5 comments about Chicken Soup for the Military Wife's Soul: Stories to Touch the Heart and Rekindle the Spirit (Chicken Soup for the Soul).

1. I HATE to read. Typically it bores me and puts me to sleep. With that said, I somehow ran across this book on-line. I read the Amazon reviews and decided to give it a try. I got the book and in one sitting read half of the book straight through. I was addicted to it! I honestly could not put it down. Even the section on "Raising Military Brats" I read although I do not have any children. My husband has 13 months left of his tour in Iraq and it was somewhat comforting to read about WWI or WWII wives who, in their husband's two year deployment, maybe received one letter, if at all. It made me appreciate what I have, even though what I want is thousands of miles away. I definitely recommend it for any military wife.



2. It's probably because my husband is in the military and he's not with me right now, but I enjoyed each of these stories, even if some of them plucked at my heart strings a bit too close to home. I read this book on a plane, which I do not recommend! I had to hide every sniffle. Of course, these stories are sometimes a bit cheesy and "feel good," but it's called Chicken Soup for the Soul for a reason.



3. Once again a chicken soup book is great! As a wife of a deployed soldier, this book helps me keep a positive and uplifted spirit. I would reccomend this book to any military wife.



4. This book is touching, compassionate and reinforces why our country is so great! Have a box of tissues near by this one is a tear jerker!



5. Everyone who lives the military life can always use some humor to get them through the crazy times. This book offers that. Great book. I like the fact that it is one you can pick and put down anytime and still enjoy and get something out of it.

3 comments about Being with Dying: Cultivating Compassion and Fearlessness in the Presence of Death.

1. Joan Halifax brings deep wisdom and caring to every moment, and this book is one more example of the gifts she shares so freely. We all deal with death and dying, now or later, ours or others, and this wise book will help us traverse the terrain more gracefully.
   
   Honey Ward
   www.ExperienceYourPower.com



2. Healthy, clear, concise guidance, including reflective meditation to care for those who are dying.
   
   At the same time in developing compassion and fearlessness to face the dying, it concurrently provides a guide for healthy living.
   
   Who knows what is most important in life? Those who deny it and live on in ignorant bliss, or those for whom it is already knocking on their door.



3. Death is as much a part of life as living, but most people do not fear life. "Being with Dying: Cultivating Compassion and Fearlessness in the Presence of Death" is Joan Halifax's explanation why one should not fear death. A Buddhist teacher who has worked with the dying for much of her life, she uses the teachings of her religion to help inspire those of any faith to be better be prepared for what is inevitable, and live for the time they have now. "Being With Dying" is informed and inspiring, making it a recommendation for those who want to further appreciate life.

5 comments about Tapping the Power Within: A Path to Self-Empowerment for Women.

1. Iyanla Vanzant is absolutely brilliant. Her power and wisdom continue to amaze and remind me of what Life and living is all about. The Yoruba rituals and traditions she offers in this book will definitely be added to my spiritual practices, particularly creating alters and blessing my head. I am humbled and encouraged by her courage to share her truth and remain committed to her vision. Not only is this book personally enlightening, it is necessary as I enter new phases of healing, self-awareness, and consciousness. This book is a must have.
   Thank you Reverend, Doctor, Mama, Ms. Iyanla Vanzant for being my greatest teacher. You've done it again!



2. This book is a powerful encouragement to us all, as the wonder-full women of life on earth open to our gifts and our charge to balance the patriarchal atmosphere that has prevailed [and failed] for so long.



3. Tapping is really a HOW-TO manual of stimulating and maintaining that essence that we all have, no matter the tradition. The first time I read this book, I was searching but I wasn't ready. My faith walk did not embrace anything that did not look exactly like the pillars it taught. Isn't that ironic? In fact, I gave it away. Tapping is that powerful. My soul picked it off the shelf. If you are here reading the reviews, there is something in you that drew you to this book. I say LISTEN. This is a manual for powerful women to harness that power with a practice. I'm grateful for the re-release of Tapping at time and season where consciousness is transcending denominations and expanding ways of being. Iyanla was one of the only voice of my youth that spoke to this awareness when it wasn't popular. Iyanla spoke into me through her writing about the things that stirred in my spirit as a woman. Iyanla Vanzant through this first work can settle that which stirs in you. Don't be afraid. . . of your own power, Tap it! (LOL!)
   
   ReBirth Int'l



4. I love Iyanla Vanzant and this book is better than it was twenty years ago



5. Iyanla Vanzant's newest edition of Tapping the Power Within is an EXTRA-ORDINARY gift to women! I bought the first edition when I was 21 years old and her guidance through her teaching led me to a path of healing and spiritual growth. Now here again, (as they say) just in the nick of time, Tapping the Power Within has helped and encouraged me to stay diligent on my path and be open to greater experiences, no matter how painful or tough it seems. Iyanla's personal sharings touch, inspire and give me the courage to continue moving forward. The CD is a powerful inclusion, it helps the guidance in the book "stick". This is a healing and empowerment tool for all women to experience.

5 comments about Little Family, Big Values: Lessons in Love, Respect, and Understanding for Families of Any Size.

1. I've been a big fan of the TLC show starring the Roloff family, so was quite excited to read this book.
   
   The Roloff family values are ones that everyone should strive to incorporate into their family -- love, respect, committment, responsiblity, perseverance. Told mostly from Matt and Amy's points of view, this is a quick, easy read that is even more poignant due to the obstacles that this family has had to overcome.
   
   I would have loved to have heard more from Molly, the Roloff's daughter, or from Jacob, the youngest son. But there are good stories from the other Roloff kids, Zachary and Jeremy, and overall this is a really encouraging read.



2. I enjoyed reading how the family dynamics are put together in this easy to read Roloff "recipe" for their family. I did enjoy reading from the kids the most as I think that is the true test of Matt and Amy's values. The kids have really learned a lot from their parents and I especially like the part in which they all talk about a positive attitude. They sure thought up "the Secret" before Oprah talked about it! I would have like to read more from Molly and even Jacob. Also, the stories do get a little repetative and preachy at times. All in all this was a great story and an easy read. This is one that you can put down and pick up at any time and not feel lost. The Roloff's are really a great family!



3. This book was purchased for my mother for Mother's Day. She has already received it & is currently enjoying it.



4. I really enjoy watching the Roloff family on TV and thought I would really enjoy this book. But that's not the case. I was never able to get into the book, and about half way through I finally gave up on it, and put it back on the book shelf.I'm glad I bought it at bargain price.



5. I BOUGHT THIS AS A GIFT FOR MY PARENTS WHO LOVE THE TV SHOW "LITTLE PEOPLE BIG WORLD".

5 comments about Chicken Soup for the Grieving Soul: Stories About Life, Death and Overcoming the Loss of a Loved One (Chicken Soup for the Soul).

1. I have not read the whole book but boy is it good so far. Very soothing although still a tear producer - which is good for the soul and healing also.



2. What better time for that healing bowl of Chicken Soup than while one is grieving. The poignantly beautiful stories have touched me gently after the loss of the best son and friend one could ever have lost to death. I highly recommend this version of Chicken Soup if you have lost a loved one or as a gift to one you know. Each short story is a reminder that life truly does go on after death, and the healing for those living is possible.



3. This is an excellent read, as are all of Jack Canfield's collections on the Chicken Soup series. I gifted this to a friend who just lost her young daughter, recently, and suddenly, I might add!
   I am hoping she will find this a tool of sorts, and find that other folks of all ages and circumstances in life are making this same journey in testing their faith, and strengthening it, as well.
   I depicted a certain story on page 13 for her, and she came back to me with a smile in church, and said that after reading this short story, it really fit! Thank you, Mr. Canfield and various authors, for your wonderful collections, and showing us as "FOOTPRINTS" suggests, HE carries us in times of trials, with ONE set of FOOTPRINTS!



4. If you haven't read a Chicken Soup book buy one NOW. When you find one that fits your life it is inspirational and comforting to read.
   
   They definitely name this series correctly~It will comfort your soul while your read it.The grief process is hard, but necessary when you lose a loved one to death. This book is a wonderful support for a difficult time in life
   
   Bring your Kleenex!
   
   Merna
   
   Pocket of Pearls: A 30-day pocket workbook to start hearing a softer voice inside of you!



5. I lost my father recently. I found the book very helpful in the grieving and great loss I was feeling. I would recommend this book to help anyone in need. It lets you know that you are not alone.

5 comments about Body Drama: Real Girls, Real Bodies, Real Issues, Real Answers.

1. This is a book the female world has been waiting for. As a girl, growing up, did you ever wish there was a book that would just "get real" about girl's body issues? This is a book you would have liked to turn to in those difficult moments. Of course, it's ideal for girls to be able to talk to mothers, other family members, or trusted female mentors about these issues. But where does that leave teen girls that don't have one of the aforementioned in their lives? Nancy Redd, a former Miss America swimsuit winner has written the quintessential book on female adolescent sexuality. Gone are those cheesy pencil drawings with the female anatomy. Redd gets up front and personal with photographs about all parts of the female anatomy. This book has every question you have never read before that a girl might ask.
   
   Problems such as embarrassing smells, zits, breast sizes, and pubic hair are all covered. No issue is too off-limits. This is a book for women only. Yes, I imagine a few horny teenage guys will find it at the library or bookstore and have a thrill, but this book is intended for women.
   
   Just a sample of topics: My vagina smells, I hate the way I look down there, My breasts are too heavy, It hurts to pee, I go poo too much, I have a mustache, I feel fat, I'm addicted to tanning, and the list goes on. There are handy things like how to make a pad with toilet paper. Redd even makes some confessions about some of the topics that readers will appreciate.
   
   And then there is the thing that will really knock your socks off: an entire two page spread of photos of vulvas. When I first saw this, I must admit, I was shocked. But after reading the book, I can see the genius of it. It's not meant to be porn, it's just a safe way for girls to see that not every vagina looks the same. Redd complains that the porn and fashion industries are showing glossy, airbrushed "hairless slits" and that teen girls are thinking that their "package" needs to look similar. She also shares scary stories about surgeries girls are having to make their anatomy look better. It is for this reason that she made the infamous spread.
   
   I am glad this book was written. I am a little sad that the collection development people at my library chose to place this book in adult non-fiction instead of teen non-fiction. Teen girls need this book, and now they will have to walk to a different section to find it. Highly recommended for all libraries.



2. I love this book! Girls 14 and older everywhere will find the answer to the number one question of adolescents everywhere - "Am I normal?"
   
   Real Girls, Real Bodies, Real Issues - Right On. What more can I say?
   
   Read it yourself first, so you know what your daughter will be learning - and let her brother check it out too. With all that pornography out there, boys don't have a clue what a "real" woman's body looks like. This will open their eyes in ways they couldn't imagine.
   
   Nancy's practical advice will hit home and having this great book in your sex talks tool bag will only do you and your kids good.



3. I think that if I'd had this book growing up, I wouldn't hate my body so much. It's easy to read "Body Drama" now and utterly agree with it, but the deep-seated beliefs dominate. I can't help but to think that raising my daughter to have fantastic self-esteem, and then giving her this book when she reaches a certain age, will prevent the cycle of self-hatred from continuing. I wish there was a version for boys, although obviously I realize it's not the same for them. I'm sad for those who give this a low review because they're "offended." Don't you realize the profound change a work like this can effect? Thank you, Nancy Redd, for creating hope for the future even when pasts can't be changed. I am grateful.



4. Nancy Redd's Body Drama is a good read for young ladies starting puberty to grown women. She covers everything a woman needs to know about her body and how to properly take care of it. It's a fun read, it's not dry and boring so young ladies will grasp it. This book shows ladies that everyone's body is not the same and we need to appreciate and love the body God gave us.



5. An essential book for any female pre-teen and teen. At a time when one is going through so many changes and feeling weird and abnormal about their body, a book like this would definitely help ease some of those worries. I know I would've appreciated a book like this when I was younger. I'm 24, and it has even helped me now!
   
   Some people feel that some of the pictures in the book are too graphic, but I feel they're important. It is much better for young girls who worry if they are 'normal' down there to see the realistic pictures in this book, than the airbrushed images of girls online. The author is very open about the images in the book, and it is mentioned in the summary on amazon so it shouldn't come as a surprise.
   
   The only issue I had with this book was that I felt there were a lot of issues touched on but not really discussed. I know it was a matter of space, there is just too much to include. I feel that the author did a great job of including as much as she could and answering a lot of really important questions.
   
   It's about time a book like this became widely available!

5 comments about On Death and Dying (Scribner Classics).

1. We studied Ms. Kubler-Ross's five stages of grief in medical school, but somehow I never got around to reading her orignal work. I presumed that it would be the same dry material that required the learned professors of academia to digest and regurgitate for the masses of medical students crying out for knowledge.
   
   I was wrong.
   
   The work is intimately accessible by everyone as a powerful reflection on death and dying that encourages each of us to address our own mortality and encourages us to treat those experiencing death and dying with empathy, dignity and respect.



2. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross is undoubtedly the world's foremost expert on the subject of death and dying. I learned about her stages of grief as an undergraduate majoring in psychology some 20 years ago, and later was re-acquainted with her ideas when I did a ten-year stint working in nursing. Now I am a teacher of psychology and history, and I finally came around to reading her most important book, and perhaps the most important and revolutionary book ever written on the subject of death.
   
   Kubler-Ross's ideas regarding the grieving process are quite profound. As I read her book, I remembered many times while caring for the dying, that a staff or family interaction could have been better understood if the people involved had taken the time to read this book. Knowing the stages are not nearly as effective as reading this book and getting to know Kubler-Ross's mind and heart which she shares with you in the pages of this book. Moreover, the examples she brings forth are wonderful illustrations into getting to know the more subtle clues that give insight to the subject.
   
   I'll provide an example: while in nursing, I cared for a man who was near death. It wasn't until the daughter told her father "It's OK to let go" that the man was able to reach a stage of acceptance. He died the next day. What I didn't understand until I read Kubler-Ross's book is that it wasn't the father who was in denial; it was the rather the daughter. Once the father knew that the daughter was ready to part with her dear father; he was able to rest in peace.
   
   This is a powerful book. I wish I had read it while I worked in nursing. I strongly advise anybody who works around death and dying to read this book.



3. Kubler-Ross does an outstanding job of synthesizing her years of observation and experience into a succinct, readable volume. She tackles the difficult issues of death and loss with candor and sensitivity. This book provides brilliant insights into the nature and purpose of mourning, how to face one's mortality, how to let the certainty of death enhance one's life, how to deal with the death of a loved one and minister to people in grief. Her "five stages" are quintessential and have helped countless people deal with death. This book is a sobering and enlightening journey. Highly recommended.



4. I highly recommend this book. My father died of terminal cancer. Two days after the funeral, I saw my dad at the foot of my bed. When I saw him a second time I thought I had lost my mind. Not only did the book help me to heal but it assured me that it was not my imagination those nights I saw him. There is something else beyond this life waiting for us. Skeptics will always find ways to dispute this fact but I've learned to brush those people off. When their time comes, they will see for themselves.



5. Having lost two family members within a short time of each other, this book was very helpful to me when dealing with so many emotions at once. I already knew of Kubler-Ross' five stages of grief, however there was much to be learned here as the dying were the teachers.

5 comments about Outgrowing the Pain: A Book for and About Adults Abused As Children.

1. This is a tiny little book with lots of pictures and very little substance to it. It's designed to ask questions of the reader and point out certain behaviors, and that's it. I didn't find the information in it very useful, but since I do volunteer work with children I decided to keep in around to refer to from time to time. I didn't find it to be a book for adults at all. My advice is don't waste your money.



2. This book presents a simple, friendly clinical resource that is helpful to therapists and as bibliotherapy for clients who are dealing with abuse.



3. The author has a wealth of experience working with children. The book is easy to read. It is really helpful and each page is a thought provoker. Better is read slower so the reader has plenty of reflective time. This book and the author will be classics in the child abuse and treatment category. Self-help or in therapy, the book and its author are right on.



4. This was recommended by my new therapist with good reason, It applies to a large group of people. I have found an easier and more digest-able way to view the way I was raised due to this read. I never realized that being ignored and being raged at was a form of abuse. I appreciate the education this simple book has to offer. I have never been one for the victim-y or poor me stuff, this gave me some real perspective.



5. This book might have as well been called "Sexual abuse guide for dummies". Author's intention might have been good, providing the basics for "beginners" but how can one simplify such horrors as child sexual abuse? There is no deeper understanding in this book of what this experience can do to a person. A title of one chapter reads "Ok, I believe it, now what?". I cannot imagine anyone adopting such tone, whether having gone through it or knowing someone who did.
   Even though I don't like it, I am glad to see that it did help many people. But if you feel repelled by the style of this book as me, check the Secret survivors by E. Sue Blume. Amazingly intelligent and empathicly written.

5 comments about The First 30 Days: Your Guide to Any Change (and Loving Your Life More).

1. This book is a great handbook to start making the changes in your life you have always thought, talked or dreamed about. Arianne challenges and gently nudges the reader to get started taking small steps toward the desired change. The book is actually a workbook. I took the time to do the exercises as I read the book and found it very worthwhile. I am looking forward to checking out the website on a regular basis to help me stay on track with my change plan.



2. Change is inevitable. It's part of living life. When faced with change we have two choices; we can embrace or fear it. In her book, "The First 30 Days," Ariane de Bonvoism provides a well thought out guide for using change as a catalyst for helping us grow and thrive.
   
   Embracing change means we are growing and evolving. Fearing and fleeing from change means we are allowing our life to be controlled by outside influences and circumstances. In her new book The First 30 Days, Ariane de Bonvoism writes from a coaches point of view and her mission is to guide us through the expected and unexpected changes in life.
   
   The First 30 Days - Your Guide to Any Change (and Loving Your Life More) is an easily understood and practical guide for learning how to embrace change and to be able to go forward in positive and empowering ways. If you're going through change or about to go through change, you should be reading and working this book. Ariane gives you a proactive approach to handling the inevitable changes that occur in life.
   
   The premise of her book is to embrace change from a position of power. Change is a constant in life, be prepared and be ready to be proactive. Ariane makes it very clear that it is how you choose to handle change that will make the difference between going forward in empowering ways or allowing fear to overwhelm you.
   
   By coaching us through change, rather than lecturing, Ariane expertly explains how to make it through the toughest first few days and/or months of the change process with our heads held high and our self-esteem in tact.
   
   I believe that if I list the chapter titles and subtitles that will explain The First 30 Days even better than I can.
   Chapter titles include:
   1. Change Your View Of Change
   Beliefs Can Make A Difference
   
   2. The Change Guarantee
   From This Situation, Something Good Will Come
   
   3. The Change Muscle
   You're Stronger Than You Think
   
   **4. Change Demons (This chapter alone is worth buying the book!)**
   How To Recognize Negative Emotions and Move Past Them
   
   5. The Gift Of Acceptance
   Resisting Change Is Not The Answer
   
   6. The Things You Can Control
   What You Say, Think and Feel
   
   7. Meet Your Spiritual Side
   Where Tranquility, Ideas and Wisdom Live
   
   8. Change Your Support Team
   The People and Things That Can Help
   
   9. Get Unstuck
   Actions to Move You Through Any Change
   
   The Next 30 Days and Beyond
   Radical Optimism, Possibility, and New Directions
   
   If you're looking for a magic bullet to make everything go away, this isn't it. If you're looking for earth-shattering new scientific information, this isn't it. If you're looking to the find the courage within yourself to grow from life's changes, this book is for you. If you're looking for proactive and practical information to keep going positively forward during times of change, this book is for you!
   
   Change is inevitable and this book can be your guide. With hands-on activities, well thought-out exercises, real-life examples, step-by-step guidance, resources and practical advice, The First 30 Days will take you through the process of change with the ability to thrive, not survive. The First 30 Days by Ariane de Bonvoisin is the type of book you'll want to read and keep in your library for future reference.
   
   I highly recommend!



3. I fortuitously found this book on a library shelf the day after my husband left me. I figured it would just be a cliched, self-help book, and was instead thrilled to find a fresh, helpful, wonderful guide to meeting changes in life head on. It's only been a week since he left, and everyone is amazed at how strong I am, which is mostly thanks to this book. Needless to say, I have ordered my very own copy- this one's a keeper! (Even if hub wasn't- ha!)



4. HIGHLY recommend!!! I don't know a single person that isn't thinking of making some kind of change. Could be a job, relationship, health, exercise, etc.
   
   This is a book you can't put down! The First 30 days is changing my life to make changes that I've thought about for years and made up excuses on why I don't and can't try. I'm doing it and haven't been happier, thanks to Ariane's book. I've been buying and gifting my friends this book too. They all love it! It's helping my closest friend get out of an abusive relationship and another friend follow her creative passion, starting her own business. HIGHLY recommend it! Enjoy!



5. This book is the authority on life change and a must-have if you feel stuck and dread change, any change, all change. One of the hidden blessings of this book is that when you read it (and/or get a chance to listen to the author), the possibility of CHANGE in your life starts to work on some mysterious unseen level, and opportunities to change just start presenting themselves. After reading this book, my mindset has shifted from a locked-down dread of change position to one of a fully-opened change seeker. I now consciously look for opportunities to change, and along the way have found a great new job, transformed relationships and endless change possibilities in the works. This book gets you on the path to change, holds your hand through that first big tough change, makes you a believer of positive change, and opens you up to endless possibilities and new realities in your life.

5 comments about Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success.

1. Condition of book was just as they said and it arrived within the time they said it would!!



2. The idea behind this book is very original and relevant. We all make mistakes and the exploration of how to learn from those and improve ourselves is a noble task. Maxwell begins well with insightful thoughts on what failure is and is not, how success is born out of failure and how to reframe our perception of our failures. Then the book quickly turns to largely extraneous stories and weak supporting points. The book drags on in this vein for some time. It is not until near the end that things pick back up again. The book ends on a strong note, with practical suggestions of how to "fail forward." This book is worth reading, though be prepared to do some skimming in the middle sections.



3. This was a great read and helps better understand the importance of taking every situation and turning it into a positive learning experience.



4. I got this book from my Uncle's recommendation.
   Loved it and couldn't put it down. He just inspires you more and more with great stories of people who kept failing and made great successes of themselves.
   Basically you have to fail to succeed.
   If you are a perfectionist this is the perfect book for you!!



5. John Maxwell does a great job again. John is letting you know you need to make mistakes in order to make progress...at least you better be.