Why Life Stories Change
Date: July 3, 2023 Author: Brent M. Jones
Primary audience: Anyone interested in personal growth, self-reflection, and understanding how life experiences shape their identity.
Genres: Non-fiction, Self-help, Personal Development, Spiritual Exploration
Themes: Personal Transformation, Embracing weaknesses, The role of prayer and faith, Happiness, and gratitude
Word Count: 12k
Purpose: The purpose of this book is to encourage readers to reflect on their own life stories, understand the significance of their experiences, and find meaning in their successes and failures. It aims to guide readers toward personal growth, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of their identity and purpose.
COMPARISONS & OVERALL INTEREST
Did you like this book, and would you recommend it to friends? Yes, I did. I found the messages presented in the book to be eye-openers. Especially the message about how life story changes with time allows us to grow personally and develop. I also liked how it talks about how various life experiences change our story.
Do you like other books in this SAME GENRE, and if so, how did this one compare in terms of entertainment or application levels? Yes, I enjoy reading self-help books.I found this book very interesting as it offers a new perspective on life that us humans don’t really think about much.
Was it too similar to anything else you’ve read or different enough to hold your interest? No, it’s not. This is my first time reading with all the themes listed connected.
Do you feel you are the target audience for this book—do you read this genre frequently? Yes, I think the target audience for the book is a bit broad, and this will allow many different people to read the book. However, chapter 13, discusses how prayer influences our lives and that section might lessen the target audience to people who are Christians.
CONTENT & ORGANIZATION
Were you “hooked” by the opening of the book? Yes, it does. I didn’t really know what to expect before reading but the starting the book with the poem was great. That was my first time reading that poem, and I found it quite interesting because I’m always saying, “Everything happens for a reason.” and I’m sure a lot of readers will probably have a similar reaction.
What new-to-you insights and observations spoke to you most—and why? Chapter 8 was probably my favorite while reading because it discusses the influence of music and art on your life. The reason I liked this chapter is because it emphasizes the emotional connection that music and art create and how they contribute to shaping our identities and understanding of the world around us. This is something I can resonate with 100% as I was born and raised in Jamaica, which is a country where many different genres of music have originated from. The majority of the music is so rich and pure, and it builds in me great
Chapter 9 is also great as it discusses missed opportunities and how experiences shape our understanding over time. I love the stories that were shared.
Is the manuscript well-structured and organized? Yes, it is.
VOICE & STYLE
Is the manuscript’s tone or narrative voice appropriate to the subject matter? Yes, it is.
Are there any audience-estranging biases or unintended prejudices coming through? No, there isn’t.
Is the manuscript geared toward a specific religious denomination or a very specific/niche secular group? Not necessarily however, there are references to “prayer” which I would consider something that Christians do, and others who are not affiliated with the religion might be a little turned off by that, but that can be easily mended by stating something in the description.
Is it only relevant to that unique audience, or could some sections be adjusted to expand the audience? No, anyone can read it.
