Rating: 
Summary: Help for the Hurting
Review: When life turns into a tornado, leaving us emotionally or physically wrecked, we don't
need pats on the back. What we do need is what Kari West offers in her devotional guide
for those experiencing losses of the heart, "Dare to Trust, Dare to Hope Again." People
reeling from loss have little patience or stamina for lengthy works. But West takes her
readers through twelve weeks of healing through gentle reminders of the Bible's comfort
and encouragement, tips for healthy grieving, and suggestions for "prayer pauses."
Though her personal "tornado" was an unwanted divorce, West includes stories from
people who experienced other types of losses. A helpful resource index in the back of the
book will connect readers with agencies specializing in chronic illnesses, sudden deaths,
death of a child, suicide, and grief support. The title of her last chapter, "God, grant me
courage to plant my hope in You," well summarizes her desire to plant hope among those
who have lost it. If you have experienced loss, this book is one you need to buy for
yourself. If people you love are hurting, giving them this book will communicate your
care and give them the tools to deal Biblically with their loss.
Rating:
Summary: An incredibly helpful book
Review: When my identical twin sister found herself facing an unwanted divorce after 20 years of marriage, it devastated both of us. For hours I sat and listened to her talk about her fears of the future, the struggle of just getting through a single day, the deep sadness surrounding herself and her teenaged daughter, knowing that what had always symbolized "home" to them would soon be only a memory. We cried together, praying for a miracle.One of the miracles came in the form of Kari West's book, "Dare to Trust, Dare to Hope Again." As a writer, I had a casual acquaintance with Kari and she was kind enough to send me a copy of both of her books to share with my sister the next time we visited. It so happened that I picked up "Dare to Trust" one morning, just to thumb through it. What I discovered was a treasure chest of HOPE. I couldn't put the book down. It was as if Kari had been a silent listener to all of my sister's conversations, understanding her every fear and concern. She had been in my sister's shoes and reading this book was almost like a glimpse into the future. It offered much-needed relief. Yes, life would be good again. In a word, "Dare to Trust, Dare to Hope Again" is wonderful. It addresses every issue that the divorced woman faces. Written from personal experiences, not only does Kari's writing shine, she did a masterful job of putting together a book that is actually useful. There are short chapters, relevant quotes, inspirational Scripture, along with the experiences and advice of others. The book's format is perfect for the woman who has little time to read, yet needs a major pick-me-up. I cannot recommend this book enough. No matter what your loss is, you will find solace in "Dare to Trust, Dare to Hope Again."
Rating:
Summary: Kari has done it again!
Review: Written with artistry and compassion, Kari writes as someone who has "been there, done that". I enjoyed the format of her new book: a verse of Scripture, then a short essay with lots of real-life illustrations, a brief prayer, and finally a quote from various quotable people. At the end of each section is a place for personal journalling. The format guarantees that we'll keep coming back for refreshment and encouragement. Kari has a unique gift in being able to relate to her readers on a personal level through her writing. She doesn't give glib, pat answers to the difficult questions in life but faces them realistically, offering hope and encouragement to trust again. This book is realistic, meaningful and worth reading (1) for women coping with any kind of loss and (2) for those who want to help others going through a difficult time.
Rating:
Summary: Kari has done it again!
Review: Written with artistry and compassion, Kari writes as someone who has "been there, done that". I enjoyed the format of her new book: a verse of Scripture, then a short essay with lots of real-life illustrations, a brief prayer, and finally a quote from various quotable people. At the end of each section is a place for personal journalling. The format guarantees that we'll keep coming back for refreshment and encouragement. Kari has a unique gift in being able to relate to her readers on a personal level through her writing. She doesn't give glib, pat answers to the difficult questions in life but faces them realistically, offering hope and encouragement to trust again. This book is realistic, meaningful and worth reading (1) for women coping with any kind of loss and (2) for those who want to help others going through a difficult time.
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