This is my first book by the author, although her previous work has garnered significant attention and praise.

This book serves as a comforting guide during turbulent times, presented in a letter format that feels personal and thoughtful.

The book is divided into three main sections: when it’s hard to be with others, when it’s hard to be with yourself, and when it’s hard to be with your feelings. Each of these sections is further divided into subsections that address specific challenges.

Each chapter is concise, offering a wealth of practical tips for navigating various emotional struggles. I particularly appreciated the inclusion of insightful quotes and key takeaways within each subsection, which helped me better grasp the central themes being presented.

My favorite chapters focused on topics that resonated deeply with me: when it’s hard to ask for help, when everything feels pointless, and when you feel like an imposter.

As a psychiatrist, I found that the strategies presented in this book align closely with what I practice daily. It’s written in a simple, accessible manner, making it easy to digest and understand.

That being said, the concepts discussed in the book are fairly fundamental and might feel too simplistic for those who are already in therapy or have an in-depth understanding of emotional regulation. I believe this book will be especially valuable for readers who are looking for an introductory or slightly intermediate resource for managing their emotions.

While the book lacks some depth, which could leave some readers seeking more detailed exploration, its simplicity makes it a great starting point for those looking to improve emotional well-being.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for practical, easy-to-follow advice. Take your time with it, and implement the methods at your own pace to see the best results.

I would like to extend my gratitude to Times Reads and Penguin USA for the review copy.