JUST AS I AM
by Virginia Smith
When Mayla Strong decided to go down the center aisle of Salliesburg Independent Christian Church, she made an impression. After all, Mayla sported purple hair and multiple body piercings. But Pastor Paul welcomes her with open arms and baptizes her on the spot.
Mayla in sincere in her new found faith, but somewhat stunned by her friends less than enthusiastic acceptance. She is the laughing stock at parties, her roommate is openly hostile, and her co-worker belligerent. But Mayla stands firm, and starts to make an impression on her friends.
Then her openly homosexual neighbor tells Mayla that a friend of his is dying from AIDS and that it’s the Christian duty to visit the sick. Mayla is hesitant, but agrees to visit Alex. Can she make a difference in a dying man’s life?
JUST AS I AM is the debut novel of Ginny Smith and it’s a keeper. I was a bit put off at first when Pastor Paul baptizes Mayla without even seeing if she’s saved or not, but he made that right as he led her to salvation right there in the baptismal. Otherwise, I am thoroughly impressed by JUST AS I AM.
JUST AS I AM is humorous at times, heart-tugging, and convicting. Even though a new Christian, Mayla is so excited about her new faith she can’t wait to tell the world. I think every Christian, new or old, should read JUST AS I AM. It is life changing. I can’t wait to read more by this talented author. $12.99. 221 pages.
Reviewed by Laura V. Hilton
editor September 4, 2008
I started backward, and read the sequel first, but enjoyed it so well that I was excited to go back to read this one. I cannot tell you how long it has been since I have read a book that made me cry, but this one definitely was successful with that more than once. This is such a great story!
I’ve enjoyed Ginny Smith’s books for a while now, but this just makes me like her all the more. As a 23 year old, former punk/goth teenager, I can tell you from experience that her books with Mayla hit home. The sequel was good with certain topics, but this one is just fabulous.
Mayla’s story is really that of an alternative young person finding Christ and starting their life as a Christian. Not everyone has the same background and this book is great for all people whether they were brought up in the Church or know nothing about it.
I’d recommend this book to teens, young adults, older adults (to understand the younger) and anyone really. I strongly recommend it for people to read who are not Christian. It might show a good insight to how things “can” be.
Margaret (MJ) Chind
Creative Madness – Quilts & Book Reviews
cherryblossommj@gmail.com
http://cherryblossommj.blogspot.com