Not A Megachurch. (Ignore the first paragraph. 😉 ) In this book, LaBan describes the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe – as it is formally known – as a megachurch for those drawn to Disney but still religious enough to go to church while on vacation, and it is *NOT*. I’m an annual passholder at Disney and go there at least every couple of months – and frequently stop by at the outlet mall directly beside this church and know for a fact how empty it tends to be! 1* book! (OK, how do people write serious reviews like that? Get a life!)
But seriously, this book was really, really good. It takes the reader on a ride many have been on in real life and while it may bring back painful memories, it does it in a way that can provide a bit of catharsis – and maybe even hope. Funny yet mostly realistic, this book pulls few punches indeed and at times can be a bit uncomfortable for some because of it. But at the end of the day, an excellent story and very much recommended.
This review of Beside Herself by Elizabeth LaBan was originally written on October 26, 2019.