Recovery Books

I wasn't sure if this book would be helpful, but it is by far one of the best books on eating disorders that I have found. There is a checklist to see if you are in danger of becoming anorexic, and also steps to recover that are very useful and encouraging.

This book was required for a college course I took and the book really helped me to jump into the shoes of a person with anorexia nervosa. I highly recommend this book to a person with or without the disorder.

I've read 3 other books on this topic and found this to be the easiest to read and very inspirational. Short chapters, pick-up and read as much or as little in one sitting. Practical, real life examples of dealing with the complexities of an eating disorder. Not sugar coated, yet it does not dwell in the depths of dispair. Encouraging, hopeful, realistic. I consider this a must read for anyone dealing with an eating disorder, their friends, and family included. I am a mom to a recovering daughter.

This book is not only a wonderful resource for sufferers of anorexia. But it is also a resource for thier family and friends. The book explains anorexia, tells Monika Ostroff's personal story, and has a special chapter for family and loved ones. Everyone who suffers from anorexia or has a spouse, family member, or friend with anorexia, should read this book.

Reading this book evokes the feeling of talking to a concerned and supportive friend about anorexia. The authors don't throw out harsh statistics or Freudian theories, and there are no disturbingly graphic depictions of binging or purging. Instead, the reader is treated with affection and respect. It is assumed that anorexia develops as a method of coping, and the reader receives suggestions for new ways to deal with feelings. This book gives the reader a feeling of hope and self-reliance, and avoids shaming language. The authors give helpful, practical methods of overcoming anorexia and learning to love oneself.

excellent insights into the difficult tasks of being a pastor of a church

This is a book that I have used, loaned, lost, bought and loaned again. Now I just give it as a gift to any friend in pastoral ministry that seems to be giving too much. It is a book that will quiet the noise of constantly trying to be more than God calls one to be.
I highly recommend it to anyone beginning their ministry.

I have used this book for personal as well as community meditation ever since its first publication by CTS several years ago. As many others, I sincerely wish it were required reading in seminary and by corporate-type lay leadership who want a pastor to be a CEO rather than a pastor. I must disagree with the reviewer who faulted the book (modestly) for its lack of stress on the prophetic aspects of ministry. After all, wasn't Thomas Merton a contemplative who had a great deal to write concerning the prophetic issues of peace and justice, let alone racism? This book has been formative in enabling my continuation in ministry.

This simple book has been an important tool in helping me recover a sense of peace and serenity in parish ministry. The challenges and struggles of ministry are intense. The answer for me has been found in returning to a place of quiet, listening, and trust. The Art of Pastoring is a MUST READ for anyone in full-time parish work.

After 30 years in parish ministry, I wish I could have read this book slowly each year. I would have been more relaxed and focused. Martin takes the best from Eastern (Taoist) thought and puts it into a Christian framework. It's soothing. It's therapeutic. Especially for Type 'A' pastors like myself. We need these grace-filled thoughts to reflect on. My only caveat is a theological one. A few of Martin's reflections seem to blunt the edge of prophetic ministry--the concern for justice and equality in the world. It's that "everything is already perfect" Eastern notion. I realize the paradox involved in accepting "what is" in order to change or be changed. I wonder what Amos or Jeremiah would think about "everything is already perfect." That being said, I recommend this little volume for its peace-evoking words. I have used it in daily prayer to help me "let go." These words on page 24 keep ringing in my ears: "If you want to be a wise and true minister of the Word, work a modest number of hours each week, then go home." Amen.

A cartoon book about the recession? Yes, that's it. And the cartoons are witty and simple - yet, they say it all. Enjoy the book, and enjoy the recession!

Mordanto has produced a good memoir of all the hardship we are going though with a wit and charm we could all use. Stylishly presented. I think it would make a good gift for friends and family; it will certainly make them laugh and smile! From what I can see, Volume 1 is just as good, and the fact that this is Volume 2 should make everyone wonder what Volume 1is like! A good laugh. My favorite cartoons are on the front cover ("Call Warren Buffett!") and Uncle Sam running away from a large stone ball with "debt" written on it (like Indiana Jones) and then tripping up on a hoop in the ground labeled "crisis" and being run over by the ball of debt. Very appropriate! You can't go wrong at this price.

Mordanto has a unique way of looking at the economic crisis with humor and reality. Uncle Sam goes from a world leader to a hospital bed. The drawings may look simple but the stories behind the pictures are all too truthful. Mordanto's humor will make you laugh and who couldn't use a good laugh right now? You won't put this book down till you've reached the last page (and then you'll go through it again!) You'll want more. Lucky for us he's written volume two already!

The Art of The Recession will make you a bit saddened by the current state of our economic times but then it`ll force you to laugh about it. And these simple yet effective drawings are all that it takes. After seeing this book I'd definitely take a look at more of Mordanto's work!

I was going to say that you could laugh or cry about our economic situation, but these cartoons go beyond just joking. They actually illustrate the current problems and shed light on what has happened in a humorous way. I like the fact that they are timely & thought provoking. I gave a copy to my father-in-law as a birthday gift (he's quite a serious and conservative businessman), and he enjoyed the book a lot.

People often ask, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" When things happen that we just don't believe can be in GOD's plan, we begin to question HIS existence. Where is GOD when a young child is being molested? Where is GOD when innocence is being stolen by evil? People are quick to compare their pains to those of Job, however, not many can actually identify. I believe, however, Janice Romney Farnsworth can.

Author, Janice Romney Farnsworth's life's testimony, Beneath Wings of an Angel: Healing the Child Within, A Spiritual Healing Journey to Recovery from Domestic Violence is a true, modern-day version of the Book of Job. Ms. Farnsworth reveals the torment of her inner soul, as Satan seems to hijack every male that enters into her life and take away everything she has, except her life. She readily admits that even though these men did not end her life, she wanted to end it...and tried.

Beneath Wings of an Angel, the inspirational and spiritual journey of Janice Romney Farnsworth, travels in both directions...into the future and deep into the past. During this journey, she realized that she'd been programmed to be a victim from her earliest of memories. She had dealt with abuse so much; she thought it was the way her life was supposed to be. So what changed Janice Farnsworth? At one of the lowest points in her life, GOD spoke to her.

Since that revelation, Janice Romney Farnsworth has become a champion for women dealing with domestic violence and abuse (and the abuse is not always physical). She is a hero to ALL victims because her story does not stop with her abuse. The abuse is only a steppingstone to the inspiration she received directly from GOD, which she now wishes to share with the world.

Not only does Beneath Wings of an Angel contain the trials of the author, but invaluable information regarding domestic violence. This is an inspirational book that could change your life if you are willing to accept the message. If you are not in need of its powerful message, I'm sure that you know someone who does. Through this book, Janice Romney Farnsworth can supply the tools to help them free themselves from abuse's evil bondage.

I can't thank the author enough for the book she has written and shared with others. She is awesome! So courageous and genuinely compassionate. I'm an abuse survivor. I'm also a young girl who has struggled with self esteem issues, she opened my eyes to my authentic power and spiritual identity, and taught me so much through her example of love and forgiveness. If your life has been affected in anyway that has troubled you or created obstacles in your life and prevented you from living authentically and powerfully, read her story. You too will feel the love with which she writes and lives her life today.

If you have ever been affected by abuse, this book will greatly impact your life. The author writes about her experiences in a powerful way that is captivating and enlightning. But what I loved most was her healing journey and how she teaches others to do the same for themselves. It is self-empowering and life-changing. This is a book I highly recommend for friends and family members of abuse victims as well, it will help them understand and know how they can help. It is a perfect book for those who suffer from low-self esteem or depression - it's so inspiring and educational.

This book literally changed my life! The author writes with such brutal honesty, yet with such compassion and integrity, you cannot help but be moved when reading this. It reaches out with help and encouragement to those who are in the cycle of abusive relationships, and educates those who have not experienced these horrors. While reading this book, I was able to both see and stop my own dysfunctional cycle from passing down through generations, and for that I am deeply in gratitude to the author.
A fantastic read for anyone wanting to take the reins in their own lives.

Monsters are real. Janice Romney Farnsworth lived with one for fifteen years and bore six children for him. A devout Mormon, Farnsworth believed in the sanctity of marriage, of being a submissive wife and honoring her husband. But what she didn't understand was why her husband repeatedly beat her, demeaned her, turned her children against her, convinced others she was mentally ill and a danger to her children, and raped her.

Faced with this ongoing horror, Farnsworth turned to her Church for help. She was advised to go back and be a better wife, while her batterer enjoyed the full benefits of church membership.

Poignant and eye opening, Beneath Wings of an Angel, is a fascinating look inside the mind of a woman who became a victim of domestic violence. Her nightmare, told in her own voice, complete with her own thoughts of no self-worth so she must deserve it, and the downward spiral of her life, physically and mentally is torment to watch. But it also inspires understanding and a longing to reach out.

Farnsworth has brought forth a look inside the terror of prolonged domestic violence that helps the outside world understand why a woman would stay and submit to the lies and blows of an abuser. She also tells, without excuse, the damage an abusive home heaps upon the children of that home.

Anger, disbelief, understanding, empathy, and rejoicing - all are emotions Farnsworth's story brings about in the reader as the reader experiences the writer's life.

Farnsworth found her path to healing, but only after experiencing the worst that can be dealt.

"During those awful days, I felt like yesterday's trash, and for the most part, really didn't care. I don't know how others coped, but I faced each day with a tear-stained face too tired to take care of myself, emotionally drained and obsessed with revenge."

When Farnsworth was finally able to escape her abusive husband, she then faced trouble with the courts and the danger of having her children taken from her. Her children suffered dreadfully at the hands of their father - not only physically, but emotionally. Today, Farnsworth is still praying for her children's healing.

Beneath Wings of an Angel is unique in several ways - it gives a glimpse inside the Mormon religion and tradition; it chronicles fifteen years of abuse, and more importantly, why she stayed; it also offers hope as Farnsworth details her therapy, a new love that is not abusive, a deeper spiritual awakening and her acknowledgment of the necessity of the continuance of the journey.

Abuse knows no class, race or religion - this book is a stepping stone to freedom from abuse, for counselors and pastors to understand the dynamics of abuse and the need for the Church to be proactive and provide safety for women under attack.

This a fascinating read on so many fronts - its presentation of the history of alcoholism and treatment of the disease and the person who was Mrs. Marty Mann - as well as the impeccable research and engaging writing style. It will be especially helpful to family members who are grappling with a loved one who has the disease of alcoholism.

I am happy with amazon's fast accurate service. The book is interesting and easy to read. Would reccomend to anyone interested in history and development of modern substance abuse education and treatment. Mrs. Mann was a truly remarkable woman. I don't believe her contributions can be over estimated.

I enjoyed Marty's story so much. She was such an intelligent, attractive, successful woman, and yet alcohol brought her to a point of utter despair and poverty. I could truly relate to how it feels to have so much and yet not be able to save yourself from alocholism. With the help of AA I have found my life again, and continue to grow in all areas of my life. Reading Marty's story was so good for my self esteem and confidence. It truly emphasizes that alcoholism is a disease and not a moral issue. I enjoyed this book so much I stayed up until 2am the first night I started reading it. This has been a good read for me! I would recommend it to females in AA especially.

This was written with the language of the heart... and was informative, fascinating, and well done in every way. I enjoyed the pictures too. I felt privileged to see inside this fabulous woman's life.

I loved this book. It is well-written, expertly researched and completly honest.As a recovered person myself, I thoroughly enjoyed the the weaving of historical accounts of the early days of AA and NCA. Even without that, the story of Marty Mann was impressive and powerful. The account of the founding, growth, growing pains and success of NCA was a primer on how to get an impossible job done. Many other historical facts that were intertwined throughout the book provided a sense of reality about developments in our country that are rarely discussed.

My thanks to the authors for writing a book I will treasure it and make it a permamnent part of my personal library.

Broken Toys Broken Dreams is a great initiation into the study of family systems. This book is complimentary with the work of John Bradshaw and easier to understand. It's the perfect introduction to Bradshaw On: The Family: A New Way of Creating Solid Self-Esteem, where Terry Kellogg is referenced by Bradshaw.

I have two copies of this book. I had to get a second one because I highlighted the first one so much. I return to this book often, especially when I'm thinking "What the heck just happened?" and finding my issues and the roles others played. I glean something from it everytime but only what layer I can comprehend at the moment, which is why I read it a couple of times a year. It's still an eye-opener.

Always the codependent, I have given away several copies to friends and loved ones coping with difficult issues in the hopes that others will gain understanding as I have. All copies are given with love as I believe this book to be the best book I have ever read, and I want to share it with the world.

The sequel isn't out yet as far as I know. Terry Kellogg has a website with a book listing but "Broken Silence" isn't on the list. Kellogg's book Family Matters : Principles & Roles of Family (Kellogg Harrison Family & Relationship Series) is a continuation of his work in family systems and the roles of family members. It is also an excellent book and builds upon the information in Broken Toys. Read it when you are ready for more detailed information. I still like Broken Toys best because it's basic and succint.

This book explains co-dependency more clearly than any other book I have read on the subject. Way more information than I ever expected. Want to get the sequel Broken Silence. Do you have it?

I recommend this book whole-heartedly for anyone who would like to change behaviors that they are unhappy with, be able to participate more fully, naturally, and wisely in life, or have any family or childhood-related issues they would like to resolve. Excellent book for those willing to look and willing to change.

Although it may take time for the codependents eyes to adjust to the light, this book does a great job of illuminating the issues that many of us face in a way that changes the way you view everything, reading this book really made me face some things that until now I had not looked at. It pointed me in the direction of true healing. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is experiencing feelings of emptiness or feeling like they are lost.

I read this book years ago and it was life changing. Terry Kellogg clearly explains family dysfunction in a personal way that really rang true for me. I have read a lot of these types of books but HIS was the best--gentle, sad, truth but with an offer of hope at the end. I had so many 'lightbulb' moments reading this--wish he had of written it when I was a teen. Ohwell--when the student is ready the teacher will come.

Great book for anyone suffering with the effects of addiction in a family or friend.

My therapist had been recommending that I go to Al Anon for months before I finally went. I wish I would have gone sooner. This book was one of the first books I read from and I realized that there are so many people like me.

I had not been living with an alcoholic for years, but the patterns of codependent behavior can become entrenched in the fiber of one's being. It is difficult to change alone. This book is a tool of encouragement to see change as a possibility and a tool for breaking old patterns of thought and self deprecation. It's a wonderful adjunct to attending meetings and written by people from all walks of life.

I really like the large print of this book. It is substantially larger than the original print.

I go to this book first thing in the morning--it's pages contain gems on how to live your life wisely, with or without an alcoholic family member, and contains relevant and varied quotes from wisdom texts. It reads like a friend is talking to you. However, the courage found in its pages are more deeply learned if you have worked the 12 Steps in a recovery group. It truly gives you courage to change your life when living with alcoholism. I prefer the compact version of this book.

Courage to Change is an An-Anon sanctioned publication which I found extremely useful in effecting my own personal recovery from my self-inflicted personality abuse. Accepting the need to make lifelong adjustments is necessary if one desires to achieve any semblance of happiness. This daily reader works if one works it.

Speaking as someone from an alcoholic family, this book helps you "detach, with love" as they say in AA. You realize you can live life for yourself and that you deserve to. The courage to change is needed because the old patterns are familiar and comfortable, but they no longer work. The book brings together wisdom from diverse sources, is divided into 365 short sections corresponding to days of the year, and encourages you truthfully, yet warmly, every step of the way. Read this, it's time to stop beating up on yourself!!

I just bought this book and i must say it is a must have. It will speak to all your areas of need. ALL survivors definitely should have this as a companion. It's value just cant be measured. Buy this book and take your healing journey to the next level.

These meditations are precious. Though I've been in therapy for many years, read many books, I STILL wonder why I feel afraid, why I can't get mobilized, why I isolate, why groups frighten me, and so forth. My "why's" are being answered in a way that touches my very soul. It is extremely helpful. Highly recommended, very comforting.

This book has become my constant companion. A comunication between myself and my spirit. I take it with me wherever I go and it literally never lets me down. I highly recommend it. I plan to try one of her other books next.

I found this book at a thrift store for .99 cents; it's worth much, much more. This book really helped me get through a very difficult stage of the healing journey. Highly recommended

I highly recommend this book to all women survivors of sexual abuse. I am an atheist and have trouble finding non-God related meditations. This book has some references to God, but focuses on your thoughts and feelings. Each page seems like I wrote it myself.

I am a marriage and family therapist as well as a clinical counselor. I have used this book recently in working with a female client who had been struggling for over ten years from a prior relationship. This client was so relieved to discover that there was actually a name for her "problem". This book does a great job of describing this type of unhealthy relationship, and gives practical and therapeutic ways to take back control of your life. I will continue to use this book in my counseling practice for many years.The Emotional Rape Syndrome: How to Survive and Avoid It

When I began my journey of healing from being emotionally raped, I was wondering if I would ever really heal from it. I'm still on the road to recovery, but this book has been a true blessing! It has shown me that I can and will recover and that I'm not crazy and that everything I felt or am still feeling is ok. I suggest everyone who has had their soul ripped from them by being emotionally raped to read "The Emotional Rape Syndrome."

You don't have to be physically raped to feel raped. What more can I say. A man can feel raped by a woman. Emotional rape can go on for years. Psychological rape. It can be mothers on their sons. What's sad is when neither party is objectively aware of what is happening or has happened.

I was abused by my narcissitic mother, and entertained the thought about killing myself for about 10 years.

Although I almost recovered, I still fear people.

This book taught me who I should be wary of to avoid being hurt again. Among many advices in this book about healing methods, ones I found true were laughter, avoidance of evil people, helping others, and religion.

I wouldn't know where to start... this book has been more helpful than The Bible and all my counseling sessions combined.

It goes into detail how we all have basic needs as human beings that are being exploited by the rapist. Having been emotionally raped is no more our fault than dying of drinking from a well that has been poisoned by someone else - we were merely attempting to quench our natural thirst and, because we could not have possibly known better at the time, picked the wrong well.

What amazes me is that the author does not appear to have a degree in psychology at all, yet this book seems so much smarter and to-the-point in describing what has really happened than what I have been hearing from "the experts".

I highly recommend this book. I wish more therapists would read it.

Worth its weight in gold.

Forget to smoke. Find true happiness. Enjoy the process. One of the very best books I've ever read, hands down. Fully recommended for all.

Full of fun facts and exercises and no pressure! Today is my 4th anniversary and NOPE - Not One Puff Ever in that time.

We've all seen them, the smokers huddled at the doorway of a smoke-free building. For the most part, they seem furtive and possibly embarassed - our society has decided to make smoking a shame-based activity. Enter Bear Gebhardt and his revolutionary approach that emphasizes the inherent dignity and essential worthiness of the smoker. Gebhardt doesn't point fingers, doesn't assign blame. Rather, he employs a message of self-worthiness and practical behavior patterns. If you're a smoker, or care about one, check out this helpful book.

Bear G. has written a book based on many years of clinical, and especially, personal experience. The best thing about this book is it embodies his upbeat view of the world, and optimistic but realistic approaches to the challenges our habits create. I can unreservedly recommend this book to anyone trying to overcome the very difficult and addictive lifestyle of smoking, or tobacco use in general. Bear was recently invited to speak on the subject at a conference at Oxford University; a well- deserved honor because of his ability to help people.

After you've tried everything else, try this. Like any true change, quitting is an "inside-out" job. When you stop beating yourself up and start supporting and understanding yourself, you will be empowered to walk away from smoking forever. My husband quit for good 1 1/2 years ago, cold turkey, after reading only part of the book! He had smoked for 25 years~ but once he truly understood why he'd started and realized that the reason no longer existed for him, that was all it took. Hopefully you'll find this book first, before trying all the other methods~ If you truly want to quit, this will work for you too.