Book Review: We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions
Glennon Doyle, alongside her sister Amanda and wife Abby Wambach, has long been a beacon of vulnerability and resilience in the literary world. So, when I stumbled upon We Can Do Hard Things, I felt an immediate pull—like following a familiar, comforting trail back to a trusted friend. The idea that a book could serve as a guidebook for navigating life’s biggest questions intrigued me. Who doesn’t need a lovely companion through the chaos of love, grief, joy, and the uncertainty that ties us all together?
At its heart, this book is a treasure trove of wisdom gathered from deep conversations among the authors and impressive contributors. Doyle, Wambach, and Doyle’s candid struggles—whether it’s Glennon’s battle with anorexia or Amanda’s cancer diagnosis—set a poignant backdrop for the larger dialogue about life’s perplexing questions. As I turned the pages, I was struck by the raw honesty and relatability in their narratives. Each chapter feels like a heart-to-heart chat with friends, inviting us in with open arms and encouraging us to confront our innermost fears and desires.
The writing style is refreshingly straightforward, blending poignant anecdotes with moments of levity. I appreciated how the book is structured around twenty key questions, each serving as a compass to navigate through overwhelming emotions or confusing situations. It’s not about providing pat answers but about fostering introspection and connection, a reality reflected in phrases like, "No matter what road we are walking down, someone else has traveled the same terrain." This sentiment resonated deeply with me, reminding me that even in solitude, we are part of a larger tapestry of shared experiences.
Among my favorite moments are the relatable snippets from the podcast, perfectly woven into the text. A standout for me was a quote by Glennon: "The harder life gets, the less likely we are to remember the answers we know.” It pulled at my heartstrings because it’s a feeling I often grapple with—losing sight of previously learned wisdom during life’s storms. Readers share that they find this book to be ideal for revisiting, and I couldn’t agree more; it feels like a gentle reminder that personal growth is an ongoing journey, not a destination.
We Can Do Hard Things is undoubtedly for anyone navigating the uncertainties of life—parents, partners, friends, or those simply searching for clarity. It is a poignant reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and though the questions may loom large, we can tackle them together. Personally, this book rekindles my belief in the power of community and conversation as healing tools. Each page encourages a deeper understanding of both myself and others, making it an enriching experience I’d recommend to anyone seeking connection and wisdom in their life’s journey.
So, grab a cozy blanket and a favorite beverage, and let this book guide you through the beautiful, messy terrain that is being alive. You may just find the insights you didn’t know you were looking for.
You can find We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions here >>