Due to a sudden, unexpected passing in the family a few years ago and another more recently and my subsequent (mental) health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for several years after the bereavements. This meant I didn't read or venture onto netgalley for years as not only did it remind me of that person as they shared my passion for reading, but I also struggled to maintain interest in anything due to overwhelming depression. I was therefore unable to download this title in time and so I couldn't give a review as it wasn't successfully acquired before it was archived. The second issue that has happened with some of my other books is that I had them downloaded to one particular device and said device is now defunct, so I have no access to those books anymore, sadly.

This means I can't leave an accurate reflection of my feelings towards the book as I am unable to read it now and so I am leaving a message of explanation instead. I am now back to reading and reviewing full time as once considerable time had passed I have found that books have been helping me significantly in terms of my mindset and mental health - this was after having no interest in anything for quite a number of years after the passings. Anything requested and approved will be read and a review written and posted to Amazon (where I am a Hall of Famer & Top Reviewer), Goodreads (where I have several thousand friends and the same amount who follow my reviews) and Waterstones (or Barnes & Noble if the publisher is American based). Thank you for the opportunity and apologies for the inconvenience

What an absolutely beautiful book! This is honestly such a special read - it reminds you how important charity is, on both a global scale as well as a more mirco, local level. It shows how anyone and everyone has the potential to live a charitable life, regardless of finances or other factors which you might assume would limit your charitable potential. Ultimately, it reminds you that charity at its heart is about acts of love and service towards others, and how even the smallest act could change the world. Definitely a message we need after 2020! This is a book I would wholeheartedly recommend, as it is honestly a very special and meaningful book with a beautiful message at its heart.

The author founded the charity Mary’s Meals, providing hungry children worldwide with a meal at school.
This is his ruminations on what charity is and it’s place in society and it’s roots in Christianity.
For example, should charity aim to challenge and change societal structures as well as treating the victims who need the charity in the first place.
And what about the accusations of corruption levelled at charity workers and the charities themselves?
Ultimately charity is an act of love and MacFarlane-Barrow tells stories of selflessness and how people have put their own needs to one side to help others who they will never meet.
This is a sweet and uplifting book, written from the heart.

A moving book a look at people who truly give who live life by sharing, giving helping.A terrific read and guide to giving and sharing.We are introduced to people who lead a caring helping life people who teach us how to give of ourselves.a wonderful read perfect for book club or class discussions.#netgalley#4thestate