Nothing particularly new or innovative for this style of book. Felt like Nelson was trying to rewrite 'The Secret'. I can see that this might be a decent entry point for readers who are new to this concept, but for seasoned readers of self help and this genre of literature this is old hat.

Author Kristi Nelson discusses grateful living and the difference between this and mere gratitude, which she describes as a more fleeting experience. I'm certainly behind the whole gratitude thing, but this book didn't "spark" for me. It felt repetitive at times, with the author emphasizing the same points - be grateful, appreciate what's right in front of you. Got it ;)

I thought this book was brilliant! It came into my life at a point where I very much needed it and the ideas behind it have become a part of my everyday life. Such a wonderful gift to pass on to those you love!

The formatting of this kindle book made the reading difficult.

As for the content. Good self help but well worn road.

Kristi Nelson's premise for her text is powerful and persuasive. Her initial commitment to grateful living was catalysed by a cancer diagnosis, however she explains that as her life returned to "normal" she found herself falling back into old habits. This makes her story extremely emotive, but also highly relatable. The distinction she makes early in the text between "gratitude", which is definitely a well-being buzzword at the moment, and "grateful living", which the book advocates, is instructive. The spiritual tone of the text will be a draw to some and will likely deter others, in particular perhaps those who are seeking pragmatic/science-driven tools to integrate into their life. Certainly, some of its advice feels very meditative, even ruminative, in contrast to other sections which offer very practical guidance about how to move towards "grateful living". For example, the step-by-step guide to having a grateful day really helps to ground the advice of the early sections of the text and feels very achievable. One of the real strengths of Nelson's book is the fact that she designs it to be useful even if read in a non-linear fashion. It is intentionally "bitty" and easy to dip in and out of - this I feel complements her intention for the practice of "grateful living" to be a lifelong commitment and something that her guidance can support for the long term. The only thing I would say about this, however, is that the many different sections available in the text make it hard to create an aesthetic mise-en-page. The publisher has done a good job at being consistent in the design, but I would personally prefer an additional level of simplicity.

The arrangement and order of this book is very well planned and thought out, which I really liked. The opening letter is very to the point, doesn’t try to play on emotions, but reels you in because the book off the top seems earnest and honest and genuinely relatable. There is A LOT of stuff in this book. Some, a bit much, but not for others. It’s not too cheesy which is always best in books like these.

This is simply excellent. It is work, re-wiring one's self to be grateful, but this book has practical ways to change in powerful ways. It covers the big areas of life, including death, and is very well written. Highly recommended.

Thanks very much for the review copy!