Reviewed by Joanna Thomas

This three-in-one book includes A Step Further, Choices and Changes and is a challenge for anyone who thanks they have a problem or is in any way suffering from the POMs (poor old me syndrome). In my opinion this incredible woman, Joni, has experienced the nearest thing to hell here on earth and she gladly survives to tell the tale. In instant, her life changes from an active, full of life teenager, to being totally paralysed. Her writing is inspiring and well worth the harrowing journey it takes you through. It is blunt about the trauma and at times the emotions it stimulates can be disturbing, but the insight into suffering is on a par with the writings of CS Lewis. One can't ignore those uncomfortable scriptures that lead us to the conclusion that not all are healed in an obvious way and our human eyes can't always grasp what God is doing in our pain. This book is fresh in its insight and the unfolding of a general plot of "all things work together for good for those that love God" is exciting. Admittedly, this isn't an astounding literary work but it's appealing, easy to read style draws the reader into the gripping drama of real life. There's plenty of meaty stuff, to promote individual grappling with God, between the pages. It certainly puts the everyday stresses of life into perspective and when you pursue her deliverance, through the tragedy, you are left convinced that God cares.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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