I've said it before, there is a solace to be found in reading. At the start of the month, just after the procedure, I read three Dorthy Koomson books in quick succession. She's one of my favourite authors and I find her reading captivating. Admittedly, I hadn't allowed for the themes of baby loss and miscarriage that are often found in her writing.
I am a very quick reader and I love nothing more than getting lost in fiction. I am not great at reading non-fiction though. But, I have chosen some books in which I believe I will find healing and strength over the coming months.
1. Saying Goodbye - Zoe Clark-Coates
We actually sell Saying Goodbye at work, hence the link above. But I'll admit when it first came in I was too scared to pick it up. We were still waiting for our next fertility appointment and I knew I wasn't in the right emotional space and it sounds ridiculous but I worried that if I read about baby loss and miscarriage that I would be entertaining negative thoughts. I know it sounds stupid but I just couldn't face it at the time.
However, I have picked it up now. I've read Zoe's story and I plan to work through the 90-day plan, at my own pace and in my own time. In the last week or so I have spoken to Zoe every day and already consider her a firm friend, she is wise and kind, so I know her book will also be full of wisdom and comfort.
2. Rising Strong - Brene Brown
I was given this book for my birthday last year. It has been 11 months and I haven't finished it. I don't think I've ever experienced that with a book. It's not that I don't love the work and words of Brene Brown, I actually really do. I think Rising Strong is challenging and has the power to transform. Unfortunately, I would rather read Harry Potter again than face up to the challenge. But I am determined to get into it and actually finish it, ideally before my next birthday.
3. Option B - Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant
My woman crush on Sheryl Sandberg continues. A quote from the cover: "None of us can escape sadness, loss, or life's disappointments, so the best option is to find our option B".
Well, if every there was a time for embracing and finding Option B. I think it might be now!
4. Dare to Dream - Izzy Judd
This will be my... fifth time reading it I believe. But I find so much hope in Izzy's words as well as reading her own experience with infertility and loss. Plus, a reminder to dare to dream and that amazing thing will happen can't be a bad thing, can they?
If you haven't already read it, I've previously reviewed Dare to Dare.
and one fiction...
Trying - Emily Philips
"A hugely funny, searingly honest comedy about to expect when you're not expecting". I've read lots of great reviews that suggest Trying is a light-hearted approach to trying for a baby but is also very honest and at times emotional. I'm looking forward to reading.
I'm planning to review each book after I've read them and will be doing something a bit extra with Saying Goodbye, so watch this space.
What is on your reading list at the moment?
*This blog post is not affiliated with Eden or Waterstones, they are just my preference. Most books listed above are available from other booksellers*
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