Please, no zits! by Anne Bradshaw

Recently I read Anne Bradshaw's latest release: Please, no zits! a collection of short stories. The stories are about LDS youth and the many challenges they face. I enjoyed each story, from fifteen-year-old Gabe participating in a Primary Nativity much to his chagrin, to Cody who faces the consequences of cheating, to Kimberly who finds a useful way to spend her time while “waiting” for a missionary.

Unique to these stories is the setting. They take place all over the world: Scotland, England, Utah, Connecticut, Ireland, etc. The author has a great writing style (being from England herself) and has a talent for developing characters that draw you in immediately.

Without being preachy or hitting you over the head with moral advice, Please, no zits! is a great read for teens and adults alike. The stories are inspiring and true to life. I love the frank way that the author approaches difficult topics like a non-member boyfriend, a non-supportive father, and coming back from drug-addition. You’ll find lots of humor, some sadness, and plenty of inspiration.

Terracotta Summer & Chamomile Winter by Anne Bradshaw

Terracotta Summer, the first book in Anne Bradshaw's series about the British O'Shea family, is a very interesting read. I love to learn about other cultures and countries, so it was intriguing to read about the LDS O'Shea family--their struggles and triumphs are universal. The characters are very fresh and I immediately liked them. The family starts out in Manchester, England, then life disperses them to Scotland, Northern Ireland, and America.

Of course after reading Terracotta Summer, I wanted more of the story, so I was happy to learn about the sequel, Camomile Winter. This novel focuses on Patrick, who gets mixed up in the Irish Republican Army. I found the political insights very interesting, and I also enjoyed the continuation of Rosie's story--and how she finds closure to her troubled childhood.

The most compelling aspect of these books are the way they are written--in true British style. The different language usuage and culture idiosyncrasies are quite fascinating. From what I understand, these books have been out for awhile and the best place to find them is from Amazon.com or the authors site: www.annebradshaw.com