This book contains twenty stories of hope from those (including the author) who have chosen to rise out of hardship and challenge into joy and service to others. The use of baking powder as a symbol for the action-agent or catalyst for the "rising" process originates from the author's great grandmother's incredible biscuits, all symbolic of a transformation made possible by that "magic ingredient" and the life-giving bread that resulted.

These stories carry the unique Appalachian context of the author, which flavors her own experiences and her interpretations of the shared experiences of others.

The author challenges you to pause to reflect on whatever name you give that special ingredient in your own life to rise into light and service.