Review: Breathing Statues

Breathing Statues book cover on blue background

Growing up, some of my favourite poets were Emily Dickinson, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and John Donne. Though it's been years since I've revisited their words, I am most appreciative of the opportunity to be able to immerse myself in poetry once more through both words and artwork in Breathing Statues by Lyndi Brey.

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

In her book Breathing Statues, Lyndi Brey extrapolates the relationship between mental illness and faith. The collection of poems exhibited in Breathing Statues captures a unique and creative representation of mental health and faith- gathered from firsthand experience. Her poems- which speak of (dis)order and chaos- are skillfully actualized in illustrations and color. By the end of her book, you will understand not just what it looks like, but what it feels like to have an anxiety disorder.

Lyndi says, "The title Breathing Statues originated from the idea that we are all masterpieces: statues shaped by the hand of God, given the breath of life." While also familiar with breathing exercises taught in therapy, Lyndi Brey believes breathing is a simple yet sacred practice often ignored altogether by mental illnesses. Her prayer is to show the delicacy of humanity, the divinity of God, and the struggle of disorder.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

If you're looking for an experience where poetry can visually take you away to the story of the Gospel while in the midst of darkness, this volume will transport your mind and heart into an imaginative space where words and pictures tell a compelling story. The power of poetry is embodied in this beautiful offering by poet and artist Lyndi Brey, connecting faith to mental health and exploring how God enters into our struggles. Everything is constructed with intentionality and meaning, providing uplifting sensations without glossing over deep realities.

This is a book that is worth revisiting, simply for the sheer simplicity of its message, which leaves a profound impression. Included with the stunning poetry are practical resources, making this poetry a wonderful gift to pass along. Not only does entering the footsteps of the storyteller invoke empathy, but it also tangibly connects to our own emotional state before God. If you want to see how God cares for us in our trials, Breathing Statues is a breath of fresh air for those of us yearning for His presence, majesty, and strength.

Book Summary

Format of book: 📱
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

Palate Cleansers

Partially inspired by summer and partially because I like eating, I was thinking about the role of palate cleansers between courses of food, notably sorbet. I really enjoy the reset that the palate cleansers provide, allowing for a richer sense of taste to come with the next dish. In terms of reading, I admit that I have had a lot of ARCs to read this year. I've read close to 30 ARCs so far and have another 20 or so to go. I'm by no means complaining as I really enjoy reading; however, I can attest to a bit of fatigue from trying to get in as much reading as possible to meet release deadlines. It doesn't quite feel like work yet, but I will admit that when the ARCs are back-to-back, it can be a little hard to continually be motivated. As a result, I've been looking forward to setting aside a month to take a break from ARC commitments and to just enjoy whatever titles come my way and to make more of a dent in my TBR pile. While I will continue to try to meet a few upcomi...

Review: Red Fairy & Fox - Red Fairy & Fox Adventures #1

I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read Red Fairy & Fox by debut author Courtney Denelsbeck . Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis A portal fantasy for lovers of Alice in Wonderland and the Chronicles of Narnia. Even when they surrounded her, she was separate from them as she was separate from everyone…” Red wishes she wasn’t the queen. During another lavish, boring ball, she follows a fox into a puddle. The world she enters is nothing like her own: brown, barren, and full of strange creatures. In this world, she is a lowly farmhand. With every passing day, there’s no sign of the unhelpful, snide fox who brought her to the mysterious land. When she is forced to accept her destiny, she can no longer ignore the threats on her kingdom nor the straining of the magic. Two kingdoms’ fates rest in Red’s hands, but she must first decide to become the hero her people need. Source:...

Review: Under the Mistletoe - Small Town Shenanigans #2

The Small Town Shenanigans series continues with a heartwarming and hilarious Christmas book! Under the Mistletoe by Penny Zeller is a cozy and fun book that involves a touch of mystery and a whole lot of chuckles, starring an introvert who does not want to be part of the Christmas action but finds himself there anyways 🤣 Many thanks to Maplebrook Publishing and NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis He's a nerdy tourist needing a vacation. She's a bed and breakfast employee with a broken heart. Love is the last thing they expect to find this Christmas. Introvert Braxton Wertz needs a vacation, but his trip to the small town of Cloverdale Falls is anything but restful when he finds himself not only falling for the sweet and bubbly Gracely, but also in the crosshairs of geriatric private investigators...and their numerous shenanigans. Recovering from a painful breakup, extrovert Grac...