Freeing Grace
Norman, CharityWhat's best for Grace? This question is at the heart of this story that considers the fate of a mixed race baby. Following the sudden death of her young mother, the scene is set with plenty of scope to explore the complex issues and dilemmas of adoption. On one side are an infertile couple, and on the other, the dysfunctional family of Grace's teenage father. With its realistic characters and easy to read style, this is an engrossing and compassionate novel about making difficult choices. [Larger font]
Comments from Groups
We all enjoyed this book. The author made use of all her experiences in life, and covered the subject of adoption from all sides - birth parents, adoptive parents and adoption agencies and the moral dilemmas faced by all. Lower 004 A few of us could relate to this well written novel, having either chosen adoption for a better life for a child, or required the adopton to create a family - traumatic but rewarding. Te Koro 001 A most enjoyable and well written book. Everyone agreed that the characterisation was really well captured. Waiheke 001 Nice light read. Auckland 178 Everyone enjoyed the book and it promoted lots of intereting discussion. Many of the group could relate to this book in different ways. Aria 001 Wonderful book providing lively feedback, some rather poignant. Wanganui 005 This was considered one of the best books we have read. A must read. Auckland 217 Although we all read it and quite enjoyed it, we felt it was rather a chick-lit book. It did have some interesting discussions though. Auckland 172Mixed reception. Some thought it too far-fetched. Others thoroughly enjoyed it. Good discussion about adoption. Amberley 002
Pages
355
355
Year
2010
2010
Reviews
23-11-2023
Easy but well-written novel on the complexities of adoption from both sides.
27-07-2023
Generally enjoyed by the group, with a few reservations. Good characters.
19-07-2023
Mixed reactions to this book, but the content still generated discussion.
30-03-2023
We all found 'Freeing Grace' to be an easy read - we have enjoyed all of Charity Norman's books. We did find that this one was almost a one sided dilemma compared to other books, but it still provoked discussion on the rights of birth parents vs. the stability and wellbeing of the child.
16-05-2022
We really enjoyed this book and felt it was well-written. An interesting mix of characters. It dealt with adoption, social workers, and the emotions of both the adoptive parents and the biological father really well. Led to a very lively discussion. A great read.
24-09-2021
A great book enjoyed by all.
21-07-2021
Everybody really enjoyed this month's book. A first for us for this year.
29-08-2020
An impressive read that was well received by all.
27-08-2018
A little predictable, but generally an enjoyable easy read.
27-08-2018
Could see it as a movie!
27-08-2018
Expecting an average read, (chick lit) this novel improved as it went along. As with other competent writers, Charity Norman used her own background experiences to give authenticity to the story. A meaty topic giving views about the trials and heartbreaks which occur in such incidences, adoption can be fraught with difficulties, but with good characterisation and a well thought out plan, this made an interesting read. Some predictability helped the conclusion. A good first novel.
27-08-2018
Animated discussion - everyone enjoyed the book. We didn't think it was a 'light' read but it was easy to read. The character Jake was a likeable rogue, and he tied everything together. We felt the characters all had hidden depths, and that the story covered several emotive issues.
27-08-2018
This was a light read, which many of the group liked, although a couple felt that it didn't have enough depth. The book generated good discussion about the obsession and sadness of those who can't conceive a child, and about adoption. There was general liking for Leila and David, and the Kiwi character Jake was successful, both as a character and as a Kiwi.
27-08-2018
We loved the book. The insight into both sides of the adoption process was awesome. You were left feeling for everyone involved.
27-08-2018
Great book to read. A little bit 'conveniently' wrapped up at the end.