The Sunflower by Richard Paul Evans

Call me overacting, but I’m allergic to anything mainstream. Not so much when it comes to cosmetics, but most especially when it comes to books and movies. Last year I went to the movie theater only twice, and once back in 2011 - and most of those were only to use up free movie tickets given to me. When I visit book stores, I don’t browse the best sellers section because that’s where you’ll most likely find pieces like 50 Shades of Grey, Twilight, even John Green.  I discovered and gushed about John Green quotes several years ago, when nobody even knew him and not one of his works could be found in local book stores anywhere. Today, I shrug off when I see most girls drooling over his books, so I dropped it like a hot potato. Maybe it's just me, but I have my personal preference.

On the other side of the spectrum, classics are on the top of my list but I especially like finding out about unheard of pieces where only I can giggle or reflect about all to myself. Maybe I am just possessive over something I like?

When my friend Kumiko of Loving Sunshine (who shares my love for books) found out I lost my book collection to a fire a few years ago, she asked if I’ve read The Sunflower by Richard Paul Evans. I said no, I haven’t, and she said she’d be happy to give it to me to condole over my loss.  Of course, I lit up! She sent it with a card which I like using as a bookmark ;)

The Sunflower is the story of Paul and Christine weaved in between stories of giving back and reaching out to the needy. Set in Peru, both are in a humanitarian mission whose paths crossed in an orphanage called El Girasol – The Sunflower. Paul is a former ER doctor who lost his career after being blamed for a series of deaths one tragic Christmas morning. Christine is the shy, porcelain beauty whose heart broke after her fiancé called off their engagement. 

The story may well be along the lines of cliché but it’s a good read. The narrative is simple, relaxed and well-written. Most of the time it will make you ponder about your own purpose, and eventually you will realize how service to others can definitely affect your own life.

Other than creating a truly inspiring story, Richard Paul Evans succeeded in actually painting Peru in this book. Flipping through the pages, I felt that I myself have walked along the Amazon jungle or even hiked the ridges of Machu Piccu. The entire Peruvian experience seemed so real. I enjoy that delight from reading a book. Given that I could not afford to travel anywhere I want, I appreciate books that can take me places ^_^ (If you ask me, I've traveled all around the world, even the world beyond that - and I didn't have to leave my room!)

When I'm in for some light reading, or when I feel I need a dose of inspiration to pick me up, I re-read a line or two from this book and I'm ready to go... Here's one of my favorites:

"Seek not your destiny, for it is seeking you."

-The Sunflower