by: Linda Mae Baldwin

Dancing Word Reviewer

Title: Color the Sidewalk for Me

Author: Brandilyn Collins
Publisher: Zondervan
ISBN: 0-310-24242-8

Genre: Inspirational/Contemporary/Fiction

Brandilyn Collins weaves a riveting story whenever she writes, but Color the Sidewalk for Me is especially moving. The book is lengthy, yet I finished it in two sittings, I just couldn't put it down.

Color the Sidewalk, tells the story of a regular family in small town Bradleyville. Focusing on the life journey of heroine, Celia, a determined young woman who has long since buried any reminder of her painful childhood, deep in her heart. Now, Celia, a very successful advertising executive, is unable to establish a long lasting relationship and finds herself far from God. Her career is her life.

When the call comes from her estranged mother, will Celia be able to put the pain of past years behind her and respond to the plea? Even if it means leaving behind the safe life she has so carefully constructed?

Although the book is set both in the past and the present, Collins has skillfully sectioned off each time frame, so the reader never feels lost.

The characters, Celia, Mama, Daddy, Grandad, Jake, Kevy and Danny all touched my heart. I experienced the pain, joy and angst of each. In fact, I found myself pulling for each one, which is unusual because they were often at odds with each other. Collins writes endearing and real characters. As I finished the last chapter I found myself reading slower, not wanting to say goodbye to these dear ones!

Color the Sidewalk For Me is one of the best books I've read this year. Christian fiction is often described as boring, not entertaining or compelling. Sometimes Christian fiction is just too religious or preachy. You'll not find this with Brandilyn's books. (I recently also read her book, Eyes of Elisha, and was not disappointed.)

Collin's name will be one I eagerly look for in bookstores. I have no doubt we will see her on the bestsellers list once again. She is a consummate storyteller and the Christian message is always unmistakable in her books.

My favorite line in the book? "Please don't choose the world over me, even after what I've done."