'The How' by Yrsa Daley-Ward

For my first ever book review on Netgalley, I chose this book, 'The How' by Yrsa Daley-Ward, published by Penguin, release date 11th November 2021.

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I want to start by saying how much I loved this book. It is self help, yes, but not written in the same dry way as many books of this genre are. The author writes from her own experience and this makes her advice and guidance feel more authentic and enables a deeper connection with her reader. There is passion in the lyrical way this book is written and I felt she was writing from her soul directly to mine. Everything I read resonated with me on some level; reading it felt like coming home. A truly unique book.

This is not a book to read quickly in one sitting, nor a book to lose yourself in for a few hours. Each chapter is full of wisdom and insights and I often found myself pausing to ponder on what I had read and how it applied to me and my life, as well as what I was learning. At the end of each chapter there are journal prompts that help you take what you have read deeper and further; a valuable way to absorb and implement what you are reading. 

The general theme of the book is the idea of looking within to find your truth rather than looking outside of yourself and becoming what others tell you to be. Topics and ideas covered include enjoying the journey rather than focusing on the outcome, finding your own joy, prioritising time for the important things, belonging, coping with depression, and finding stillness so you can hear your soul’s message. She also writes about death and dealing with grief in an incredibly deep and sensitive way and I would recommend reading this if you are going through grief yourself.

Overall, this was a beautifully written book, straight from the heart of it’s writer. Thank you, Yrsa Daley-Ward, for these words and guidance - I shall definitely be buying my own copy to put on my bookshelf so I can dip in whenever I like. I only wish I could buy it in hardback!

Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐