self-help

Writing out the Storm is a gift to all who have experienced trauma in their lives...and even those who haven't. Abercrombie's compassion, sensitivity, sincerity and humor engage the reader in a community of the famous and not so famous who have in common the hardships that life doles out. The reader finds that he or she is not alone and that there is a creative way to channel the anger, despair, loneliness, fear, and other emotions generated by serious illness or injury into very beneficial and positive energy. Abercrombie crafts the layers of this book so beautifully that she not only encourages the reader to write, but also dissolves the writer's block that discourages most of us from trying. Wonderful!!!

Barbara Abercrombie is a simply wonderful writer. One of UCLA's most
popular and gifted writing teachers the exercises in this book are
simply amazing .It is easy to understand why Ms. Abercrombie's writing
classes are always full. You will want to give this to everyone you know
who is journeying through an emotional or physical storm. At a recent
book signing people were buying 5 and 6 copies at a time. No ordinary
self- help tome, Ms Abercrombie's own encounter with breast cancer
forms the core of this book. She tells of her fear and anger, her
family's love and support, the indignity and isolation of the disease
and the eventual bonding with others in the Wellness community, where
she holds the workshops which inspired this book. She is able to capture
the humor in even the darkest moments.
You won't be able to put it down. It's a real page turner.

A natural gift to oneself, friends who are on their own journey, and caregivers.

"Writing out the Storm" is an exploration of the journey through life threatening illness and the identity, meaning, joy and personal mastery that may come from it. It draws the reader in.

It has four tracks - each hope filled while reality based

1) The author's own story which wonderfully unfolds, is masterfully told, and woven together with her selections of

2) vivid descriptions from other authors and public figures who bring to bear, through their own unique presence and communications skills, the essence of steps along the journey.

3) gems of real time writing responses by her "ordinary" workshop participants. Some of which so connect with you that you find yourself reading them over, again and again.

4) Direct and sometimes playful trigger questions which invite each reader to explore their own journey and writing.

"Writing out the Storm" is a stirring read that can't be put down, yet must be put down from time to time, as it takes the reader to their core and back.

If you have any doubts just read the chapter headings and imagine the gifts to be found within each.