When Ben Palermo inherits his uncle's bookstore, he has a secure career and a built-in home, but he doesn't have contentment. As Ben looks ahead to the next chapter of his life, some well'meaning customers scheme to keep him in town by finding him a proper wife-on their terms. The moment author and illustrator Rosemary Berg walks into his store, Ben is captivated. And she is overwhelmed by his disarming charm and eerie familiarity. but can she trust him? Or should she turn instead to an old friend who is finally ready to claim her heart? The Story People is a celebration of stories and the bond they form when shared and loved. It's about having the courage to live your own story well as you give your life over to God, the author and perfecter of our faith. "(Heather) Kaufman s winsome main narrative following Ben is full of misunderstandings, high jinks, and lonely people who find one another despite the many obstacles that stand in the way. The sections about the Story People, however brief, bring a nice undercurrent concerning the state of reading and the power of the imagination. Readers will enjoy this sweet tale of a unique bookstore and the patrons that love it . . . " --Publisher's Weekly "Heather Kaufman's debut book, The Story People, is full of fascinating characters whose voices you can hear in your mind. In fact, if I was walking down the street and passed Mrs. Gardner, I'd know her right away! The story sweeps you away to a land between reality and the imagination, perfectly mingling her superb storytelling skills with a strong message of encouragement for Christian life. I would recommend this book for anyone." --Sarah Baughman, author of the Regency Silhouettes series, deaconess, wife, and mom of four Heather Kaufman has published poetry and short fiction, and in 2006 was named Poet of the Year by The Fellowship of Christian Poets. She is Associate Editor of Periodicals and Consumer Books at Concordia Publishing House.