I Made Them for Hope: Revelations of God in Everyday Life, inspirational stories by Carolyn Wing Greenlee, is a small book packed with short stories about everyday people with everyday problems. But the answers to these problems are often unexpected, and often seemingly miraculous. This little gem of a book shares minuscule miracles—small accounts of God’s interventions—that have been granted to the author, her friends and loved ones.

Each chapter in the book shares an account of a problem, perhaps small in the scope of the big picture, but nevertheless a problem that is worrisome, even damaging, to someone. How a solution comes about is often surprising. We sometimes look at these solutions as magical, but, as the author points out, it’s more likely God has furnished the perfect solution, one that will be beneficial in the long run.

Sometimes it seems our prayers aren’t answered. The author points out that God answers in three different ways: “Yes,” “Not yet,” or “I have something better for you.” It’s good to keep this in mind, especially those times when we think we can see the perfect solution, but later acknowledge that another solution was far better.

Carolyn Wing Greenlee has written several books, many of which I have read and reviewed. I was especially impressed with Steady Hedy: A Journey through Blindness & Guide Dog School, a story of the author’s transformative journey through blindness, independence, and self-discovery. She went to the school full of doubt. After twenty-eight days, she came home with Hedy, a Labrador puppy. Hedy was a handful, but through many prayers the guide dog became a great companion, bringing joy and boundless opportunities.

I Made Them for Hope is a lovely little book. Although only seventy-six pages, the book is packed with wisdom and hope. It would be an ideal book for group discussions, or as a gift to someone who is discouraged or desperate. It is a book of joy, compassion, and healing.