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

Shortcut-Less

I recently saw a carousel post from someone whom I don't follow that stopped me in my tracks. Essentially, it was about some of the issues found on Instagram; however, the slide that stood out most to me was the one stating, "I am not convinced Bookstagrammers actually read." While I certainly don't need to take the time to defend my actions or activity, I'm saddened at this thought. I've written before about The Privileges of Reading and Aspirational Reading , but things seem to have taken a turn for the worse with the proliferation of generative AI (not agentic AI—see Stop the Slop for the distinction) since I first wrote these posts. I'm careful not to make blanket accusations or pronouncements as many of the people I follow are both genuine and impressive in what they share, but it seems to be a sentiment that is growing in popularity. Whether people believe that I fall into the same category or not is something I cannot control. I can shout until ...

Review: Reckless Love - Hatcher Hollow #1

No matter your thoughts on the worship song of the same name, Reckless Love by Kate Goodwin is a powerful retelling of a story that we don't often think of, demonstrating the heart of God in pursuing us. What a beautiful snapshot of the Father's unrelenting love for us! Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis A pregnant girl A desperate woman The God who sees them both Amina Abdel’s sheltered world is turned upside down when she finds herself alone and with child. The daughter of immigrants flees her mother’s judgment and father’s shame, unexpectedly finding shelter with the small town’s pastor and his wife. Their kindness feels foreign to Amina, until she realizes they too want something from her—the baby. All Melissa Abrams has ever wanted was a son to carry on her husband’s family legacy of keeping an Abrams man behind the pulpit. As barrenness pushes her to a breaking point,...

Review: Her Surprise Vacation Date - Unexpected Dates #1

This is a new series from Liwen Y. Ho that sounds like it will be full of the unexpected, including the first book titled Her Surprise Vacation Date . Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis I was supposed to go on vacation with my best friend… not my best friend’s little brother. It was going to be a fun girls-only trip to Solvang, CA… before it turned into me dressing up like the Michelin Man, getting a call from my bestie telling me that she’s too sick to come, and losing my luggage. Now I’m at the airport waiting for my best friend’s little brother to pick me up. After all the unexpected twists and turns of this morning, you’d think nothing would surprise me, that is until nothing turns out to be a six-foot-tall hazel-eyed man with a beautiful smile. Wow. Shane Morgan’s grown up a lot since I last saw him in high school. A hunky EMT now, he’s still sweet and funny, but also a lot bol...