Review of Rainbows of Joy
- Nisha DSouza
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Review of Rainbows of Joy
According to the World Health Organization, the global statistics on alcohol-related disorders and deaths are shocking and overwhelming. It is a growing concern for many countries. Rainbows of Joy: From a Diary of Despair by Lynn M. is a book that revolves around the lives of the author and her alcoholic husband. It depicts how alcoholism affected her marriage and the upbringing of her children, which eventually led to a disastrous influence on their lives. Her emotional and psychological suffering manifested in physical ailments, which she was unaware of until much later in life. A significant portion of the book is devoted to the Wakonda Prayer House and the role played by Fr. Verne in guiding many lost souls to find a way to healing.
The highlight of this book is how the author shared her coping mechanisms, like support groups, church groups, and the 12-step program by Alcoholics Anonymous. It gives individuals in an alcohol-abusive relationship optimism that they are not alone; they do not have to cope with their problems alone. Another positive was observing the hardships faced by Fr. Verne and how he constantly kept his faith in the Lord to provide the help he needed to build the Wakonda Prayer House. A place that served as a beacon of hope, helping people of all faiths and slowly lifting them out of their troubles; a place that sounded so tranquil that I wished I could be there to witness it.
The most noticeable flaw for me while reading this book was the narration style, which needs some work. It felt like reading a stranger's diary, with no introduction to most characters or reference to the background event. It was tough to keep up, and I would have preferred a more consistent flow to the journal entries. Especially Fr. Verne's letters to the author should have had the corresponding responses from the author for the readers to grasp the situation.
It was touching to read the poignant message the book delivered. The intense emotions portray the author's vulnerability and will give people hope that they, too, can emerge from a hopeless situation. I noticed a few errors, but not enough to affect the overall rating. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I deducted a star for the negatives mentioned earlier.
This book is a must-read for anyone who has a painful history with alcohol, whether personally or through a family member. I also recommend it to people who seek light in a dark situation in life. Although a slow read, it will leave the reader hopeful and inspired to take control and begin their journey to recovery. Except for one instance, this book will appeal to people of all faiths. Readers will particularly appreciate the values and life lessons shared in this book. I leave you with some of them that I cherish the most. 'Let go and let God' is the concept of letting God take over for you. Forgive others because by not forgiving, you hurt yourself more than the other person. Do not take responsibility for other people's bad behavior or bad habits.
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Rainbows of Joy
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"There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." ~ Albert Einstein
- Sarah Zain
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When I noticed that (based on the title) this book was written from a diary, I wondered how well that would translate to a connection with the reader. Then, I saw your comment about the narration style, and that answered my question. This sounds like a very helpful and transparent read, however. Thank you for your honest and thorough take on this book, Nisha!
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- Nisha DSouza
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Thank you so much for your kind comments, Sarah.Sarah Zain wrote: ↑28 Jun 2023, 12:58 The message of the book is important, and it seems to provide a look at the impact of our choices and how we can adjust them. Your review is consistent and written in a way that shows all aspects of the book, and I enjoyed reading it.
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"There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." ~ Albert Einstein
- Nisha DSouza
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Very true. Many unknowingly carry that burden for decades unaware of how it harms them.
Thank you so much for your encouraging words, Donna.MsH2k wrote: ↑28 Jun 2023, 13:36 When I noticed that (based on the title) this book was written from a diary, I wondered how well that would translate to a connection with the reader. Then, I saw your comment about the narration style, and that answered my question. This sounds like a very helpful and transparent read, however. Thank you for your honest and thorough take on this book, Nisha!
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"There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." ~ Albert Einstein
- Nisha DSouza
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I, too, love that, Hazel. A peaceful calm comes over you when you are able to let go and let God take over.Hazel Mae Bagarinao wrote: ↑28 Jun 2023, 18:35 I love the "Let go and let God," because, through Him, I can surpass the hurdles in life. This book sounds emotional to read. Lynn's journey of healing will make readers inspired throughout the book. I know that God always sends people like Fr. Verne to help us with whatever circumstances we faced. He sends instruments to guide us through. Thank you so much for sharing this inspiring review, Nisha!
Thank you so much for sharing your lovely comments, Hazel!
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"There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." ~ Albert Einstein
- Nisha DSouza
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That is so kind and sweet of you to say, Omneya! Thank you so much.Omneya Shakeep wrote: ↑28 Jun 2023, 18:49 This seems to be an insightful book with a strong message. I liked how its goal is to help people with alcohol problems or those close to them. Thanks for this thoroughly detailed analysis, Nisha. You highlighted the main points of this book skillfully. This is an outstanding review!
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"There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." ~ Albert Einstein
- Nisha DSouza
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Thank you for stopping by and sharing your thoughts, King Nyebuchi.King Nyebuchi wrote: ↑29 Jun 2023, 02:11 It is good that we have more Memoirs/Diaries written as books, and I hope.they get to the people they are written specifically for. Thanks for the review.
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- Nisha DSouza
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Thank you for stopping by and sharing your thoughts!Honest-reviewer wrote: ↑09 Jul 2023, 13:39 This book seems quite informative. It’s definitely useful to alcoholics. Thanks for your wonderful review.
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- Nisha DSouza
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Yes, Catalina, it is a great book for people in a similar situation.Catalina Isabel wrote: ↑23 Jul 2023, 04:26 This seems like an interesting book to give people hope. It appears the book real and raw. I love the message of forgiveness. Thanks so much for a great review, Nisha!![]()
Thank you so much for your kind words, dear.
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"There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." ~ Albert Einstein