Category: Book Reviews

Book review: ‘The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors’ by Laura Garrett

‘The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors’ an essential guide to better physical and mental well being. Photo: Amazon

Laura Garrett is a successful cookbook writer and hobby book author known for her ability to make even the most complex tasks approachable and enjoyable for beginners. She continues to inspire and educate people through her work, sharing her love of cooking and hobbies with a wider audience. Her new book “The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors” is an essential guide to help readers, not just seniors, improve their overall physical and mental well being. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors” makes yoga accessible to seniors looking to improve the quality of their life regardless of their fitness level or mobility. In the first chapter Welcome Note from the Author, she states that as a wellness author and practitioner working with seniors, she “.. saw a need for an exercise form that was not only safe and accessible but also enjoyable and beneficial in the long term.” That’s when she discovered the benefits that chair yoga has for seniors. This book includes exercises to help improve your strength, mobility, and balance. More importantly, it also features personal stories from her students as proof of how chair yoga has helped them regain the ability to perform everyday tasks and in the long run, finding a renewed sense of independence and confidence.

The book is divided into nine chapters including The Benefits of Chair Yoga (strength, mobility, mental health), Mobility Exercises, Strength Exercises, Mindfulness Exercises, and Advanced Exercises. She takes readers through the entire process, from breath exercises, to warm up stretches, and the various exercises. The exercises are listed with illustrations, using plain language, and detailed step by step explanations that include duration and how many sets to do. The chapters on mindfulness meditation, breathing techniques, and relaxation practices, aside from being important parts of a holistic yoga practice, are especially helpful for seniors looking to manage stress, improve mental clarity, and create a sense of inner peace.

Overall, it is not just an exercise book, it is an essential guide for seniors looking to improve their overall physical and mental fitness. The last chapter, Additional Resources, has other resources to consider including YouTube channels, fitness programs, and other useful books, which makes it especially beneficial not just for seniors, but for caregivers who work with seniors. It is highly recommended for readers interested in incorporating yoga into their routines, whether they are seniors, have mobility issues, or just beginners.

*The author was contacted for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘The Girl from Wudang’ by PJ Caldas

‘The Girl from Wudang: A Novel About Artificial Intelligence, Martial Arts and Immortality’ by PJ Caldas. Photo: Amazon

PJ Caldas, a.k.a PJ Pereira, the author of multiple best-selling novels in Brazil, was named one of the most important writers of the 21st century by the Dictionary of Brazilian Literature. He published four books inspired by the mythology carried to the country by the African diaspora and reached the top five best-selling titles multiple times. PJ is also a martial artist with 40 years of experience in combat sports, including kempo, karate, tai chi, and Brazilian jiu jitsu. In 2023 he was named Jury President of the Artificial Intelligence Awards at the Art Director’s Club and curated a Global immersive exhibit of designers collaborating with AI, called ADC101+1, as a way to explore the use of this emerging technology as a creative tool. His new book “The Girl from Wudang” is a story about immortality, martial arts, and AI that will change the way you look at life, science, and the crazy times we are living in.

“The Girl from Wudang” – My Name is Tigress and I am immortal. This is my story. Embark on a mind-bending journey with Tigress as she navigates the confusing jumps of conscience that throw her between tender moments of her childhood practicing Tai Chi in China, the most violent cage fights in California, and a secret lab where scientists experiment with her brain. She was raised in a traditional Chinese setting, immersed in Tai Chi and the Dao, but life soon takes her to California where she gets involved in professional fighting, which she loves. The story begins with an internet Blackout and Tigress is watching it unfold on television in her Oakland home and then decides to go for a jog around the neighborhood. Trouble always seems to find her, or she goes looking for it, but either way, she gets involved in a brutal street fight. Then there is a flash and she is transported to another location. This is Tigress’ life, and she shares her experiences as well as the journey that completely changes her life.

In “The Girl from Wudang,” PJ Caldas gives readers a look into the life of a confident, strong, and self-reliant fighter who evolves from a street fighter to a selfless immortal being. She is a trained fighter, and at first she is smug, but her intent is to teach women to fight: “When it comes to fighting, here’s the difference between a guy and a girl: we know they underestimate us. And I love to make them regret that.” Searching for a way to alleviate her chronic headaches, she allows herself to be part of an experiment and that is where cutting edge technology steps in. Tigress is telling her story, so it is in the first person point of view and the narration, especially the fight scenes, are highly descriptive: “My heels smash his sternum, making a crack and a puffing sound, though momentum and idiocy keep pushing his hips forward.” At first, the footnotes seem out of place, but they become useful when explaining Chinese culture and the author’s thought processes and other background information. The action is fast paced but the sudden jumps in location can seem confusing and some of the fight action is bloody and violent. Regardless, this speculative science fiction novel expertly combines ancient traditions, modern day technology/science, spirituality, and martial arts. It is a must read for fans of cyberpunk and science fiction thrillers by William Gibson and Stieg Larsson.

“This strange dimension where I live, this place nerds call ‘the cloud’ isn’t the Dao of my ancestors. Though, from where I stand, I can hear everything.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Rethinking Transportation’ by Ansh Verma

‘Rethinking Transportation’ is Ansh Verma’s new book all about transportation. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher + author + philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investing, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking/making sense of the world. His new book “Rethinking Transportation” focuses on the topic of transportation, the problems in the current transportation system (congestion, pollution, and parking difficulties) and the need for innovative solutions.

“Rethinking Transportation” emphasizes the importance of reimagining transportation for a better future and discusses the potential for innovative solutions to address these problems. Ansh Verma introduces a personal patent in the automobile field and explains how this invention can revolutionize transportation, addressing many of the challenges previously highlighted. There is a detailed examination of the patent, explaining how it works and the potential impact it could have. He includes real-world case studies and success stories of innovative transportation solutions to demonstrate how these solutions have made a positive difference. The book maps out the steps required for the widespread adoption of this new mode of transport, including collaborations, regulations, and public perception. (Amazon, 2024)

The author begins with Introduction: Setting the stage where it is noted that population growth and urbanization have put a strain in the public transportation infrastructure. Chapter 1: The Problems with Traditional Transportation highlights the fact that the individual suffers the most due to longer commutes, limited access to reliable transportation, and the pollution that comes with increased vehicles on the road and therefore, “…traffic congestion perpetuates social inequity.” How can we address these problems? One solution is innovation. According to the author, in Chapter 2: The Call for Innovation, “Innovation in transportation plays a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and efficient future.”

The rest of the book is divided as such:

Chapter 3: A New Vision for Transportation
Chapter 4: Patent In Focus
Chapter 5: Benefits of the New Mode of Transport
Chapter 6: Overcoming Challenges and Resistance
Chapter 7: Case Studies and Success Stories
Chapter 8: The Path to Adoption
Chapter 9: Environmental and Societal Impact
Chapter 10: The Future of Transportation

Overall, not only does “Rethinking Transportation” presents an excellent examination of the problems with modern transportation, but it offers solutions. It is heavily researched and contains information that anyone interested in innovations in the transportation industry will find helpful. It is definitely a must read.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe’ by Ansh Verma

‘Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe’ is the new book by Ansh Verma. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher, author, and philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investments, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking and making sense of the world. His new book “Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe” is a captivating exploration of the intricate harmony and balance that permeates the cosmos.

“Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe” – This thought-provoking book takes readers on a journey through the fundamental principles governing the universe, from celestial harmony to the laws of nature that underpin the cosmos. It delves into the timeless concept of yin and yang, revealing how opposing forces complement and balance each other on both cosmic and human scales.

From the birth and death of stars to the cyclical rhythms of life on Earth, the book examines the interconnectedness of all existence and the profound role of balance in shaping our universe. It bridges the realms of science, philosophy, and culture, offering insights into the diverse ways different societies have revered and integrated the idea of cosmic balance into their beliefs, ethics, and rituals.

This book also tackles the pressing issue of ecological balance on our planet and its broader implications for the cosmic equilibrium. It invites readers to contemplate their place in the vast cosmic tapestry and to reflect on the significance of balance in their own lives. With a holistic approach that combines scientific discoveries, philosophical reflections, and practical applications, this book serves as an enlightening guide to understanding the delicate equilibrium that sustains our universe and inspires us to find balance within ourselves and the world around us.

Balance is the central theme of this book, primarily yin and yang, the concept that “invites us to explore the eternal interplay of opposites that lies at the core of our reality.” It examines balance and harmony in everything from nature to human life. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific type of balance, including Chapter 2: Celestial Harmony, Chapter 3: Balance in Nature, and Chapter 5: Ecological Balance. Especially interesting is Chapter 4: Cultural Perspectives, which emphasizes how all cultures respect this sense of balance within their respective lifestyles.

The author does so much more than just educate readers on how balance works in nature, he also gives practical advice on how they can achieve balance in their personal lives. This includes balancing work and life, balancing technology and nature, and finding balance in consumption. In his Call to Balance in Chapter 8: Conclusion, he encourages readers to be mindful of their place in the universe to create a more balanced and sustainable future for everyone. As we are all connected, we all benefit in the end. If you are interested in an in depth study of the cosmos and the importance of balance and harmony, this is the book for you.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds’ by Ansh Verma

‘The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds’ is the new book by Ansh Verma. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher, author, and philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches on almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including but not limited to technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investing, military, finance and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking/making sense of the world. His new book, “The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds,” unravels the mysteries of why individuals, even those who appear stoic and detached, maintain an enduring connection with their parents.

“The Science Behind Unbreakable Parent-Child Bonds” – in this book, readers embark on a fascinating journey through the complex world of human relationships from a unique perspective – behavioral science and logic. Delving deep into the evolutionary, cognitive, and emotional aspects of parent-child bonds, it uncovers the hidden drivers behind this unbreakable link. From the psychological mechanisms that underlie parental recognition to the influence of socialization and culture on these connections, it presents a rich mosaic of insights backed by extensive research and real-world examples. It also challenges conventional notions of parent-child relationships, offering a fresh and scientifically grounded perspective that explains why these bonds persist and how they shape our lives. With clear, engaging prose, this book invites readers to discover the profound behavioral science behind what truly keeps us forever linked to our parents, shedding light on the enduring power of this fundamental connection. (Amazon, 2023)

There is no doubt that the bond between parent and child is one of the strongest relationships out there and the author explores these types of human relationships through the perspective of behavioral science and logic. Not only does psychology play a part of this bond, but so does society and culture. It is well researched and even though the subject may be scientifically presented, he explains it in a way that is easy to understand.

Some of the chapters include The Evolutionary Roots of Filial Attachment, Cognitive Mechanisms of Parental Recognition, and Psychological Resilience and Attachment. A couple of my favorites are 5. The Influence of Socialization and Culture where he explains the impact of societal norms on the parent-child bond and 6. Stoicism and Parent-Child Bonds – even if the parents do not display feelings or complaints, it still has an effect on a growing child. If you have ever wanted to know more about the parent-child bond, I highly recommend this book. Even if you don’t have children, it will help you understand how your parents’ upbringing influenced who you are.

“When we assist our relatives, we are, in essence, promoting the survival and propagation of a significant portion of our own genetic code. This act of altruism…..indirectly contributes to the preservation of our genetic lineage.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Maribelle’s Shadow’ by Susannah Marren

‘Maribelle’s Shadow’ is the latest novel by Susannah Marren. Photo: Amazon

Susannah Marren is the author of “Between the Tides,” “A Palm Beach Wife,” and “A Palm Beach Scandal” and the pseudonym for Susan Shapiro Barash, who has written over a dozen nonfiction books, including “Tripping the Prom Queen,” “Toxic Friends,” and “You’re Grounded Forever,” among others. For her nonfiction, she has been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, The New York Post, The Chicago Tribune, Elle, Marie Claire, and has appeared on national television including the Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS, CNN, and MSNBC. Barash has been a guest on national radio including NPR and Sirius Radio. For over twenty years she has taught gender studies at Marymount Manhattan College and has guest taught creative nonfiction at the Writing Institute at Sarah Lawrence College. Presently she is teaching at the Westport Writers Workshop. Her new novel, “Maribelle’s Shadow,” is a compelling tale of deception and family loyalty.

“Maribelle’s Shadow” – The only thing that spreads faster than gossip in Palm Beach is news of a mysterious death. As the editorial director of Palm Beach Confidential, Maribelle Walker knows what lurks beneath the glittering facade of the rich elite on Florida’s most glamorous coast. Or does she? The story begins when her adoring husband Samuel dies suddenly. She knows he is being unfaithful but she is hesitant about confronting him. With his death, secrets surface, including the secrets and lies between Maribelle and her sisters Caroline and Raleigh. Compounding the anguish, the authenticity of their socially ambitious mother Lucinda and lavish lifestyle of mansions, privilege and couture clothes is thrown into doubt. As their carefully constructed image unravels, each sister realizes she must fend for herself. The pathway out is steep and worth any risk – until the winner takes it all.

Even though it is fun to read about the rich and social elite, sometimes the characters are not very relatable, so it is hard to feel sorry for them when their lives take a downward spiral. Such is the case of the Barrow sisters. Thanks to their momager, they are always in society-lady mode and since they are obsessed with their social status, every decision they make, from how they dress to where they are seen and with who, is based on whether or not it will elevate or improve their status. The story is divided into three parts and the chapters are alternately narrated in the point of view of the sisters, so readers get an insight into their thoughts and characters. Because of this, the plot is character driven and the mystery behind Samuel’s death unravels slowly in the background even though it marks the beginning of the end for Maribelle. With highly descriptive language: “…she was trapped in mounds of seaweed, fighting to reach the shoreline,” the story flows naturally through the pages, making this an easy and fun to read novel. It also highlights the point that every family, regardless of social status, has secrets that will eventually come to light. Overall, “Maribelle’s Shadow” is a story of family and loyalty, and how far some people will go to hang on to what they have. It is recommended for readers who enjoy women’s fiction centered around socialites, power, and money.

“Don’t be so dramatic, Maribelle,” Lucinda said. “Samuel was another husband. They come; they go…..They’re fungible. Sisters, friends who are like sisters, aren’t.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Embracing God in the Right Perspective with the Right Foundation of Faith in Him’ by Chris Tham

‘Embracing God in the Right Perspective With the Right Perspective In Him’ by Chris Tham. Photo: Amazon

Chris Tham, a firm believer in the Gospel of Light through Christ Jesus, believes that the greatest joy in life is to discover man’s truthful identity in God and that every living soul in the history of mankind is a child of God. In this book, he writes about how we can discover our true identity in the spiritual realm and how our identity relates to God.

When it comes to religious studies, there are many books out there that can guide readers in their search for a deeper understanding of the Bible. What makes this one different is that it is an intense study of Christianity, God, and everything in between. At over 500 pages and 14 chapters such as Who is God and Who Are You and Who Are The Evil Spirits?, it is not meant to be read straight through; it is a reference guide meant as a companion in studying the Bible. It is heavy in Bible verses and references and often compares biblical themes such as sin, hell, and heaven according to the Bible, the Torah, and the Quran, different religions, and even offers atheist and agnostic views. The goal here is not to convert anyone, because the author is not in preacher mode. He is merely informing readers about intellectual concepts such as personal identity and destiny using biblical verses in a language most readers can understand. Most importantly, it “serves as a good text material for interfaith dialogue.” Some of his views are unconventional and may ruffle some feathers, so it helps to read it with an open mind. For example, he gives the undeniable historical fact that Germany was a Christian country under Adolf Hitler and questions why this was, if “the spirit of God desires for peace and not bloodshed among mankind.”

One highlight is Chapter 3 Knowledge Versus Truth which ponders the question that if we have stubbornly held onto strong beliefs with a closed mind all our lives, how can we differentiate between “is it knowledge or is it the truth.” Overall, it is a heavily researched teaching tool with graphics and bulleted lists that can be useful even for anyone who wants to delve into these topics. It is recommended for readers who like instructional books about the Bible, Christianity, and spirituality and appreciate different viewpoints.

“Before we came into this world, were we given the option to choose which country we wanted to be born in or which family we wanted to be born to? Therefore, some of us are predestined to go to heaven and some are predestined to end up in hell? Once again, is this the divine biblical truth?”

“Embracing God in the Right Perspective with the Right Foundation of Faith in Him” is available on Amazon, eSentral, Goodreads, and Authors Reading.

*This is an honest and heartfelt review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to the reviewer.

Book review: ‘Runway Dreams: A Fox in the Fold’ by T.K. Ambers

‘Runway Dreams: A Fox in the Fold’ is the new murder mystery novel by T.K. Ambers. Photo: Amazon

T.K. Ambers is the award-winning author of “Runway Dreams: A Pricey Affair.” Her novel has been recognized in four different award competitions and took second place in the Pencraft Awards, Women’s Fiction category. Her eighth-grade English teacher loved her work and pushed her to publish. Though writing has always been her passion, it took nearly eighteen years before she decided to follow her teacher’s guidance. T.K. has a love for nature, travel, photography, concerts, off-roading, and hiking and aside from her novels, she runs a website on travel and life.  She lives in New Richmond, Wisconsin with her husband and two cats: Bellatrix and Kit. In her new novel “Runway Dreams: A Fox in the Fold,” everywhere Bell Price goes, death is stalking and toying with her. (Amazon, 2023)

“Runway Dreams: A Fox in the Fold” – The story begins with a Prologue that takes place overseas as a young lady is taken away to a new life. This is book two in the Runway Dreams series, so the events take place a few days after. Bell Price wants nothing more than peace, quiet, and a drama-free life for her family. With Martin now in custody, she thinks the worst is behind her but life has a few surprises for her. The last thing she suspects when she goes to the local police precinct is that the prior week’s horrors are only the start of what is headed her way. Gunshots ring out in the early hours of the morning and a scream pierces the air. It is now clear that an unknown assailant is stalking her with revenge in mind. Family, friends, and even innocent bystanders get caught in the middle as she is in danger no matter where she goes. She grows increasingly suspicious of everyone around her and finds it hard to trust anyone. Will Bell and her siblings be able to catch the stalker before one of them becomes the next victim? With their parents now gone, they must work together in spite of the increasing danger to finally have the much needed peace they all deserve.

The drama continues in the next installment of the Runway Dreams saga as the family of models is still in danger. Even though Martin is already in jail, someone out there is bound and determined to get revenge in his name. Danger and violence seems to follow the siblings wherever they go and just goes to prove that being rich and privileged does not protect anyone from the dangers of the real world, even with bodyguards and safe houses. The author brilliantly combines the action and suspense of a murder mystery with the glamour of the fashion industry, including fashion shows, parties, and traveling. Her writing style is beautifully descriptive: “A blood-curdling scream ripped through the early morning stillness” and brings the action to life. Thanks in part to it being highly dialogue driven, the story flows easily through the pages and makes this an easy read. Even though the characters can be considered privileged, they are still relatable due to the extensive character development, showing that everyone has drama in their lives and toxic relationships affect everyone, regardless of socioeconomic levels. As far as the murder mystery part is concerned, everyone is a suspect and there are plenty of plot twists to keep readers guessing. The young lady in the Prologue becomes relevant towards the end and perfectly wraps up it all up. Overall, “Runway Dreams: A Fox in the Fold” is a must read mystery novel and is recommended for readers who appreciate mystery, comedy, and psychological suspense fiction.

“The storm may have been outside, but it was raining inside the limo as a waterfall of silent emotion washed away their pain.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘My Goodbye Girl’ by Anna Gomez

‘My Goodbye Girl’ is a contemporary romance novel by Anna Gomez. Photo: Amazon

Anna Gomez is a hopeless romantic who writes about real life, flawed characters and the saving grace of unconditional love. Her experience of living and growing up in a foreign country plays a large part in her stories. Her full-time career and ability to travel extensively also add flair and individuality to the vividly written settings in her books. They transport the reader to faraway places and make them feel like they have been there before. Anna’s inspiration stems from the people she meets and the places that she has seen. Her stories are realistic and honest, thought-provoking and impactful. Her love for poetry is evident in her writing style. She also has written under the pen name Christine Brae and six books of her books have won literary awards and ranked as bestsellers upon release. In her latest novel “My Goodbye Girl” Tessa must let go of the past and determine once and for all if love is truly more powerful than the pain of goodbye. (Amazon, 2023)

“My Goodbye Girl” – This contemporary romance begins when Tessa Talman first meets Simon Fremont as they are both waiting to board a plane bound for La Guardia. Not only is she attracted to him, she is intrigued by how different their lives are. He is a dedicated scientist, practical, pragmatic, and grounded. She is a head-in-the-clouds romance author. As their relationship grows, they meet in places around the world, while continuing to live in different countries. Though their feelings for each other deepen, their priorities remain the same. Simon is in a hurry to be financially sound and settle down, but Tessa is enjoying her freedom and newfound success. Neither is willing to give in, but as each goodbye gets harder, Tessa begins to wonder whether fame is the path to happiness, or if she has everything she needs in Simon. Just as Tessa finds the courage to go after her own happily ever after, the unthinkable happens, separating them in ways she never imagined.

Romance novels are usually a guilty pleasure because they are predictable and include a ‘happily ever after’ plot. The two main characters in this story are so different from each other and meet at predetermined sites around that world that it is impossible to picture them having a serious future together. Tessa is a free spirited author who enjoys traveling around the world while Simon is a serious scientist who is ready to settle down. The first part is just about them meeting in different places and then hurriedly saying goodbye. Because there is little development or depth to these characters, they are not relatable, so it is hard to be concerned about what happens to them. The real action does not take place until the end of the first part, in Chapter 35, and by then, it feels rushed. Regardless, it is an easy read and since it is heavily dialogue driven, with descriptive language and short chapters, the story flows through the pages. Tessa and Simon’s story takes place through the years as they experience the harsh reality of life – no spoilers! Far from original, “My Goodbye Girl” is still an easy and enjoyable read about two people who are polar opposites yet are involved in a whirlwind romance that takes them around the world. It is recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary romance, women’s fiction, and multicultural romances and appreciate emotional plot twists.  

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Words To Feel Less Alone’ by Brenna O’Neill

‘Words To Feel Less Alone’ is Brenna O’Neill’s new book that chronicles her journey through depression and ultimately healing. Photo: Brenna O’Neill.

Brenna O’Neill is a mental health advocate from Invercargill, New Zealand. A lover of writing, learning, and teaching, she created My Latibule, an online anti-depression community full of tools dedicated to helping people manage clinical depression, all based on her personal experience, professional  therapy, and a BSC in Psychology. Latibule means a place of safety and comfort. My Latibule provides guided anti-depression journals, teaches i-Rest Yoga Nidra meditation, designs beautiful gifts with reminders to stay, and fosters community connections by sharing stories. Her book “Words To Feel Less Alone” chronicles her personal journey through depression and contains the exact words she wrote in her doctor prescribed journal when her brain was consumed by clinical depression. It is available through her website.

Journaling is often prescribed as part of therapy as a means to be honest with yourself and face the issues that are causing problems. For most people, this is the only way to be truly open and honest, since no one will see those journals. When Brenna shared her writings with a friend who was struggling with her own mental health, she found them helpful because it made her realize that she is not alone, that other people struggle as well. This was also how Brenna felt as she was struggling with depression, she did not know anyone else who was depressed and that made her feel so alone. It was then that she decided to share her story with others in the hopes that they would feel less alone.  

“Words To Feel Less Alone” is a deeply personal account of the author’s battle with depression. She begins by emphasizing that it is meant to help those who are battling with depression, homophobia, or religious guilt or if even if they just know someone who is. If they need to talk to a professional, she directs readers to call their doctor or use any of the resources she lists in the back of the book. This book is divided into six chapters including Oh Sweet Denial and The Longest Day. She includes pictures of herself that highlight how she was feeling on that particular day versus how she looked, as well as snippets from her actual journal. What makes it feel more personal is that the font she uses is based on her real handwriting. At the end of each chapter, she includes notes written by her doctor and therapist to give a behind the scenes look at the healing process. Rest assured, she is doing much better now and living a fulfilling life and trying to help others who are battling depression. It contains adult language and themes of depression, suicidal ideations, and homophobia and is sometimes difficult to get through, but it is well worth it. Readers in similar situations will certainly relate to her struggle and will hopefully come out feeling more optimistic. It is a must read and recommended for readers who are on the same journey or just want to learn more about what it is like to struggle with mental illness.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.