I think I have covered all Parrish's books by now....this one did not disappoint. Very compelling story told in parallel between past and present -- and the point where that intersects is a scar that needs healing. The book raises big questions of identity, of trust, of overcoming fear. How do people move on when they experience tragedy? Who helps out along the way? When a group of unlikely characters come together (and together again) life transforms in unexpected ways. (Trying not to give too much away here!)The ending isn't a happy perfect solution, but it is meaningful and meant to be. ( )

4.5 stars rounded up to 5

Molly Fisk is nearly 18, but never goes outside. She and her mother run a wax museum on an island in Maine, and while she used to run, she feels safe only in the museum. She finds herself attracted to a young boy who works in a pizza place across the street, but is unsure how he feels about her.

Seven years previously, Claire was grieving for her three dead children three years later, her husband had divorced her not long after they died in a car accident. She does crossword puzzles, constructs puzzles, but does little else until one day she feels drawn toward a silent girl on a swing in a park who talks to her. She becomes part of this little girl's therapy until one day the girl and her mother vanish.

Although the description on the book, not quite what I've written here, sounds a bit cheesy, the book is anything but. Not everything is a surprise, of course, nor is it really meant to be, but while it doesn't take long to connect the dots, it does take time for everything to unfold and there is more to this book than meets the eye. What I loved about this book were the people; I cared about them and was bawling more than once, but also happy more than once. This is definitely one of Parrish's better books. ( )

I don't even know where to start with this review. I fell in love with the characters and the writing in this book from the moment I started reading the book. I love how the author set up the book and how you are walked through what happened to the little girl and also what happened to Claire. I spent the whole book hoping that things would work out for the both of them and that they both could find the healing that they needed. The author does a great job of describing what is going on and also she does a even better job with her characters. I was sad to see this book end because I really enjoyed the characters and watching they develop as the story went along. ( )

Emotionally charged, riveting look at the hurts of this world alongside the miracles of God — that’s what you get in Christa Parrish’s The Air We Breath. Parrish’s novel will touch your heart.

Hanna is just 11 when her dream life becomes a nightmare. Her father and her security are ripped from her, and she enters a world that is easier to face silent and locked away. A chance encounter with Claire, a woman dealing with her own demons, gets her talking again, but the strain on her relationship with her mother brings a very uneasy peace.

Hanna and Claire both deal with survivor’s guilt. They blame their own actions for the results of another’s sin and the consequences of a fallen world. They both know God is there, but are unsure of just how much grace one is allotted in a lifetime. Both struggles, born out of extreme circumstances, nevertheless resonate with the reader. Does God always answer and can we really expect Him to work through all the things in our lives?

The Air We Breathe is beautifully written. The chapters alternate between Claire and Hanna/Molly’s characters and two different time periods, giving the reader glimpses into past actions and present results. The characters are complex and flawed, causing the reader to alternately feel empathy and frustration. This book would be a great addition for any book club.

The Air We Breathe is nominated for a Christy Award. The ceremony is tonight, and I look forward to finding out if the judges were as blown away as I was by this book.

Highly Recommended.

Great for Book Clubs.

(I received The Air We Breathe from Bethany House in return for a review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )

I will not look at museums the same way again. I have never enjoyed wax museums, but after reading this novel, I might be prepared to wander into one again. Christa does a fantastic job of bringing the reader into the mind of the characters. Because of circumstances, Molly does not venture outside of the four walls of the museum, but she does have friends, and she talks to the wax creations. I felt the dust cling to me as I crouched in the dark places with Molly, and heard the unique alarm that went off when someone rambled into the building. The musty smell of old things, of wax heated, of mold only caused the creepy noises to be louder in the old edifice. Molly's Mom was protecting her in the only way she knew.
Am I enough aware of those around me, that when there is someone silently crying out for a friend that I am willing to reach out to them? Must I have been in the same situations, and have had the same things happen to me in order for me to have empathy and to help? Can I feel their cry, or am I so self absorbed that I am unconscious of those in need?
This is the first novel of Christa's that I have read, but I will be looking for her where fine books are sold!

I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers and Julie Warkentin for the purpose of reviewing. A positive critique was not required! The opinions stated are my own. ( )