Very pleased to read Paul Valler’s Review of The Sound of Musings in This month’s Premier ‘Christianity Magazine. And yes, I did write the book for fans of the film, rather than those who choose to not watch it!

If you like The Sound of Music, then you will love this book. Bryony Wood connects many aspects of the life of faith to the famous narrative of Maria, the would-be nun who became the governess of the von Trapp children and, eventually, their stepmother, and wife of Georg von Trapp. 

But if, like Christopher Plummer who played Georg in the 1965 film adaptation, you really hate The Sound of Music (he derisively called the film “The Sound of Mucus”), then this book probably isn’t for you.

Part of the genius of The Sound of Musings is that Wood taps into many of the important life transitions that happen in the story. From growing up (“I am 16 going on 17”), to marriage, finding your vocation, stepping out in faith, facing fears and adversity, and escape from oppression. It is life with all its ups and downs. 

Wood springboards from each of these events or conversations into the Bible to explore deeper truths, and brings sound teaching to bear on them all. She explains key biblical principles about identity, guidance, trust, conflict and forgiveness, and does so in a way that is relevant to people at all stages of their faith.  

The short chapter design lends itself to being read in brief periods with a time of devotional reflection. At the end of every chapter there is a “moment for musing” with sensitive life application questions that reassure us about the grace of God and yet challenge us to live with integrity as believers. 

This is a creative, light-hearted and well-crafted devotional. For those who emotionally connect well to the film, it is an easy and fun read with profound truths that apply to us all.

Paul Valler is chair of The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity and a mentor, author and speaker

Paul VallerPaul Valler is chair of The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity and a mentor, author and speaker

The post 4Star Review of The Sound of Musings in November’s Issue of ‘Christianity’ Magazine first appeared on Bryony Wood.

There was cake of course – amazing themed cake and lots of edelweiss.

The afternoon was enriched by superb music with Revd Mark Cantril and his rich baritone vocals which filled the large church with the sounds of his music and our music.

The appreciative audience listened, laughed, clapped and sang along, it was truly an afternoon of joy. And then we drank tea and had lots of jam with bread and crisp apple strudel while also signing and selling books – many books…

And cap it all, one of my English Teachers came along too and didn’t give me any more homework! And now its out in the world- one little book that will hopefully bring smiles and hope to lots of different people.

The post The Sound of Musings is Launched! first appeared on Bryony Wood.

We’re on our final 2 chapters now…countdown to PUBLICATIONS DAY THIS FRIDAY

The post Chapter 51: The Walk to Freedom with Tea with Jam and Bread by Labrini Xatzimina in Glorious Greece first appeared on Bryony Wood.

The post Chapter 50: ‘I Have Sinned’ with Tea and Jam and Bread by Laura Gittins first appeared on Bryony Wood.

Debbie’s creativity is evidenced in this clever pic of Tee and Jam and Bread, and also in the beautiful artwork and all the branding around The Sound of Musings. Thanks Debbie- you’re a star!

The post Chapter 49: I Lift Up My Eyes and Tea with Jam and Bread by Debbie Cortese first appeared on Bryony Wood.

The post Chapter 46: Gone! and Tea with Jam and Bread by the very trustworthy David Bean. (And a hint about this chapter in the photo) first appeared on Bryony Wood.

The post Chapter 42:The Bride with Tea and Jam and Bread by Helen Sindall. first appeared on Bryony Wood.

3pm with, Tea and Jam and Bread and Crisp Apple Strudel of course!

Come along and hear about the book, the story behind the book, the film behind the story behind the book, and the God behind the person who wrote the book! It will be musical, fun and inspiring.

Books and postcards will be available to buy postage free!

TICKETS ARE FREE via

Eventbrite (SOUND OF MUSINGS BOOK LAUNCH) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-sound-of-musings-book-launch-tickets-583884423027

Or get a free ‘paper ticket’ from Retford Arts Hub, Churchgate, Retford

Come along with your camera for a photo opportunity with ‘Maria’ (its not Bryony!)

The post BOOK LAUNCH first appeared on Bryony Wood.

…Looking dejected, the children discuss Maria’s sudden departure and decide to do something about it. They walk to Nonnburg Abbey and plead with Sister Margaretta to see Fräulein Maria, bewailing that she didn’t even say goodbye. But it’s no use; Maria is in seclusion and won’t see anyone… Reverend Mother offers her pearl of wisdom…

Photo was taken at a shared tea with guests from ‘Re-engage’ – formally known as Contact the Elderly and reflects Kathy’s passion for fairtrade, social justice and hospitality

The post Chapter 37: ‘Live the Life You Were Born to Live’. and (Fairtrade) Tea with Redcurrant Jelly/Jam and Homemade Pilgrim’s Bread by Kathy Cowbrough first appeared on Bryony Wood.

Chapter 5 faith and doubts

Along the cloister, three senior nuns are walking and talking. They are greeted by a breathless Sister Bernice, who has a problem. She has lost Maria, even though she has searched all the usual places. Reverend Mother smiles and suggests that as it’s Maria, she should look somewhere unusual. (A bit like when I’ve lost my car keys and find them in the fridge?)

The post Chapter 5: first appeared on Bryony Wood.