Choosing to see: a journey of struggle and hope book cover

Choosing to see Summary

a journey of struggle and hope

Mary Beth Chapman
4.29(15195 Reviews)

Choosing to see Summary Overview

When tragedy claimed Mary Beth Chapman's daughter, she chose to see God's presence in darkness. This NYT bestseller chronicles her raw journey through grief to hope, praised by Chuck Colson as "a book you won't put down until you've wept, laughed, and relished every page."

Key Themes in the Choosing to see Summary

  • coping with child loss
  • international adoption journey
  • faith-based grief recovery
  • marriage under pressure
  • perfectionism and grace

Best Quotes from the Choosing to see Summary

  • Tigger had married Eeyore.

  • Work hard to be good enough.

  • God had different plans.

  • Choosing to See.

  • The darkness within.

Characters in the Choosing to see Summary

  • Mary Beth ChapmanThe author, wife of Steven, and mother
  • Steven Curtis ChapmanGrammy-winning Christian musician and husband
  • Maria ChapmanThe Chapmans' 5-year-old adopted daughter
  • DondeenaMary Beth's college roommate
  • Greg NelsonMusic producer who helped Steven's career

About the Author

About the Author of Choosing to see

Mary Beth Chapman is the New York Times bestselling author of Choosing to SEE: A Journey of Struggle and Hope, a memoir blending Christian non-fiction, grief narratives, and adoption advocacy.

As the wife of Grammy-winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman, her life shifted from private family devotion to public vulnerability after the tragic 2008 loss of their five-year-old adopted daughter, Maria. Chapman’s raw, faith-centered account of wrestling with despair and divine trust cemented her reputation as a voice for those navigating trauma.

A co-founder of Show Hope, a nonprofit supporting adoption, Chapman merges personal experience with activism, having advocated for orphan care in media interviews, podcasts, and conferences like Hope for the Journey. Her work extends to co-authored children’s books and speaking engagements that amplify her message of resilience.

Choosing to SEE became a cultural touchstone in Christian communities, praised for its unflinching honesty and theological depth. The book remains a staple in grief support circles and adoption resources, underscoring Chapman’s enduring influence.

Download Summary of Choosing to see

Get the Choosing to see summary as a free PDF or EPUB. Print it or read offline anytime.

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"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

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"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

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