What People Are Saying

“I started reading your book about 3 1/2  hours ago and I have difficulty putting it down. It is late and I must go to sleep. This is really good.”

“This is simple storytelling at its best. On the surface these stories contain the particulars of Brian’s life—his childhood, his friends, his neighborhoods. The tales are personal. But just below that surface are themes, thoughts, and feelings that are a part of my story too. Brian’s book helped me find some extra in my ordinary, and for that I am grateful.”

—Doug Wysockey-Johnson, Executive Director, Lumunos

“Brian’s stories made me laugh and made me cry. They are a strong reminder of the wonder of everyday life.”

—Dr. Kevin Leman, New York Times best-selling author of Have a New Kid by Friday

“This is a well-written book of stories from the author’s life with reflections on their meaning for faith. The stories are compelling, sometimes humorous, sometimes sad. They are also self-revealing. Brian is far more honest than cautious. If you enjoy the writings of Kathleen Norris, Anne Lamott, or even Garrison Keillor, I suspect you will like reading this book.”

—Rev. Dr. Glenn R. Palmberg, President Emeritus, The Evangelical Covenant Church

“Brian Madvig’s ability to tell a story is absolutely captivating. In his storytelling, I am drawn in by the humor and the honesty that connect with my own story. Through his authenticity, I am able to remember pieces of my own story that I have pushed away.”

—Chrissy Palmerlee

“I would buy a book like Brian’s because sometimes I need a pick me up, or just because it feels good to read a story that reminds me that I am not alone.”

—Judy Weinstein, Life Coach

“I like reading Brian’s stories because they take me back to my days as a stupid kid, and that is kind of fun.”

—Tom Siebrasse

“I like Brian’s reflections on everyday life. A work of fiction uses metaphor or allegory to state the author’s perspective. Brian’s stories are more authentic and relational, which gives them more meat to chew on.”

—Gary Isaacson

“I enjoy reading Brian’s stories because I thrive on narrative and honest human vulnerability!”

—Rev. Arthur A.R. Nelson, Parish Associate, Winnetka Covenant Church

“I will read what Brian writes because I know him and what he writes is always interesting.”

—Steve Sudhoff

“I like to read Brian’s stories because life is hard and sometimes you need to remember the simple, enjoyable and funny lessons that are wrapped in everyday life!”

—Joe Higgins

“Brian’s book is attractive because it provides a refuge from the constant assault on our senses about what is meaningful and important. It allows the reader, thanks to his humorous, at times self-deprecating but always deeply personal stories, a very important reminder of what is important and that the everyday “ordinary” is actually rather “extraordinary”. A timely message for today’s society.”

—Mary Boyd

“I like to read Brian’s stories because we all need to be reminded to find the magnificent in the ordinary. What better way than to see the richness he’s worked through in examining his own life experience.”

—Paul Hawkinson

“I know Brian. After hearing some of his stories, I find them very relatable. They are well told. Besides, I am always looking for illustrations to use when I have to speak somewhere. He has some good ones.”

—Harold Spooner

“If you are wondering where to find the extraordinary in life, then you might just want to read Brian Madvig’s new book, 33 Weeks of Ordinary. Like a seasoned docent guiding us through an art gallery, Brian helps us to discover that the extraordinary moments of our lives are often hidden within otherwise ordinary events. Without some help, these moments would be easy to miss. Brian’s writing is textured and rich. As he gently pulls you in you will not only enjoy his stories, but you will find your own stories waking up and coming back to life. This satisfying book left me nurtured and grateful for the often hidden yet extraordinary moments that life generously provides.”

—Tim Hogan, PsyD, Clinical Psychologist