Roses: I Gave God my Roses and He Took the Thorns Away

by Yvette Littlejohn

Overview

"Roses - I Gave God my Roses and He Took the Thorns Away" by Yvette Littlejohn is a memoir that delves into the life of Yvette as she navigates the profound losses of her beloved family members. Through the metaphor of roses, Yvette commemorates her father, mother, sister, and brother, each of whom played significant roles in shaping her faith and resilience. The narrative begins with Yvette in her garden, surrounded by roses that symbolize her departed loved ones. As she tends to the flowers, she reflects on the bittersweet memories of her family, recalling both the joy and sorrow that have defined her life. The memoir explores the impact of her father's sudden passing, her sister's battle with breast cancer, her brother's unexpected collapse, and her mother's long struggle with illness. Yvette's journey is marked by a deep faith in God, which she draws upon to find peace amidst the chaos of grief. Each chapter reveals how her faith has been reshaped by loss, transforming her pain into a deeper understanding of God's love and the power of prayer. Through her family's stories, Yvette illustrates the beauty and strength that can emerge from life's thorniest moments.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798260318980
Publisher:	Barnes & Noble Press
Publication date:	10/06/2025
Pages:	242
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.51(d)

About the Author

Yvette Littlejohn was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, in a faith-filled home where both her father and mother served as deacon and deaconess in their Baptist church. Growing up in a strong spiritual environment laid the foundation for her unshakable faith, which continues to guide her life and inspire her writing.
She has been happily married for 35 years, celebrating a lifetime of love and partnership. With a heart for service, Yvette pursued a career in the medical field, earning a diploma as a Medical Assistant. While working, she remained committed to personal growth and education, returning to school in her late 40s to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
A devoted member of the Baptist denomination, Yvette’s passions extend beyond her faith. She finds joy in teaching, singing, gardening, and reading, as well as staying active through walking and bicycle riding. She cherishes quality time with her family and enjoys dining out with friends, embracing life’s simple yet meaningful moments.
After a fulfilling career as a Medical Benefits Manager, Yvette retired in 2023, opening a new chapter in her journey – one that allows her to reflect, create, and share her experiences with others. Deeply committed to her faith, she loves encouraging and witnessing the growth of others in their spiritual journeys. Through her writing, she hopes to inspire, encourage, and uplift, reminding readers that faith, resilience, and love can transform even the most challenging seasons of life.