The Grace of the Ginkgo by Michael R. Hardesty is a well-written and poignant story told from the point of view of the main character, David Foley. In his fifties, David has already suffered a broken marriage and the death of his son Patrick, killed in action in the Gulf War. When Patrick’s wife dies after giving birth to Liesl, it is David who takes on the task of bringing up the little girl. Liesl and her Poppa have a close and endearing relationship. The story follows Liesl’s growing up and David’s own life and relationships. A ginkgo tree and the way it drops its autumn leaves very suddenly, instead of clinging on to their shriveled forms, has always fascinated David. A passionate atheist, he encourages Liesl to think for herself about the wonders of life and its meaning, and in the end his own views influence the way he faces a traumatic event.

The Grace of the Ginkgo is a well-crafted and thought provoking story. Hardesty is an excellent writer and I felt drawn into the story from the start – David discovering the facts around the loss of his son and the strength he manages to find to support his daughter-in-law, and then become his granddaughter’s guardian shows the reader the main character’s resilience and determined, accepting attitude towards life. David is a very likable and inspiring character, then. I loved the relationship that develops between grandfather and granddaughter – the author describes the ups and downs, the mundane, adjustments, frustrations, and the humorous moments that all parents and grandparents experience with great insight and observation. The story is about both David and Liesl’s bond and love for each other as well as about understanding ourselves, life and different motivations behind actions.

A different side to David’s character is seen when he decides to deal with a violent abuser, stemming from his desire to protect and ensure justice is done. The theme of the ginkgo tree runs throughout the story and is, of course, significant to the way David views and handles his own problems. This presents a lovely message about allowing the seasons of life to unfold as they will, acceptance, and letting go. Hardesty uses this well to convey David’s sense of peace and acceptance. I especially liked the quotes from various famous or historical figures at the start of each chapter as these set the scene for the next episode in the story. A moving story which I enjoyed very much. Recommended.