Shining Bright, The Huguenot Resistance Series, Book 3

By Janet Joanou Weiner

Description:

How can a young woman with disability contribute to the French Resistance?
Can she survive Nazi contempt?
Jeanine Bourguet resides in a château in the south of France, but her life is no fairy tale. A repressive grandmother and a wheelchair have long impeded her desire to make significant contributions to her community.

When those limitations threaten her determination to take in a young Jewish refugee, Jeanine’s lively mind and sharp sense of justice overrule her fragile body. Increasing deportations of Jewish families, food and clothing shortages, and a constant stream of Nazi propaganda present her opportunities to resist the tightening noose of Nazi control under the turncoat Vichy regime.

But will overcoming her obstacles and engaging in concrete actions even make a difference? Is she willing to risk exposing herself to imprisonment—or worse—for those she loves?

Drawing inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of her papa, her caregiver, a friend—their Huguenot ancestors—Jeanine embarks on a journey that will test her faith and challenge her with feats beyond her wildest imagination.

Book Takeaway:

No matter our limitations, we are created by God for particular purposes. When we follow and trust Him, despite considerable obstacles, we live a life of significance.

Why the author wrote this book:

The true story of Jeanine Bourguet, a small person confined to a wheelchair inspired me. She lived in the Château de Planque, through World War II and the Nazis arrival and commandeering of her home (which is where I live now.) As a descendent of the Huguenots, French Protestants who withstood massive persecution from King Louis XIV, Jeanine and her friends drew from the courage and faith of their ancestors.