Words We Keep
by Erin Stewart
Read if you're interested in mental health, family, or books for young adult.
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6.5
VerdictRead with discernment
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Book Summary
This young adult novel follows Lily, whose older sister Alice has schizophrenia, as Lily grapples with her family's struggles, the fear of inheriting mental illness, and her own budding romance and artistic aspirations. It explores themes of mental health, family loyalty, and finding one's voice amidst chaos.
ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
“Christian readers, particularly young adults and their parents, can approach 'Words We Keep' as a valuable tool for fostering empathy and discussing mental health challenges. It's recommended with discernment, recognizing that while it offers a humanistic perspective on resilience and family support, it does not explicitly incorporate a faith-based framework for understanding or overcoming adversity. Parents may wish to discuss the role of faith and prayer as essential components of holistic well-being with their teens after reading.”
Biblical alignment
- —Promotes empathy and understanding towards individuals and families affected by mental illness, aligning with Christian calls to compassion and care for the vulnerable.
- —Highlights the importance of community and seeking help, which can be seen as reflecting the body of Christ supporting one another.
- —Addresses the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging open dialogue and reducing shame, a value consistent with transparent and honest living.
- —Explores themes of resilience, perseverance, and hope in difficult circumstances, which resonate with Christian teachings on enduring trials.
- —Emphasizes the value of communication within families, a foundational principle for healthy relationships.
Areas of concern
- —While not overtly anti-Christian, the book's worldview does not explicitly integrate faith or Christian spiritual resources as a source of strength or guidance for coping with profound challenges like mental illness. This omission might leave Christian readers wishing for a more holistic approach.
- —Some character choices or relationships, while realistic for young adults, may not always perfectly align with Christian ideals for conduct and purity, though the book generally aims for positive messages.
- —The primary focus is on secular coping mechanisms and interpersonal relationships, without exploring how faith can provide a unique framework for understanding suffering or finding peace.
- —While advocating for self-acceptance, the narrative doesn't delve into the concept of identity in Christ, which is central to a Christian understanding of self-worth and purpose.
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