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Write With Me to Keep What Matters in Mind
This is the second Journaling book from Vanita Oelschlager. This journal is for moving on after surviving addiction, divorce, sickness or other life situations. Write With Me helps lead your way home, with inspiring photography, introspective prompts and words of encouragement from Vanita and other notable authors, mystics and humanitarians.
220 pages, Hardcover
Published March 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 1, 2021
Write With Me to Keep What Matters in Mind is Vanita Oelschlager's second excursion into the world of guided journals, following 2017's Signposts on the Road to Wellville. Reviewing both titles has led me to reconsider my understanding of what a guided journal actually is. I had in my mind a workbook or activity book of targeted exercises, whereas this title is more of an blank (lined) notebook interleaved with quotes designed to provoke consideration and prompt written reflection. I'd liken it to a Bradley Trevor Greive title with space to write your own thoughts. Not really my thing, to be honest, but I can appreciate how it would be helpful for many readers.
Write With Me contains a curious mix of quotations ranging from the profound through the light-hearted to a couple that seemed almost flippant. I had trouble discerning the deeper meaning behind a few of the ideas, perhaps because I live in a different culture to the author. The themes are broadly around self-actualisation, gratitude, risk-taking, resilience and forgiveness.
The accompanying photographs are widely-sourced and well chosen to fit the material.
My thanks to the author, designer, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
Write With Me contains a curious mix of quotations ranging from the profound through the light-hearted to a couple that seemed almost flippant. I had trouble discerning the deeper meaning behind a few of the ideas, perhaps because I live in a different culture to the author. The themes are broadly around self-actualisation, gratitude, risk-taking, resilience and forgiveness.
The accompanying photographs are widely-sourced and well chosen to fit the material.
My thanks to the author, designer, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
November 5, 2020
Beautiful quotes and images. Not sure ut helped me get through my sickness. But was wonderfully out together. Woukd be nice in a hard copy.
July 7, 2019
Write with Me: To Keep What Matters in Mind Journaling the Journey with Vanita Oelschanger
May 2019
Newburn Drive
2018
Nonfiction, self help
I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review from NetGalley and Newburn Drive.
“Write with me to keep what matters in mind.”
This is a vividly illustrated book with quotes from various people, including authors, actors and historical figures. After each photo with inspirational comments there is a page provided for journaling. This book serves as an inspiration for mindful reflection. The quotes and comments are meant to encourage us to acknowledge our priorities. Aside from the illustrations and inspiring words, the book also serves to provide assistance to charities where “people help people help themselves”. Also, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Oak Clinic for Muscular Sclerosis.
May 2019
Newburn Drive
2018
Nonfiction, self help
I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review from NetGalley and Newburn Drive.
“Write with me to keep what matters in mind.”
This is a vividly illustrated book with quotes from various people, including authors, actors and historical figures. After each photo with inspirational comments there is a page provided for journaling. This book serves as an inspiration for mindful reflection. The quotes and comments are meant to encourage us to acknowledge our priorities. Aside from the illustrations and inspiring words, the book also serves to provide assistance to charities where “people help people help themselves”. Also, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Oak Clinic for Muscular Sclerosis.
November 4, 2023
"Write With Me to Keep What Matters in Mind" by Vanita Oelschalger presents a commendable concept: using writing as a therapeutic tool to preserve memories and emotions. While the author's intentions are undoubtedly heartfelt and noble, the execution of the book leaves much to be desired.
One of the main issues I encountered was the lack of depth in the writing exercises. The prompts provided feel somewhat surface-level and fail to delve into the nuanced complexities of memory and emotion. This leaves the reader wanting for more substantial guidance in exploring their inner thoughts and experiences.
Additionally, the structure of the book could benefit from more organization and coherence. The progression of exercises feels disjointed at times, making it challenging to follow a clear path of introspection. A more structured approach could have enhanced the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.
Furthermore, the writing style, while sincere, occasionally comes across as overly simplistic. This may not provide the depth of engagement that some readers may be seeking in a book of this nature. A more nuanced and layered approach to the exercises could have enriched the overall experience.
On a positive note, the inclusion of personal anecdotes from the author's own life is a nice touch, adding a personal and relatable dimension to the book. It helps create a sense of connection with the reader and offers a glimpse into the author's own experiences with the therapeutic power of writing.
In conclusion, "Write With Me to Keep What Matters in Mind" carries a heartfelt message and a genuine desire to assist readers in their journey of self-reflection and preservation of memories. However, the execution falls short of delivering the depth and structure needed to truly make a lasting impact. While the intention is admirable, the book may benefit from further refinement and a more focused approach to the writing exercises.
I was provided an advanced copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
One of the main issues I encountered was the lack of depth in the writing exercises. The prompts provided feel somewhat surface-level and fail to delve into the nuanced complexities of memory and emotion. This leaves the reader wanting for more substantial guidance in exploring their inner thoughts and experiences.
Additionally, the structure of the book could benefit from more organization and coherence. The progression of exercises feels disjointed at times, making it challenging to follow a clear path of introspection. A more structured approach could have enhanced the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.
Furthermore, the writing style, while sincere, occasionally comes across as overly simplistic. This may not provide the depth of engagement that some readers may be seeking in a book of this nature. A more nuanced and layered approach to the exercises could have enriched the overall experience.
On a positive note, the inclusion of personal anecdotes from the author's own life is a nice touch, adding a personal and relatable dimension to the book. It helps create a sense of connection with the reader and offers a glimpse into the author's own experiences with the therapeutic power of writing.
In conclusion, "Write With Me to Keep What Matters in Mind" carries a heartfelt message and a genuine desire to assist readers in their journey of self-reflection and preservation of memories. However, the execution falls short of delivering the depth and structure needed to truly make a lasting impact. While the intention is admirable, the book may benefit from further refinement and a more focused approach to the writing exercises.
I was provided an advanced copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2020
Don’t See the Point
While this book is beautiful looking with large, colorful photographs (though some do seem a little too much like standard stock images), I don't quite get the point of it. The description states that this is meant to help people move on from a variety of life situations like divorce or addiction, but I don't see how this book helps that process at all. The book is organized so that there is a single journal page opposite a picture with a quote. Some quotes were interesting while others seemed too generic, like those pep-talk statements you see on posters hanging in a workroom or institutional toilet. Some quotes, too, almost seemed as if they were going for humor, which didn't seem quite right given the context. I just didn't really see how these quotes specifically addressed moving on. And I really didn't see how they could be used as writing prompts. Perhaps it's because I'm used to writing prompts for writers, but I just didn't see how you could take any of these quotes and journal anything meaningful about them and moving on. So, this book just didn't work for me.
I received a free copy of this book from #NetGalley, but that did not affect my review.
While this book is beautiful looking with large, colorful photographs (though some do seem a little too much like standard stock images), I don't quite get the point of it. The description states that this is meant to help people move on from a variety of life situations like divorce or addiction, but I don't see how this book helps that process at all. The book is organized so that there is a single journal page opposite a picture with a quote. Some quotes were interesting while others seemed too generic, like those pep-talk statements you see on posters hanging in a workroom or institutional toilet. Some quotes, too, almost seemed as if they were going for humor, which didn't seem quite right given the context. I just didn't really see how these quotes specifically addressed moving on. And I really didn't see how they could be used as writing prompts. Perhaps it's because I'm used to writing prompts for writers, but I just didn't see how you could take any of these quotes and journal anything meaningful about them and moving on. So, this book just didn't work for me.
I received a free copy of this book from #NetGalley, but that did not affect my review.
October 11, 2018
Per the publisher:
This "book" is actually a journal. Every other page provides a nice image with an inspiration or motivating quote. One I liked a lot said "The secret to living well and longer is: eat half, walk double, love triple, and laugh without measure".
Although the book is geared towards those moving on from grief or divorce, I don't think anything in it makes it necessarily so. The book is full of inspiring quotes and lined pages for journaling. As I do with my own, make it yours. Write what you want, be inspired, use the quotes as prompts, etc. After all, journals are personal.
I received a DIGITAL Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second Journaling book from Vanita Oelschlager. This journal is for moving on after surviving addiction, divorce, sickness or other life situations. Write With Me helps lead your way home, with inspiring photography, introspective prompts and words of encouragement from Vanita and other notable authors, mystics and humanitarians.
This "book" is actually a journal. Every other page provides a nice image with an inspiration or motivating quote. One I liked a lot said "The secret to living well and longer is: eat half, walk double, love triple, and laugh without measure".
Although the book is geared towards those moving on from grief or divorce, I don't think anything in it makes it necessarily so. The book is full of inspiring quotes and lined pages for journaling. As I do with my own, make it yours. Write what you want, be inspired, use the quotes as prompts, etc. After all, journals are personal.
I received a DIGITAL Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2020
Write With Me is a journal that intersperses blank writing pages with photographs and quotations. While the quotes are not directly formatted as writing prompts, each quotation as well as each photograph provides an immersive writing experience in this guided journal.
Since this does not offer direct instruction, the journal relies on the writer to self-direct writing activities. This will help some writers who are resistant to following directions and hamper other writers who are looking for a stronger and more deliberate guidance.
#WriteWithMe #NetGalley
Since this does not offer direct instruction, the journal relies on the writer to self-direct writing activities. This will help some writers who are resistant to following directions and hamper other writers who are looking for a stronger and more deliberate guidance.
#WriteWithMe #NetGalley
March 5, 2023
I have read several of Vanita Oelschalger's books and I am always impressed by her ability to capture the essence of what matters. Her latest book, Write With Me, is no exception. This book is a great resource for anyone looking to explore their thoughts and feelings in a meaningful way. Oelschalger provides thoughtful exercises and prompts to help you reflect on your life and make meaningful connections.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 20, 2019
Having reviewed a couple of Vanita’s books for children here already, I was eager to read this book of hers, especially since it was on journaling.
This little book has stunning photographs, inspirational poems and quotes on one side and blank ruled pages on the other side for you to journal.
I received an e-book from the publisher, but once I started going through it I wished I had a hard copy.
This would make a great gift for writers/ those who journal.
This little book has stunning photographs, inspirational poems and quotes on one side and blank ruled pages on the other side for you to journal.
I received an e-book from the publisher, but once I started going through it I wished I had a hard copy.
This would make a great gift for writers/ those who journal.
October 11, 2019
Beautiful.
If I told you this was a book of quotations with pages provided for journaling responses, you'd probably say, "Oh, quotations. Yawn." I thought the same at first, until I saw the beautiful photography that accompanied each. I only wish there were 365 quotations provided, one for every day.
I have not yet seen the book in print, but imagine it will be even more beautiful.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a download of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If I told you this was a book of quotations with pages provided for journaling responses, you'd probably say, "Oh, quotations. Yawn." I thought the same at first, until I saw the beautiful photography that accompanied each. I only wish there were 365 quotations provided, one for every day.
I have not yet seen the book in print, but imagine it will be even more beautiful.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a download of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2020
A beautiful journal with vivid photos and quotes or sayings on every page and then one blank line to write. You can use it to write one page a day using prompts on whatever photo and quote is there that day, or use more pages to write what you'd like. Every photo and quote is different to offer a lot of different inspiration and perspective. Neat book for any type of writing journal.
April 22, 2020
Write With Me is a great journaling resource for people moving through challenging emotions, particularly grief and loss. Although difficult to navigate as an e-book, the quotes, pictures and prompts offer a wonderful guide to writing through feelings.
August 20, 2021
Wonderful journaling book. Write With Me is the second book by this author. It's basically intended for survivors of addiction, sickness, divorce, and/or other life events. Love the photography, beautiful
Very well done.
Very well done.
August 29, 2019
Not quite what I was expecting when it came to prompts but the photography was stunning and the quotes were inspirational.
December 16, 2019
A motivational resource for writers at all stages, designed to assist in working through creative blocks and inspiring the writer.
July 9, 2023
This book is filled with beautiful images and thoughtful quotes. It provides a healthy dose of inspiration to any reader/writer. For many, this book provides the spark to light a creative response.
October 24, 2018
This book contains inspirational poems with pages for journaling. At the time I read it, I needed a pick me up. This was definitely it. I cannot say enough good about this book. Buy it, use it and rejoice in the way it makes you feel.
Definitely five stars.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Definitely five stars.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
April 14, 2019
Write With Me by Vanita Oelschalger is true to its name. It is a journal, where every alternate page has a beautiful and a thoughtful quote. It is a perfect journal, that inspire you to write. My only complaint is that the journal is short, there should be 365 blank pages, one for each day of the year.
April 30, 2019
Write with Me
Not what I expected. A book of quotes, not all from the same author. I'm not sure if it didn't download correctly, all I could see were quotes. A little bit random.
Not what I expected. A book of quotes, not all from the same author. I'm not sure if it didn't download correctly, all I could see were quotes. A little bit random.
May 10, 2019
Journaling can be a way of opening a window into yourself. Sometimes we can’t see the very thing that we need, because our thoughts are overwhelming. When you put it down on paper, not only does it give you the space to digest the details but it provides a direct path to deal with the words.
A lot of people use journaling or notes to write down things they wish they could let go of. By burning or even burying the paper can give us a sense of peace and even closure.
There are also quite a few who want to get it all out of their brain, categorize, and then handle their business. Writing it all out is a way to release those thoughts and then plan a course of action without being pulled down by mundane details.
Vanita offers some amazing insight on how to journal for addiction, loss and more. If you’re struggling and don’t know how to remove the worry, journaling may be able to really help you.
If anything, it will quiet your mind and give you a chance to breath without feeling overwhelmed with life.
A lot of people use journaling or notes to write down things they wish they could let go of. By burning or even burying the paper can give us a sense of peace and even closure.
There are also quite a few who want to get it all out of their brain, categorize, and then handle their business. Writing it all out is a way to release those thoughts and then plan a course of action without being pulled down by mundane details.
Vanita offers some amazing insight on how to journal for addiction, loss and more. If you’re struggling and don’t know how to remove the worry, journaling may be able to really help you.
If anything, it will quiet your mind and give you a chance to breath without feeling overwhelmed with life.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews