05/01/2024
The Graebes (hosts of the podcast Rhythm of Us and coauthors of The Rhythm of Us: Create the Thriving Marriage You Long For) are the parents of five children. Their first pregnancy surprised them; Jenni was still finishing college. Their book presents their hard-earned perspective that it's okay to make mistakes and have doubts, fears, and worries, because lessons can come from them. They have found that what works for them is to live life slowly and intentionally and to spend time as a family together around the table. Readers may want to emulate some of the rituals they have developed, such as maintaining a family journal of gratitude or hosting a rite-of-passage party when a child turns 13, in which other family members speak words of thankfulness about the person being celebrated. A main thread throughout the book is the reminder that most people have good qualities within them. The authors challenge readers to find those gifts within each person in their family and to avoid over-criticism. VERDICT A practical resource with ideas and reflective observations about how to live a more intentional life together as a family.
