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There is something special about discovering a debut novel from a new author.

Perhaps this is because, as an author myself, I know how much heart and work is poured into that first novel you send into the world. And I know how much of our own history, passions, and hopes can be reflected in the pages of that story.

And so, when I had the chance to read an early review copy of Elephant Touch (Amazon Affiliate Link) by former elementary school teacher Susan R. Greenway, I didn’t want to miss out. Especially since I’m always up for an animal story!

Elephant Touch (which just released this month!) is the story of Quinn, who has been struggling with grief since the sudden loss of her mother.

Aunt Lizzie brings Quinn to a Thai elephant sanctuary in hopes that volunteering will help Quinn begin her healing journey.

Quinn’s grief is magnified when she learns about the difficult lives these elephants have faced—until an elephant named Sumana cares for Quinn’s heart in a way Quinn never expected.

When an orphaned baby elephant arrives at the sanctuary, Quinn sees an opportunity to help. But time is running out to save the elephant, and Quinn must work through her grief to find the courage she needs.

Unexpected losses can come into our lives in many different forms, but it’s hard to lose someone you love, or something you care about, or a dream or hope you had for your life. Grief can surround us and make it hard for us to know if we will ever feel like ourselves again.

But we can find healing.

In the story, Quinn’s healing begins through serving the elephants at the santuary and through her newfound community.

Not all of us will have a chance to travel to Thailand to volunteer at an elephant sanctuary, but I do think serving others (and serving animals!) can help us find healing.

But most importantly, Jesus is our source of healing.

In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul writes: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Even though Elephant Touch wasn’t a faith-based book, I found myself thinking of God’s comfort often as I read. God is our healer. He is our comforter. He walks with us through all seasons of our lives.

If you love elephants, animals, or are walking through your own healing journey, I think you’re going to love this new book.

And never forget . . . you are wonderfully created by the one who heals.

Love,
Becca