'Garden of Grief' and 'Transcending Depression' - Book Reviews

I recently read two remarkable books -- Garden of Grief and Transcending Depression, written by authors who drew from their experiences and chose to share their learning journey with the world. 

I can say I've learned a great deal from these two books alone, and I'm really happy to have come across the opportunity to read and review them💕

GARDEN OF GRIEF, by Lori Koidahl

Garden of Grief is an impressive and moving book about loss, going through the grieving process, and living our best life in spite of our grief. Lori, who has experienced tremendous losses, iterates that we don’t really get over a loss, but we can learn to live with it and become even more alive and in tune with our inner self because of it. Every chapter had so many gems and takeaways, like using writing and music as tools for the healing process. 

A particular passage in Chapter 3 struck me, and I quote: “Doing for doing’s sake was depleting, but intentional action was rewarding. A little more being, a little less doing, and more intentional action was my home healing remedy.” Instead of going through the motions of “doing” just for doing’s sake, allow yourself to “be”; feel every emotion, listen to your heart – just be in the moment.

 

A great guide that will touch and encourage ANYONE. Highly recommended.

MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5

GENRE: MEMOIR, SELF-HELP

MATURITY RATING: 13+

MATERIAL CONNECTION: GIVEN TO ME BY AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW

TRANSCENDING DEPRESSION, by Larry Godwin, Ph.D.

Transcending Depression is a collection of the author's personal journals, put together in his graceful effort to share his experience with depression. The writing style is quite unique, and the voice behind the writing is authentic and real. Depression, whether clinical or circumstantial, is all too real, and this book lays out Larry's first-hand – and ongoing – battle, as well as numerous tips on surviving depression and being intentional about coming out -- and staying -- on top.

 

I was inspired by Larry's journey, and Transcending Depression is an invaluable gift that anyone would appreciate – especially if suffering, or know someone suffering, from depression.

MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5

GENRE: MEMOIR, SELF-HELP

MATURITY RATING: 13+

MATERIAL CONNECTION: GIVEN TO ME BY AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW

Much thanks to authors Lori Koidahl and Larry Godwin for the gifted copies in exchange for honest reviews. Both books are available on Amazon for instant purchase.