Between Heaven and the Real World
My Story
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4.7 • 88 Ratings
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- $14.99
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- $14.99
Publisher Description
For decades, Steven Curtis Chapman's music and message have brought hope and inspiration to millions around the world. Now, for the first time, Steven openly shares the experiences that have shaped him, his faith, and his music in a life that has included incredible highs and faith-shaking lows.
Readers will be captivated by this exclusive look into Steven's childhood and challenging family dynamic growing up, how that led to music and early days on the road, his wild ride to the top of the charts, his relationship with wife Mary Beth, and the growth of their family through births and adoptions. In addition to inside stories from his days of youth to his notable career, including the background to some of his best-loved songs, readers will walk with Steven down the devastating road of loss after the tragic death of five-year-old daughter Maria. And they'll experience his return to the stage after doubting he could ever sing again.
Poignant, gut-wrenchingly honest, yet always hopeful, Steven offers no sugary solutions to life's toughest questions. Yet out of the brokenness, he continues to trust God to one day fix what is unfixable in this life. This backstage look at the down-to-earth superstar they've come to love will touch fans' lives and fill their hearts with hope. Includes black-and-white photos throughout.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Accomplished Christian musician Chapman shares struggles and successes throughout his career and personal life, including how his faith was tested when his youngest daughter died after being hit by a car. Born and raised in Paducah, Ky., Chapman never dreamed he'd win multiple Grammy and Dove awards he couldn't even sing that well but he was gifted at writing lyrics and connected with his audience through snippets of conversation while performing. His hit songs are a strong thread throughout the book, but the story's real treasure is his relationship with his wife, Mary Beth, and their children. She preferred order and predictable schedules; he was cut from a creative cloth. The clash threatened their marriage, but at each crossroads they found their way. Then, while raising three kids, the Chapmans decided to adopt from China. When their third adopted child, Maria, was killed in a tragic accident at the age of five, the family was devastated. Chapman's pain is evident, yet his grief feels rushed in places because he's so intent on sharing Bible verses and a faith message. Indeed, Chapman admits to a lifelong tendency to want to "fix" things. What's lost with that approach is a sense of how difficult it is to live with unwanted circumstances and unanswered questions about God. Even so, there's little doubt his beliefs are sincere and will encourage others.
Customer Reviews
Loved the book and the story of Hope in extreme darkness.
Like your music Steven this book gave me hope that no matter who you are test will come and God will be faithful if we don,t give up.
Amazing
Your life and your story is amazing in so many ways.
I found a lot of the things you said in this has helped me look at something’s differently. God bless your whole family. Keep up the Good work and See where it takes you.
Loved this book
I lost my 19 year old son in July 2007 and I remember when I heard about the Chapman family’s loss. I prayed for them often back then as my grief was also so raw. I appreciate Steven’s putting into words his journey thru grief so much like my own (but his words are much more elegant). I cried, but also rejoiced in seeing God work thru their grief as He did thru mine and continues to do so. Praise be to God for he is good all the time and His promises are true.