Today I'm reviewing a lovely and useful book ~ A Perfect Word for Every Occasion by Liz Duckworth
Synopsis:
Have you ever wondered just what to say at a
funeral, to a friend whose spouse is fighting cancer, or to someone
going through a breakup?
The right words don't always come easily.
Sometimes we're so afraid to say the wrong thing that we say nothing at
all or resort to clichés. But with a little help you can share the
perfect message that will draw you nearer to friends and loved ones.
This book offers examples and guidelines for
things to say, lines to write, and Scripture verses to share. Full of
encouraging messages organized by category--sympathy, thank-yous,
congratulations, etc.--it will help you save time while strengthening
your relationships. You will find the right words for formats old and
new: Facebook messages, emails, cards, texting, receiving lines,
birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings, funerals, and more.
You'll even discover what not to say.
A Perfect Word for Every Occasion is a trustworthy resource for words to bless the ones you love.
My Review:
When I saw this book on the review list, I just had to request it. I struggle with saying the right words since writing does not come easily for me and the idea of having a resource at my fingertips was appealing. This book went beyond my expectations. It's a very easy read with each chapter laid out in a similar format: Topic, Guidelines, Ideas, What not to say (with funny examples from a fictional "Aunt Me-Me"), Inspiring Quotes and Applicable Scripture.I really loved that she walks you through how to get yourself "in the zone" for writing the perfect words that are from your own heart. Some of her insights are very thought provoking. This paragraph has stuck with me since I started the book: pg1 "Why is it so tough? Because consoling people in grief requires us to follow a dark road leading to a place we don't want to be. In order to reach out to people who are hurting in the deepest way, we have to hurt too. And we are forced to think about subjects we'd rather avoid: death, loss, heartbreak and pain"
The author makes a strong case for us to go beyond using social media sites when it's really important and to give others a piece of ourselves with a kind handwritten note.
I am thrilled to have this book in my home and will definitely be using it to write notes to others using the "perfect" words.
In exchange for my honest review, I received a copy of the book from Bethany House.
I could not agree more with that statement that you quoted from the book! In all of the stuff we have gone through in the past few years, very few have reached beyond social media to show us they really care. Its like pouring salt in a wound. Where a written note, a phone call, a visit, those who have reached beyond social media has been like healing salve. Sounds like a great book!
ReplyDeleteHello Miranda, What an interesting book. I know life is very busy nowadays, but for me an email seems very shallow and it seems a form of cowardice to hide behind a computer to write a note of condolence, rather than speaking to the person. If I cannot find the correct words, I would always give someone a hug to show them how much I care. I also like to sit down, find my paper and pen, then write a letter to a friend. I hope lots of people buy this sensible book. Best Wishes Daphne
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds great I'm going to have to pick up a copy or see if it's on Kindle I could use this. We're been so busy lately doing some painting around here and new carpet was installed today in the loft bedroom. After 11 years I needed a change of color and a new fresh carpet. I now have blue and tan in there.
ReplyDeleteThi sounds great - and I loved reading your review. You have a way of bringing books to life for me!
ReplyDeleteHave you read Family Celebrations, by the way? I had it recommended to me recently and I LOVE it!
Sarahx