As their children drift away from them and the values they've attempted to teach, they are forced to examine themselves and their faith, and to take action. When tragedy strikes, they find they must work on their relationships with God as much as their relationships with their children.

Coupled with the book's release is a major motion picture of the same name. Some readers will see the movie and be drawn to the book; others will wonder whether reading the book is necessary. I've not seen the movie, but I have read the book. In this case, I'd recommend reading the book in addition to whatever your viewing choice.

Why? Because the book, although sparse in narrative and heavy on dialogue, is a guy writing about guys and relationships. Not too many books are written in that vein in this era. It's interesting to see the world of faith, love and parenting through a guy's lens.

Also, this is above all a story about parenting. Although directed at fathers, the message is one for all parents. It got me to thinking, as a mother, about whether I'm a good or "good enough" parent and what I would need to do to move further along the spectrum toward good. The message to be more deliberate and more immediate in our interactions with our children is one all parents can appreciate.

The characterizations in COURAGEOUS both break type and are stereotypical. The primary African-American character is Nathan Hayes, one of the four officers and one whose insights help pull the other characters together. The primary Hispanic character, a secondary character, services the lawn. But all of the stories are believable, particularly for those who subscribe to faith in a God that has real and unexpected involvement in their everyday lives.

COURAGEOUS is a solid, inspirational read.

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