Book Nook: Angels - The Discovery

Explaining death and heaven to children; giving comfort to grieving parents, grandparents and siblings – this is what Starr Lee Bryant sets out to accomplish in her new book Angels – The Discovery. Christian Faith Publishing, November 2017.

Fourteen-year-old Fraser dies prematurely as a result of a fluke accident while trying to save his baby sister. Upon waking up in heaven, he discovers that his new life in paradise is far different from the one he lived during his short time on earth. As he adjusts to his new surroundings, he is constantly amazed that there is so much to learn, explore and achieve in his new permanent home. Fraser begins making new friends and even reunites with a loved one who left earth before him. He learns that everyone in heaven must find something they are passionate about and serve in that area. While his friends quickly discover what they want to do, Fraser is left discouraged and not strongly drawn to anything he is introduced to.

I had a chance to review the book. Like so many books about the afterlife, it has a unique look at what angels are like and how they carry out their roles. It's thought-provoking and comforting to think about the roles angels play in our lives, and it's fascinating to read Starr's interpretation of angels in this book.

I had a chance to interview author Starr Lee Bryant to learn more.

What was the inspiration for this book?

I have been inspired about angels for more than 20 years now. It wasn’t until 2011 or 2012 that I started penning the very first words of Angels-The Discovery. A very strong inspiration came over me while I was at work and I could not shake it. I wrote about 4 chapters and stopped because I thought it was silly at first. I procrastinated for another 4 years and the Holy Spirit began to literally badger me with overwhelming brilliances. That was when I knew I had no other choice but to write this novel. I could not work on anything else after trying countless times but to no avail. 

Why do you think it can be beneficial for people to read about things like the angels and the afterlife?

We are living in times of great uncertainty. Most are left with more questions than answers when we are faced with devastation. I truly believe Angels-The Discovery will be beneficial to those who will consider the tale in providing Hope, encouragement, and comfort. This is especially true for those who have lost loved one and need to be inspired to go through the grieving process in a healthy way. Then it is also my hopes that many conclude the book and be inspired to confront challenges we face in life by understanding spiritual influences that are truly at work all around us.  They are indeed Both Good and unfortunately Bad.

There are 4 very specific intentions of Angels- The Discovery overall:

1. To provide encouragement and comfort to the hearts of those who have lost people they love. (Children, parents, grandparents, friends and more) It provides a very descriptive glimpse into the heavenly experience and just how fascinating it is.  Life is not over once we leave this earth. In fact, its just beginning and death doesn’t have to be feared. 
2. Provides a clearer understanding for the reason and purpose of Angels – Whether we want to admit it or not, society has a fascination about Angels. Especially those who have a level of faith. The book addresses their position, what they do, their activity and how it all ties to the human life. All of this is explained in a fun, engaging and adventurous.
3. Serves as a source of reason why sometimes bad thing happen. When we as humans can’t find answers to what we view as tragedy, we tend to blame God or say He can’t be real.  For believers this is tied to spiritual warfare, a fight of good vs. evil.
4. Provides a sense of relief that death doesn’t have to be feared.  There is more after this! Great things!  Experiencing this greatness truly depends on our own individual choices.  

How did you come up with your idea of what angels are like?

It’s really not an idea but truly an inspiration. I am a believer in every word written in the Holy Bible. When considering the content, there are more than 293 references of Angels throughout the scriptures. They are reflected as messengers, protectors and guides. A combination of considering the Word of God, the inspiration of the Song “Angels” and just the visions that were overtaking me as I was writing the book are truly the totality of how this story was developed. I truly cannot take 100% credit for this tale for at times I was completely intimidated about describing certain scenes especially God himself. I was instructed the entire time by something and someone, much greater than myself to bring this book to life. I believe I had Angels with me every step of the way. 

Starr Lee Bryant is the fictional pen name of Chanel Walker-Bailey. She is a published author, Internet television personality, blogger, motivational speaker and founder of RealBoldTruth Ministries L.L.C. She hosts a weekly talk show entitled RealBoldTruth where she speaks candidly about genuine issues that affect the daily life of a Christian. Her passion for writing is evident and she's an avid reader of inspirational books that help her grow beyond her comfort zone. Starr was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, but now resides in the small state of Delaware with her family. She's a wife, mother, step-mother and true believer in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.