Review of "The Grace Effect" by Larry Alex Taunton

"The Grace Effect" by Larry Alex Taunton was not what I expected, but an enjoyable read. It was more intellectual, socio-political, and apologetic than I expected. It is the story of the Taunton family's experience in adopting a young girl, Sasha, from Ukraine. The story provides the backdrop for the author's main point, that the effect of Christianity on a society and nation is one of permeating grace. Much time is spent describing the utter degradation and dehumanization of the Ukrainian government and the way their society views its poor, namely orphans. Taunton explains the withering effect that atheistic government has had on Eastern European nations and how that effect is still felt today. All in all, the contrast between how government and societal organizations are run in Ukraine versus the United States is harsh and convincing. Rather than leaving the reader discouraged, however, the redeeming thread of Sasha's adoption and overwhelming joy permeates the book. It is the love of God, the grace of Christianity, that saves Sasha through the Taunton family, and that keeps a nation in large scale. Any reader interested in foreign adoption, apologetics, or how Christianity has affected nations in history and currently would enjoy this book. I was provided a copy of this book free of charge by BookSneeze, Thomas Nelson Publishers for purposes of review, and am not required to give a positive review.