DONNA SMITH | Akateeminen Kirjakauppa

Both humorous and thought-provoking, these stories are aptly called parables because they teach life lessons. Each story, in its rudimentary form, is true, but the author embellishes almost beyond belief. Three main characters have frightening experiences prompting a timely rescue by a no-nonsense, somewhat whimsical and kindly spirit, Hattie, who usually appears as a nurse in a pristine white uniform. She disappears as quickly as she arrives leaving her subjects mystified. Dinah, Claire, and Lydia are introduced with their own stories in the first three segments. The three meet in the fourth and final segment when they are overwhelmed and overjoyed to be greeted by their spirited guide, Hattie. She reviews their respective lives, citing accomplishments, skills, and talents, but most of all how each has made a difference by meeting a human need. Hattie gives them meaningful gifts and explains how they will be using them during their next level of existence.