"So, what's your book about?"
Restoring Joy could be called part memoir, part reflection on survival, and in part a peek into what it is like to live through the ongoing and isolating grief and trauma of parental alienation.
We have all had the experience of loss. It is not easy to carry, and hopefully it is made easier when it is carried with others. But what happens when the loss is silent? Grief is meant to be shared, meant to move. When it doesn’t move, it makes you sick. That is where this story begins—in the very stuck grief of a mother who had the very thing taken from her that she could not live without.
It all sounds a bit sad, but it is not a sad story!
It is set on the Camino, after all, so there is the healing miracle of communitas and there is adventure! Grief finds many wonderful companions. Joy turns up! Grace descends like an unexpected gift.
What people are saying about "JOY"
David Ramsay
Editor (Pilgrim Footprints) & Retired Journalist
Restoring Joy was truly a great read. I was hooked from page one, loved the sweet and hopeful ending, and enjoyed everything in between.
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Here’s my strange way of knowing if a book—fiction or nonfiction—is one I find exceptional. Rarely does it happen with nonfiction, which usually requires a more concentrated effort from me.
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I not only read the words, but in books I really love, the words play out in my mind much like a great film might. So I quickly go from reading the words to subconsciously translating them into images in my brain and forget I am actually reading. The pages just turn themselves. Restoring Joy did that for me.
Joe Curro,
Pilgrim Association Leader
This is a deeply spiritual book.
It is punctuated throughout with observations and epigraphs from a wide array of faith and wisdom traditions, including large helpings of Buddhist teachings... and...
Humor abounds ...
This book itself is magical, hopeful, uplifting, and well worth the read.
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Dr. Stephen F. Haller
Professor, Pilgrimage Studies
Colleen’s story of her pilgrimage manages to combine a captivating story of humourous events while sharing a personal journey of inner transformation and healing. I found myself laughing many times at her deadpan delivery of an absurd comment that often follows a serious remark about an inner struggle. It’s a good read that will leave you feeling hopeful.
Jennifer Copeland, MN RN Counsellor (OAMHP)
This heartfelt book is a gift for mothers experiencing the pain and powerlessness of estrangement.
With humour and vulnerability, Colleen shares her journey through trauma & the reclaiming of her right to live and find joy. Her story is an embodiment of the faith, trust & courage that's needed to live with grief and loss, and speaks to the possibility of the love and joy that's available alongside it. A beautiful read!
Dennis Garnhum
Author of Toward Beauty & Theatre Director
It’s delicious, delicate and thoughtful writing.
A true honour to walk with Colleen in this deeply honest book. I held my breath many times - wanting her to find the inspiration that the Camino can provide. And when does arrive, it made me grin from ear to ear.
A distinct, beautiful voice.
Rosalind Brackenbury
Writer, Poet, Pilgrim
...I wanted to be with her every step of the way. She’s great company, even in wild weather, with sore feet, living through sleepless nights with snoring companions...
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Transparent honesty, astonished delight, and a rare pleasure.
I loved this book.
Dan Mullins
Musician, Podcaster, Pilgrim
I loved every page!
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Check out Dan's interview
with Colleen on his podcast:
My Camino - the podcast
