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Editorial Reviews
"Seek not your destiny, for it is seeking you."
Just a week before their marriage, Christine's fiance calls off the wedding, leaving her heartbroken. With hopes of helping her through a difficult time, Christine's best friend Jessica enrolls them both on a humanitarian mission in Peru, to work at an orphanage called El Girasol -- The Sunflower.
It is while working at the orphanage that Christine meets Paul Cook, a successful and charismatic American doctor who has fled the States after one fatal day took away his career, his faith, and the woman he loved.
Unplanned events lead Paul and Christine into the jungle of the Amazon, where Christine must confront her deepest fears, and she, and Paul, must both learn to trust and love again.
Related Reviews
"Educational Romance" is the Best Way to Summarize this Book!
I haven't read all of Richard Paul Evans' books, but I have read his last four releases, as well as the CHRISTMAS BOX and THE DANCE (a childrens' book), and so far, THE SUNFLOWER is my favorite.
Nearly all of Richard Paul Evans' novels carry some sort of message and lessons we all could use without sounding "preachy." The message of THE SUNFLOWER could be that those who have the least (as in material possessions) usually have the most to give.
This is the story of how Paul and Christine meet and fall in love under the most unusual circumstances. After spending an emotional and devestating Christmas in the ER, Paul packs it in and heads to South America where he finds an orphanage and a cause that needs him more than any hospital in the states. After her fiance backs out one week before their wedding, Christine is whisked away to the same jungles of South America on the adventure of a lifetime by her best friend Jessica. What starts as an accidental meeting, Christine and Paul travel on their own adventure, during which they fall in love and learn a little bit more about themselves.
The characters are extremely well developed and the settings well defined. The jungles of South America are described in such detail that readers feel that they are a member of the group, traveling right alongside Christine, Jessica, Paul and Jim. Along the way, we meet Pablo, Roxana and the other children at El Gurasol (the Sunflower) and learn of the circumstances that brought each of them there, and how there are so many other less fortunate children who have yet to find the safety and security that The Sunflower can offer. By the time Christine, Jessica and the rest of their group leave the orphanage, readers will be asking themselves what they can offer and how they might be able to help the children of South America.
After leaving the orphanage, the group travels to Sacred Valley, Urubamba, Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado and finally deep into the jungles of the Amazon where they stay in grass huts, go crocodile hunting and meet the chief (who just happens to have a bone through his nose!). As the characters arrive at each destination, they are provided with the history and details of each civilization. Through these brief explanations and descriptions, readers travel to the heart of South America, making them feel as if they are traveling the same roads, making the journey along with the characters.
Between building, painting, celebrating birthdays and Christmas, fighting off deadly insects and disease, and a near-fatal accident, Christine and Paul find themselves drawn together and slowly begin to open their hearts & minds, trusting the other as neither of them ever imagined they could. Although the story may seem somewhat predictable, readers are thrown a few "curveballs" along the way, giving them the chance to root for these characters whom they've come to know as friends. It's also not just the love story of Christine and Paul that will leave readers emotionally touched by this story. It's the love between the Paul and the children, Christine and Roxana, and all of the characters and their passion for the jungles of South America and those who inhabit there.
This story left me with a curiousity to learn more about these places, and what we can do to further help the people who live there. It would be interesting to know whether or not travel to these places and tours (such as the one Christine & Jessica signed up for) increases as the result of this story.
Overall, this was a quick read, yet satisfying. Rich in culture and geography, educational without feeling forced, while still maintaining the feel and pace of a modern day love story. This is what separates a Richard Paul Evans novel from say, an author like Nicholas Sparks. Although both authors explore the depth of human relationships and stories of the heart, Evans' stories educate readers providing them with lessons in life & love we may have missed out on, had we not picked up one of his books.
Nearly all of Richard Paul Evans' novels carry some sort of message and lessons we all could use without sounding "preachy." The message of THE SUNFLOWER could be that those who have the least (as in material possessions) usually have the most to give.
This is the story of how Paul and Christine meet and fall in love under the most unusual circumstances. After spending an emotional and devestating Christmas in the ER, Paul packs it in and heads to South America where he finds an orphanage and a cause that needs him more than any hospital in the states. After her fiance backs out one week before their wedding, Christine is whisked away to the same jungles of South America on the adventure of a lifetime by her best friend Jessica. What starts as an accidental meeting, Christine and Paul travel on their own adventure, during which they fall in love and learn a little bit more about themselves.
The characters are extremely well developed and the settings well defined. The jungles of South America are described in such detail that readers feel that they are a member of the group, traveling right alongside Christine, Jessica, Paul and Jim. Along the way, we meet Pablo, Roxana and the other children at El Gurasol (the Sunflower) and learn of the circumstances that brought each of them there, and how there are so many other less fortunate children who have yet to find the safety and security that The Sunflower can offer. By the time Christine, Jessica and the rest of their group leave the orphanage, readers will be asking themselves what they can offer and how they might be able to help the children of South America.
After leaving the orphanage, the group travels to Sacred Valley, Urubamba, Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado and finally deep into the jungles of the Amazon where they stay in grass huts, go crocodile hunting and meet the chief (who just happens to have a bone through his nose!). As the characters arrive at each destination, they are provided with the history and details of each civilization. Through these brief explanations and descriptions, readers travel to the heart of South America, making them feel as if they are traveling the same roads, making the journey along with the characters.
Between building, painting, celebrating birthdays and Christmas, fighting off deadly insects and disease, and a near-fatal accident, Christine and Paul find themselves drawn together and slowly begin to open their hearts & minds, trusting the other as neither of them ever imagined they could. Although the story may seem somewhat predictable, readers are thrown a few "curveballs" along the way, giving them the chance to root for these characters whom they've come to know as friends. It's also not just the love story of Christine and Paul that will leave readers emotionally touched by this story. It's the love between the Paul and the children, Christine and Roxana, and all of the characters and their passion for the jungles of South America and those who inhabit there.
This story left me with a curiousity to learn more about these places, and what we can do to further help the people who live there. It would be interesting to know whether or not travel to these places and tours (such as the one Christine & Jessica signed up for) increases as the result of this story.
Overall, this was a quick read, yet satisfying. Rich in culture and geography, educational without feeling forced, while still maintaining the feel and pace of a modern day love story. This is what separates a Richard Paul Evans novel from say, an author like Nicholas Sparks. Although both authors explore the depth of human relationships and stories of the heart, Evans' stories educate readers providing them with lessons in life & love we may have missed out on, had we not picked up one of his books.
While browsing at the library I came across the CD of The Sunflower by Richard Paul Evans. While I rarely if ever listen to a book, I thought this might be a good diversion while I was driving or even while in the house, cooking or cleaning. Unfortunately, as always, I switched to the book to finish it. I'm not sure if this had anything to do with how much I enjoyed this title since in the past I really loved Richard Paul Evans titles.
The author of the The Christmas Box which I first watched on television, I also gulped down his next two titles which is now known as The Christmas Box trilogy. I so enjoyed this author that I continued to read his books each time they were published. But somehow each new book seemed to go downhill a bit and this title with an important agenda is the book I least liked. Still, I did give it an average rating since there were some parts I did enjoy.
In a midwestern town a young woman is spurned only days before her wedding. Inconsolable and bereft, the young woman's friend encourages her to join a group traveling to Peru to help those less fortunate. Once there, the young woman meets a Doctor who also has left America under difficult circumstances. As they get to know each other, the healing of both of these two wounded individuals begins and while they wonder if their love can ever work out, circumstances force them to examine what brought them to Peru in the first place.
As in most of Evan's books which are considered inspirational, he writes with a personal agenda. And this book is no exception as he dedicates this title to an orphanage in Peru and the need for volunteers world wide to help out the poor and uneducated. Evan's makes an impassioned plea about this in the afterword and whiel one can only hold this man and his plea in high regard, this book wasn't one of his bette efforts. By the last pages I was wishing for something as enjoyable as The Christmas Box Trilogy or Timepiece or The Letter. I wonder now if I will continue reading his new books or simply choose to reread this older titles which I so enjoyed.
The author of the The Christmas Box which I first watched on television, I also gulped down his next two titles which is now known as The Christmas Box trilogy. I so enjoyed this author that I continued to read his books each time they were published. But somehow each new book seemed to go downhill a bit and this title with an important agenda is the book I least liked. Still, I did give it an average rating since there were some parts I did enjoy.
In a midwestern town a young woman is spurned only days before her wedding. Inconsolable and bereft, the young woman's friend encourages her to join a group traveling to Peru to help those less fortunate. Once there, the young woman meets a Doctor who also has left America under difficult circumstances. As they get to know each other, the healing of both of these two wounded individuals begins and while they wonder if their love can ever work out, circumstances force them to examine what brought them to Peru in the first place.
As in most of Evan's books which are considered inspirational, he writes with a personal agenda. And this book is no exception as he dedicates this title to an orphanage in Peru and the need for volunteers world wide to help out the poor and uneducated. Evan's makes an impassioned plea about this in the afterword and whiel one can only hold this man and his plea in high regard, this book wasn't one of his bette efforts. By the last pages I was wishing for something as enjoyable as The Christmas Box Trilogy or Timepiece or The Letter. I wonder now if I will continue reading his new books or simply choose to reread this older titles which I so enjoyed.
Perfect reading curled up to a nice cozy fire
Richard Paul Evans does it again with a captivating novel about love, sacrifice and hope for better things. You will fall in love with the characters, especially Paul Cook. He is sexy rugged doctor who dedicates his life to helping street children. Do I need to say more. I also really enjoyed the imagery in the book. I personally have been to Peru and let me tell you Richard did his research. Reserve a couple of hours for reading because once you start the first chapter you won't be able to put it down!! I highly recommend this book.
I listened to this book on CD and I really enjoyed it. It is a great love story! I actually looked forward to my commute to hear what would happen next!
I have read all his books and this was the very best of them all. I want to move to Peru...well maybe visit. I have given this book to 3 people and they all read it in a day like I did.
Another wonderful novel by Rick
Once again, Richard Paul Evans takes me to another place. He captured all five senses in Peru. My mind is still there and my heart wants to help the The Sunflower orphanage. In The Sunflower, just as he did in The Last Promise, Richard Paul Evans has a knack for making a different country come to life. I feel like I know Christine and Paul and I would like them as friends. He also changed my perception of South America. He made an adventure there seem real and not as scary as I thought it would be. He made me want to sign up for the same trip Christine and Jessica took. The events that brought Christine and Paul to Peru felt so real, I experienced it right along with them. I felt their pain and also admired their strength and courage. This is Richard Paul Evan's best work so far. I can't wait for his next!
An old-fashioned, simply written love story perfect for comfort reading
THE SUNFLOWER has introduced me to Richard Paul Evans, and I think I'm hooked. Although his writing is very simple and somewhat predictable, he tells a good story. For those who enjoy romances in foreign settings, touched with a bit of adventure, here's a book you can get into pretty quickly. It opens with a man and his daughter (unnamed characters) on a tour in the jungles of Peru to help out with the poor. During this trip, the man encounters Paul Cook, who then proceeds to tell his story.
Paul's story begins on Christmas Eve in the ER back in the United States. He's on duty that night and thinks he could have saved his two main patients, but unfortunately they do not make it. One is a young boy who had a tiny toy soldier lodged in his throat. The other is a middle-aged man who had a heart attack. Following the end of this scene, the story moves on to Christine, who has just been dumped by her fiancé a week before their wedding. She is devastated and cannot understand why this is happening to her. All her life she has dreamed of her wedding day, and now it's not even going to happen.
Best friend Jessica tries to cheer Christine up by taking them both on a trip to Peru for a tour that will allow them to work with the poor, helping the villagers while also learning about the native jungles and what it is like to live there. Despite Christine's protests, they end up in Machu Picchu anyway. Christine is a city girl and is very high-maintenance. She does not do well at all during the initial part of their trip, complaining nonstop. But on her first day in the village, she bumps into a man, Paul Cook, not realizing that it's his orphanage they will be helping out during their stay in Peru.
While Evans's writing is rather simplistic in nature, the focus is the story and the characters he creates. He paints an exciting and exotic portrait of the jungles of Peru, and the reader will be able to imagine the life these people lead. Paul Cook left the States to devote his time to these poverty-stricken children, and while he seems very content, it is Christine who awakens something in him. He's almost ready to ask her to commit to a relationship, despite the fact that he lives in poverty and has nothing to offer her except his love.
Christine starts off as a very high-maintenance prima donna who I didn't care for, but Peru changes her and helps her grow up. Working with the poor also helps her forget Martin, the fiancé who abandoned her a week before their wedding. I found Jessica to be rather irritating as she seems to be the exact opposite of Christine. While Christine is rigid and follows the rules, Jessica is very free-spirited and blase about her relationships with men. The casual affair means nothing to her but fun and excitement. Christine needs something more than just fast sex and a roll in the hay. She is touched by Paul's devotion to the villagers, admires him, and finds him to be very attractive. While Christine and Paul get to know each other as friends, Jessica also meets a man who may change her life --- or maybe he will pass through her life before she meets yet another eligible bachelor. Her actions, however, endanger her life and the lives of others, as readers will find out.
THE SUNFLOWER is what I like to call a comfort read, a simply written love story that is clean and almost old-fashioned in its contents. This is the story of two people who meet by chance and whose lives are changed forever because of it. Recommended.
--- Reviewed by Marie Hashima Lofton (Ratmammy@lofton.org)
Paul's story begins on Christmas Eve in the ER back in the United States. He's on duty that night and thinks he could have saved his two main patients, but unfortunately they do not make it. One is a young boy who had a tiny toy soldier lodged in his throat. The other is a middle-aged man who had a heart attack. Following the end of this scene, the story moves on to Christine, who has just been dumped by her fiancé a week before their wedding. She is devastated and cannot understand why this is happening to her. All her life she has dreamed of her wedding day, and now it's not even going to happen.
Best friend Jessica tries to cheer Christine up by taking them both on a trip to Peru for a tour that will allow them to work with the poor, helping the villagers while also learning about the native jungles and what it is like to live there. Despite Christine's protests, they end up in Machu Picchu anyway. Christine is a city girl and is very high-maintenance. She does not do well at all during the initial part of their trip, complaining nonstop. But on her first day in the village, she bumps into a man, Paul Cook, not realizing that it's his orphanage they will be helping out during their stay in Peru.
While Evans's writing is rather simplistic in nature, the focus is the story and the characters he creates. He paints an exciting and exotic portrait of the jungles of Peru, and the reader will be able to imagine the life these people lead. Paul Cook left the States to devote his time to these poverty-stricken children, and while he seems very content, it is Christine who awakens something in him. He's almost ready to ask her to commit to a relationship, despite the fact that he lives in poverty and has nothing to offer her except his love.
Christine starts off as a very high-maintenance prima donna who I didn't care for, but Peru changes her and helps her grow up. Working with the poor also helps her forget Martin, the fiancé who abandoned her a week before their wedding. I found Jessica to be rather irritating as she seems to be the exact opposite of Christine. While Christine is rigid and follows the rules, Jessica is very free-spirited and blase about her relationships with men. The casual affair means nothing to her but fun and excitement. Christine needs something more than just fast sex and a roll in the hay. She is touched by Paul's devotion to the villagers, admires him, and finds him to be very attractive. While Christine and Paul get to know each other as friends, Jessica also meets a man who may change her life --- or maybe he will pass through her life before she meets yet another eligible bachelor. Her actions, however, endanger her life and the lives of others, as readers will find out.
THE SUNFLOWER is what I like to call a comfort read, a simply written love story that is clean and almost old-fashioned in its contents. This is the story of two people who meet by chance and whose lives are changed forever because of it. Recommended.
--- Reviewed by Marie Hashima Lofton (Ratmammy@lofton.org)
A journey of love, love that captures your soul!
A journey of love, love that captures your soul!
I was fortunate enough to read "The Sunflower" by Richard Paul Evans and let me tell you that you will not want to miss out on reading Evans new book! I actually felt as though I was on the Peru expedition with Christine and Paul. Evans took me on a journey of love, love that captures your soul. Just be sure to have a box of tissues nearby as you read this novel! This is a book that you will want to pass on to all your friends.
I was fortunate enough to read "The Sunflower" by Richard Paul Evans and let me tell you that you will not want to miss out on reading Evans new book! I actually felt as though I was on the Peru expedition with Christine and Paul. Evans took me on a journey of love, love that captures your soul. Just be sure to have a box of tissues nearby as you read this novel! This is a book that you will want to pass on to all your friends.
Enjoyed this book. It caused me to look inside my own heart.
Not Richard Paul Evans' best...
The Sunflower is one of many RPE novels I have read. The Peruvian setting was a wonderful backdrop for the main events to occur and made me dream of taking a trip there myself! Both Christine and Paul were likeable, well-developed characters but the plot didn't seem to pull at my heart as many of RPE's book have in the past. A solid attempt, but he has written better.
Further, Jessica doesn't seem like the greatest friend either. I'm not sure if that was intentional, but I questioned her loyalty to Christine. Did anyone else sense that or was it just me?
This novel was a quick read for me; I finished it in a day, but it's only because I didn't have anything else to read, not because I was enthralled with the plot. It's not a bad novel, but try another RPE novel.
Further, Jessica doesn't seem like the greatest friend either. I'm not sure if that was intentional, but I questioned her loyalty to Christine. Did anyone else sense that or was it just me?
This novel was a quick read for me; I finished it in a day, but it's only because I didn't have anything else to read, not because I was enthralled with the plot. It's not a bad novel, but try another RPE novel.
I enjoyed The Sunflower very much. I have read several of Richard Paul Evan's books and found this to be just as good as the others. I know more than one person that has gone on this type of mission trip and it seemed quite realistic to me. I think it is true as the book shows that we truly can be changed by love.
Quick read of a typical adventure-filled novel by Richard Paul Evans. Enjoyable to read on vacation or when needing an escape from life. Story action, generally, is continuous and it has a predictable ending but who would want it any other way.
This is a great little, "quick Read". Well, written, this story is amazingly sweet.
I loved it!
I loved it!
Another book of Richard Evans that took me to a higher ground. I always "feel" more with his books than any others. He changes hearts.
When I saw this book for sell, I was really excited. It is fun to see someone you know have success. Infact, the character Jessica is based on his neice by the same name. I went to high school with her, and she actually went to Peru a few years ago, but other than that, the story is original and may I saw, fantastic. I just thought I would share some back-story to where he got his idea.
Always can count on this author for a "good read". Recommend seller. AAA+++
THE SUNFLOWER is a love story with the typical plot--boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl back. It's the details that make the story worth a read.
Paul and Christine are running away from problems in their lives--Paul, a devastating career loss and Christine, an unexpected broken engagement. The jungles of Peru and the larger problem of child exploitation serve as the back drop for two people who must learn to trust each other and heal themselves while they work to make the lives of street children better. The writing is straightforward; the scenes outlined in spare prose.
The SUNFLOWER is an uncomplicated story. If you like Nicholas Sparks, you'll like this book.
Paul and Christine are running away from problems in their lives--Paul, a devastating career loss and Christine, an unexpected broken engagement. The jungles of Peru and the larger problem of child exploitation serve as the back drop for two people who must learn to trust each other and heal themselves while they work to make the lives of street children better. The writing is straightforward; the scenes outlined in spare prose.
The SUNFLOWER is an uncomplicated story. If you like Nicholas Sparks, you'll like this book.
It was one of those books that I could't put down once I started reading, but then I always enjoy books by Richard Paul Evans.
Finding Love After Emotional Crisis
A love story between two emotionally needy lost souls. A physican suffering from burn-out meets a woman left at the altar. Both try to escape and find meaning in life by doing good for others. They meet at an orphanage in Peru and begin to heal and find love again. A slow paced journey through the emotional ups and downs of two traditional, conservative characters dealt cruel blows. An enjoyable read.
Here's what makes a great book for me: moments of REAL laughter and of REAL tears; moments of REAL hope and of REAL despair. Not many books bring all of that to the table but The Sunflower does. Richard's characters are real and alive when you turn the pages. I was so sorry to read the final page. Another wonderful romance from one of my favorite authors. Waiting for the next one.
An uplifting, compassionate tale
I enjoyed the humanitarian setting as compassion meets romance in the lush, Amazon jungle. In 'The Sunflower,' Evans again weaves some wonderfully insightful journal entries from our hero into the story, and his dedication to the children is as vivid as it is to getting the girl.
I am never disappointed when I read a book by Richard Paul Evans. I try to read all of his books.
The Sunflower is the story of a young doctor, working in a major US hospital, who inspite of all his best efforts can not save the life of a young boy. The doctor leaves his practice and travels to the jungles of South America. When the Doctor arrives at an orphanage in Peru, he finally finds his calling. The ophanage is very run down and simple, yet it fulfils the purpose of taking the young children off the streets and giving them an education.
After the breakup of a six year realationship, Christine, a fussy girl who has to have everything just right and even owns a carpet rake, finds herself on two week, working trip to Peru.
Christine and Paul,(the doctor) hit it off and begin an unlikely romance. They know that such romances will never work, and Christine needs to return to her life in America. Somehow, in two weeks, she has fallen in love with a man, a country and the orpan children.
Will Chritine leave her comfortable life in the US behind, to live with poisous creatures and dirty conditions? Will the doctor who has found himself in a jungle village, leave behind the life he has forged and the orphan children he loves, for a woman he has only known for two weeks?
You will love the tale of the Sunflower, woven into a love story, by master storyteller, Richard Paul Evans.
Jill Vanderwood,
Children's Author: Through the Rug & Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog
The Sunflower is the story of a young doctor, working in a major US hospital, who inspite of all his best efforts can not save the life of a young boy. The doctor leaves his practice and travels to the jungles of South America. When the Doctor arrives at an orphanage in Peru, he finally finds his calling. The ophanage is very run down and simple, yet it fulfils the purpose of taking the young children off the streets and giving them an education.
After the breakup of a six year realationship, Christine, a fussy girl who has to have everything just right and even owns a carpet rake, finds herself on two week, working trip to Peru.
Christine and Paul,(the doctor) hit it off and begin an unlikely romance. They know that such romances will never work, and Christine needs to return to her life in America. Somehow, in two weeks, she has fallen in love with a man, a country and the orpan children.
Will Chritine leave her comfortable life in the US behind, to live with poisous creatures and dirty conditions? Will the doctor who has found himself in a jungle village, leave behind the life he has forged and the orphan children he loves, for a woman he has only known for two weeks?
You will love the tale of the Sunflower, woven into a love story, by master storyteller, Richard Paul Evans.
Jill Vanderwood,
Children's Author: Through the Rug & Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog
I have no idea what caused me to pull this title off the shelf and buy it because it certainly was unlike anything else I'd read in recent years. I half-expected more action and adventure, especially because the book's blurb said that the events take place in Peru, but in the end I found myself slaphappy in the middle of a compelling love story.
The author has managed to avoid graphic sexual content and utilizes only the thinnest amount of sensual dialogue, relying more on the actions and unspoken sentiments of the characters involved to move the reader. And you will be moved. He also leverages some excellent attention-getting devices, such as the way the story is told through a third party's eyes, the short philosophical quotes that begin each chapter, and the book's dead-on relevance to the tests we face in overcoming loss and pain.
I suppose the battle between love and geography has been told before, and perhaps love does not normally fare well in those struggles. But if nothing else, this book is, on so many levels, about hope and the selflessly giving people that our society should never take for granted. There's also a global humanitarian slant to the book that suits me as well, especially as it concerns children and the environment. Unless you've got a heart made of stone, you won't be disappointed.
The author has managed to avoid graphic sexual content and utilizes only the thinnest amount of sensual dialogue, relying more on the actions and unspoken sentiments of the characters involved to move the reader. And you will be moved. He also leverages some excellent attention-getting devices, such as the way the story is told through a third party's eyes, the short philosophical quotes that begin each chapter, and the book's dead-on relevance to the tests we face in overcoming loss and pain.
I suppose the battle between love and geography has been told before, and perhaps love does not normally fare well in those struggles. But if nothing else, this book is, on so many levels, about hope and the selflessly giving people that our society should never take for granted. There's also a global humanitarian slant to the book that suits me as well, especially as it concerns children and the environment. Unless you've got a heart made of stone, you won't be disappointed.
I would have liked to know that it did not have a book cover because it was pictured with one. I have most of Richard Paul Evans books in hardback and they all have covers except this one. I loved the story but would really like to have a cover for it. I would read this book over again.
This was another great book by Richard Paul Evans. His writings makes you feel like you are the main character and are apart of this Peruivan missionary trip. Thanks for a terrific trip!
I loved this book, I highly recommend it. I actually got it as an audiobook and had it playing in my car! Great book overall! I didn't want to get out of my car!
OK, I admit to being a Richard Paul Evans fan, but I didn't even know that he was the author of this book
until I got it in the mail. I had heard about this book called 'The Sunflower' through a friend and decided
to order it without even noticing who the author was. Once I got it home and realized it was RPE, I knew I'd
be in for a treat and I was not disappointed! This story was so sweet and interesting that I made it though the book in just two nights. I didn't want the story to end... but at least I now have three other RPE books waiting
to be read, so...
I don't think you'll be disapoointed if you purchase this book, it has all the elements that avid readers like
myself look for. Romance, life lessons, humor, nostalgia and a subject matter that makes you think about your own life and what you might do under the same circumstances. This was one of those books for me. I loved it.
until I got it in the mail. I had heard about this book called 'The Sunflower' through a friend and decided
to order it without even noticing who the author was. Once I got it home and realized it was RPE, I knew I'd
be in for a treat and I was not disappointed! This story was so sweet and interesting that I made it though the book in just two nights. I didn't want the story to end... but at least I now have three other RPE books waiting
to be read, so...
I don't think you'll be disapoointed if you purchase this book, it has all the elements that avid readers like
myself look for. Romance, life lessons, humor, nostalgia and a subject matter that makes you think about your own life and what you might do under the same circumstances. This was one of those books for me. I loved it.
This was not one of Richard Paul Evan's best books, but it was an entertaining read.
The Sunflower is an excellent book. Richard Paul Evans is a wonderful author. The books are very interesting. They keep you wanting to continue reading until the whole book is finished. This book was so good because it had love and charity and down to earth real peoples feelings and everyday life. Since I've stated reading his books I want to read all of them. This book is one that everyone should read. It could change the way you look at life. It gives you a reason for going on.
This book was wonderful! It ends differently than what you'd expect, but it includes underlying lessons in the sweet story. Definitely recommended!
All of R. P. Evans have a hidden message on how the simple way of living, and giving back is so satisifing, in this crazy world, maybe we all could learn a lesson from this author. I read this book in one sitting. I have read all his Christmas stories eg. Noel, Christmas Sweater, Christmas Story, since the holiday is just around the corner, all of his books make excellent gifts. It's not what's under the tree that counts, in what's in our hearts, and how we can give back to people who have less than we do, isn't that what the holidays are all about, giving.
I did not read the whole book yet but I have found out in his past novels Richard Paul Evans draws you into his books.
This book is written with Richard Evans
style of love and feelings of people
that only he can write
style of love and feelings of people
that only he can write
The Bbook was in very good condition and it was shipped in the time allowed. Thank you, it was a great read.
Book arrived promptly and was in the condition discribed. I enjoyed reading this story of mending hearts and renewed hope.
I've read many books authored by Richard Paul Evans, the first of which had been The Christmas Box Trilogy. I believe it's that series that brought him fame. At least one reviewer expressed the opinion that his latest novels are not as good as his earlier works, and in some ways I agree. In reading his latest works, more than once I've felt that realistic human nature tends to take a back seat to Mr. Evans' rather simplistic and idealistic scenarios. But, so far, that tendency hasn't stopped me from reading his stories. Despite having to relegate "belieavability" to the backseat, I still enjoy his books and I believe it's because they each have a moral to tell, they are so refreshingly "clean", and many times they express an even greater truth.
This story is about a young woman (Christine) who, scorned by her fiancé just days before their wedding, is invited by a friend to go on a sort of "missionary" trip to the jungles of Peru to help the less fortunate. One of their assignments is to assist with some labor at an orphanage for abandoned children called El Girasol (The Sunflower). It is there that Christine starts to overcome her loss as she develops a relationship with the director of the orphanage, a young doctor named Paul Cook. Their relationship, though sweet, is fraught with complications as they both need to overcome past hurts and learn to trust again.
Mr. Evans weaves the story of his characters through the real-life difficulties of abandoned children world-wide. His message is clear and heart-rending. As with his other novels, he generally expresses valuable insight through his story's hero's journal quotes (in this case, Paul Cook) at the beginning of each chapter. The Sunflower is no different. One of them that I personally found to be especially astute was this one: "The more I study history the more I realize how little mankind has changed. There are no new scripts, just different actors." Precisely, Mr. Evans! As Solomon had said, "There is nothing new under the sun."
If nothing else, The Sunflower is a pleasant read with simple verbiage and a fast-paced plot. Despite the implausible progression of the main characters' relationship, the plight of those poor children is revealed in all its horror, and the book opens the door of recognition and a way to help for those who read it.
This story is about a young woman (Christine) who, scorned by her fiancé just days before their wedding, is invited by a friend to go on a sort of "missionary" trip to the jungles of Peru to help the less fortunate. One of their assignments is to assist with some labor at an orphanage for abandoned children called El Girasol (The Sunflower). It is there that Christine starts to overcome her loss as she develops a relationship with the director of the orphanage, a young doctor named Paul Cook. Their relationship, though sweet, is fraught with complications as they both need to overcome past hurts and learn to trust again.
Mr. Evans weaves the story of his characters through the real-life difficulties of abandoned children world-wide. His message is clear and heart-rending. As with his other novels, he generally expresses valuable insight through his story's hero's journal quotes (in this case, Paul Cook) at the beginning of each chapter. The Sunflower is no different. One of them that I personally found to be especially astute was this one: "The more I study history the more I realize how little mankind has changed. There are no new scripts, just different actors." Precisely, Mr. Evans! As Solomon had said, "There is nothing new under the sun."
If nothing else, The Sunflower is a pleasant read with simple verbiage and a fast-paced plot. Despite the implausible progression of the main characters' relationship, the plight of those poor children is revealed in all its horror, and the book opens the door of recognition and a way to help for those who read it.
A love story with a good plot. This book kept me interested the entire read. I would have done exactly what "Christine" did at the end of the book!
An easy and exciting read. Well worth having in your library. I will read it more than once. Love, responsibility, real emotion, selflessness and charity are all words I use to describe it. Great story line and is so mind blowing to think it is a true story!
We are "skipping Christmas" and heading to Peru as a family to help build an additional wing for the Sunflower orphanage. We wanted to read the book to see what we should prepare for. We thought it was a very touching story and it makes us more excited to head down to Peru next month. You will be touched when you read this book! It made us want to get involved with Southern Cross Humanitarian.
I was thoroughly involved in this story of the Sunflower Orphanage and the details of the country of Peru. I did check out the website for the orphanage which was encourage at the end of the book. The factual aspects of this book and the needs of these children will touch your heart. My son had an extremely similar missionary visit to Mexico where he helped at an orphanage. How and why the children arrive at such an orphanage are identical in nature. It is amazing that our world cannot put an end to such devastation of young lives. The fictional parts of the book were equally engaging. There's nothing like a love story to envigorate a woman's heart.
It is kinda condensed but because of the length it almost had to be. It isn't really a "love" story but a romantic story. Two people who connect after being tossed around by life. You never know where your heart is going to take you or who will be your life partner. Excellent heart entertainment.
This was a great book by author Richard Paul Evans. I loved every bit of it.
I usually love RPE, and this was an enjoyable book to read, however, the charactors lacked the depth in both personality and story line to be believable. I like to feel like I know the charactors and can relate to their broken hearts, or whatever central crisis always seems to be neccessary to write about a romance. But I never got warm fuzzies. This was supposed to be a love story and I can't find the falling in love part. I didn't feel these two people were meant for each other the way "a great love story" would.
That being said, Paul Cooks diary is really what I would like to read. I feel like the glimpses are more telling than the filling. I won't quit reading RPE and I still recommend his books but I hope in his next book the story is more important than the message.
That being said, Paul Cooks diary is really what I would like to read. I feel like the glimpses are more telling than the filling. I won't quit reading RPE and I still recommend his books but I hope in his next book the story is more important than the message.
I was very impressed with this book. After all, I bought it for only a penny and it was in wonderful condition. There were not markings on the pages and everything was in wonderful condition. I would definitely trust this seller in the future
Why isn't this one of those "girly" Oprah Book selections?
Another book about some high maintenance chick and the guy who changes her. All right - so the beginning started out well (the beginning meaning the first two pages) and after that it all went down hill because of it's sugary sweet oh so cliche story. My friend thought I might like this story because I love stories about philanthropy. This is about an orphanage in Peru where a doctor (the guy who changes the high maintenance chic) provides for children who were abandoned. High maintenance chick (who was scorned by a runaway groom) arrives in Peru with a little coaxing from her friend. At first she does not like anything. The poor hotel that isn't exactly the Ritz, the food which isn't exactly a five star restaurant, the weather which isn't exactly Hawaii, but then of course everything changes when high maintenance chick meets doctor, falls in love with doctor, fall in love with kids doctor provides for and la di da. This book had so much potential but I found it too cliche (How many stories like these are in circulation anyway?). It sucks. I love the kids but none of these characters seemed real to me at all and I couldn't stand one more story of high maintenance chick looking at herself and wonders where she's gone wrong and in the end of course, she doesn't think about superficial things anymore, she's thinking about doctor and kids. UGH... it's one cliche after another. Good for you high maintenance chick!! You are finally not selfish anymore. How wonderful for you.
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October 15, 2005
Amazon Rating: 4/5 stars
A romance set in the jungles of Peru, THE SUNFLOWER by Richard Paul Evans is the love story between a doctor and a woman running away from the memory of her ex-fiancé. Evan's writing is rather simplistic, but he makes up for it in the story he tells. A woman, Christine, is devastated when her fiancé breaks up with her just a week before the wedding. To console her, her best friend Jessica takes them on a trip to Peru, where the two of them experience an adventure that may be the highlight of their lives.
In Peru, Christine meets Paul, a doctor who once had a career in the States but forsake the life of comfort by moving to Peru to care for the poor. Christine is used to the pampered life, but meeting Paul and experiencing all she does in Peru changes her.
THE SUNFLOWER is a romance and an adventure story in one. Told in a rather simplistic prose, the story itself is a good beach read and for those who love clean, simple romances, this is for you. The backdrop of the jungles of Peru gives this romance a unique flavor. I enjoyed it for what it was - a simple love story with an inspirational message. A fast read, THE SUNFLOWER comes recommended.