Review of We Can Do Hard Things by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle
As someone who enjoys books that weave together personal stories, advice, and a touch of humor, I was drawn to We Can Do Hard Things because I’ve been an avid listener of the eponymous podcast. The tagline, "the guidebook for being alive," piqued my curiosity, prompting me to explore how these three talented women approached the challenges of life through their writing.
From the outset, I found that the book not only lived up to its description but exceeded my expectations by presenting a treasure trove of wisdom. Glennon, Abby, and Amanda share their experiences navigating love, heartbreak, joy, parenting, and the ever-changing landscape of life. They remind us that life can often feel like a chaotic journey, and we can sometimes feel lost, even when we’ve supposedly "figured it out." The heartfelt discussions among the three authors, backed by insights from various contributors, turn this book into a beacon of light during difficult times.
One of the book’s significant strengths lies in how it curates wisdom from 118 amazing contributors. The format cleverly breaks the content into digestible bites, making it possible to read just a few pages at a time—something that resonated with other readers as well. For instance, one reviewer, Fl Andrea, shared their surprise at enjoying the book despite previously disliking Glennon Doyle’s writing. They appreciated the format and the inclusion of different voices, making it a delightful daily read. This segmentation offers a sense of accomplishment, as each little nugget found feels like a victory over life’s sometimes overwhelming challenges.
Another thematic highlight is the authenticity and accessibility of the wisdom presented. One reader noted that the book feels like a "life reference manual" packed with valuable insights. If you’re committed to personal growth, you’ll find something useful in these pages that you can reference whenever necessary. That sentiment echoed with many other readers, who appreciate this approachable format, allowing them to carry the wisdom forward in easy terms without feeling overwhelmed.
However, it’s essential to discuss a couple of drawbacks. While this book undoubtedly has its merits, some readers have expressed dissatisfaction with the depth of its guidance. For example, one reviewer felt that the book lacked definitive solutions, describing it as more like "shots in the dark" rather than structured guidance. Personally, I understand this sentiment, as certain parts left me wanting a bit more concrete advice. Life’s challenges are not always addressed with straightforward answers, which may be frustrating for readers looking for clear direction.
Another critique I noticed is that some readers who are unfamiliar with the accompanying podcast found the content less relatable. This might be attributed to the heavily conversational style the authors maintain, which relies on a shared understanding among regular podcast listeners.
Despite these concerns, I ultimately found We Can Do Hard Things to be an enriching read. Its strengths, in terms of accessibility and the sheer volume of different voices, greatly overshadow its weaknesses. I often turned to it whenever I needed a quick pep talk or a little wisdom amidst the chaos of daily life.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend We Can Do Hard Things for anyone who enjoys personal reflection and the shared experience of navigating life’s highs and lows. It serves as a beautiful guide when we feel uncertain and alone, emphasizing that we’re never truly alone on our journeys. If you’re a fan of the podcast, you’ll appreciate this book as a thoughtful companion; if you’re new to their work, you might find a fresh perspective on life that resonates deeply. Overall, this gem is sure to garner a place on the shelf of anyone seeking to embrace life’s difficulties while also celebrating its beauty.
Discover insights and inspiration in We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions. >>