Book Review: 'Survival Lessons' by Alice Hoffman

✰✰✰✰✰ When confronted with a time of crisis, it's easy to forget the beauty in the world. Fifteen years after a bout of cancer, author Alice Hoffman wrote this book to remind herself of the beauty of life. By doing so, she also reminds readers that although we may not have chosen our situation, we do indeed have choices in how we face it. Hoffman reminds us that without sorrow, there would be no joy. Without heartache, there would be no love.

Survival Lessons is like having a conversation with a trusted best friend. Hoffman's life observations will help those who have experienced trauma to move forward and reclaim their lives. You will see yourself and those around you differently after reading this book.

The Bottom Line: This book includes twenty short chapters that present the reader with choices one can make to move forward in life. Sprinkled with photographs and inspirational quotes, Hoffman even includes a knitting pattern and a recipe or two. This book is small and can easily be read in one sitting, which is great when you are recuperating from an illness and don't have too much energy. Hoffman's words are gentle and honest; her writing will leave your spirit feeling refreshed. Highly recommended for anyone who has survived a crisis whether physical or emotional.

Details: Survival Lessons by Alice Hoffman. Hardcover published by Algonquin Books in 2013. 96 p. ISBN: 978-1-61620-314-6