Review of Love's Labor Lost
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Pablo Josue Mendia
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Review of Love's Labor Lost
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Love's Labor Lost" by Ruth Ellen Johnson.]
Love’s Labor Lost: Ten Mothers Share their Journey from Grief to Hope by Ruth Ellen Johnson gives readers ten personal accounts of mothers who experienced loss. Each story shows a mom's love and loss, their suffering, and the importance of their faith in God. Also, each story has a commemorative photograph, different Bible passages that helped the mothers, ways their grief manifested, and the impact of faith and community support.
In the first chapter, Cindy experiences an accident resulting in the loss of her daughter, Amy. Readers will learn why Cindy considered her experience “bittersweet.” The second chapter shows Diana’s journey through her son Michael’s addiction. This chapter explores the complexities of addiction, the importance of boundaries, and the growth of empathy.
The third chapter shows how Leigh Ann raised her daughter Elizabeth, who was diagnosed with a neurological condition at birth. Thanks to Leigh Ann, Elizabeth lived longer than doctors expected, showing us the importance of finding competent medical care. In the next chapter, Jami navigates the loss of her son Gaetano. This story shows us how our other children can help us heal. The next chapter is about Perla, a mother who deals with her son Daniel’s struggle with addiction.
In the sixth chapter, Marci and her husband Bob adopt children and later experience an unexpected loss. This chapter shows us the grief of losing a child after forming an emotional bond. It also enlightens us about the legal system regarding adoptive and biological parents. Then, we learn about Suzy, who reflects on past sins (like extramarital affairs) and their consequences. This story shows us redemption. Then, we read about Susan’s story and how her bright and promising child, Lydia, fell into drugs and self-harm, emphasizing the importance of mental health care.
Moreover, the ninth chapter shows how Judy mourns her son Sam, who died from a mysterious illness despite being treated for Crohn’s Disease. This story also shows us how one can find a different church community and heal from the pain other churchgoers have caused. In the last chapter, Angie faces the death of her daughter Rachel, who struggled with COVID-19. This story shows us the difficulty of caring for loved ones during a global pandemic.
Lastly, Johnson concludes the book with a common occurrence. Many people question God (or their faith) after a tragedy. However, the author's stories try to demonstrate that a loving God exists. These stories also show that we can become better versions of ourselves after tragedies.
I liked that none of the stories were the same. In addition, I liked that not all stories included physical death, giving us a richer perspective on tragedy, grief, and hope. I also liked that this book, despite its religious content, can be read by everyone. Lastly, I liked that the book shares seven books to help those who grieve. The book contains minor grammatical errors, has very little profanity, and is well-edited. I found no criticism or dislike. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
Despite the stories centering on the Christian and Catholic faith, I recommend this book for all people struggling with grief. This book may help those mourning their losses cope and learn about people who may have had similar experiences and overcame them.
******
Love's Labor Lost
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Love’s Labor Lost: Ten Mothers Share their Journey from Grief to Hope by Ruth Ellen Johnson gives readers ten personal accounts of mothers who experienced loss. Each story shows a mom's love and loss, their suffering, and the importance of their faith in God. Also, each story has a commemorative photograph, different Bible passages that helped the mothers, ways their grief manifested, and the impact of faith and community support.
In the first chapter, Cindy experiences an accident resulting in the loss of her daughter, Amy. Readers will learn why Cindy considered her experience “bittersweet.” The second chapter shows Diana’s journey through her son Michael’s addiction. This chapter explores the complexities of addiction, the importance of boundaries, and the growth of empathy.
The third chapter shows how Leigh Ann raised her daughter Elizabeth, who was diagnosed with a neurological condition at birth. Thanks to Leigh Ann, Elizabeth lived longer than doctors expected, showing us the importance of finding competent medical care. In the next chapter, Jami navigates the loss of her son Gaetano. This story shows us how our other children can help us heal. The next chapter is about Perla, a mother who deals with her son Daniel’s struggle with addiction.
In the sixth chapter, Marci and her husband Bob adopt children and later experience an unexpected loss. This chapter shows us the grief of losing a child after forming an emotional bond. It also enlightens us about the legal system regarding adoptive and biological parents. Then, we learn about Suzy, who reflects on past sins (like extramarital affairs) and their consequences. This story shows us redemption. Then, we read about Susan’s story and how her bright and promising child, Lydia, fell into drugs and self-harm, emphasizing the importance of mental health care.
Moreover, the ninth chapter shows how Judy mourns her son Sam, who died from a mysterious illness despite being treated for Crohn’s Disease. This story also shows us how one can find a different church community and heal from the pain other churchgoers have caused. In the last chapter, Angie faces the death of her daughter Rachel, who struggled with COVID-19. This story shows us the difficulty of caring for loved ones during a global pandemic.
Lastly, Johnson concludes the book with a common occurrence. Many people question God (or their faith) after a tragedy. However, the author's stories try to demonstrate that a loving God exists. These stories also show that we can become better versions of ourselves after tragedies.
I liked that none of the stories were the same. In addition, I liked that not all stories included physical death, giving us a richer perspective on tragedy, grief, and hope. I also liked that this book, despite its religious content, can be read by everyone. Lastly, I liked that the book shares seven books to help those who grieve. The book contains minor grammatical errors, has very little profanity, and is well-edited. I found no criticism or dislike. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
Despite the stories centering on the Christian and Catholic faith, I recommend this book for all people struggling with grief. This book may help those mourning their losses cope and learn about people who may have had similar experiences and overcame them.
******
Love's Labor Lost
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
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Anthony Caleb
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Mothers are blessings in our lives, the pain they face on their own, the love for their family is so much admirable.
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Saptarishi Sen
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In her “Love’s Labour Lost”, Ruth Ellen presents the audience with the Shakespeare’s work through the prism of today. Ellen provides her readers detailed insights to Shakespeare’s creation with an emphasis on the ‘comic’ and the ‘romantic’, ‘rhetoric’ aspects of love and the intellect respectively.
Ellen commends the quality of the play and remarking that the dialogue in it is well said, coupled with wit in the manner in which character deal with each other. She observes the eternal relevance and interest of Shakespeare focusing on the aspects of love, intellect, passion and the conflict between the dream and the business of life. Hear also Ellen on the play’s structure which, thus far, manages farce and philosophy as entertainment for the masses:
The review relies on Ellen’s ideas about the play’s main topics – love and friendship – and the way these ideas are illustrated by the play’s main characters and the heroes’ witty dialogues and mutual disappointment. Hamlet and the Elizabethan culture are things of the past but Cordelia underlines how Shakespeare’s focus on human foibles and the notion of idealistic youth will remain passion today.
However, one cannot but appreciate Ellen for dwelling on character arcs and thematic substance of the work. She also concerns about the work as a play to try and fail in some way and the strugglin between hope and reality of human being. I find Ellen to be formal and informal at the same time and her work definitely provides important insights for the general audience as well as for the readers who are more academic-oriented.
In totality, Ruth Ellen’s review of “Love’s Labour Lost” is sophisticated and amusing analysis of Shakespeare’s work that could be easily understood by the readers in the twenty-first century world. In her robust criticism, she provides insight into the timeless features of the play and its features in literary channels together with present day relevancy.
Ellen commends the quality of the play and remarking that the dialogue in it is well said, coupled with wit in the manner in which character deal with each other. She observes the eternal relevance and interest of Shakespeare focusing on the aspects of love, intellect, passion and the conflict between the dream and the business of life. Hear also Ellen on the play’s structure which, thus far, manages farce and philosophy as entertainment for the masses:
The review relies on Ellen’s ideas about the play’s main topics – love and friendship – and the way these ideas are illustrated by the play’s main characters and the heroes’ witty dialogues and mutual disappointment. Hamlet and the Elizabethan culture are things of the past but Cordelia underlines how Shakespeare’s focus on human foibles and the notion of idealistic youth will remain passion today.
However, one cannot but appreciate Ellen for dwelling on character arcs and thematic substance of the work. She also concerns about the work as a play to try and fail in some way and the strugglin between hope and reality of human being. I find Ellen to be formal and informal at the same time and her work definitely provides important insights for the general audience as well as for the readers who are more academic-oriented.
In totality, Ruth Ellen’s review of “Love’s Labour Lost” is sophisticated and amusing analysis of Shakespeare’s work that could be easily understood by the readers in the twenty-first century world. In her robust criticism, she provides insight into the timeless features of the play and its features in literary channels together with present day relevancy.
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Saptarishi Sen
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In her “Love’s Labour Lost”, Ruth Ellen presents the audience with the Shakespeare’s work through the prism of today. Ellen provides her readers detailed insights to Shakespeare’s creation with an emphasis on the ‘comic’ and the ‘romantic’, ‘rhetoric’ aspects of love and the intellect respectively.
Ellen commends the quality of the play and remarking that the dialogue in it is well said, coupled with wit in the manner in which character deal with each other. She observes the eternal relevance and interest of Shakespeare focusing on the aspects of love, intellect, passion and the conflict between the dream and the business of life. Hear also Ellen on the play’s structure which, thus far, manages farce and philosophy as entertainment for the masses:
The review relies on Ellen’s ideas about the play’s main topics – love and friendship – and the way these ideas are illustrated by the play’s main characters and the heroes’ witty dialogues and mutual disappointment. Hamlet and the Elizabethan culture are things of the past but Cordelia underlines how Shakespeare’s focus on human foibles and the notion of idealistic youth will remain passion today.
However, one cannot but appreciate Ellen for dwelling on character arcs and thematic substance of the work. She also concerns about the work as a play to try and fail in some way and the strugglin between hope and reality of human being. I find Ellen to be formal and informal at the same time and her work definitely provides important insights for the general audience as well as for the readers who are more academic-oriented.
In totality, Ruth Ellen’s review of “Love’s Labour Lost” is sophisticated and amusing analysis of Shakespeare’s work that could be easily understood by the readers in the twenty-first century world. In her robust criticism, she provides insight into the timeless features of the play and its features in literary channels together with present day relevancy.
Ellen commends the quality of the play and remarking that the dialogue in it is well said, coupled with wit in the manner in which character deal with each other. She observes the eternal relevance and interest of Shakespeare focusing on the aspects of love, intellect, passion and the conflict between the dream and the business of life. Hear also Ellen on the play’s structure which, thus far, manages farce and philosophy as entertainment for the masses:
The review relies on Ellen’s ideas about the play’s main topics – love and friendship – and the way these ideas are illustrated by the play’s main characters and the heroes’ witty dialogues and mutual disappointment. Hamlet and the Elizabethan culture are things of the past but Cordelia underlines how Shakespeare’s focus on human foibles and the notion of idealistic youth will remain passion today.
However, one cannot but appreciate Ellen for dwelling on character arcs and thematic substance of the work. She also concerns about the work as a play to try and fail in some way and the strugglin between hope and reality of human being. I find Ellen to be formal and informal at the same time and her work definitely provides important insights for the general audience as well as for the readers who are more academic-oriented.
In totality, Ruth Ellen’s review of “Love’s Labour Lost” is sophisticated and amusing analysis of Shakespeare’s work that could be easily understood by the readers in the twenty-first century world. In her robust criticism, she provides insight into the timeless features of the play and its features in literary channels together with present day relevancy.
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Jai Prakash 4
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Ruth Ellen Johnson's "Love's Labor Lost" is tender and meditative on love, loss, and the tangled web of human relationships. In this novel, Johnson probes the elusive nature of personal connections and how people come to terms with and surmount emotional setbacks.
The novel traces the destinies of these characters, interwoven in their relationships, as they struggle through the throes of immense personal loss. Johnson's style of writing is at once lyric and emotive. She weaves a narrative that is at once evocative and sensitive to the subtlest nuances of bereavement and recovery. The way she gives expression to the turmoil and rise of her characters from within adds much depth to the story.
Character development was probably one of the strongest parts of "Love's Labor Lost". Johnson portrays her characters with empathy and complexity in a way that really makes them relatable to the reader. Their personal struggles and changes are portrayed authentically, so their journeys were relative and effective. The relationships between the characters are deftly woven, revealing how love can give a person incredible joy but lead to profound pain.
The pacing of the book, however, is sometimes uneven. There are parts engrossed in introspective detail, and that does drag one down, really lowering narrative momentum. Though these moments offer excellent insight into the inner life of the characters, it may test readers who want action throughout.
Overall, "Love's Labor Lost" is such a reflective and poignant novel that travels much deeper to probe into the human spirit's capacity for survival under the most trying adversity. Ruth Ellen Johnson's eloquent storytelling and deep understanding of emotional complexities make this a compelling read for fans of character-driven fiction and explorations into the human condition.
The novel traces the destinies of these characters, interwoven in their relationships, as they struggle through the throes of immense personal loss. Johnson's style of writing is at once lyric and emotive. She weaves a narrative that is at once evocative and sensitive to the subtlest nuances of bereavement and recovery. The way she gives expression to the turmoil and rise of her characters from within adds much depth to the story.
Character development was probably one of the strongest parts of "Love's Labor Lost". Johnson portrays her characters with empathy and complexity in a way that really makes them relatable to the reader. Their personal struggles and changes are portrayed authentically, so their journeys were relative and effective. The relationships between the characters are deftly woven, revealing how love can give a person incredible joy but lead to profound pain.
The pacing of the book, however, is sometimes uneven. There are parts engrossed in introspective detail, and that does drag one down, really lowering narrative momentum. Though these moments offer excellent insight into the inner life of the characters, it may test readers who want action throughout.
Overall, "Love's Labor Lost" is such a reflective and poignant novel that travels much deeper to probe into the human spirit's capacity for survival under the most trying adversity. Ruth Ellen Johnson's eloquent storytelling and deep understanding of emotional complexities make this a compelling read for fans of character-driven fiction and explorations into the human condition.
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Richard Rita
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Always having faith in prayers and hoping for the best in your journey.
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Purity Mutuku 3
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When briefing always trust in God for he is our healer and He restores.
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"The Lost Labor of Love" by Ruth Ellen Johnson is a brilliant exploration of the themes of love, sacrifice, and the intricate dance between human desire and societal expectations. Through his deep storytelling skills, Johnson brings to life a story that is timeless and contemporary, touching the reader on so many levels.
The novel is set in a very narrative setting, where the characters deal with intimacy, especially how love can be a source of great joy and great sadness. Johnson’s portrayal of her characters is nuanced, allowing readers to see themselves through their struggles and triumphs. The protagonists, through their emotional journeys, emphasize the universal nature of love’s challenges, making the story relatable to anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of love . . . .
One of the strengths of "The Lost Labor of Love" is Johnson's ability to weave in social commentary without veiling his characters' personal stories. The article delves into how societal norms can shape, and sometimes constrain, individual choices, especially in matters of the heart. Johnson tackles these themes with tact and grace, ensuring that the reader is left with plenty to ponder long after the book is closed.
The pacing of the novel is consistent, allowing for a deeper exploration of the characters’ inner lives. Johnson’s prose is lyrical, but grounded, allowing for moments that are still very descriptive. The dialogue is engaging and authentic, drawing the reader back into the world he has created.
However, some readers may find the slow pace of the novel a little overwhelming, especially if they prefer fast-paced narrative. Additionally, the fantastic sensory landscapes the characters nav
The novel is set in a very narrative setting, where the characters deal with intimacy, especially how love can be a source of great joy and great sadness. Johnson’s portrayal of her characters is nuanced, allowing readers to see themselves through their struggles and triumphs. The protagonists, through their emotional journeys, emphasize the universal nature of love’s challenges, making the story relatable to anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of love . . . .
One of the strengths of "The Lost Labor of Love" is Johnson's ability to weave in social commentary without veiling his characters' personal stories. The article delves into how societal norms can shape, and sometimes constrain, individual choices, especially in matters of the heart. Johnson tackles these themes with tact and grace, ensuring that the reader is left with plenty to ponder long after the book is closed.
The pacing of the novel is consistent, allowing for a deeper exploration of the characters’ inner lives. Johnson’s prose is lyrical, but grounded, allowing for moments that are still very descriptive. The dialogue is engaging and authentic, drawing the reader back into the world he has created.
However, some readers may find the slow pace of the novel a little overwhelming, especially if they prefer fast-paced narrative. Additionally, the fantastic sensory landscapes the characters nav
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Enkay Favour
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Love’s Labor Lost: Ten Mothers Share their Journey from Grief to Hope by Ruth Ellen Johnson offers a poignant collection of personal stories from mothers navigating profound loss. Each account blends personal struggle with faith and community support, providing a rich tapestry of experiences that offer solace and perspective. While rooted in Christian and Catholic faith, the book’s universal themes of grief and healing make it a compelling read for anyone facing similar challenges.
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"Love’s Labor Lost: Ten Mothers Share their Journey from Grief to Hope" by Ruth Ellen Johnson offers ten personal stories from mothers who have endured loss, each illustrating their path from grief to healing through faith. The book features diverse experiences, including loss from accidents, addiction, illness, and pandemics, highlighting the role of faith and community in coping with tragedy. It is accessible to a wide audience and provides additional resources for those grieving, despite its Christian and Catholic perspectives. The book is well-edited and received a 5-star rating for its compassionate and varied accounts of hope and redemption.
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I appreciate your detailed review and the insights you shared about the book. While the stories seem deeply moving, the strong focus on religious themes makes me hesitant, as I usually prefer narratives with a more universal approach to grief and healing. It sounds like a powerful read for those who connect with its faith-based perspective, but I'm not sure it's quite what I'm looking for. So I would prefer to skip this book.
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"Summary of "Love’s Labor Lost: Ten Mothers Share their Journey from Grief to Hope"
"Love’s Labor Lost" by Ruth Ellen Johnson features ten personal stories of mothers who have experienced loss, each reflecting on their journey from grief to hope. The stories highlight the deep love for their children, the pain of loss, and the critical role of faith and community support in their healing process. Each chapter offers a unique perspective, from dealing with accidents, addiction, and illness, to navigating the complexities of adoption, the legal system, and the impact of past mistakes. The book concludes with a message of faith, suggesting that personal tragedies can lead to spiritual growth and a stronger connection with God.
The reviewer appreciated the diversity of the stories, noting that not all involved physical death, which added depth to the themes of tragedy and hope. The book is seen as accessible to readers of various backgrounds, despite its Christian and Catholic focus, and is highly recommended for anyone dealing with grief. The reviewer gave it a 5 out of 5 stars for its powerful content and the inclusion of resources for those in mourning.
"Love’s Labor Lost" by Ruth Ellen Johnson features ten personal stories of mothers who have experienced loss, each reflecting on their journey from grief to hope. The stories highlight the deep love for their children, the pain of loss, and the critical role of faith and community support in their healing process. Each chapter offers a unique perspective, from dealing with accidents, addiction, and illness, to navigating the complexities of adoption, the legal system, and the impact of past mistakes. The book concludes with a message of faith, suggesting that personal tragedies can lead to spiritual growth and a stronger connection with God.
The reviewer appreciated the diversity of the stories, noting that not all involved physical death, which added depth to the themes of tragedy and hope. The book is seen as accessible to readers of various backgrounds, despite its Christian and Catholic focus, and is highly recommended for anyone dealing with grief. The reviewer gave it a 5 out of 5 stars for its powerful content and the inclusion of resources for those in mourning.
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Emmanuel Chima 3
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Love’s Labor Lost: Ten Mothers Share their Journey from Grief to Hope by Ruth Ellen Johnson. It highlights the diversity of experiences shared by the mothers and the book's focus on faith, hope, and healing. The emphasis on both the emotional journey and the practical aspects of dealing with grief makes it seem like a valuable resource for anyone struggling with loss. I appreciate the mention of its accessibility to a broad audience, regardless of their religious beliefs.
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"Love's Labor Lost offers a poignant collection of stories from mothers who have navigated profound loss. Ruth Ellen Johnson skillfully blends personal experiences with faith and healing, providing both comfort and insight. Though rooted in Christian and Catholic perspectives, the book's universal themes of grief and hope make it a valuable read for anyone dealing with loss.
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It's so awesome to read about these kind of book, showing that as a person, one can change sorrows to joy.
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