"Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life"

I'll start by saying, I was shocked at how much I was able to relate to this story, having never partaken of group style therapy myself. What made this story so relatable for me were the overarching issues which sent Christie to therapy in the first place: an overwhelming sense of loneliness beginning at a young age, an eating disorder, a dysfunctional family dynamic, being sexually assaulted. I personally relate to each of these topics in some way.

The only knowledge I had of this book before reading it myself was the synopsis. I did not read any reviews or discuss it among my "bookish" friend group. I simply saw a few four and five-star ratings from online sources where I have received good book recommendations in the past and decided to take a chance. As I sit reflecting, I believe my blind entry is what allowed me to immediately immerse myself into the feelings of loneliness and hopelessness in the beginning (as well as the middle and early end) of this story. I truly felt every twist and turn and gave myself up fully to experience this journey with Christie, without expectations waiting for me at the end of every chapter. This story moves along at a pace that I imagine therapy goes; slowly. I believe it is a well-conveyed choice in tone, however, and not due to dull material.

There were so many emotional tides turning, from page one to page done. I felt as confused with Christie's therapist as she seemed at times. I made no less than 25 notes in the margins and underlined probably twice as many tender, wisdom-filled moments that I will certainly reflect on from time to time. This book taught me thirty-nine new words, places, and or things! I was also reminded of the resiliency of the human heart, that heartache is inevitable, and that experiencing pain does not necessarily mean you're living life incorrectly.

Seeing the rough, hideous, shame-ridden parts of Christie's story play out in my mind served as a reminder that no one is promised an easy life.

What this story ultimately taught me is this: Things that are worth having are rarely given for free. To become the best, most resilient version of ourselves we must allow our hearts to be scored and sent through the fire. This story is proof that if we can surrender to the arduous tasks necessary to become an emotionally mature human being, capable of giving and receiving love in healthy ways, our hearts will become practically shatter-proof.

As I mentioned before, Christie wrote about sensitive topics such as eating disorders, sexual assault, and depression. These discussions were handled with a care and grace I admire greatly. The weight of these topics and their lasting effects were conveyed fully, giving them the space needed to resinate, without pushing the envelope too far and potentially further traumatizing sensitive readers.

The only thing I did not enjoy in this book was the number of misspelled words, missing words, or plainly misused words. As I said before, I learned a lot of new words reading this book (which I love), but I came across several words I know very well that were not being used in the correct context (or at least in the context where these words make the most sense). I checked and double-checked myself just to be safe when bringing it up, which I only do because it was occurring often enough to distract me from the overall reading experience (several times a chapter for several chapters). It's more a point off for editing than anything else.

I rate this book 4.0 out of 5.0. It would be a solid 5.0 for me if not for the many editing and syntax errors.

I believe this book contains knowledge that would be beneficial to any reader, however, I do not recommend this book in place of seeking treatment if you are struggling with your mental health. Please contact your doctor or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (800–273–8255).