Review of Rainbows of Joy
Posted: 25 Jun 2023, 05:31
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Rainbows of Joy" by Lynn M..]
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.
******
Rainbows of Joy
View: on Bookshelves
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.
******
Rainbows of Joy
View: on Bookshelves
