The New York Times Book Review (NYTBR) is a cherished weekly supplement to the Sunday edition of The New York Times, dedicated to the vibrant world of literature. Since its inception on October 10, 1896, the NYTBR has served as a vital resource for readers, offering insightful reviews of both current fiction and non-fiction titles, engaging author interviews, and comprehensive coverage of the ever-evolving book landscape. With a commitment to exploring a wide range of genres, the NYTBR not only highlights the latest literary offerings but also celebrates the enduring power of ideas through the written word.
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Steve Sieting’s book, “From Out of the Sand,” was among the books featured in the December 2025 issue of The New York Times Book Review (NYTBR) magazine.
Steve Sieting was born to depression era parents in Michigan,1956. His mother almost died giving birth to him and was told not to hold him because he weighed 11/11lbs. He grew up very shy in school and church yet loved sports and could be aggressive in sport activities. He entered the navy in 1976 for six years and served on board the nuclear submarine USS Snook. Some of his poetry has been influenced by his naval experience. Steve has lived in Georgia since he left the navy in 1982 where he and his wife, Lynn, raised their three children. He still works in electronics and also runs his own part-time business. Steve has been nominated for Author of the Year by Georgia Writers Association Inspirational-Religious category to be announced June 7, 2014.
Sieting recounts his spiritual collapse: isolation, depression, and resignation as life overwhelmed him. Yet he chose to pray one final time—only to be met by the assurance that God had not abandoned him. That divine affirmation marked the start of his long, disciplined journey of repentance, confession, and return—a trek marked by poetry, prophetic insight, and emotional honesty. Through alternating chapters of reflective prose and personal poetry, Sieting shares how honesty with God led him to repentance and spiritual transformation. His writing is a testament: if God reached out to him in his lowest moment, He will hear your cry too.
“From Out of the Sand” shines with its raw sincerity, poetic richness, and open vulnerability. Steve Sieting doesn’t shy away from revealing his brokenness—instead, he embraces it, welcoming readers into the heart of a faith crisis and the gentle beauty of spiritual restoration. His words flow like prayers—honest, comforting, and deeply relatable. For those feeling spiritually weary, distant, or emotionally worn down, this book becomes a comforting reminder that even our faintest plea is heard by God. The seamless blend of poetry and prose makes the experience both emotionally stirring and spiritually nourishing—perfect for those who appreciate devotional memoirs and poetic reflections.
This memoir-poetry collection beautifully captures one man’s journey from spiritual desolation to divine renewal. With soulful narration and poignant poetic language, Sieting begins by baring his soul, sharing a season where he felt completely disconnected from God—tired, overwhelmed, and tempted to walk away.
More than just a story, this book becomes a sanctuary on paper—a gentle voice that assures readers that God still sees, hears, and draws near to them. Sieting’s personal transformation becomes a beacon of hope for anyone wrestling with loneliness, spiritual doubt, or feelings of unworthiness.
For those seeking comfort, courage, and a renewed sense of God’s presence, this book offers a peaceful refuge—reminding us that healing often begins with honest confession and the courage to listen when grace whispers back.
Its gentle message is clear: God says, “I hear your cry,” and that is more than enough.