‘Sensible Shoes’ author to talk about, sign second novel
Sharon Garlough Brown, author of the bestselling "Sensible Shoes," will be at Baker Book House on September 24 to talk about her newest novel, "Two Steps Forward: A Story of Persevering in Hope."This sequel continues the stories of Hannah, Meg, Mara and Charissa, the characters who embarked on spiritual journeys in "Sensible Shoes." Each one faced her own struggles in life, and each one grew and changed, with their stories continuing into the new novel.
"The desire to write was a way to process what was going on in my world," said Brown, who is co-pastor with her husband Jack at Redeemer Covenant Church in Dutton. "The dream went dormant for a long time, until I finally that the sense that it was the right time."
She started writing "Sensible Shoes" in December 2008, and it was released by Westbow, a self-publishing company, in 2010. The novel was rereleased by traditional publisher InterVarsity Press in the Crescendo line in 2013.
"I had finished 'Sensible Shoes' when it came to me that my characters were processing pain from the past, but nothing traumatic had happened while they were under my care," said Brown. "I had a sense that God was saying to me, 'Will you trust me with the unraveling of their lives?'"
"Two Steps Forward" has each woman facing crises in their lives, growing through them, and moving closer to each other and God through the tough times.
"I was deepening my trust in God with the characters in the second book," said Brown. "The surprises were fists to the gut and I was doubled over with them. I know there will be readers who will be upset because it isn't tidy."
Not to worry, though. Brown is working on book 3, tentatively titled "Barefoot: A Story of Surrendering to God."
"Sensible Shoes" and "Two Steps Forward" will be available for purchase at the Baker Book House event. Brown plans to introduce a spiritual practice the audience can walk through with her, answer questions, and introduce "Two Steps Forward."
The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. Visit or call the bookstore at 616-957-3110 to reserve your spot.
If You Go:
Event: An Evening Retreat with Sharon Brown
Date: Thursday, September 24
Time: 7 pm
Details: Door prizes, book signing, refreshments; RSVP at the store or call 616-957-3110
