"The Scavenger's Daughters" by Kay Bratt

The Scavenger's Daughters
Book 1 of Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters
Author: Kay Bratt
ISBN: 9781477805862
Fiction
Paperback - 230 pages

About the Book:

Having survived torture and imprisonment during China’s Cultural Revolution, Benfu escaped to find love with his compassionate and beautiful Calla Lily. Together they build a fulfilling life around the most menial of jobs—Benfu’s work collecting trash. As he sorts through the discards of others, he regularly discovers abandoned children. With unwavering determination, he and Calli spend decades creating a family of hand-picked daughters that help heal the sorrow and brighten their modest home. But all is not perfect and when crisis threatens to separate their family, Benfu—or possibly his band of headstrong daughters—must find a way to overcome the biggest hardship yet.

Inspired by a true story, and set against the backdrop of a country in transition, The Scavenger’s Daughters is a sweeping present day saga of triumph in the face of hardship, and the unbreakable bonds of family against all odds.

My Thoughts:

There are those rare books that after you finish reading them, you can't help but feel good - happier and just plain satisfied. "The Scavenger's Daughters" is definitely one of those books. Beautifully written, you are drawn into the life of Benfu and his unusual family. Benful's sacrifice and unconditional love makes this book one of the best I've read in a long time. It's touching, emotional, and full of compassion.

Based on a true story and taking place in China, the story opens with a horrendous scene from Benful's past and then moves to the present. Benful is not a rich man by any means. He scavenges for a living. However, what he finds discarded is not always sold. Some discarded treasures are just too precious to allow to be left behind or even consider selling. These treasures are little girls and many are with defects or disabilities of some type. Benful finds these children, takes them home to his wife, Calli, and gives them a home and with much love. This story deals with the struggles of raising a large family, aging, illness, abandonment, broken promises, respect and most important - love. And I haven't even hit the most amazing point!! It was inspired by a true story!!

This is one book that should make it to everyone's must read list! In a world where money and power is important, this story shines light on what is most important in life - love and compassion.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

I received a copy of this book from Vine. I was not required to write a positive review, but instead, one that gives my honest opinion.