The Long Way Around
Published 2016
Based on the incredible true story of Derek and Kristy Johnson…
Just when things seem to be going well for Gina (a.k.a. Kristy) and for Brett (a.k.a. Derek), both of their worlds come crashing down around them. Gina loses her husband, Andy, to the monster called cancer. Brett loses his wife, Kara, unexpectedly to an unknown heart condition during a tumor removal surgery. Both are left with baby boys to care for and their faith, to which they cling desperately.
Luckily, the story doesn’t end there. Gina’s mother encourages her to contact Brett, figuring the two can help each other through their similar tragedies. When Gina decides to heed her mother’s advice by sending a letter to Brett, little does she know that her letter of encouragement would begin a friendship and later spark a relationship rooted in faith, understanding, and hope. As Gina and Brett continue their correspondence, the reader watches a touching love story unfold, where God brings beauty out of the ashes.
What an honor and blessing it was to read the story [The Long Way Around] and remember how faithful God was to their family. I felt encouraged and strengthened in my faith just by reading the book. I can only imagine it has done and will do the same for many others. It made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me appreciate those around me. The book also reminded me to continue to pray for the Johnson Family as they are in Papua New Guinea and away from family and friends. I could go on and on, but suffice it to say, the book was wonderful. Thank you for putting their story to words in such an honoring way.
We just got home from vacation where I gave my four college friends a copy of the book [The Long Way Around]. Stan and I thought it was very well written. Thanks for sharing your talent in this way.