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"The Chocolate Diaries: Secrets for a Sweeter Journey on the Rocky Road of Life" by Karen Scalf Linamen was a great little book that couldn't have come at a better time. When I signed up to review this book I had no idea what to expect. I have read self-help books in the past that were so dry I would have rather taken a 20 mile hike in the Arizona desert with no water (in the middle of summer) than finished reading the book. Others were essentially no more than a compilation of lists that were uninteresting and of no real help. This book, however, was different.
Each chapter starts with a catchy title and a thought and ends with a series of questions that can be used for reflective thought, discussion, or journaling. The content really makes a reader think about her life and what she is doing to make a positive transition. The chapters also include a recipe to make a quick snack with chocolate as an ingredient. The book is put together well, and the theme works to make the reader smile.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book is that while it is a Christian self help book, it is not overly pushy on the religion aspect. There is a section that will help woman interested in starting a relationship with Jesus hop on board, but the book itself does not require that woman believe in Christianity in order to enjoy it. The author does a great job of introducing the religion to women who may not believe and showing them what Christianity has to offer, but she does not try to sell Jesus.
This book would be perfect for a bible study group of women who are each in their own places in life. Every woman, no matter her age, has gone through some type of rocky patch in life. With the assistance of this book, a group could help each other or learn techniques for when they are hurting. It also makes a great gift for someone who may need some encouragement. I am, in fact, going to pass it along for just that purpose. A friend of mine is hurting, so I am going to send her the book, along with a journal and a small box of chocolate.
I am so glad I got the opportunity to read "The Chocolate Diaries." This is a beautiful book that truly spreads positiveness- something this world needs more of. I can't wait to read others by this same author!
18 comments:
This sounds like a book I'd love to read. :D Thanks for visiting my blog. Following you back. Have a great day!
I love the catchy title. I think it's good to learn how to cope with rough times. Thanks for the review.
Thanks ladies. I hope you have a great day!
This book sounds perfect for me. I'm at the point in my life where I want to start a relationship with the Lord so this might speed up the process. : )
theladya: I MIGHT consider another book specifically for starting a relationship with Jesus. This one does't focus a whole lot on that, but it does have one chapter. It all depends on what you are looking for. This is definitely a gentle start if you are just getting to that point. I wish you the best!
Sounds like a fun way to get some guidance -- I mean, how can you go wrong where there are chocolate recipes!!
Thanks for linking up this week.
Beth, there are some neat recipes in here, too! You definitely can't go wrong with chocolate. Thanks for LETTING me link up this week. I'll have to see what I can come up with for next week.
I'm not much for self-help books, but this one sounds really different; and anything with chocolate in the title is already a winner in my book :)
TheBookGirl: I would really think of this book more as motivational than self-help. I don't know if there is a difference as far as the book world goes, but in my mind there is. This book really inspired me to DO something, to take an action. I LOVE the journaling questions it has. They aren't written as journaling questions, but I would use them that way.
I think every situation is at least a little better with chocolate!
caite: That is so true. I have to admit that when I was in the hospital a couple of weeks ago, life was really difficult. When I came home I asked my husband for a candy bar. He ran to the store and came back with a BAG of candy bars, all chocolate. I think he needed a bit of chocolate therapy, too!
Never heard of this one, but I'm going to try and find it.
Here's my recipe
Faith: I'm glad I could help you find a new book to read!
I love the title! It would make a great gift in combination with a box of chocolates... you are such a thoughtful friend.
Thank you JoAnn. Unfortunately the box of chocolates wouldn't fit in the shipping box, but the book and the journal did. My friend got it today and was really excited. I hope she likes the book!
sounds like a great read thanks for sharing it come see me at http://shopannies.blogspot.com
Hey Girls!
Thank you so much, Karen, for your delightful review of my book "The Chocolate Diaries." And you certainly have wonderful readers, because I so enjoyed reading the comments by each of you! (I can also tell that there are some true chocoholics among you, which is just one more reason to believe we are all soul sisters separated at birth!)
Blessings to each one of you...
Hugs,
Karen Linamen
Humorous Inspirational Speaker for Women
Karen, thank you for stopping by my blog and commenting. I feel honored!
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