"God Doesn't Write with a Pen" by Christi Lynn Pauline

With his country on the brink of civil war, Blema Fangamou fears for the lives of his family. God Doesn’t Write with a Pen recounts the many miracles the Fangamou family from West Africa has witnessed over the years, despite war and separation from each other. The Fangamous help readers lift their faith and recognize miracles in their own lives.

Guinea-Bissau, West Africa, is war-torn and chaotic after the election of 1994. Joao Bernardo Vierra is elected president in spite of fierce opposition, magnifying the already tense political situation.

As war ravages the country, pharmacy owner, Blema Fangamou and his wife, Fatoumatou, are separated from their children. For over twelve years, the couple is tested and tried with hardships, all the while wondering whether their children are alive. Through the Lord, Blema and Fatoumatou are strengthened, helping them to maintain love and hope.

This true story of the Fangamou family’s journey through loss, recovery, and miracles helps us recognize the tender mercies given to us by the Lord in our own lives and is an inspiration to everyone who faces adversity.

A Reader's Opinion

This is a beautiful and inspiring story. I never comment on the truthfulness of a true story because I haven't done the research myself, but I don't see how this could be anything but a true story of courage, faith, and remarkable perseverance. If you ever want to know what kind of a person you are, travel over 2,000 miles on foot, become separated from your family, and survive as though your life depended on it. The Fangamou's are truly a remarkable family who never gave up hope or faith. I imagine the author is a better person for having known this family. I also feel that the story brings to light issues we all know exist in parts of Africa, and yet we rarely have the opportunity for this type of heart-wrenching retelling.

Regardless of someone's personal or religious beliefs, I do recommend this book to anyone. It's inspiring and worth reading.

Meet the Author

Christi Lynn Pauline was born in the humble town of Blackfoot, Idaho, near the Fort Hall Indian reservation. It was here that her interest in other cultures was cultivated at an early age. Her love of God, people, and literature has fueled a desire to write, and her favorite subject is that of ordinary people who possess extraordinary faith. She enjoys reading and writing poetry and has authored a children’s book entitled, “Hullaballoo at the Zoo.”

Christi currently resides in Meridian, Idaho, with her husband, Ernie, where they are both serving as Ward Missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They also serve as Ordinance Workers in the Boise, Idaho Temple. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, Christi treasures time spent with her family.