Brighter Days

2 months ago

Honest and practical.

The first chapter begins with honesty, such a key theme for our wellbeing. How important it is to be honest with ourselves and with others. Patrick displays honesty and vulnerability throughout this book. When people are honest and vulnerable, it encourages others to be the same, which is really helpful for each one’s personal journey and growth. Other areas for strengthening our wellbeing which are covered in this book include anxiety, depression, anger, shame, forgiveness and self-acceptance. This isn’t just a book which gives information on a topic to help us understand it better, personal experiences are shared and it also provides the reader with some practical tools to implement in their own lives. I wonder if the best way to read this book is to pick and choose the chapters that are focused on the areas where you are struggling or where you feel you need the most help in. It doesn’t need to be read in order, although I would advise that the first chapter on honesty is read before looking at any other chapters. I also think that even if you don’t feel a particular area is of concern for you, to read it anyway and see what you can learn from it. For example, the Chapter on Anger really helped me to understand more about the way I do (and don’t) express my anger and how it can be done in a healthier way. One thing which disappointed me when coming towards the end of the book was the inclusion of a few instances of swearing, which I believe is totally unnecessary in a book like this. In my opinion, a book which has been written by a Christian writer and published by a Christian publishing company has no need to include bad language within their books. Personally, I felt it let the book down. It doesn’t add anything, but for me detracts from the book. I am including this point in my book review as I know there are others who would feel the same way I do. I believe the inclusion of swearing can put people off purchasing a book. It certainly has a big impact on my decision of whether to buy or not buy a book. I was given a free copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

Vicki Cottingham

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