|
One of the true signs of progress in the fight against breast cancer is the number of
survivors who have conquered this disease. Their stories are wonderfully inspiring and
their voices provide both authority and experience for other women who are currently
battling cancer.
Barbara Delinsky is known as the best-selling author of THE VINEYARD and COAST ROAD. But
until the publication of UPLIFT: Secrets from the Sisterhood of Breast Cancer Survivors,
many readers would have had no idea that she also proudly carries a survivor title.
In the foreword of UPLIFT Delinsky tells her own story, immediately lending credibility to
her role in shaping this book. Details from her own experience are related in
straightforward language that encourages readers to understand that breast cancer can be
viewed as a moment in one's life, instead of consuming it. Intensely personal and
extremely enlightening, UPLIFT is chock full of the kind of information you would want to
share with a friend who's been recently diagnosed. Better yet, you should read it yourself
and learn how to be the best possible friend to someone during this tough time. Clearly
the discipline and direction that Delinsky created in her world carried through into her
months of healing. Her prose is inspirational.
Each chapter begins with more copy from Delinsky and then becomes a bulletin board of
sorts, with "postings" from "the sisterhood" containing tips, ideas,
and yes, their secrets on coping with and conquering this dreaded disease. The commentary
swings between being serious to being upbeat. What was particularly nice to see was the
chapter on "Men" and their impressions of breast cancer. I found the three men
who commented on one woman's cancer from the perspectives of partner, father, and
grandfather to be particularly compelling.
The book is also pretty, with a vellum wrap surrounding a lovely inner cover that
resembles a floral watercolor. Due primarily to her success as an author, Delinsky cites
that she will be able to donate all of her proceeds to breast cancer research. Thus, this
title is a special gift to readers. It's both a celebration and an affirmation of the
power of surviving.
--- Reviewed by Carol Fitzgerald
© Copyright 1996-2008, Bookreporter.com. All rights reserved.
Back to top.
|
