Here If You Need Me: A True Story

Braestrup’s narration about her work as a chaplain with Maine’s fish and game wardens is filled with the same comfort she offers those she ministers to. Her friendly, easygoing northeastern-accented voice is instantly soothing whether she is talking about the happy outcome of a search-and-rescue mission or her husband’s tragic death, which spurred her on the road to her new job. Her reading has an often prayerful cadence, though she goes easy on Bible quotation and her discussions of theological issues are so wise and well-thought-out that even the nonreligious won’t be put off. Mixed with cute stories about raising her four kids, she offers keenly observed anecdotes about what she’s seen on the job, accompanying wardens as they pick up fishermen without permits or search for kids lost in the woods. “My job is so cool,” Braestrup repeats often, and her enthusiasm comes through clearly in her lively narration. Whether listeners are in need of a reassuring voice, Braestrup’s brief memoir embraces in a most welcome, heartwarming way. Simultaneous release with the Little, Brown hardcover (Reviews, Apr. 23). (Aug.)