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Getting Through What You're Going Through: Notes and Poems for Hoping and Becoming
Read by the author.
Find hope and purpose as you discover that you’re right where you’re supposed to be.
Maybe you thought you’d be further along by now. Or have a different kind of life. Maybe you thought that relationship would have happened, that dream would have come true, that path would have opened up—and it didn’t. Or you feel stuck, behind, not sure if you made a wrong turn somewhere. You’re trying to make sense of what is, even if what “is” is not what you thought it would be. Or maybe you’re searching for a moment of peace before carrying on.
Getting Through What You’re Going Through by poet and writer Tanner Olson explores these ideas and offers you hope through it all. You don’t have to just “get through”; you can “go through”—all the ups and downs, disappointments, unexpected surprises—knowing that God is present and hope remains. In this collection of over one hundred poems and reflections, Tanner shows that God’s timing may be slow until it isn’t. Every day presents a gift to open. And hope is there to be found in the simplest things—a cup of coffee, a good friend, a single pancake.
If you’re feeling stuck, unsettled, or even just happy to be here, know that hope remains and you’re right where you’re supposed to be.
Find hope and purpose as you discover that you’re right where you’re supposed to be.
Maybe you thought you’d be further along by now. Or have a different kind of life. Maybe you thought that relationship would have happened, that dream would have come true, that path would have opened up—and it didn’t. Or you feel stuck, behind, not sure if you made a wrong turn somewhere. You’re trying to make sense of what is, even if what “is” is not what you thought it would be. Or maybe you’re searching for a moment of peace before carrying on.
Getting Through What You’re Going Through by poet and writer Tanner Olson explores these ideas and offers you hope through it all. You don’t have to just “get through”; you can “go through”—all the ups and downs, disappointments, unexpected surprises—knowing that God is present and hope remains. In this collection of over one hundred poems and reflections, Tanner shows that God’s timing may be slow until it isn’t. Every day presents a gift to open. And hope is there to be found in the simplest things—a cup of coffee, a good friend, a single pancake.
If you’re feeling stuck, unsettled, or even just happy to be here, know that hope remains and you’re right where you’re supposed to be.
192 pages, Hardcover
Published February 17, 2026
39 people are currently reading
1922 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 15, 2026
Sometimes words have hands. They take hold of yours and lead you to a chair. “Sit down,” they say. Those words look you in the eye and speak truths you have long known but could not articulate. That is what Tanner’s book does. Here is a book brimming with graceful words that invite you to wring everything you can from life—and then to live that life within the life of Christ.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Getting Through What You're Going Through is a collection of notes and poetry that explores past and present, could have beens and have beens, hope and purpose, ups and downs and disappointments and rejoycefulness. Much of the content is centred around faith and God, and this did put me off a little at times, but I pushed through and enjoyed it for the most part.
I really enjoyed the poems: Grief, Not All Growth Is Seen and You're Still Here, and I found a connection and comfort from each of these poems.
Getting Through What You're Going Through is a collection of notes and poetry that explores past and present, could have beens and have beens, hope and purpose, ups and downs and disappointments and rejoycefulness. Much of the content is centred around faith and God, and this did put me off a little at times, but I pushed through and enjoyed it for the most part.
I really enjoyed the poems: Grief, Not All Growth Is Seen and You're Still Here, and I found a connection and comfort from each of these poems.
December 7, 2025
Chock full of hope with a unique rhythm of essay, poetry, and contemplative thoughts and space. I have referenced ideas from it in therapy several times in the month I have spent with it.
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February 18, 2026Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. Thank you Netgalley & Publisher.
I wanted to try something new, and I've been interested in Christianity lately. Not that I am planning to become a Christian, but I believe firmly that one should inform themselves of others religions, because there might be some lessons there that you can take with you in your day to day life.
While I believe there are certainly lessons in this poetry collection, it just didn't hit the spot for me and I found myself annoyed with the author. He felt very unlikable to me. His ideals, especially the constant complaining about screens and how this generation is addicted to their phone, broke the rhythm of hope that this book was supposed to bring.
It felt more like he was trying to push his ideals onto me than that he was writing about Hope and God.
While I truly believe that the author's belief is a huge support in his life and gives him hope, it is brought up nearly every poem. Clearly, I am not the target audience. I had to DNF the book at 30%, simply because I was ready to throw it against the wall in pure frustration.
I wanted to try something new, and I've been interested in Christianity lately. Not that I am planning to become a Christian, but I believe firmly that one should inform themselves of others religions, because there might be some lessons there that you can take with you in your day to day life.
While I believe there are certainly lessons in this poetry collection, it just didn't hit the spot for me and I found myself annoyed with the author. He felt very unlikable to me. His ideals, especially the constant complaining about screens and how this generation is addicted to their phone, broke the rhythm of hope that this book was supposed to bring.
It felt more like he was trying to push his ideals onto me than that he was writing about Hope and God.
While I truly believe that the author's belief is a huge support in his life and gives him hope, it is brought up nearly every poem. Clearly, I am not the target audience. I had to DNF the book at 30%, simply because I was ready to throw it against the wall in pure frustration.
March 23, 2026
This book was easy to pick up and read a page or two at the end of the day. I appreciated all the wise words and can't wait to share this book with my people!
March 28, 2026
Poetry that reads like liturgy. Words that lead me to God’s promises that I want to read over and over again. My daily prescription when I want to be reminded of the goodness of God. My copy is full of dog eared pages for me to easily turn back to, but I had to stop, because otherwise all the book would be is just bent up pages. Bravo, Tanner. Looking forward to hearing these poems read live.
March 26, 2026
“As you go, stay curious, kind, and hopeful. Let joy meet you where you are. Breathe in deep and hold on tight to the miracle of this life—to be here and alive. Go through this life with tears, questions, and sleepless nights. With friends, family, and friends who have become family. With hope, love, and faith. Whatever you do, go through it. Go through it all."
Gentle reminders and sweet truths. I can see myself going back to this one often.
Honorable mention quote is the first sentence of the acknowledgements: “First, it is important for me to thank God for coffee, dogs, and sunshine.” Tanner gets it.
Gentle reminders and sweet truths. I can see myself going back to this one often.
Honorable mention quote is the first sentence of the acknowledgements: “First, it is important for me to thank God for coffee, dogs, and sunshine.” Tanner gets it.
February 8, 2026
I read this as I was reading the Alchemist for the first time and it was a happy, prefect accident or fate. Both had faith mentions which I normally don’t gravitate towards as a non-believer, but they came to me exactly when I needed it. I am in the point of my life where I already noticed I need to slow down and be more present, so ready this really resonated. One of the first poems even made me cry. Even though I am not a religious person today, my Catholic roots still appreciate faith writings. I think at some points it did get a little too faith based for my personal liking, but still enjoyed the overall book. I think the author blended humor and modern day into the poems well too. I would read something from this author again and especially recommend for my friends and family who are more into faith.
P.S. I read an ARC of this from NetGalley.
P.S. I read an ARC of this from NetGalley.
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February 4, 2026DNFed 10% into it.
The author is a talented writer but 10 poems or notes in his religion has been brought up and the focus of the majority of them. I’m unable to relate and it’s clear I’m not going to take anything away from this because of that difference.
The author is a talented writer but 10 poems or notes in his religion has been brought up and the focus of the majority of them. I’m unable to relate and it’s clear I’m not going to take anything away from this because of that difference.
March 4, 2026
One of my favorite books of the year thus far! Absolutely lovely, moving, relevant poems and writings about life's ups and downs and the Faith that sees us through it all. I saw Tanner Olson perform some of his spoken word poetry in videos from the National Youth Gathering of the LCMS. I was hooked. His words are spot on in these troubled times. Read and ponder them.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This collection of poetry and notes included to add depth to the story of the creation of this collection opens us to all look around us and accept what we can or cannot control, just ease.
From discussing the pressures of stress and how they can make you physically ill in various ways, for example, my own mum has suffered with Psoriasis from stress with no previous experience in any of her sixty years of life she'd live through including some rough times.
The book reminds us to hold Hope and Grace and believe life can get better through all the tough times we face.
The poem, Grief, was simple in reading but full of deep feelings and emotions.
Not All Growth Is Seen, too, was a strong poem about depth over natural observation at surface level.
Let Change Come, how we should embrace the good and bad of life that shapes us especially as we often can't stop it happening.
It's a book about embracing life and getting outside enjoying nature and connection with others too and the snapshots captured of life and discussed in the book are delightful and eye-opening.
A book to leave you feeling able to relate to many aspects and comforted that we often all face similar hards times.
From discussing the pressures of stress and how they can make you physically ill in various ways, for example, my own mum has suffered with Psoriasis from stress with no previous experience in any of her sixty years of life she'd live through including some rough times.
The book reminds us to hold Hope and Grace and believe life can get better through all the tough times we face.
The poem, Grief, was simple in reading but full of deep feelings and emotions.
Not All Growth Is Seen, too, was a strong poem about depth over natural observation at surface level.
Let Change Come, how we should embrace the good and bad of life that shapes us especially as we often can't stop it happening.
It's a book about embracing life and getting outside enjoying nature and connection with others too and the snapshots captured of life and discussed in the book are delightful and eye-opening.
A book to leave you feeling able to relate to many aspects and comforted that we often all face similar hards times.
March 19, 2026
Most books about hard seasons try to hand you an answer key. This one doesn't, and that's what makes it refreshing.
Tanner Olson has a disarming quality. He acknowledges that life is genuinely hard without adding to the weight of it. That's a rare and difficult thing to pull off, and he does it with humor and honesty that never tips into preachiness. Every poem and essay radiates encouragement without feeling forced or cheesy.
To be honest, I'm not a big poetry guy. But I found something worth sitting with in nearly every piece. In my opinion the essays are where Tanner's voice really opens up. His poetic writing style gives even simple stories so much character.
Reading this felt less like working through a self-help book and more like a long conversation with a close friend, the kind where you talk about the good, the bad, and the mundane, and somehow feel more settled by the end. There are no guilt trips here, no "do better" energy. Just steady reassurance that you're not as lost as you think.
I won't carry this as a daily problem-solving guide, but I'll keep it within reach for the moments my internal monologue needs a reset or a fresh perspective. And it's genuinely one of the best gifts you could give someone navigating a hard season.
Tanner Olson has a disarming quality. He acknowledges that life is genuinely hard without adding to the weight of it. That's a rare and difficult thing to pull off, and he does it with humor and honesty that never tips into preachiness. Every poem and essay radiates encouragement without feeling forced or cheesy.
To be honest, I'm not a big poetry guy. But I found something worth sitting with in nearly every piece. In my opinion the essays are where Tanner's voice really opens up. His poetic writing style gives even simple stories so much character.
Reading this felt less like working through a self-help book and more like a long conversation with a close friend, the kind where you talk about the good, the bad, and the mundane, and somehow feel more settled by the end. There are no guilt trips here, no "do better" energy. Just steady reassurance that you're not as lost as you think.
I won't carry this as a daily problem-solving guide, but I'll keep it within reach for the moments my internal monologue needs a reset or a fresh perspective. And it's genuinely one of the best gifts you could give someone navigating a hard season.
March 22, 2026
I deliberately took my time reading this book so I could savor each page. It’s not something to rush through. And it’s not a one and done type read. It’s a beautiful, compact means of God’s grace to all looking for encouragement and hope. You don’t have to be discouraged to read it but do read it if you’re discouraged. Take a few poems and notes at a time. Read them aloud and share them with friends. Don’t be afraid to write in the book like a journal. As Tanner writes on page 79 when quoting his mom, “messes are necessary to get something good.” Hence a freshly squeezed orange on the cover. Let this book squeeze you a little.
The book itself is wonderfully constructed. The design, content, illustrations - even the paper-quality all have substance and beauty. Hint: it makes an excellent gift.
Take time to read the sincere acknowledgments at the back. I have met many of the people Tanner thanks and it’s a good reminder of what it looks like when we love others as ourselves.
The book itself is wonderfully constructed. The design, content, illustrations - even the paper-quality all have substance and beauty. Hint: it makes an excellent gift.
Take time to read the sincere acknowledgments at the back. I have met many of the people Tanner thanks and it’s a good reminder of what it looks like when we love others as ourselves.
March 8, 2026
Reading Getting Through What You’re Going Through was a special experience for me because I’ve had the privilege of being a friend of Tanner Olson. Knowing his heart makes this book even more meaningful, because the compassion, honesty, and hope in these pages are exactly who he is in real life.
Tanner has a gift for putting words to the hard seasons we all walk through. The reflections and prayers are simple, thoughtful, and deeply encouraging without pretending that life’s struggles are easy. Instead, they gently remind us that we are not alone and that hope can still be found even in the middle of difficulty.
The short entries make this a book you can return to again and again—especially on days when you just need a few quiet words of comfort and perspective. I’m grateful for Tanner’s voice and the encouragement this book brings to so many people.
Tanner has a gift for putting words to the hard seasons we all walk through. The reflections and prayers are simple, thoughtful, and deeply encouraging without pretending that life’s struggles are easy. Instead, they gently remind us that we are not alone and that hope can still be found even in the middle of difficulty.
The short entries make this a book you can return to again and again—especially on days when you just need a few quiet words of comfort and perspective. I’m grateful for Tanner’s voice and the encouragement this book brings to so many people.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Getting Trough What You're Going Through" has some really good poems and advice. However, I feel as though this should have been split into two separate books; part one for poetry and part two for notes if you wanted more. I enjoyed the poems more, but the notes were a bit draining. Not because they aren't helpful. When you are going through a lot sometimes you may not want to read a lot. Some of my favorites were, "You Cannot Make God Hurry", The Other Side of This", What Today Will Bring", "Squeeze Me Out", and "Come Back to Yourself". I recommend this book to those who are going through a difficult time and need something to hold on to.
Thanks NetGalley for this arc!
Thanks NetGalley for this arc!
February 18, 2026
Tanner Olsen has created a space for readers who feel displaced and stuck in life circumstances to feel all of those emotions that come with it. While doing so, he also shows us the child we are in Christ and that He walks with us in every facet we face in life.
Tanner's book has been a joy to read. The author truly reflects his work: intelligent, relatable, funny, and inspiring.
I would encourage you to please purchase and read this book. I can only promise that you will cherish it as much as I do.
Tanner's book has been a joy to read. The author truly reflects his work: intelligent, relatable, funny, and inspiring.
I would encourage you to please purchase and read this book. I can only promise that you will cherish it as much as I do.
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February 20, 2026 Tanner Olson writes with unvarnished honesty about his own struggles, questions, and reflections through verse and prose in “Getting Through What You’re Going Through.” He invites us to encounter the God of Hope, reminding us that Jesus isn’t afraid of our questions. What I found in these pages is that we are not alone; we have God and each other, and we can find purpose right where we are. Thank you, Tanner, for the honesty, the tears, and a whole lot of hope.
February 21, 2026
This is one of those rare books that I will come back to and reread and mark up and quote. It meets you exactly where you are with a healthy dose of love, grace, and hope. It is a beautiful reflection of the joys and struggles of life in a broken and imperfect world, and reminds of the oft-overlooked blessings and mercies in our lives. Beautiful. Moving. Calming. Such a breath of fresh air in this chaotic world.
February 22, 2026
4/5 Stars
What I appreciated about the poetry and notes is that they weren’t afraid to address the darkness and uncertainties of life. There were several poems I could relate to in this collection. Just a heads up: the book’s description made it seem like it would simply touch on faith and God, but the writing is actually very faith and God centered throughout. This put me off at times, but I pushed through and was still able to appreciate the poems through a non-religious lens.
What I appreciated about the poetry and notes is that they weren’t afraid to address the darkness and uncertainties of life. There were several poems I could relate to in this collection. Just a heads up: the book’s description made it seem like it would simply touch on faith and God, but the writing is actually very faith and God centered throughout. This put me off at times, but I pushed through and was still able to appreciate the poems through a non-religious lens.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a funny, uplifting, creative book to give you a boost on days that feel hard, boring, or endless. It's a short, easy read that you can turn to when you need a lift. As a poetry fan, this book appealed to me. It made me smile and I only wish it would have been longer.
I received a preview copy of this book from Netgalley.
I received a preview copy of this book from Netgalley.
February 23, 2026
There aren't enough superlatives that would allow me to do justice to this book. I have a growing love for poetry (which makes up the vast majority of this book), especially poetry that is accessible as this is.
This is a book that will remain off the shelf and on my desk for the daily thumbing through and reading a poem or two.
This is a book that will remain off the shelf and on my desk for the daily thumbing through and reading a poem or two.
February 17, 2026
Tanner Olson is one-of-a-kind. Moving effortlessly between poetry and story-telling, he writes with both humor and heart. "Getting Through What You're Going Through" is just the read for anyone who's looking to laugh, to cry, or just to feel the gift of being alive. This book is a treasure!
February 21, 2026
I could not put this book down. It’s the most beautiful, raw, honest, and relatable text I’ve read in a long time. I can’t count the times I said to myself, “Wow, I feel seen. I didn’t know anyone else had language for these things I feel in my faith.” I will read this one over and over again.
February 24, 2026
Absolutely. Blown. Away. Tanner Olson’s honest and lovely writing made me feel seen. His struggles, together with the truth of God’s faithfulness, strengthened and lifted my heart as I struggle. This book encouraged me forward in gratitude and hope. Highly recommend!
February 26, 2026
As always, I love Tanner Olson’s books. This one was great!
March 4, 2026
I love Tanner Olson’s work.
March 9, 2026
Honestly this was a very hopeful and inspiring read, but it also has many repetitive points and analogies/ concepts it repeats. But overall worth a read- but perhaps a slower type of read.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews