SPIRITUALITY & RELIGION

Loving Well in a Broken World: Discover the Hidden Power of Empathy

by Lauren Casper
Thomas Nelson. Feb. 2020. 240p. ISBN 9780718085551. pap. $18.99. REL
COPY ISBN
The basic issue for Casper is this: We are told to live by the Golden Rule (loving others as we want to be loved), but aren’t told how to do it. In the author’s previous book, I’m Okay About It, she opined about the virtues of looking at the world through a child’s eyes; in her case, that meant understanding and appreciating the perspective of her young son, who lives with a disability. Here, Casper focuses her gaze on the power of empathy, or forgiving another before judging. More poignantly, Casper explores what it means to turn that acceptance inward, finding the grace to forgive oneself as a prerequisite for empathy on behalf of another. To Casper, that is our role as citizens of the world. Readers find this title affecting, refreshing, and hopeful.
VERDICT A light read, these pages are chock-full of optimism in the midst of difficult times, offering nondenominational, faith-infused guidance. A treat for loyal followers of Casper’s writings.
Reviewed by Sandra Collins, Byzantine Catholic Seminary Lib., Pittsburgh , Feb 14, 2020

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Learning To Be: Finding Your Center After the Bottom Falls Out
by Rasmus, Juanita Campbell
NONFICTION

A Rhythm of Prayer: A Collection of Meditations for Renewal
by Bessey, Sarah
NONFICTION

Beautiful and Terrible Things: A Christian Struggle with Suffering, Grief, and Hope
by Bessey, Sarah
NONFICTION

Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times
by Sacks, Jonathan
NONFICTION

Real Change: Mindfulness To Heal Ourselves and the World
by Salzberg, Sharon
NONFICTION

Veritas: A Harvard Professor, a Con Man and the Gospel of Jesus’s Wife
by Sabar, Ariel
More

Get connected. Join our global community of more than 200,000 librarians and educators.

Get access to 8000+ annual reviews of books, ebooks, and more

As low as $13.50/month