In 2016, friends and colleagues Bryan Taylor and Michael Kroth journeyed from Caldwell, Idaho to Mt. Angel Abbey in Oregon for a retreat. The retreat came at a time when both men were suffering the heartache of severely ill children-Bryan's son and Michael's grandson.On the retreat, Michael came across a copy of the 15th century classic, The Imitation of Christ in the monastery library. Bryan, familiar with the book from years past, recommended that Michael purchase it. He did so at the bargain price of one dollar. Michael read the book immediately, and Bryan subsequently re-read it during hospital visits with his son.The two men were deeply moved, but they were also dismayed. The book which was so influential in the lives of countless saints, a book that has been printed in more languages than any book other than the Bible, is scarcely purchased or discussed in 21st century culture.To remedy this, Bryan and Michael penned a novel entitled, Coffee Talk-A Tranformational Tale Inspired by The Imitation of Christ.Set on a fictitious college campus, the novel weaves the story of a retired professor and a new professor, their providential meeting in a coffee shop, and how they design a curriculum for a college theology class based on the wisdom of The Imitation of Christ.The curriculum is based on material found in the younger professor's blue binder, entitled I.C.U.-Imitation of Christ Unit. The book you are reading purports to be the contents of the novel's I.C.U.In reality, the I.C.U. is an intensive course for those interested in growing in holiness. Significant spiritual growth may be acquired through faith and grace, and the application of the steps presented herein.