This Life Is Yours

February 5, 2021

Martella-Whitsett (How To Pray Without Talking to God) cowrites this inspirational book with her daughter, Whitsett. Anecdotal stories from the authors and people that Martella-Whitsett has met over the years as a Unity minister and spiritual teacher are interwoven with affirmations. Chapters encourage positivity by addressing challenges through prayer as well as over 20 affirmations that emphasize the need for honoring suffering and creating space for creativity and zeal. Self-compassion is at the heart of this text, which views healing through the lens of the whole self. What sets this book apart from many in the genre are discussions of racism and the emotional harm that ensues. Whitsett shares her personal struggles of feeling not good enough, especially as a young Black woman in white America. She continues by exploring how she navigated the grief she felt for her family when faced with racism and discrimination after moving to the Midwest. VERDICT This book will appeal to readers of Louise Hay as well as those who enjoy simple, accessible affirmations to help cultivate self-healing. Combining positive psychology and spirituality, and quoting from influence leaders such as Pema Chodron, this moving book should find a broad audience.--Angela Forret, State Lib. of Iowa, Des Moines

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