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Recommend this book:
Staying Married is the Hardest Part
A Memoir of Passion, Secrets & Sacrifice
Bonnie Comfort
2025 Finalist
312 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Zahid Sheikh for Readers' Favorite
Staying Married Is the Hardest Part is an honest and intimate story about love, marriage, and self-discovery. Bonnie Comfort explores the elements that gradually strengthen a marriage as she recounts the highs and lows of a long-term partnership. The author explores the painful aspects of a relationship by describing the moments of intense connection, miscommunications, and painful realizations that come with being committed to someone else. Intertwined with her personal development and changing life circumstances in the background, Comfort's memoir becomes a candid picture of how love evolves, challenges are faced, and partners work out their desires and limitations. This lyrical and honest narrative, full of psychological observations, allows the reader to observe their marriage and the delicate balance between self-preservation and love.
Bonnie Comfort writes with skill, full of deeply felt insights and imaginative details that clothe her experiences in reality. The pace of the memoir allows the reader to fully enter the realm of tender moments, conflict, and revelation. Her ability to capture the emotional nuances of marriage makes the book deeply relatable, while her honest and unfiltered voice adds authenticity to every page. The conflict between honesty and love, strength and vulnerability makes this memoir wonderfully stimulating and completely human. As I was reading, I thought back to my sister's marital difficulties and how she handled them with poise and fortitude. Staying Married Is The Hardest Part is a fascinating book for anyone who has ever navigated the perilous landscape of love and commitment.
Staying Married Is the Hardest Part is an honest and intimate story about love, marriage, and self-discovery. Bonnie Comfort explores the elements that gradually strengthen a marriage as she recounts the highs and lows of a long-term partnership. The author explores the painful aspects of a relationship by describing the moments of intense connection, miscommunications, and painful realizations that come with being committed to someone else. Intertwined with her personal development and changing life circumstances in the background, Comfort's memoir becomes a candid picture of how love evolves, challenges are faced, and partners work out their desires and limitations. This lyrical and honest narrative, full of psychological observations, allows the reader to observe their marriage and the delicate balance between self-preservation and love.
Bonnie Comfort writes with skill, full of deeply felt insights and imaginative details that clothe her experiences in reality. The pace of the memoir allows the reader to fully enter the realm of tender moments, conflict, and revelation. Her ability to capture the emotional nuances of marriage makes the book deeply relatable, while her honest and unfiltered voice adds authenticity to every page. The conflict between honesty and love, strength and vulnerability makes this memoir wonderfully stimulating and completely human. As I was reading, I thought back to my sister's marital difficulties and how she handled them with poise and fortitude. Staying Married Is The Hardest Part is a fascinating book for anyone who has ever navigated the perilous landscape of love and commitment.
Recommend this book:
Widows Among Us
Stories and Insights
Karen S. Justice, Karen Smith Racicot, Rebecca LaChance
2025 Bronze Medal
208 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Alija Turkovic for Readers' Favorite
In Widows Among Us, Karen S. Justice, Karen Smith Racicot, and Rebecca LaChance share their heartfelt stories regarding the loss of their spouses and the unique lessons they learned along the way. Their guide is intended to help women dealing with the hardships of widowhood and covers every aspect of this experience. The authors' powerful anecdotes touch on profound topics like grief, healing, strength, and inner transformation while using their varied experiences to help women navigate this life transition with the support they need. Each page offers words of comfort and practical guidance for widows as they prepare emotionally, mentally, physically, financially, and legally for this new chapter of their lives. Most importantly, the authors offer empathetic suggestions for families and friends supporting a widow during their time of need.
Widows Among Us is a well-written, firsthand account of widowhood from three multi-faceted perspectives. Even though their experiences were different, the authors were able to embrace fulfilling lifestyles and support each other despite the intense loss they all underwent. Their distinct journeys are candid and well-expressed. Each chapter offers relatable and applicable insights for navigating every new and disorienting circumstance of widowhood. This enlightening guide places a substantial amount of emphasis on self-care and building a supportive network, which I fully endorse. Karen S. Justice, Karen Smith Racicot, and Rebecca LaChance write with the warmth of a comforting friend, offering support from a place of practical experience and emotional understanding. Whether you have recently lost a spouse or you're giving support to someone who has lost their significant other, Widows Among Us is the perfect resource to offer much-needed comfort and guidance during this challenging period.
In Widows Among Us, Karen S. Justice, Karen Smith Racicot, and Rebecca LaChance share their heartfelt stories regarding the loss of their spouses and the unique lessons they learned along the way. Their guide is intended to help women dealing with the hardships of widowhood and covers every aspect of this experience. The authors' powerful anecdotes touch on profound topics like grief, healing, strength, and inner transformation while using their varied experiences to help women navigate this life transition with the support they need. Each page offers words of comfort and practical guidance for widows as they prepare emotionally, mentally, physically, financially, and legally for this new chapter of their lives. Most importantly, the authors offer empathetic suggestions for families and friends supporting a widow during their time of need.
Widows Among Us is a well-written, firsthand account of widowhood from three multi-faceted perspectives. Even though their experiences were different, the authors were able to embrace fulfilling lifestyles and support each other despite the intense loss they all underwent. Their distinct journeys are candid and well-expressed. Each chapter offers relatable and applicable insights for navigating every new and disorienting circumstance of widowhood. This enlightening guide places a substantial amount of emphasis on self-care and building a supportive network, which I fully endorse. Karen S. Justice, Karen Smith Racicot, and Rebecca LaChance write with the warmth of a comforting friend, offering support from a place of practical experience and emotional understanding. Whether you have recently lost a spouse or you're giving support to someone who has lost their significant other, Widows Among Us is the perfect resource to offer much-needed comfort and guidance during this challenging period.
Recommend this book:
She Took a Turn
A Memoir of Climbing over Guardrails into Growth
Kristi Smith
2025 Silver Medal
440 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
She Took a Turn is penned by author Kristi J Smith in the memoir, spirituality, and inspirational writing genres. In this heartfelt work with plenty of honesty and heart, the author recounts her journey from a prescribed life of conformity as a devout Christian and obedient daughter to finding her true path through self-reflection and courageous choices. What results is a poignant and honest exploration of the self that we can all relate to on our own journeys of discovery. The author has crafted an enlightening and inspiring memoir as she fearlessly shares her personal odyssey of self-discovery. Through her candid storytelling, she invites readers into the complexities of her upbringing and the pivotal moments that led her to question societal norms and embrace authenticity.
The construction of the timeline is relevant and relatable, and the author has a great sense of self to see how small moments add up to bigger realizations later on down the line. Kristi J Smith's narrative is both entertaining and thought-provoking, filled with colorful characters and insightful reflections on personal, professional, and spiritual growth. I adored the genuine warmth of her words that made you feel as though you were chatting with a close friend. As she navigates through challenges and triumphs, Smith's journey serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, encouraging readers to embark on their own quest for authenticity and fulfillment. Overall, She Took a Turn is a heartfelt invitation to embrace change, celebrate individuality, and chart a course toward a more authentic life, and I would certainly recommend it to anyone needing a change.
She Took a Turn is penned by author Kristi J Smith in the memoir, spirituality, and inspirational writing genres. In this heartfelt work with plenty of honesty and heart, the author recounts her journey from a prescribed life of conformity as a devout Christian and obedient daughter to finding her true path through self-reflection and courageous choices. What results is a poignant and honest exploration of the self that we can all relate to on our own journeys of discovery. The author has crafted an enlightening and inspiring memoir as she fearlessly shares her personal odyssey of self-discovery. Through her candid storytelling, she invites readers into the complexities of her upbringing and the pivotal moments that led her to question societal norms and embrace authenticity.
The construction of the timeline is relevant and relatable, and the author has a great sense of self to see how small moments add up to bigger realizations later on down the line. Kristi J Smith's narrative is both entertaining and thought-provoking, filled with colorful characters and insightful reflections on personal, professional, and spiritual growth. I adored the genuine warmth of her words that made you feel as though you were chatting with a close friend. As she navigates through challenges and triumphs, Smith's journey serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, encouraging readers to embark on their own quest for authenticity and fulfillment. Overall, She Took a Turn is a heartfelt invitation to embrace change, celebrate individuality, and chart a course toward a more authentic life, and I would certainly recommend it to anyone needing a change.
Recommend this book:
The Full Catastrophe
All I Ever Wanted, Everything I Feared
Casey Mulligan Walsh
2025 Gold Medal
337 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by David Jaggart for Readers' Favorite
The Full Catastrophe is a thought-provoking and deeply emotional memoir penned by Casey Mulligan Walsh. At the tender age of 12, the author becomes an orphan and is raised by relatives while struggling to find her place in the world. When her brother, Tommy, dies of a heart attack, Walsh's heightened grief prompts her to get married and start a family to fill her emotional void. She becomes driven to give unconditional love to a family of her own, the thing she desires the most. Unfortunately, her husband's erratic behavior results in the end of their marriage, which affects her children's mental well-being and results in her in-laws withdrawing their emotional support. When her son, Eric, dies in a car accident, Walsh has to once again rely on her inner strength to survive this terrifying ordeal and overwhelming grief. Her inspirational journey is one of self-acceptance and self-growth.
The Full Catastrophe by Casey Mulligan Walsh is a story of inconceivable grief, vulnerability, and inner transformation. Written in gripping prose (and sprinkled with humor), this narrative will grasp the attention of readers from the very first words. The author's candid exploration of family, grief, marriage, motherhood, self-identity, resilience, and personal growth will become ingrained in your heart and mind even after you've finished reading her book. Walsh’s journey is both heart-rending and healing at the same time. It beautifully demonstrates that life can still yield blessings, even amidst the tragic moments we endure through it all. The author masterfully depicts each emotional moment of her life free from resentment and anger. Her compassion for others, reverence for life, and immense spiritual maturity are evident in each harrowing moment. Through the power of faith, hope, and genuine support, Walsh transforms her life into one that mirrors peace, joy, and meaningful living. For readers navigating many treacherous ups and downs in their own lives--especially during a period of bereavement--this memoir is unquestionably an essential read that I highly recommend.
The Full Catastrophe is a thought-provoking and deeply emotional memoir penned by Casey Mulligan Walsh. At the tender age of 12, the author becomes an orphan and is raised by relatives while struggling to find her place in the world. When her brother, Tommy, dies of a heart attack, Walsh's heightened grief prompts her to get married and start a family to fill her emotional void. She becomes driven to give unconditional love to a family of her own, the thing she desires the most. Unfortunately, her husband's erratic behavior results in the end of their marriage, which affects her children's mental well-being and results in her in-laws withdrawing their emotional support. When her son, Eric, dies in a car accident, Walsh has to once again rely on her inner strength to survive this terrifying ordeal and overwhelming grief. Her inspirational journey is one of self-acceptance and self-growth.
The Full Catastrophe by Casey Mulligan Walsh is a story of inconceivable grief, vulnerability, and inner transformation. Written in gripping prose (and sprinkled with humor), this narrative will grasp the attention of readers from the very first words. The author's candid exploration of family, grief, marriage, motherhood, self-identity, resilience, and personal growth will become ingrained in your heart and mind even after you've finished reading her book. Walsh’s journey is both heart-rending and healing at the same time. It beautifully demonstrates that life can still yield blessings, even amidst the tragic moments we endure through it all. The author masterfully depicts each emotional moment of her life free from resentment and anger. Her compassion for others, reverence for life, and immense spiritual maturity are evident in each harrowing moment. Through the power of faith, hope, and genuine support, Walsh transforms her life into one that mirrors peace, joy, and meaningful living. For readers navigating many treacherous ups and downs in their own lives--especially during a period of bereavement--this memoir is unquestionably an essential read that I highly recommend.
Recommend this book:
My Unexpected Life
Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis
Jennifer Gasner
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Jennifer Gasner, author of My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, describes her journey both before and after receiving a diagnosis of Friedreich's Ataxia at the age of seventeen. The diagnosis answered questions she had about her mental and physical decline leading up to knowing their cause, but she was naturally despondent about what it would mean for the rest of her life. She resorts to harmful coping mechanisms in college, finally reaching a point of reflection. Committed to a positive shift, she seeks out and receives the cooperation of other sources, such as working with the Dave Matthews Band and joining an MDA support group. In order to live more independently, Gasner crowdsources money to purchase an adapted van. She persists, she achieves her goal, and she tells us all about it in this memoir.
My Unexpected Life by Jennifer Gasner is a powerful example of resiliency and the acceptance of oneself. Readers will find themselves inexorably drawn into Gasner's journey with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA), from her initial shock diagnosis to managing relationships while confronting the condition, through her sincere and witty style. In addition to informing readers about FA and emphasizing the value of a positive self-perception and a fulfilling life in the face of adversity, her courage and resiliency serve as a source of motivation for others. With a lot of 1990s nostalgia, Gasner's writings alter the view of the general population on what it means to be 'normal.' As far as I am concerned, she has achieved all of it with me and opened my eyes to much, much more.
Jennifer Gasner, author of My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, describes her journey both before and after receiving a diagnosis of Friedreich's Ataxia at the age of seventeen. The diagnosis answered questions she had about her mental and physical decline leading up to knowing their cause, but she was naturally despondent about what it would mean for the rest of her life. She resorts to harmful coping mechanisms in college, finally reaching a point of reflection. Committed to a positive shift, she seeks out and receives the cooperation of other sources, such as working with the Dave Matthews Band and joining an MDA support group. In order to live more independently, Gasner crowdsources money to purchase an adapted van. She persists, she achieves her goal, and she tells us all about it in this memoir.
My Unexpected Life by Jennifer Gasner is a powerful example of resiliency and the acceptance of oneself. Readers will find themselves inexorably drawn into Gasner's journey with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA), from her initial shock diagnosis to managing relationships while confronting the condition, through her sincere and witty style. In addition to informing readers about FA and emphasizing the value of a positive self-perception and a fulfilling life in the face of adversity, her courage and resiliency serve as a source of motivation for others. With a lot of 1990s nostalgia, Gasner's writings alter the view of the general population on what it means to be 'normal.' As far as I am concerned, she has achieved all of it with me and opened my eyes to much, much more.
Recommend this book:
Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty
Lisa Niver
2024 Honorable Mention
272 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
Blending her personal journey with her extraordinary travel experiences, Lisa Niver delivers an exceptional, inspiring memoir. Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty chronicles her journey, including her marriage and divorce, and encourages others to bravely embrace life and venture into the unknown. Niver had never been a stranger to instability and uncertainty. Years earlier, she had given up studying medicine and a promising medical career to become an assistant preschool teacher. A couple of years later, she would walk away from seven years of travel and working on cruise ships, and return to teaching. Such courageous risks mark her remarkable life which includes her adventures across the globe. Though she encounters many hardships, her journey is also full of fun, joy, and hope.
This awe-inspiring work offers readers the chance to go on exciting travels without having to leave the comfort of their homes. In her book, Niver offers more than a travelogue. She provides a raw, honest glimpse into her experiences, including the immense challenges she faced and the beautiful, life-changing encounters she had. She talks about the physical and emotional trauma she suffered from her marriage and encourages readers to move forward and not allow similar struggles to hinder them from pursuing their dreams. I found her zest for life inspiring and was encouraged by her ability to face both small and great risks. Her journey is captivating and along the way she meets various interesting characters. Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty is a heartfelt, must-read memoir told with wit, honesty, and heart.
Blending her personal journey with her extraordinary travel experiences, Lisa Niver delivers an exceptional, inspiring memoir. Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty chronicles her journey, including her marriage and divorce, and encourages others to bravely embrace life and venture into the unknown. Niver had never been a stranger to instability and uncertainty. Years earlier, she had given up studying medicine and a promising medical career to become an assistant preschool teacher. A couple of years later, she would walk away from seven years of travel and working on cruise ships, and return to teaching. Such courageous risks mark her remarkable life which includes her adventures across the globe. Though she encounters many hardships, her journey is also full of fun, joy, and hope.
This awe-inspiring work offers readers the chance to go on exciting travels without having to leave the comfort of their homes. In her book, Niver offers more than a travelogue. She provides a raw, honest glimpse into her experiences, including the immense challenges she faced and the beautiful, life-changing encounters she had. She talks about the physical and emotional trauma she suffered from her marriage and encourages readers to move forward and not allow similar struggles to hinder them from pursuing their dreams. I found her zest for life inspiring and was encouraged by her ability to face both small and great risks. Her journey is captivating and along the way she meets various interesting characters. Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty is a heartfelt, must-read memoir told with wit, honesty, and heart.
Recommend this book:
Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women
Real Stories from Inspirational, Artistic, and Empowered Women
Angela LoMenzo
2024 Bronze Medal
256 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women is a moving and delightful book containing real-life, inspirational stories of brilliant, strong, and talented women. Writer, makeup artist, and creative director Angela LoMenzo has written this book to encourage women everywhere to embrace their unique paths and live authentically. Twenty-five extraordinary and free-spirited women with creative careers share their journeys of healing, self-discovery, and resilience. They reflect on their struggles, aspirations, triumphs, and incredible accomplishments. The powerful voices of the artists, authors, actors, designers, singers, and entrepreneurs presented in this book will inspire readers to take action and be bolder and more courageous in discovering who they are and where their creativity lies.
Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women is a must-read. Angela LoMenzo has crafted a remarkable book that shows readers how even awful experiences like depression, cancer, bullying, infertility, assault, loss of a loved one, or drug addiction can become the catalyst for finding their own voice and creating the life they deserve. This book blends exquisite photography with real stories of life-changing experiences from fascinating women. It shows how precious life is and empowers other women to pursue their passions today. It teaches them to embrace and celebrate their imperfect selves, adversities, and triumphs. Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women is a powerful tool for any woman seeking inspiration and empowerment from one or more role models. It is also for anyone seeking to build the courage to quiet their negative thoughts of doubt, discouragement, insecurities, shame, or fear to finally live the life they have always dreamed of and desired.
Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women is a moving and delightful book containing real-life, inspirational stories of brilliant, strong, and talented women. Writer, makeup artist, and creative director Angela LoMenzo has written this book to encourage women everywhere to embrace their unique paths and live authentically. Twenty-five extraordinary and free-spirited women with creative careers share their journeys of healing, self-discovery, and resilience. They reflect on their struggles, aspirations, triumphs, and incredible accomplishments. The powerful voices of the artists, authors, actors, designers, singers, and entrepreneurs presented in this book will inspire readers to take action and be bolder and more courageous in discovering who they are and where their creativity lies.
Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women is a must-read. Angela LoMenzo has crafted a remarkable book that shows readers how even awful experiences like depression, cancer, bullying, infertility, assault, loss of a loved one, or drug addiction can become the catalyst for finding their own voice and creating the life they deserve. This book blends exquisite photography with real stories of life-changing experiences from fascinating women. It shows how precious life is and empowers other women to pursue their passions today. It teaches them to embrace and celebrate their imperfect selves, adversities, and triumphs. Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women is a powerful tool for any woman seeking inspiration and empowerment from one or more role models. It is also for anyone seeking to build the courage to quiet their negative thoughts of doubt, discouragement, insecurities, shame, or fear to finally live the life they have always dreamed of and desired.
Recommend this book:
Diamonds Beneath the Darkness
Life Thru Lyrics… The Journey To Become (part one)
Nicole Danielle
2024 Silver Medal
321 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Diamonds Beneath the Darkness: Life Thru Lyrics… The Journey To Become is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, slice-of-life, and empowering writing subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to the presence of explicit language and raw, sensitive issues throughout. Penned by author Nicole Danielle about her incredible life experiences, this honest and emotive narrative explores a profound journey through life's highs and lows and the harsh lessons we learn along the way. A former beauty queen ensnared by crime, a lover touched by sin, and a dreamer stifled by the world, Nicole battles against the noise that insists she is not enough. Bullied, abused, abandoned, and betrayed, she breaks her silence, spurred on by her love for her son. This poignant voyage invites readers to feel the reality of being human and the strength it takes to rise from darkness.
Author Nicole Danielle has crafted a memoir that hits you where it hurts right from the start and takes readers on an emotionally charged experience. The storytelling style is raw and unfiltered, offering an intimate look into the complexities of her life, yet there’s always a sense of confidence that lets you know that, no matter how dark it gets, the author is going to make it. This sense of powerful self-belief infused into the narrative's authenticity makes it a compelling read, and Nicole's resilience shines through on every page. The book explores the hidden strength of the human spirit when motivated by the power of familial love, and it is sure to be a source of inspiration for those navigating their own journeys of self-discovery. Nicole's ability to translate her experiences into relatable and powerful stories is commendable, making this memoir a captivating and impactful exploration of the human experience, and one in which dignity and empowerment ring true. Overall, Diamonds Beneath the Darkness is a highly recommended memoir that resonates with triumph, tragedy, and the undying spirit of self-discovery.
Diamonds Beneath the Darkness: Life Thru Lyrics… The Journey To Become is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, slice-of-life, and empowering writing subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to the presence of explicit language and raw, sensitive issues throughout. Penned by author Nicole Danielle about her incredible life experiences, this honest and emotive narrative explores a profound journey through life's highs and lows and the harsh lessons we learn along the way. A former beauty queen ensnared by crime, a lover touched by sin, and a dreamer stifled by the world, Nicole battles against the noise that insists she is not enough. Bullied, abused, abandoned, and betrayed, she breaks her silence, spurred on by her love for her son. This poignant voyage invites readers to feel the reality of being human and the strength it takes to rise from darkness.
Author Nicole Danielle has crafted a memoir that hits you where it hurts right from the start and takes readers on an emotionally charged experience. The storytelling style is raw and unfiltered, offering an intimate look into the complexities of her life, yet there’s always a sense of confidence that lets you know that, no matter how dark it gets, the author is going to make it. This sense of powerful self-belief infused into the narrative's authenticity makes it a compelling read, and Nicole's resilience shines through on every page. The book explores the hidden strength of the human spirit when motivated by the power of familial love, and it is sure to be a source of inspiration for those navigating their own journeys of self-discovery. Nicole's ability to translate her experiences into relatable and powerful stories is commendable, making this memoir a captivating and impactful exploration of the human experience, and one in which dignity and empowerment ring true. Overall, Diamonds Beneath the Darkness is a highly recommended memoir that resonates with triumph, tragedy, and the undying spirit of self-discovery.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-vital-spark&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ap%2BXQWc-L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=The Vital Spark by Lisa Marchiano examines how societal and familial pressures, particularly on women, stifle personal growth by enforcing conformity and suppressing innate potential. She employs Jung’s concept of the "shadow" to illustrate how adherence to societal norms erodes confidence and assertiveness, starting in adolescence and continuing...){kind=link}
The Vital Spark
Reclaim Your Outlaw Energies and Find Your Feminine Fire
Lisa Marchiano LCSW NCPsyA
2024 Gold Medal
272 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
The Vital Spark by Lisa Marchiano examines how societal and familial pressures, particularly on women, stifle personal growth by enforcing conformity and suppressing innate potential. She employs Jung’s concept of the "shadow" to illustrate how adherence to societal norms erodes confidence and assertiveness, starting in adolescence and continuing into adulthood. Through examples such as Beth’s self-sacrificing behavior and the "inner Bluebeard"—a metaphor for internalized fears—Marchiano highlights how these pressures lead to inauthenticity and self-neglect. She integrates personal anecdotes, including a childhood experience with a puzzle ring and observations of trickster behavior in daily life, to illustrate creative problem-solving. Marchiano also discusses the importance of integrating suppressed emotions like anger and traits such as assertiveness for personal fulfillment, drawing on fairy tales and real-life examples to underscore her points.
The Vital Spark: Reclaim Your Outlaw Energies and Find Your Feminine Fire by Lisa Marchiano offers a fantastic exploration of womanhood through a blend of classic stories, her own personal anecdotes, and practical advice. I love that Marchiano draws analogies from familiar fairytales like "The Frog King.” Her approach really does make complex psychological concepts accessible and engaging. I found Marchiano's actionable recommendations, such as regularly checking in with one’s body and desires, simple yet empowering, allowing readers a better understanding of how to meet their own needs. Her use of contemporary figures, like Reese Witherspoon's transition to media mogul, further grounds her advice in real-world relevance. Marchiano's insight, reasoning, and practical guidance make for a book that is both moving and educational, offering valuable perspectives on the personal growth and self-empowerment of women. Very highly recommended.
The Vital Spark by Lisa Marchiano examines how societal and familial pressures, particularly on women, stifle personal growth by enforcing conformity and suppressing innate potential. She employs Jung’s concept of the "shadow" to illustrate how adherence to societal norms erodes confidence and assertiveness, starting in adolescence and continuing into adulthood. Through examples such as Beth’s self-sacrificing behavior and the "inner Bluebeard"—a metaphor for internalized fears—Marchiano highlights how these pressures lead to inauthenticity and self-neglect. She integrates personal anecdotes, including a childhood experience with a puzzle ring and observations of trickster behavior in daily life, to illustrate creative problem-solving. Marchiano also discusses the importance of integrating suppressed emotions like anger and traits such as assertiveness for personal fulfillment, drawing on fairy tales and real-life examples to underscore her points.
The Vital Spark: Reclaim Your Outlaw Energies and Find Your Feminine Fire by Lisa Marchiano offers a fantastic exploration of womanhood through a blend of classic stories, her own personal anecdotes, and practical advice. I love that Marchiano draws analogies from familiar fairytales like "The Frog King.” Her approach really does make complex psychological concepts accessible and engaging. I found Marchiano's actionable recommendations, such as regularly checking in with one’s body and desires, simple yet empowering, allowing readers a better understanding of how to meet their own needs. Her use of contemporary figures, like Reese Witherspoon's transition to media mogul, further grounds her advice in real-world relevance. Marchiano's insight, reasoning, and practical guidance make for a book that is both moving and educational, offering valuable perspectives on the personal growth and self-empowerment of women. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Embrace the Power of You
Owning Your Identity at Work
Tricia Montalvo Timm
2023 Finalist
264 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Jennie More for Readers' Favorite
Embrace the Power of You by Tricia Montalvo Timm is her story as a successful corporate lawyer in Silicon Valley and how she juggles being a mother, wife, and Latina, and battles with her identity throughout her corporate career. She shares her journey of revealing her true Latina heritage, everything that makes her a woman, and the courage it takes to be yourself at work. Additionally, she shares the stories of other successful C-suite executives and how they struggled with issues of identity and authenticity and how they overcame workplace biases. Regardless of your unique story, you will find someone or at least a part of a story you can relate to and start to forge your journey to become the real, beautiful you that the world needs. This book is for individuals and a useful guide for corporates, including insights on creating an environment where diversity and authenticity are celebrated and respected.
Embrace the Power of You by Tricia Montalvo Timm is a bold, candid, passionate, and inspiring book about being your authentic self at work, including the benefits and process of achieving it. As a professional of color in the corporate world, I could relate to almost every story in this book, especially the microaggressions we ignore to keep the peace and not make others uncomfortable. I could relate to the term code-switching and how often I was asked to change parts of my identity to fit into the norm, although this is the first time I realized code-switching is the actual term for it. I wish this book had been available when I started my career; it certainly wouldn’t have been as lonely a journey. Timm’s vulnerability in this story is apparent, sharing deep and some demeaning experiences, which I am sure were difficult to share but which I sincerely appreciated because it made this book highly relatable as I reflected on similar experiences. This book is a phenomenal must-read for anyone starting their professional journey or those already years into it to become confident in being their authentic and amazing selves.
Embrace the Power of You by Tricia Montalvo Timm is her story as a successful corporate lawyer in Silicon Valley and how she juggles being a mother, wife, and Latina, and battles with her identity throughout her corporate career. She shares her journey of revealing her true Latina heritage, everything that makes her a woman, and the courage it takes to be yourself at work. Additionally, she shares the stories of other successful C-suite executives and how they struggled with issues of identity and authenticity and how they overcame workplace biases. Regardless of your unique story, you will find someone or at least a part of a story you can relate to and start to forge your journey to become the real, beautiful you that the world needs. This book is for individuals and a useful guide for corporates, including insights on creating an environment where diversity and authenticity are celebrated and respected.
Embrace the Power of You by Tricia Montalvo Timm is a bold, candid, passionate, and inspiring book about being your authentic self at work, including the benefits and process of achieving it. As a professional of color in the corporate world, I could relate to almost every story in this book, especially the microaggressions we ignore to keep the peace and not make others uncomfortable. I could relate to the term code-switching and how often I was asked to change parts of my identity to fit into the norm, although this is the first time I realized code-switching is the actual term for it. I wish this book had been available when I started my career; it certainly wouldn’t have been as lonely a journey. Timm’s vulnerability in this story is apparent, sharing deep and some demeaning experiences, which I am sure were difficult to share but which I sincerely appreciated because it made this book highly relatable as I reflected on similar experiences. This book is a phenomenal must-read for anyone starting their professional journey or those already years into it to become confident in being their authentic and amazing selves.
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