A Search for Purple Cows: A True Story of Hope

Awarded the grand prize in the 2012 Inspiring Voices Book Publishing Contest, Call's debut memoir tells a story of escalating abuse at the hands of her husband that echoes that of other abused women. His alcoholism and jealousy create a toxic home environment that slowly isolates Call from family, friends, and even coworkers. When their former au pair comes for a visit and her husband reveals an ongoing affair with the woman and demands Call welcome her into their home, she knows she needs a safe exit for herself and her children. As she rebuilds a normal life, Call works to understand and give forgiveness, rebuild trust, and even help her children develop a good relationship with their father. The ways she sees God intervene to keep her safe and provide for her needs as a single parent give Call hope that through prayer, the impossible is possible. While the text makes few connections to the title, her story is a beacon of hope. (Oct.)