Book review: 'The Legacy Letters' is a sentimental read

By Shelby Scoffield For the Deseret News Published: Saturday, Feb. 22 2014 4:00 p.m. MST

Carew Papritz is the author of "The Legacy Letters." He will be in the Salt Lake City area for book signings Feb. 28 and March 1 & 2. (thelegacyletters.com)

"THE LEGACY LETTERS," by Carew Papritz, King Northern Publishing, $21.95, 224 pages (f)

"The Legacy Letters" by Carew Papritz is a powerful novel about forgiveness and love. The book is made up of letters written by a dying man. All the letters are addressed to the man's children, and they are full of encouragement and advice.

Papritz begins by introducing the reader to the man writing the letters. Little is known about his situation except that he is separated from his wife. Shortly after his divorce, he learns not only that he is dying of cancer but also that his wife is expecting twins.

Desperate to help his children know him after he dies, the man begins to write letters. Each letter shares his memories, favorite stories and instructions for how they should approach their life.

The letters also share his deep love for his wife. The man expresses his regret and describes his journey to redemption. These thoughts ultimately lead his wife down the path of forgiveness.

"The Legacy Letters" is an emotional read that is reminiscent of books such as "Tuesdays with Morrie" and "Five People You Meet in Heaven."

One of the best letters in the book talks about the beautiful nature with which God has blessed us. The man encourages his children to never take for granted the simple blessings of rain falling or a sunset. He writes, "What a pretty evening. A little bit of God sprinkled everywhere."

Several themes are sprinkled throughout the book. The most prominent is the theme that love is precious and is to be handled with care.

The man reminisces about things such as his first kiss, Christmas in the snow, his family and playing his guitar. These stories add a personal feel to the letters and show the reader what kind of life the man led.

All in all, "The Legacy Letters" is a quick and sentimental read. It has no inappropriate language and no violence or innuendo.

Published: Saturday, Feb. 22 2014 4:00 p.m. MST

Shelby Scoffield has a bachelor's degree in English from Brigham Young University and a master's in rhetoric and composition from Stanislaus State University. She is currently working on her teaching credentials so she can teach high school English.