RebeccasReads

When We Get Back Up: A Generation will Change

From the Introduction of “When We Get Back Up: A Generation Will Change,” author Sandra D tells the reader, “After emerging from a period of darkness where even a dream vacation became a personal nightmare, I patiently wrote this book based on actual events.  I give personal accounts of real life experiences.  In so doing, I use my real name while changing the names of all others.  While reading, you may laugh, sigh or shake your head in disbelief as some of the challenges I faced were very unusual.  You may even nod your head in agreement, having faced similar challenges.”

Each one of the 29 Chapters in the book begins with a positive inspirational quote such as “I am grateful for the lessons I have learned within my family.” (p.80) and “I allow love to find me.” (p. 252)

Sandra D does not hold anything back when telling the story of her life.  All of the details are there and one can vividly picture the events taking place around her.  She does an incredible job of relaying her experiences to her readers.  Her hurt and pain can be felt permeating throughout the pages of the book.  However, also coming from Sandra D’s writing, is the sense of inspiration, the feeling of hope, and the promise of healing.

I commend Sandra D for telling her story and think that “When We Get Back Up-:A Generation Will Change” would be an excellent resource for those suffering, or having suffered, from abuse.  It is also an eye-opening book for those who haven’t been through such trauma, to get a glimpse inside others’ struggles and develop a sense of empathy for those scarred by situations in their past.  As Sandra D states, writing this book was therapeutic for her.  I believe that the contents within will also help many others who are, or have been, in similar situations.


When We Get Back Up: A Generation will Change
Sandra D
MeetSandraD (2011)
ISBN 9780615436128
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (3/12)

The Dawn of Silva

In Olivia Wilde’s novel, “The Dawn of Silva,” Alex and Shari are casting for a movie.  Alex is dead set on having Ashlyn be the lead role in the film.  There is a problem though and that is that she cannot be found.  So, Shari sets out on a mission to track down the elusive Ashlyn to offer her the role.  This search leads Shari out of New York City and deep into the Cascade Mountains.  Not only does the journey take her out of her comfort zone but it also opens her up to new relationships and new experiences.

When I first saw the title and cover art of “The Dawn of Silva,” I expected a fantasy type novel as from outward appearances these two indicators pointed in that direction.  However, after reading the synopsis I saw that I was incorrect and that the book leans more toward romance and contemporary fiction.  As I enjoy all of those genres anyway this had no effect on me, but I think that in a bookstore setting this may potentially cause some confusion.

While I was reading Wilde’s novel I found that at times it lacks a smooth flow.  Some areas seem forced and disjointed, but the story itself does contain interesting characters.  The main players fit into their stereotypical roles quite well, most particularly that of Shari.  In the opening scenes of the novel she exhibits the typical caffeinated, high energy personality that one would expect when dealing with a person in her role.  This is most seen when she is interacting with her assistant in preparation for her journey.  As the novel progresses though, new experiences cause quite a few changes.

I enjoyed watching the transformations of the characters in the book and the relationships that were established.  The ending of “The Dawn of Silva” left an opening for a follow-up novel which I believe is in the works.  It will be interesting to see how the relationships of the characters progress in the future books in the series.

The Dawn of Silva
Olivia Wilde
Xlibris (2011)
ISBN 9781462892471
Reviewed by Kam Aures for Rebecca’s Reads (08/11)

Rehearsing for Heaven

“Rehearsing for Heaven” is written by Mark Reed, a freelance writer who holds a Master’s degree in New Testament.  He has authored a variety of works including fiction, curriculum, and radio and video scripts.  In this current book, he attempts to take on some of the myths that we believe about heaven and tries to present us with a more accurate image of what heaven will be.  

We all have views in our minds as to what heaven will be like.  In numerous books, particularly children’s works, you will see illustrations of white, fluffy clouds and angels.  Reed looks at this concept and says that it is no wonder that people of this day and age are more excited to live the lifestyle that we are living, one full of newness and entertainment.  With our way of thinking, the white fluffy clouds are simply boring, and not motivating.

Reed then goes on to say, “I hope this book will contribute toward changing the illusive concept of heaven, as well as toppling some of the myths we’ve created.  I don’t intend to define heaven or proclaim some new theology of heaven.  I hope to broaden your image of heavenly life, to suggest real and desirable images that inspire a realistic hope.”  (p.6)

Consistent with the title, “Rehearsing for Heaven,” the layout of the work is modeled after a script.  The Parts and Chapters are referred to as “Acts” and “Scenes.”  Reed’s well-annotated book is peppered with quotes (or “Cues”) from a variety of individuals including C.S. Lewis, Mark Twain, and John F. Kennedy.

Reed’s work is extremely thought-provoking and would it be a wonderful reading group selection.   I believe ”Rehearsing for Heaven” would provoke immense amounts of discussion.  He presents a lot of information and speculation in a very interesting and entertaining readable format.  I recommend this book to anyone wanting to explore more about this topic.

Rehearsing for Heaven
Mark B. Reed
Create Space (2010)
ISBN 9781450597777
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (4/11)

The Imprint Journey: A Path of Lasting Transformation Into Your Authentic Self

“Our subconscious imprints are the deep-seated beliefs and messages we have received and internalized.  Once an imprint is internalized, it becomes a subconscious governing force in our lives. Our imprints form our emotional map, determining our ability to relate to self and to others. Imprints form our perceptions, values, and belief systems. Imprints determine the quality of our relationships with life, God, self, and others. Our values govern our choices as well as our behaviors. They determine whether we are reactive or pro-active. “   (p. 11)

In “The Imprint Journey:  A Path of Lasting Transformation Into Your Authentic Self,” Desjardins shares with us her own imprints, stories of others’ imprints, and provides the reader the tools and information needed to successfully overcome any unwanted imprints that may exist in order to help the reader realize his/her “Authentic Self.”

The first part of the book focuses on Liliane Desjardins' life.  Reading Desjardins' personal story was deeply interesting to me.  She definitely has led an eventful life thus far and reading of all of the imprints picked up along the way was quite fascinating.  I found the sharing of her life history to be one of the most appealing parts of the book.  The inclusion of personal stories and backgrounds in “self-help” type books really add to the book for me.

The second part of Desjardins' work centers on providing the reader with the tools to recognize and assess imprints and the steps to take to transformation.  This information is presented in a manner that a layperson is able to enjoy and understand, and therefore, easily able to learn from. 

I think that Desjardins' work has merit and everything that she says makes complete sense.  “The Imprint Journey: A Path of Lasting Transformation Into Your Authentic Self” would be beneficial to anyone looking to transform their lives.  We all have imprints of some kind so I can’t think of anyone that the information in this book would not be applicable to.  

The Imprint Journey: A Path of Lasting Transformation Into Your Authentic Self
Liliane Desjardins
Loving Healing Press (2011)
ISBN 9781615990870
Reviewed by Kam Aures for Rebecca’s Reads (03/11)