With Pen in Hand: The Healing Power of Writing

I pulled this book from the library with a number of others and almost returned it unread. I'm glad that I didn't do that, however, because I've gotten so much out of it. I have used this type of journal writing for a number of years and can testify to its healing powers. I am always amazed at how quickly peace can come or how solutions can appear just by moving the pen across the page. In spite of the fact that I have been practicing what this book is "preaching", I was still able to glean some practical tips and inspiration to continue using this in my daily life even when I'm not faced with some earth-shattering crisis. I'd highly recommend this. It's cheaper than a psychiatrist and safer than drugs and all you have to do is pick up a pen.

These books, including my own, 'Second Chance Ranch', and Joan Didion's 'The Year of Magical Thinking,' will become more widely read as babyboomers age and begin to come to terms with loss(es). Ms. Klauser is a wonderful writer, and this is a wonderful book.

I read this book for an article for Journals at BellaOnline.com. I found this to be one of the finest books on journal writing that I've read so far. It is not for everyone. However, if you have suffered a painful experience and don't seem to find your way out of it--I suggest this book. I have found writing to be therapeutic also. Dr. Klauser gives suggestions on techniques that help a hurting person write. She does this through the stories of people who have used different techniques to heal from painful and sometimes horrific circumstances. I highly recommend this book.