In a previous book dealing with spiritual growth (Taking Root), the author illuminated her journey to Christianity after a childhood spent within a secular home. In this memoir Wurtele, co-founder of Ruminator Books, beautifully describes how the death of her only child darkened her life and tested her religious awakening. An avid mountain climber, Phil, the author's 22-year-old son, was a summer intern at Washington State's Mount Rainier Park. He was killed with a ranger on a rescue mission to assist an injured climber. Interspersed with moving portraits of Phil's short life, the author's memories of the pain that consumed her during this first year of mourning. She was fortunate to have the love and support of her husband (Phil's stepfather) as well as a good relationship with three grown stepchildren who became even closer to her after Phil's accident. It was, however, Wurtele's commitment to religion that provided her with the sustenance to go on during this difficult time. Wurtele found emotional relief in a retreat that she took at the Episcopal House of Prayer and in exploring the writings of John of the Cross. Ecumenical in her outlook, she also attended another retreat conducted by a Catholic priest who had studied Zen meditation intensively. Wurtele shares the dreams and visions of Phil that came to her during this period as well as the deepening faith that gave her the courage to accept her adventurous son's death. (Feb.)
