Hi guys!
Welcome back to the Friday edition of Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place that just can't stay away from the books no matter how hard we try (which isn't very...hehe).
Today's post is being sent to you from my mobile as I'm out and about, so please forgive the formatting (and potential spelling errors/corrections)...you know how it goes. ^_^ The book featured today was going to close out the month of May but hey....it's still serving its purpose and what better way to welcome June (wow...*checks calendar*...2012 is FLYING by) than with a friendly hello. So, here we go! Today, we take deviation from the world of Fiction into the land of Relationships/Christian Living with a title good for teens through adults. Without further ado, the book of choice for today is....
HOW TO BE A BEST FRIEND FOREVER
Making and Keeping Lifetime Relationships
By
Dr. John Townsend
Now, I know what you might be thinking....why on earth am I reviewing THIS book?!? Am I right? You see, when the request came over...it gave me pause; I mean who wouldn't want to see what they had to say about such a topic, it is from a big name in relationship books (the same author wrote the popular BOUNDARIES series which I've not read but is consistantly popular in store). I for one did...and so my decision was made and the book added to my reading schedule.
The jist of the book is to first help explain the differences between friends, best friends and best friends forever...and then nurture the bonds you have while seeking out those you lack. Sounds dry, but in truth it was rather interesting. You see the information isn't simply presented like a research project but gathered from their own relationships and conversations giving the journey of discovery you're embarking on a personal touch. It shows how having those frank (and somewhat scary) one on one talks with your besties can not only uncover areas that need attention but also allow you BOTH to grow. It tackles the virtual world (why it works and why it doesn't), family (a source of support but not exclusively), and even marriage (a partnership but not all encompassing), allowing it to be a "one size fits all" kind of read.
I for one took the journey with a grain of salt. Why? Well...truth be told, we moved a fair amount when I was a child and with me being a shy soul, opening up to "strangers" I just met, not my strong point. Frankly, I have more connections online with all of you then in "real" life...and enjoy them very much! It's a time thing (you know my crazy schedule) and a shy thing...what can I say? Would I like to have a (local) BFF that knows me to my core, accepts me faults and all, offers support in times of need AND celebration that I can do all the same for? Of course...who wouldn't; but at this stage in the game, I'm afraid my online world (and book world) will have to do. There's a time for playing dolls (preferred books), sharing cookies (only child...and shy, so they were often my own) and sleepovers (not my cup of tea) ..and there's a time when the adult world encroaches and there's no holding it back. If you're lucky enough to have made those connections in your life, cherish them; don't let this crazy busy world we live in strip away all that matters most. If not, I've room in my boat and a seat with your name on it...welcome aboard. ^_^
Review copy received courtesy of Stephanie at PR by the Book. (THANKS!) For more information on this title as well as they're upcoming promotions, be sure to visit them online or follow along on Twitter (http://Twitter.com/prbythebook). This title was released this year from Worthy Publishing and should be available now on a bookstore shelf near you.
Until next time...happy reading!
Sounds good.
ReplyDeleteI would love to learn how to be a better friend.
Most of my friends are online too.
I go to a mommy group but I find my connections are thicker online.
I'm also one of those rare cases that believes being a good online friend had taught me how to be a better friend in person.
For example, in person it's too easy to spit out your feelings on something. Being an online friend has taught me to pause and think before I speak.
Great post.
Most of my friends are also online. Only 2 of my local bff's know about my blog so I find it easier to be social with my online friends. I feel I can really be myself and talk about what I love...books! In one of my university classes, we had to share something about ourselves so I told the class I read 150 books in 2011. I had some "OMG she has no life" looks from fellow classmates so it only reminded me why I don't talk about it very often. :)
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great read to learn how to be a better friend. Thanks for the review!
Juju: NO, I can see your point. Without the barriers that naturally occur when it person, it can be easier. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Juju! ^-^
ReplyDeleteMelanie: Aww....they just don't know what they're missing. ^_^ It amazing how we let little things stop us from getting to know people in "real life" but those same things draw us together virtually.