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RELATIONSHIP BOOKS
Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Stormie Omartian. By Harvest House Publishers.
The regular list price is $21.99.
Sells new for $14.97.
There are some available for $11.56.
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5 comments about Praying Through the Deeper Issues of Marriage: Protecting Your Relationship So It Will Last a Lifetime.
- This book is an excellent tool for any marriage. It is great for the soul, and a must have for all married couples.
- What a wonderful book for any marriage at any stage. I wish I would have had this earlier on in our marriage, Stormie always does such an awesome job with her books. I also would recommend Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie.
- Love this book, use it all the time. It is a great resource for late night prayer sessions... Buy it, you won't be disapointed.
- This is a classic Stormie Omartian. Just what I was looking for. A great gift.
- This book has been a blessing to me and my marriage! It is tailored to address the true deep marital issues. Awesome!
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Lisa Schroeder. By Simon Pulse.
The regular list price is $7.99.
Sells new for $3.89.
There are some available for $4.19.
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5 comments about I Heart You, You Haunt Me.
- Ava can't see him or touch him, unless she's dreaming. She can't hear his voice, except for the faint whispers in her mind. Most would think she's crazy, but she knows he's here.
Jackson. The boy Ava thought she'd spend the rest of her life with. He's back from the dead, as proof that love truly knows no bounds.
This is a touching story, written in free verse, about a teenage girl whose boyfriend dies, and we see her go through all the different phases of this loss. She's grieving and feels she is to blame for his death. But Jackson starts to appear to her in her home, as a ghost. This book is a wonderful read for teenagers who have lost someone close to them, and even those who have not. It's all about healing, and moving forward with your life after a tragedy.
It is recommended for grades 9 and up. There are mild references to sex, but I don't think it's something an 8th grader should be kept from reading. Its beautiful poetry, and a easy read.
- Ava's boyfriend was perfect, he understood her. But when their game of dares goes to far and he is killed, Ava is guilty.
She misses him and stays home all the time, she won't talk to anyone, but then one night when she is finally starting to get better Jackson appears to her (in his own way).
He can't leave the house, so she stays home too.
He can't touch her or talk to her, but he's there and he still loves her.
But will Ava become a prisoner of her lost love or be set free by his presences?
I thought it was a great haunting read. The free verse really adds to it and it is the kind of book you can read over and over.
I really can't think of any negative feedback for the book. It is a beautiful, haunting book.
Warning: keep tissues near by.
- This book was very coherently and beautifully written. It was focused and poetic, magical and real, all at once.
Ava really touches readers as she is so human-- she wants to be more of something, she wishes she were something, and she both loved and lost, and let go.
The author conveyed the essence of true love very effectively-- emphasizing that Ava loved her boyfriend not only because of what he was, but because of what she was when he was with her. The book also explores the question of letting go and when to do it and how to know when you are ready to do it. And anyone of any age is capable of love, for there are so many types of love.
I highly recommend this touching, tear-evoking novel!
- the story is about a girl named ava, who just lost her boyfriend, jackson in a trajic way. after jackson dies she keeps seeing him everywhere...she doesnt know the reason that he keeps haunting her, and belives he is doing it because he is mad at her for the way he dies. when she finds the reason for why he is haunting her she is overcome with his true love for her and finally lets him go.
this is one of the most beautiful and saddest books i have ever read. the good thing about this book is that its so short you can read quickly. i cried so hard when i read this. it touched my heart and made me feel ava's love for jackson and made me sad that she will never see him again.
i recommend this to anyone. its a great book and one you wont regret reading.
- I read this book in two days because it was so captavating! This book is great for sixth grade and up. I loved it because it kept you wanting to read more and more to find out how died and if Ava would ever get over the loss of her boyfriend, Jackson. I really recomend this book to anyone who like books filled with drama and sadness. If you read this have a box of tissue next to you.
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Peter Mayle. By Lyle Stuart.
The regular list price is $9.95.
Sells new for $4.78.
There are some available for $0.01.
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5 comments about "What's Happening to Me?" A guide to puberty.
- I remember when I was a little girl and my mom reading this book to me. I purchased it for my daughter so we could have "the talk", which she felt was torturous, but I still think that the book is great! Easy to read, relevant information without being overwhelming.
- What can I say, this book arrived promptly, in great condition, just what we ordered. Our 10 year old was already going through changes, and it helped out a big lot, THANK YOU
- I used this book w/ both my boys and it was fine, but I didn't love it.
The first half of the book is all "We're going to talk about puberty", "puberty is what we're going to talk about", "get ready to talk about puberty" - etc. I grew bored and so did my kids. It's like a novel with 7 prologues.
The second half of the book finally gets into some well-presented and age-appropriate information - about breasts, erections, periods, pimples, wet dreams, masturbation, etc. These topics are covered in what I think is just enough detail - with cute pictures to alleviate tension and about 2 pages on each topic. I give the second half of the book 5 stars.
One thing I didn't like is that the book assumes a level of knowledge. What I mean is, it goes right into talking about how semen want to get out of erect penises to go make babies, without covering how exactly babies are made. This book is for 9 - 12 year olds who should have some basic knowledge but I think a brief refresher (instead of all the filler in the beginning) would be good.
A word about ages: My oldest got a lot out of this book at 10. My second son was far too immature at 10 and giggled until I finally put the book away and waited a year. Obviously, a parent must use their judgment with regard to what ages they should present this book to.
- This was recommended by my nephew and nieces as the most informative book about puberty (when I asked them). It is really good. It is to the point, but keeps it lighthearted. It addresses a lot of good questions and worries kids have but won't ask. I HIGHLY recommend it.
- I read this book to my son about 5 years ago. I thought it was important that he understood both the male and female side of puberty. I wasn't sure how much he took in until a year later when his class had to discuss puberty in health class. The teacher told me that he was the only one who knew all the answers!
Since then, I have read this book to some of my foster children. For some of them, it really helped alliviate some of their anxiety about puberty and sex in general.
I loaned this book to a coworker who never returned it so I am buying it again!
In my opinion, this book is a must have!
Dena
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Diane Hammond. By Harper Paperbacks.
The regular list price is $13.95.
Sells new for $7.80.
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5 comments about Hannah's Dream: A Novel.
- If you have animal lovers on your Christmas list- do yourself a favor and buy a copy of Hannah's Dream for each of them! They will love you for it and if you are lucky they will lend you a copy to read when they are finished! I will never forget the characters- it was like making new friends, both animal and human. I was sad to finish it; I didn't want to say goodbye!
- I loved this book. I found myself cheering the good guys and booing the bad. I kept wanting to move into the book further to make sure Hannah was saved. I recommend this book for readers who liked Water For Elephants!
- I read "Water for Elephants", and thoroughly enjoyed it. Hannah's Dream comes nowhere close to it's caliber. This book is wishy washy and full of so much fluff it was a hardly bearable read. The story line limped along with no place to go. I was halfway through the book before I found out that "Sam", the caretaker was a man of color, I had to recast his appearance in my minds view of the story. Also, I can appreciate a colorful expletive as much as the next guy, but the ones in this book were misplaced and in poor taste. Anyone who reads this book can easily guess how it will end, and, after dragging myself doggedly through two thirds of this book I finally gave up and read the last page. The surprise ending was no surprise and with a sigh of relief I closed the book. I was immensely disappointed and just a little depressed, as I'd payed full price at Barne's & Noble for this as a birthday present to myself. I was VERY surprised at the overwhelming praise for this in the other reviews, thinking that others would have been dismayed at the writing style that can only be described as juvenile and listless. I'm sorry, really I am to give such a poor review, but, no tears here, no heartstrings pulled, I am, in fact, sorrier for the wasted time I spent reading this.
- I enjoyed this book so, so much. As others have said, it's a sweet and sweeping story, but I particularly appreciated what another reviewer criticized - that certain aspects of characters (race, sexual orientation, marital status) are left to be realized as the story progresses, while other, more important facets are there in every sentence...Sam's heart, Corinna's steadfastness, Harriet's fear, Neva's generosity. Thanks so much to the author.
- This is a treasure that you must gift to yourself and then share with all your friends! I never thought another book about an elephant could reach the bar set for me by Water for Elephants.......and then a friend gave me Hannah's Dream. Each character draws you in as you watch how their role in loving and protecting Hannah unfolds. And sweet Hannah........ Read her story and fall in love with her like the rest of us have!
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Ph.D, OTR, Lucy Jane Miller and Doris A. Fuller. By Perigee Trade.
The regular list price is $14.95.
Sells new for $7.25.
There are some available for $2.94.
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5 comments about Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder.
- This is by far the best book I have ever read about sensory processing disorder. It explained the different classifications, the symptoms and the current research very well. I wanted to get a better education about SPD so that I can find the most appropriate services and clinicians for my son, who is on the autism spectrum. This book really helped me get a clear idea of how to do that. I highly recommend this book for anyone who cares for a child with sensory issues.
- I wanted a book that would give my child tools to live in this world. However, this book talks about how to make this world conform to my child. What happens when my child is in an stimulating environment and Mom is not around? I was looking for - wear earplugs while doing homework - something practical I can use. I can't always make my other two children be quiet for long periods. This world is a distraction; my child must cope with reality.. somehow or not be successful in accomplishing his hopes and dreams.
- We have a grandchild with sensory integration disorder. This disorder has only recently been defined and not a lot of studies have been done. We did not understand what it was and why our grandchild was acting the way he did until reading this book. The authors do a wonderful job of not only describing behaviors and probable causes but have many practical and alternate methods for parents and teachers to help the child. This book is written by professionals that also have children with sensory issues. Their style is descriptive and useful; not like an academic text. Most parents, teachers and Occipational Therapists do not yet seem to have a good understanding of this disorder and the many ways that they could help. It should be required reading.
- Great book. Weather you have a child with SPD, ADHD, autism. It touches on them all!!!!! Written in plain terms not alot of medical mumbo jumbo!
- I am a parent of a son with SPD. I have read other books on the subject, but this one provides so much practical information. I have recommended it to many other parents and professionals.
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Jeffrey Bernstein. By Da Capo Press.
The regular list price is $14.95.
Sells new for $8.76.
There are some available for $9.41.
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5 comments about 10 Days to a Less Distracted Child: The Breakthrough Program that Gets Your Kids to Listen, Learn, Focus, and Behave.
- This book has helped me so much. It feels like the book it is actually talking to me. I really recommed it even if you don't have anyone with adhd or add. Really good. If you are a parent that snap quickly you need to read this book.
- Dr. Bernstein obviously gets it. He clearly understands these distractible kids and why they do what they do. He also understands their parents and the challenges that they face. More importantly, he understands what they can do about it! This book is packed with practical tips and strategies that parents can use to help their distractible kids do better in school and at home. Although obviously this applies mostly to ADHD kids, there are other reasons why a child could have trouble with inattention, and Dr. Bernstein's suggestions are applicable to them as well. He really tries to help parents understand why their kids do what they do, and also normalizes their own sometimes unproductive reactions. There are other books out there on this topic, but few of them are as thorough or helpful.
- I bought 10 days to a Less Distracted Child at the same time as 10 days to a Less Defiant Child. I decided to read less distracted first, because frankly, I was angry with my 6-year old son. He is in kindergarten, reading at a high second-grade level, can add and subtract, and was getting daily reports saying he was NOT completing his work at school. My very bright son was getting labeled a trouble-maker and a "slow" child. I took his actions as defiance, but after reading Dr. Bernstein's book, I realize he is just EXTREMELY distractable. And, I really recognized myself in his descriptions too. On both sides - the exhausted, over-reacting parent and the distracted little kid.
As a parent with ADHD, it is highly likely my son has it as well. This book helped me to slow down and recognize that my son is trying his best, but completely lacks the skills to know how to keep himself on track. And that is my job as his parent to teach him.
This book is very easy to read, the steps are easy to follow, (even for a very distractable mom like me), and they make an IMMEDIATE difference. My son started bringing home silver stars (the highest they give for behavior) the day after I started using the steps in the book. I highly recommend this book to any parent who is struggling with a child who is under-performing . Also, if you have a defiant child, maybe you should read this book first and see if they are really just distracted.
- This book is great for that parent who is at their wits end with their kids behavior issues... if you are tired of yelling, threatening, spanking etc.. and having it go NO WHERE!! Then read this book. Nothing works all of the time but this book gave me "his" view. How he is thinking/reasoning and suggestions on how to deal with it. I don't have to yell(unless it's to get everyone's attention) I make suggestions and try and get him to tell me what the problem is or how to fix it. It doesn't work all the time but it does help considerably!!!
- I've read many, many books on ADHD and distractibility (Hallowell/Ratey, Murphy, etc.). While those books supplied much-needed background info -- and I urge you to read them as well -- this book gives you ACTUAL STEPS TO TAKE when -- or before -- you're at wit's end.
My creative, intelligent, distractible son has had a lot of the issues described in this book: social interaction, homework trouble, depression and confidence. Although this is a "10-day" program, I urge you to read the entire book first, just to get an overview. It's full of great insight and will help you understand why/how your child learns differently.
I"m a "Type A" mom -- a list-maker, neat freak, get-it-done-now person -- and it's literally taken years to understand my son. This book gave me concrete ways to help my child navigate a world that's not set up for his way of approaching things.
NOTE: Check out "Right Brained Children in a Left Brained World" as well, if your child is particularly creative and "visual" as well as being distractible.
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Penelope Leach. By Knopf.
The regular list price is $20.00.
Sells new for $10.95.
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5 comments about Your Baby and Child: From Birth to Age Five (Revised Edition).
- There are many parenting books available to new parents who are looking for advise and information on the subject, but if you were to choose one book, this is it. Informative and well written, Penelope Leach speaks in a voice that supports the new parent and provides information on many topics. I highly recommend this book!
- As far as I'm concerned this book is HANDS DOWN the best parenting book available, at least for babies. It's the only one that manages to give you advice that seems to be grounded in common sense as well as experience, and it somehow boosts your confidence as a parent just reading it. Plus I love her writing style. Excellent.
- This was recommended to me by another mom and I took it out of the library for the maximum # of renewals and then decided it was worth buying. It's not a book you turn to to solve a specific problem like sleep issues, illnesses, etc. It gives you an idea of how babies develop and what to expect. She suggests things without being preachy or judgmental in a way that makes me trust her opinions on childrearing.
I keep this book around and read parts of it when my son is approaching a new stage. My husband also reads it if I leave it in the bathroom and he is receptive to the author's information and opinions too.
- I'm enormously grateful for this book. When I first picked it up 5 years ago, in theory I agreed with the style of parenting the author encourages; however, I had zero experience ever being around a parent who parented like this or a person who had been brought up like this - neither had my husband. For about the first year of kiddo's life, this book was constantly within reach and went on all trips with us. I read it well into the 2's and some of the 3's. Lately, at 5, he's been having some issues - I picked up this book again and voila!, rightaway is the answer of what we as parents had completely overlooked, and the book steered us immediately into the right direction. It's the only parenting book we ended up needing. I am SO thankful to the author for having written this book.
- Very impressed with the speedy service of this order. Arrived in excellent condition and very pleased - will use Amazon again.
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Leonard Sax. By Basic Books.
The regular list price is $25.00.
Sells new for $15.68.
There are some available for $12.98.
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5 comments about Boys Adrift: The Five Factors Driving the Growing Epidemic of Unmotivated Boys and Underachieving Young Men.
- The book was fabulous! Well written and supported by research, not another opinion book, very logically persuasive. His supported ideas regarding the reasons our young boys are becoming unsuccessful, unmotivated, and underachieved are quite correct! We discussed these matters in book group and were greatly motivated to make changes within our own families which Dr. Sax suggested.
- The idea that boys are in trouble was a completely new idea to me. I have always heard about girls needing help with self-esteem and acedemics (like science & math). But boys in trouble . . . nope, never heard of it. My sister recommended this book because I have a young son and it was an EYE OPENER!
MUST READ - for partents of boys and girls. Very, very easy read and it will change how you look at our children and gender forever.
- As a female and an only child, I don't have a great deal of experience decoding the minds of young boys. But, as a homeschooling mom of 2 darling sons, I eagerly read anything that promises to be helpful in this regard. And although my husband remembers his boyhood exceptionally well, raising boys is a very different proposition than it was a mere 35 years ago.
Dr. Sax (an MD and a PsyD) has written a book that is a fast and easy, but very informative read. I learned a tremendous amount about the obstacles that can stand in the way of today's boy becoming tomorrow's bealthy, content, mature, capable, independent man. Truly fascinating.
I would have given this book 5 stars, but for the rather weak last chapter that attempts to assign solutions to the problems it presents. The gift of this book, however, is in its thorough discussion of the problems. That part alone is truly a gem among books of this nature.
Dr. Sax's book gives parents a chance to gain a complete understanding of the issues. With a little independent research and healthy dose of common sense, most parents could easily figure out how to manage these issues themselves.
- This book is essential for anyone who is a parent,guardian, or teacher to a boy. Dr. Leonard Sax's text is clearly written and full of citations and referrences to real research. It is very helpful to read Dr. Sax's first book "Why Gender Matters" first.
- In "Boys Adrift", Leonard Sax investigates why boys across all socio-economic groups lack motivation and passion for real life activity. He says "they disdain school because they disdain everything." And "even more disturbing is the fact that so many of these boys seem to regard their laid back, couldn't-care-less attitude as being somehow quintessentially male". Sax puts forth five factors creating an epidemic of apathy and under-achievement.
His first factor is a change in the education paradigm that pushes first grade rigor into kindergarten and then continues to promote Wissenschaft, or book learning, over - and sometimes to the exclusion of - Kenntnis, or learning by experience. Schools have also reduced or eliminated competition, which many boys thrive on and develop their self-esteem. Sax challenges us to reverse these trends.
The second factor is an addiction of video games that promotes anti-social behavior and supposedly affects the brain similarly to ADHD meds. Video games provide a feeling of power and achievement without any of the effort required in real-life. "Playing games is easy. Studying is hard." We as parents are to blame for this. Sax recommends limiting games to 40 minutes per day, competitive sports, and prioritizing family, friends and real-world activities over video game play.
The third factor is the routine diagnosis of ADHD and ensuing medications that affect motivation long-term. For doctors and insurers, meds are cheaper than a formal and thorough assessment. And "some parents just don't want to hear that the reason their child is getting B's and C's is because he's just not that smart. They would rather hear that their child has ADHD and needs medication..." and it's easier to think your child has an "oppositional-defiant disorder" rather than he is a "disobedient brat". Sax recommends we challenge the diagnosis and diligently evaluate the cost-benefit of medications.
Sax cites as the fourth factor chemicals endocrine disrupters in plastics that emasculate the male, delay puberty, and foster obesity. Plastics are the biggest culprit here and he advises the use of glass containers. Apparently Sax originally thought this factor far-fetched but after research and investigation has become convinced.
Finally, the fifth factor is how society's minimization of masculinity and the passage to manhood has profoundly and negatively influenced the psyche of the young male. By eliminating the traditional rituals of manhood, "have we violated something which the ancients knew intuitively but which we have arrogantly ignored?" And if we do not expose our boys to positive male role models, they will look towards the media or their peers for their inspiration and guidance. The respected fathers and self-sacrificing male leaders of yester-year have been replaced with Homer Simpson and misogynistic, hedonistic pop icons.
Sax's presentation is very effective, and it is very readable at 220 pages. He parades by the reader a litany of case studies, either evidenced through his own experiences as a physician and psychologist or through emails or conversations with parents. He makes frequent references to his book "Why Gender Matters" and studies from various other authors. "Boys Adrift" is a call to fathers, mothers, teachers, coaches, and leaders, reminding us that our sons, students, and players desperately need our attention, consideration, guidance and protection.
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Les and Leslie Parrott. By Zondervan.
The regular list price is $19.99.
Sells new for $10.49.
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5 comments about Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts: Seven Questions to Ask Before and After You Marry.
- Easy to read and follow, applicable to real life, suitable for individual, couple or small group study. I recommend the companion workbooks, too, in order to get the full benefits of the book.
- We're using this book in a Couples Sunday School Class as a study guide and are working through the chapters and workbook questions together. It's true that more planning goes into the wedding than the marriage. Sooner or later we have to put work into the marriage to make it work and to enjoy the fullness of the union got intended. Well written. Thought provoking.
- The first CD of the 4-CD set wouldn't read in my car radio, so I started with #2. This book came highly recommended, and I drive so much I thought I'd try a book on tape. It is in fact a really great book (so far), and it's nice to have it read by the people who actually wrote the book...it's very hard to misinterpret anything in the book. I think I will have to buy the print version though...I find it a little hard to really absorb what's being said while driving.
- My Girlfriend and I are going through this book and it has helped us think through many issues that we would not have thought of. SYMBIS has tons of good insight and advice
- Having counseled many couples in 25 years of pastoral ministry, I have read several books on marital, interpersonal relationships. The authors present sound principles that are easy for people to understand and to apply. I had a few older favorites I would recommend to couples until reading this book -- now I have a new favorite to share instead!
One of the unique, most admirable qualities of this work is that it is very helpful to persons regardless of their marital status. A single individual will find it helpful for insight during dating. A person who is engaged will find it helpful in identifying issues that are sure to arise within marriage. A newlywed will find it helpful in responding to the major adjustments of sharing his/her life with another person. A person who has been married for several years will find it helpful in understanding how a marriage deepens and grows over the course of time.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone wanting to enhance an upcoming marriage or an existing one. There are accompanying workbooks, one for men and one for women, that are also very helpful. This book is definitely one to own!
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Posted in Relationship (Friday, December 5, 2008)
Written by Robin L. Smith. By Hyperion.
The regular list price is $14.95.
Sells new for $4.00.
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5 comments about Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages.
- I heard about this book from a relative who had read it. I didn't think that I would like it so I checked it out at the library. After reading through it over several weeks, I had to buy a copy of my own. There are some very helpful tips in this book. I have recommended it to several friends.
- This is easy to read basic review of what ingredients need to be in a good, commited relationship. This book will not save a cracked relationship and will not prevent divorce. It is not about "how to" (speak to each other), but about "what" (the content of the conversations should be). I highly recommend it also to the people facing divorce, seeking for affirmation what the content of a relationship should be, what they have missed or couldn't get with the current partner they are splitting with.
The excercises consist of a series of questions or better topics the partners need to discuss. As some questions might not be applicable to discuss or answer or you might find it completely uninteresting, most of suggestions are very interesting and important. The questions are not put up front to discuss who is right and who is wrong, but to make couples learn how to make compromises on important issues and accept each other's different points of view.
In the ubiquitous gloryfing of the marriage ritual, many people have forgotten that the person they are marrying is more important than the color scale of your grand event. Havin second thoughts before the wedding? Read this! It will not destroy the relationship, but it will help you evaluate it. This book helps to prevent ignoring the right gut feelings. It is your companion and on your side. You don't need to consult a relative that probably wants to see you nicely dressed at your wedding and will not listen to your worries properly as the wedding preparations heaten up.
Unfortunately, dr. Smith's writing contains some religious elements at times, which is not surprising given the fact she teaches as an adjunct professor at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. This might be disturbing to some, but my advise is to ignore it. Ironically, she is quoting Sartre (an atheist) at one occasion to support a bit of spiritualistic point of view. Referrals to God are, however, not the foundation of the book and can be overlooked if you posess a bit of a tolerance (and if you don't, better not get married). I believe dr. Smith's experiences from her practice are very valuable and the book is worth buying.
I benefited from dr. Smith's positive encouragement to independent thinking for women. There is this gentle feministic touch that may empower women to look behind the farirytale role of stuffing themselves in a white dress for one single day, smiling for cameras until it hurts and then suffering entire life due to emotional or physical abuse just becase divorce is unacceptable.
Apparently, we all bring some lies in front of the altar and the book helps you find yours as well.
If you have a close friend who is getting married in a few months, consider this as a gift way in advance! I had some fun discussing the topics with my close friend (and at times bitching about men and life in general, hahaha).
- I just finished reading the book and feel it provided some good lessons and a generally good read. I think the book is best suited for people who are not yet married or those who have had relationship trouble in the past that they would like to move on from.
The book was a little long-winded in some ways but provided great scenarios from (what I assume to be) her clients from marriage counseling. That was what I liked most about the book. Instead of talking about imaginary scenarios and results, it provided real situations she had seen couples go through during conflict. This helped me visualize the situations of conflict in my own engagement and I felt able to relate to some of the people she mentioned, whom are people going through the typical things to cause conflict... Money, beliefs, past wounds, whether or not to have children..
She discusses the reasons many conflicts arise, and how many conflicts are much deeper than the surface. For example, she writes about a couple who are fighting over how much the wife pampers her 23 year old son whom is out of the house (doing his laundry, stocking his fridge), and how the anger the husband felt was evoked by having it hard when he moved out and not having the support of his parents (as well as being raised to believe that a person should be able to take care of him/herself after moving out). The author also explains how to turn cycles of blame and anger into understanding, through use of mostly the technique of mirroring; repeating back what the other partner said to be sure that anger doesn't twist the other partner's words to cause misunderstanding or resentment.
Honesty and maturity is a huge theme of this book. Looking past the flowery words and lovely dress, and thinking deeper about a marriage's future. Creating vows that really speak what you intend, instead of vows that have hidden intentions. (For example, saying that you will always 'be by your side' when you intend to go off on your own for days. Or perhaps saying that you will always be there for your partner, but only when they're considerate.)
The intended audience for this book is women. This must be understood. Men can also benefit from this book but it is mostly an empowering book for women. It encourages women in bad relationships to have the courage to make change or realize that they deserve to be happy. It encourages people in good marriages to embrace each other and their current state of being, to look deeper into the disagreements that may arise so they can understand the background it is created by.
Made me think more about how I feel about life and what creates my beliefs.
The 'questions before marriage' weren't a big thing for me, because we already know almost everything listed about each other already. We were comfortable enough with each other that we discussed children, finances, religion, sexuality, politics, how to raise a kid, etc before we even got engaged. But it would be very valuable for most couples who may overlook important questions, or cringe at the thought of discussing deeply about beliefs (it's well worth doing).
A good book for couples who want a healthy mature relationship free of the cycles of stress and blame that so many couples go through. Offers valuable advice.
- was sent promply and the book was in VERy , well brand new shape. thanks
- Simple stated, factual and sprinkled with personal anecdotes, this offers a great way to hold up a mirror to your present relationship and see if you are a good fit, both personally and together, before a trip to the altar, especially if you have any doubts.
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