become increasingly important.

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  9. Congratulations on your release! Can't wait to read it ;) Historicals are my fave!!!

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  10. It is sad how fashions change but not lives. So many people still in poverty, still living in ugly situations...praise God our own children are being raised by parents who know God and His truth.

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  11. Thanks for the comments. I hope you all enjoy Charlotte's Angel

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  12. Very happy for you, Carol. I pray that the Lord will use your book to speak to many hearts.

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  13. It's a much needed challenge so thanks for that, Carol. 'Charlotte's Angel' sounds a great book! Congratulations!
    Anusha

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  14. Hi Carol, I have both Mary's Guardian & Charlotte's Angel beside my bed - looking forward to reading them both ;)

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  15. Just had the lovely news that Mary's Guardian has become a finalist in the CALAB fiction awards. It's such an encouragement. I hope Charlotte's Angel is as well received.

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  16. You are right Carol, we will always have the poor amongst us. In this land of milk and honey it’s important to remember to share the prosperity and blessing. Australia and Australians have a history of doing this. Congratulations on being a finalist in the CALAB

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