The Prodigal Brother: Making Peace with Your Parents, Your Past, and the Wayward One in Your Family

Most people know the story Jesus told of the prodigal son-the child who demanded his inheritance and then threw it away on wild living. But there were two sons in the story: the older son watched events unfold and told his father, "I stayed with you all these years and you never threw a party for me!" Those who grew up in a family with a prodigal understand that cry. Sue Thompson shares her own story of struggle and hope in The Prodigal Brother. She offers ways to heal the ache of feeling second place in a parent's affections and attention, and writes with sensitivity about forgiving a wayward brother or sister without excusing the behavior. Anyone who's ever been "the good kid" will find empathy and encouragement to unload the emotional baggage of growing up with a prodigal in the family. Many of us grew up in families where one of our siblings was the favorite child-either because that one did everything right in his parents' eyes or because he was so needy. Whichever the case, Sue Thompson gives practical suggestions from her own life experiences. Whether you are the good one or the neglected one, you will find fresh insight in this eye-opening book. Florence Littauer Author of Personality Plus and Silver Boxes In the all-important arena of interpersonal relationships . . . Sue's book is at the top of my all-time list. It is that good, and it is that important. Ralph Harris, LifeCourse Ministries Author of Better Off Than You Think