By Robert Lucke
Venus (pronounced Venice) Bardanouve has a sparkle in her eye when she starts to talk about her new book, "Journeys of the Heart."
She describes the book as a collection of writings that she has done since retiring from her career. She tells it best herself.
"I did not think of myself as a writer until I retired from my profession of speech pathology and audioiogy. As I look back on my life, however, I realize that even as a child I was always writing poems and stories and in college I elected many literature classes. Later, I wrote dramas and skits that were used in performances. Then, in my professional life, I wrote materials for my work and research for publication. In fact, I now realize I was writing all my life, but never thought of myself as a writer."
If publishing material is a hallmark of being a writer, Bardanouve certainly qualifies as she has published well over 750 pieces professionally.
As she talks about this book and her history of writing, it can easily be seen that she is the product of many diverse lifestyles. Yet, through it all she maintains a tremendous faith. That comes through all the writings loud and clear.
"How did I prepare for this second career?" she writes. "By living! Growing up in the Great Depression; experiencing World War II, marrying a teacher/professor; living many places in our country; mothering three children; caring for these three as a single, divorced mother; working in various settings in my profession; marrying a rancher/legislator in mid-life; having grandchildren; and above all, being a Christian, have given me all the preparation I needed to become a full-time freelance writer in these various fields."
And throughout much of her writings for this book, Bardanouve writes with her heart on her sleeve. That is part of the magic of reading "Journeys of the Heart." Her faith and love and humor come through so very loudly and clearly.
The 327-page book is divided into articles, stories, writings about senior citizens, daily devotions, drama, and a special section called "From a Teacher's Heart." There are many color and black-and-white photos.
This book is not only a good read, it is a book that when read, cannot help but touch the reader's life.
"Journeys of the Heart" is available in Havre at Hill County Printing and Maranatha Christian Supply. It also can be purchased from Galilean Books, Box 367, Harlem, MT 59526. The purchase price is $19.95.
