When I received “Freefall to Fly” last month, I was already in
the middle of another book. I thought I would just browse the first chapter
until I finished my other book. I was so wrong. I literally could not put this
book down. Rebekah Lyons chronicles her family’s move from Georgia to New York
and the crippling depression and anxiety that came with it. My heart ached for
the desperation she describes as she struggled for control. Hearing her describe the effect on
her children brought tears to my eyes. Rebekah gives a very raw description of what
it was like to experience that freefall. She then draws a beautiful picture of
how letting go allowed her to fly.
Maybe this memoir was more appealing to me because, like
Rebekah, I have struggled with depression for years. I've never suffered from
panic attacks but I related to her feelings that the basic acts of life being
overwhelming. Also, on the surface Rebekah was living a life I could easily
envy. I miss living near a big city (for me, D.C.) and daydream of how I start
over and achieve big things in a new life when I move back. This book made me reconsider putting life on hold until I am in my "perfect" circumstances. Circumstances will never be perfect so why not start living today? If you have not
specifically experienced anxiety and depression, I still believe everyone can
relate to wondering what our purpose is and how to start living it.
"Freefall to Fly" will be out April 9th.
Disclosure of
Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Handlebar.com
book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.
The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of
Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Great review. I have friends and family members who suffer from depression, and I am buying each of them a copy of this book. This is a powerful memoir of what it feels like to fight anxiety—it’s not a self-help book, but a powerfully shared story.
ReplyDeleteBut here’s the thing—even if you don’t suffer from clinical depression, most of us question our purpose, wonder about life’s meaning. This book addresses the questions each of us asks, deep in our souls. Rebekah is breathtakingly honest about her panic attacks, her questions, and the answers she eventually finds. Like you, I’d recommend this book to any woman.
I completely agree with you. Very relatable story from many different angles.
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