This book is the real story of how Gretchen Huijskens finds her purpose and in the process helps other women find opportunity, security, and meaning (my words). You’ll want to read every page to know the whole story.

Huijskens tells her story beautifully, including important details that place you in the scene. She tells it, giving much dignity and respect to every person in it. I loved knowing the end (creating jobs and opportunities for families to stay together) and then going back to the beginning (willing spirit, adoption, family) to see how it all came to be. This book is filled with hope, even in the midst of horrific stories of abuse and poverty (some on the page and many we know to be true). Much has been accomplished toward Huijskens’s mission and yet there is more to do. I appreciate that Huijskens allows women (Artisans) to share their own stories and gives practical ways to participate. 

I really enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. Thank you to Melanie Sunukjian for recommending Gretchen’s (we have many things in common so now on a first name basis 😀) book to me. Melanie knows I love real stories and this one is not only real, but really good! I’ll be speaking with Gretchen soon on The Commons with Karla podcast. If you are a woman who likes memoir and wants to make an impact, read this and be inspired. Know your values. Create a vision. Take action.  Check out Trades of Hope and support women whenever you can.