Jean Ann Williams | Author

Reader’s Reviews

Pocket Full of Memories

Readers know they are in for something as sweet and delicious as a strawberry pie, and Jean Ann Williams doesn’t let them down.“A Pocket Full of Memories” demonstrates love in many ways, each character taking a turn to honor Dotty and celebrate the joy of family. The idea of it all happening in a few short days, with cards being the tickets to glimpses in the past, was brilliant. The story stands alone but is so much nicer when read right after JUST CLAIRE. Jean Ann’s writing reminded me so much of Earl Hamner Jr.’s The Waltons. Every teen girl should read this book. It is a model for good family values. I especially love the last line; it says what is most important to the heroine, FAMILY! Reviewed by B.W.

A Pocket Full of Memories Reviews

This lovely story picks up with the Monteiro family after Claire and her siblings have grown and made lives for themselves, despite the fallout from their mother’s struggles with mental illness when they were children. Dotty waits for her children to come home for Mother’s Day but is sad to know that one child, Lolly, will probably ignore the invitation. Lolly still hasn’t gotten over the rejection she felt after her younger brother, Chipper, was born and her mother mysteriously disappeared from her life as Dotty sank into the black haze of depression that commonly follows birth. It’s been two years since the family has heard from her.

I can’t think of a better Mother’s Day gift than to have your children come home and fill your life with love and forgiveness. Even though the visit lasted one day, it’s clear the emotions will carry Dotty through the rest of her life. Such an uplifting book can’t be missed.

Angela Moody, Author – No Safe Haven (2016); The Belle of Oyster Bay (2020).

This story made me tear up and gave me goose bumps! I love the back to basics and wholesomeness of the characters best of all! The story reminds me of the importance of family and especially the bond between a mother and daughter. The book is hard to put down and I enjoyed it immensely. I’d recommend it to everyone.

Crystal Martinho Hatter, Correctional Counselor

Just Claire

Simply thrilled to read this book! Beautifully written story! I love that the author shared an issue so many deal with but few write about. —REDA REDDING, mother of 11 children

Well written book about a young girl trying to grow up and understand mental illness within her family. As I was reading I felt as though I struggled along with her. I couldn’t put the book down until the end. This is a great book for young adults (middle school) to help today’s generation look to God for guidance and support. —CORI LARSEN, school teacher

A sweet and poignant story about a young girl coming of age and learning that true strength can be found in unlikely places. This will appeal to young teens who have to deal with difficult family issues. And I must say, the author’s “voice” was spot on – I read this in one sitting! This is an author I’ll be following. —DARBY KARCHUT, author of Del Toro Moon

Jean Ann Williams will never write superficially because she has plunged the depths of personal tragedy and come up with a treasure trove of insight. Just Claire gives the reader an unfolding look into postpartum depression and the effect on families.
This coming-of-age book from the eyes and heart of a middle schooler pulls your heartstrings. Claire wants to be liked, but loyalty and home mean something more to her. Those values keep her afloat during a difficult time in her family’s life. Jean’s writing has a steady rhythm. If you’re tired of books that leave you saying, “Couldn’t happen,” I can assure you, this book isn’t one of them. —DIANE HUFF PITTS, co-author of Summer in Sweetland

When I began reading this story, I thought it was for children. It was like a whirlwind dance down memory lane. I had completely forgotten what it was like to be thirteen back in the fifties. Peer pressures, the need to fit in, and the drive to find a best-and-forever friend, were as much a struggle for Claire as taking care of four siblings. As an adult caregiver, I shared Claire’s agony wanting Mama to be well and sane again. What this heroine bears upon her small shoulders is a burden the readers will never forget. I guarantee you will laugh and you will cry when you go to the little cabin on the river and spend time with Claire Bear. —BECKY WHITE, author of 300 educational books for children

What people are saying about

God’s Mercies after Suicide:

“In this stirring memoir Jean Ann Williams shares her son Joshua’s life and also his untimely death at age twenty-five. Being a woman of faith, in each chapter she shares thoughts and Scriptures which have given her comfort and support in hopes her journey can help others. The book is a must read for anyone who has lost a family member to suicide.”

—GLORIA HORSLEY Ph.D.

President of Open to Hope

“Jean Ann Williams has written a powerful book, full of pain and joy, despair and hope, all in the form of short, pithy devotions. This author understands the agony of losing someone to suicide, because her son took his life and shredded his family’s heart. However, though Williams clearly spells out the agonizing grief she endured after her beloved son’s death, she also shows God truly does offer a Light at the end of the long, dark tunnel of loss.

And as the author takes us on this long journey out of overwhelming darkness, she also enables us to feel the everlasting arms underneath her, carrying her and healing her every step of the way. If you or someone you know has lost a loved one through suicide, please get this book. It will bless and minister to you as often as you read one of its devotions or reflect on the words within its pages.”

—KATHI MACIAS, (www.kathimacias.com) is a multi-award-winning author of more than 50 books. She lives in Southern California with her husband Al.

“Jean Ann Williams provides a transparent account of the emotions and challenges surrounding the suicide death of her son, Josh. Reality, interspersed with memories, creates an accurate look at the difficulties inherent in suicide grief. But God’s Mercies after Suicide also affords readers the opportunity to explore their own emotions and struggles and document their journey through the healing process.”

—CANDY ARRINGTON, AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B & H Publishing Group)