I have always had a hard time picking up auto-biographies. I had some bad experiences in the past – OK, I had over 20 bad experiences with auto-biographies in the past which have left a sour taste in my mouth having nothing to do with my addiction to lemons.
There is also the part of me that can’t help but think: how arrogant does one have to be to write about oneself and how awesome one (thinks one) is?
I know, harsh words — but seriously, those experiences were scarring.
But once in awhile, as a form of therapy to get over my autobiographobia, I pick up an autobiography and try to read it through. I’m happy to report that I’ve had enough good experiences to encourage me to continue facing my phobia. For example, I recently read Michael J Fox’s Always Look Up, more about his fight for a cure to Parkinson’s rather than a "look at me, I’m so great" type of book, it inspired me and earned a place of honour in my bookcase.
This is the reason why, after I read the 29 Gifts write-up, I decided to give it a try. It reminded me a lot of Michael J Fox’s book, since it was more about the journey rather than the author. Both have used something difficult that happened, turned it around and made it a form of blessing, each according to their sphere of influence and the resources at hand (we can easily conclude that Michael’s hand is a lot longer).
29 Gifts is a great read. The author’s tone throughout the book is extremely friendly and upbeat, even while recounting her darkest moments. She doesn’t mince words while describing them; however, she doesn’t dwell on them, and each described dark moment leads to something positive. I never once felt like Cami wanted me to feel sorry for her, but rather that she was welcoming me into her world in an open and frank way.
The premise is simple: healing doesn’t only involve taking care of your physical well-being, but also of your mental and spiritual well-being; to be helped mentally and physically, you need to learn to help others.
Article comments
1 - Fran
Very well done review, Sahar.
This sounds like a book everyone could benefit from reading.
2 - mercedes
i was given this book by Cami and it has changed my outlook on life. It was as if this wonderful book came into my life at precisely the right moment. I am so grateful and I am going to start on a new journey of giving thanks to the most beautiful presentation of "gifting" this book has shown me. Thank you Cami
3 - Sahar
That's what I did with my copy, too! And a few days later, I purchased another copy to give it to another friend, then another... I think I purchased a total of 5 copies of this book that I have passed forward, and interestingly enough, two weeks ago, someone gave me their copy :)