Review of Taking a Chance on Life

[Brendan Donaghy]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Taking a Chance on Life" by Michael K. Hirshorne.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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In Taking a Chance on Life: Because a Miracle May Be Just Around the Corner, author Michael K. Hirshorne has blended self-help, spirituality, and memoir categories to produce an interesting and thought-provoking read. He lays out the purpose of his writing in the early pages: “This book is about what happens when we take this leap of faith, ask for a miracle, and then get it - sometimes in unexpected ways.” (page 11) He outlines his spiritual beliefs by writing about how he came by them. That leads him to discuss his own life and circumstances, his family relationships, and moments of crisis. He draws lessons from these that he shares with the reader, inviting us to put our faith in the higher power that he believes governs the universe. His writing is passionate but not preachy. It’s certainly not dull, either.

I like books that make me look at things with a fresh eye, and this one puts a huge checkmark in that particular box. The author’s spirituality is unconventional if viewed through the prism of traditional religious belief. He is not hung up on creed or dogma, often referring to the higher power he believes in as ‘she’ or ‘spirit’, for example. He believes our purpose in life is to discover our true nature and purpose by trusting in this higher power.

If his writing was simply a statement of his theological thinking, the book would have limited appeal. What makes it interesting, in my opinion, is that he traces his spiritual journey by referencing his life and relationships. This makes it a much more personal account and adds color to the narrative. I also liked that many of his spiritual insights had a good deal of common sense about them. For example, his view that we should live more fully in the present rather than dwelling on the past or dreaming about the future makes perfect sense, regardless of one’s spiritual beliefs.

There was little that I found to dislike about this book. One technical aspect that didn’t work for me was the author’s description, on a couple of occasions, of words of support and advice given to his wife. He puts these within speech marks but, since her replies or comments aren’t recorded, the effect is to make it look like he delivered a monologue each time.

I am pleased to award this book four out of four stars. It is a well-written and exceptionally well-edited work; I did not find a single typo, grammar mistake, or formatting error. Nor did I come across any strong language or sex scenes, so it is a suitable read for all from that perspective. It will appeal most, I think, to adults who enjoy reading memoirs with a spiritual theme and message.

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Taking a Chance on Life
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[Pauls_]

I'm glad that he's concious of the fact that there is a spiritual and higher being. The message of the book is wholesome. Everyone should be able to pick one or two lessons from it. Great review.

[Nwankwo GC]

Taking a chance on life seems like all the motivation a reader needs to live without limits and give life his very best shot. Great review.

[Bayasco18]

The Title of this book talks deep and a lot about life really. On the look of thoughtful ways to jump unto to life ,I have decided to rate this book 4 out 4 .

[Mbenma Esther 080]

An in-depth review with an exposure of what makes the book interesting. Thanks for the review.

[Blessing Odii]

This is one book I would certainly want to read. Interesting review.

[Sam Oghae]

A book that takes you on an eye opening spiritual journey
Great review

[Aisha Yakub]

Sometimes a breakthrough is closer than we imagine. This is highly motivating. Thank you for the review