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Brave Is the New Beautiful: Finding the Courage to Be the Real You
In a culture that bombards women with "thinspiration" messages and pressure to "do it all" while wearing the mask of perfection, women are left feeling alone and overwhelmed. How can they stop comparing themselves to others? How can they live out who they really are? Lee Wolfe Blum offers stories from everyday women who have answered these questions with their lives—and found true beauty in the process. In Brave Is the New Beautiful, Blum weaves reflections from her own journey with inspirational stories from everyday women who chose to take off their masks and live authentically. Through call-to-action questions and ideas, she encourages readers to be brave enough to be who they really are and the beloved that God knows they are.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2017
69 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
Lee Wolfe Blum
3 books7 followersLee Wolfe Blum works as a Health Educator at the Melrose Center for Eating Disorders in St. Louis Park, Minnesota where she helps run the Eating Disorder and Chemical Dependency Program encouraging and inspiring patients with Co-Occuring Disorders find hope and healing. Lee also speaks regularly sharing her story of hope at churches, schools, and conferences. Lee lives in Edina, Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 3, 2017
First off, I cried so.damn.much.
As in, a lot.
I mean...so much.
The last 4 chapters of this book, I literally did not stop crying. It was like I was being stabbed in the eyes with heartbreak and feelings. I had no idea how powerful it was going to be! I've read a lot of similar books over the last 2 years with Angie Smith and Jennie Allen, and this one was right on par with those. Unfortunately, I'm a pretty empathetic person in general (and it's so horrible), but this book hit me in the lady junk and didn't let up. It's powerful stuff that I couldn't stop relating to. I struggle with depression and anxiety and this book really pulled up a chair with those. I'm not really into tattoos and now I kind of want a semicolon because it makes a ton of sense. There are several poignant thoughts throughout the book - which I highlighted. I might come back and add the ones that stirred me the most.
In the meantime...good LORD, I need to call my therapist.
*p.s. - I received a free copy of this book for my honest review*
As in, a lot.
I mean...so much.
The last 4 chapters of this book, I literally did not stop crying. It was like I was being stabbed in the eyes with heartbreak and feelings. I had no idea how powerful it was going to be! I've read a lot of similar books over the last 2 years with Angie Smith and Jennie Allen, and this one was right on par with those. Unfortunately, I'm a pretty empathetic person in general (and it's so horrible), but this book hit me in the lady junk and didn't let up. It's powerful stuff that I couldn't stop relating to. I struggle with depression and anxiety and this book really pulled up a chair with those. I'm not really into tattoos and now I kind of want a semicolon because it makes a ton of sense. There are several poignant thoughts throughout the book - which I highlighted. I might come back and add the ones that stirred me the most.
In the meantime...good LORD, I need to call my therapist.
*p.s. - I received a free copy of this book for my honest review*
August 11, 2018
Powerful and inspiring, Brave Is the New Beautiful will draw you in with true-life stories that showcase real women with real struggles and a real God who is there to heal, comfort, and empower.
Lee Wolfe Blum proposes a new and powerful definition of beauty in Brave is the new beautiful. Her focus on "finding the courage to be the real you" is a message all women need to hear no matter their life situation, age, status, or past.
What first intrigued me about this book, aside from the eye-catching title, was the fact that Lee used stories from women that she had known to create the majority of her content. As someone who loves reading biographies and real-life stories, I was really intrigued to see how Lee would incorporate the stories into a book that was devotional in nature.
Each chapter is titled with a single word like Hoping, Belonging, and Trusting etc., and mingles Lee's personal history in counseling, her mental health work, and personal struggles along with stories from women she's come in contact with. Then, at the end of each chapter, there are "For Reflection" questions which make this a great tool for Bible studies and group sessions.
This book is powerful. Not all of the stories told are wrapped up with a happy little bow on top or told in a way to make you feel good about yourself. Instead, they depict real life and encourage you to ask God the hard questions without fear knowing that He will answer you. I was brought to tears many times during the course of reading this and found myself craving the next chapter to see what else Lee had to say. I think this was (at least in part) due to the fact that Lee is very open in this book, detailing her own struggles with a frank honesty that is refreshing and encouraging.
I think this quote sums up the focus of the book perfectly:
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful."
(Brave is the new Beautiful, page 215)
I highly recommend this book to all women! It would be perfect in a small group setting (or even a slightly larger group). With a focus on being raw and honest with one another, I think women could truly see lies exposed, walls broken down, and true, beautiful bravery as the result of reading and discussing this book along with prayer and Bible reading.
_______________
I received this book for free but was under no obligation to post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
Lee Wolfe Blum proposes a new and powerful definition of beauty in Brave is the new beautiful. Her focus on "finding the courage to be the real you" is a message all women need to hear no matter their life situation, age, status, or past.
What first intrigued me about this book, aside from the eye-catching title, was the fact that Lee used stories from women that she had known to create the majority of her content. As someone who loves reading biographies and real-life stories, I was really intrigued to see how Lee would incorporate the stories into a book that was devotional in nature.
Each chapter is titled with a single word like Hoping, Belonging, and Trusting etc., and mingles Lee's personal history in counseling, her mental health work, and personal struggles along with stories from women she's come in contact with. Then, at the end of each chapter, there are "For Reflection" questions which make this a great tool for Bible studies and group sessions.
This book is powerful. Not all of the stories told are wrapped up with a happy little bow on top or told in a way to make you feel good about yourself. Instead, they depict real life and encourage you to ask God the hard questions without fear knowing that He will answer you. I was brought to tears many times during the course of reading this and found myself craving the next chapter to see what else Lee had to say. I think this was (at least in part) due to the fact that Lee is very open in this book, detailing her own struggles with a frank honesty that is refreshing and encouraging.
I think this quote sums up the focus of the book perfectly:
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful."
(Brave is the new Beautiful, page 215)
I highly recommend this book to all women! It would be perfect in a small group setting (or even a slightly larger group). With a focus on being raw and honest with one another, I think women could truly see lies exposed, walls broken down, and true, beautiful bravery as the result of reading and discussing this book along with prayer and Bible reading.
_______________
I received this book for free but was under no obligation to post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
May 6, 2017
Why I Choose this Book:
The title and cover of the book drew me right in because I think they are both beautiful. Other than that, I think the reason I chose the book was because I figured it would help me be able to relate to others better. I've never been someone who's been overly worried about how I look, and so I thought reading a book about it would be useful.
What I Thought about this Book:
This book was not what I was expecting. It wasn't really focused on outward beauty at all - not even about how to view it the correct way, etc.... Instead, it was more about the beauty of handling hard situations with God's grace. The book was, for lack of a better word, simply beautiful.
I began reading the book at the airport while waiting for a flight. By the time I was on the second page of the introduction I was beginning to have second thoughts about reading the book in public because I had a feeling it was going to be a rather deep and somewhat emotional book. But, I kept reading and was nearly instantly sucked in. The writing style is one that can only be described as art. Reading the words themselves was wonderful - like each sentence had been poured over and each word chosen with care. It reminded me of gracefulness and beauty and art and life all combined.
The content of the book.... Each chapter was about a different lady's life, and how they bravely dealt with a horrible situation in life that they faced. Each of the stories was indeed filled with bravery which was beautiful. Each story was inspiring to me, and even though I couldn't relate to most of the circumstances, I felt like I could relate to the ladies themselves because they were so human.
Near the end of the book there were some chapters that had me fighting down tears. And, since I was reading the book while in an airplane full of strangers, I did fight the tears. If I would have been alone though, I probably would have been outright crying. All that to say, the book wasn't depressing. It didn't put me in a downcast mood. It talked about REALLY hard situations, but each one of them was talked about with the tone of hope, and that's what made the difference.
I finished the book just several hours after I started it, because it was one of those books that I didn't want to put down. I am thankful indeed to have read it.
Conclusion:
This book wasn't light in fluffy. It was hard, and real, and brave, and beautiful. I recommend it a lot. But, because of the content in the book, I'm not sure what age I would recommend it to, I guess each person will have to decide that for themselves.
Rating:
I’m giving Brave is the New Beautiful 4 out of 5 stars, and 8 out of 10.
*I received this book from Litfuse
The title and cover of the book drew me right in because I think they are both beautiful. Other than that, I think the reason I chose the book was because I figured it would help me be able to relate to others better. I've never been someone who's been overly worried about how I look, and so I thought reading a book about it would be useful.
What I Thought about this Book:
This book was not what I was expecting. It wasn't really focused on outward beauty at all - not even about how to view it the correct way, etc.... Instead, it was more about the beauty of handling hard situations with God's grace. The book was, for lack of a better word, simply beautiful.
I began reading the book at the airport while waiting for a flight. By the time I was on the second page of the introduction I was beginning to have second thoughts about reading the book in public because I had a feeling it was going to be a rather deep and somewhat emotional book. But, I kept reading and was nearly instantly sucked in. The writing style is one that can only be described as art. Reading the words themselves was wonderful - like each sentence had been poured over and each word chosen with care. It reminded me of gracefulness and beauty and art and life all combined.
The content of the book.... Each chapter was about a different lady's life, and how they bravely dealt with a horrible situation in life that they faced. Each of the stories was indeed filled with bravery which was beautiful. Each story was inspiring to me, and even though I couldn't relate to most of the circumstances, I felt like I could relate to the ladies themselves because they were so human.
Near the end of the book there were some chapters that had me fighting down tears. And, since I was reading the book while in an airplane full of strangers, I did fight the tears. If I would have been alone though, I probably would have been outright crying. All that to say, the book wasn't depressing. It didn't put me in a downcast mood. It talked about REALLY hard situations, but each one of them was talked about with the tone of hope, and that's what made the difference.
I finished the book just several hours after I started it, because it was one of those books that I didn't want to put down. I am thankful indeed to have read it.
Conclusion:
This book wasn't light in fluffy. It was hard, and real, and brave, and beautiful. I recommend it a lot. But, because of the content in the book, I'm not sure what age I would recommend it to, I guess each person will have to decide that for themselves.
Rating:
I’m giving Brave is the New Beautiful 4 out of 5 stars, and 8 out of 10.
*I received this book from Litfuse
March 4, 2017
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful. Now go forth and be that for one another, you brave and beautiful women!"
Review to come.
Review to come.
January 30, 2017
One that's definitely worth a read. Full review to come!
May 9, 2017
The idea behind this book drew me in right away. Life requires bravery, and sometimes an immense amount of it! I was hoping to find encouragement and wisdom within these pages, and it came through above and beyond my expectations.
Lee Wolfe Blum shares many stories from her own life and the lives of women who have faced many of the hard things we fear. Abuse. Husbands with addictions. Family members with personalty disorders. Health crises. Loss of dreams. Loss of loved ones. Heartbreaking stories of things we wish did not exist in our world. Yet we face them every day, in our own lives or the lives of those around us. These things often don't make for polite conversation and they certainly aren't seen on social media. How can you live bravely and honestly when you feel the world doesn't have a place for your story?
One can start by recognizing that your story is valuable and you are not alone. We need each other, and we do not win by keeping these things to ourselves. As the author says in chapter 12: "When [the Enemy] makes us feel like we can't share the most broken parts of ourselves with one another, he wins. If I'm afraid of what you might say or think about my choices or decisions, if I believe that you can't understand, I stay alone in my pain." Please don't stay alone. Share with someone trustworthy and you will immediately begin to feel a difference in the weight of these things. I loved the wisdom from this quote on page 58: "Telling our stories is only the beginning of the healing process, but as the first step, it's often the hardest."
I felt the author did an excellent job being real and focusing on healing while not glorifying pain and tragedy. These things are hard, but they are not all there is, and we need to remember that. It's part of being brave and making the best choices we can even if we don't like the options. We don't stay stuck. We reach for Jesus, we reach for our community, and we be brave. I found something thought-provoking in every chapter, but I especially loved the last two where the author explored the importance of realizing God is not through with our stories and that we need to be cheering one another along the way. This is so important, and it's where we can find the courage to go on one step at a time. "To think we don't face this choice between life and death every day is denial. We *need* to talk about this. This is why we need a Savior and why we need one another. Real life is hard stuff." (page 202)
I would recommend this to all the brave, beautiful women in my life who need to know they are seen, loved, and appreciated. We are in this together.
I received my copy of the book from LitFuse Publicity. All opinions in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
Lee Wolfe Blum shares many stories from her own life and the lives of women who have faced many of the hard things we fear. Abuse. Husbands with addictions. Family members with personalty disorders. Health crises. Loss of dreams. Loss of loved ones. Heartbreaking stories of things we wish did not exist in our world. Yet we face them every day, in our own lives or the lives of those around us. These things often don't make for polite conversation and they certainly aren't seen on social media. How can you live bravely and honestly when you feel the world doesn't have a place for your story?
One can start by recognizing that your story is valuable and you are not alone. We need each other, and we do not win by keeping these things to ourselves. As the author says in chapter 12: "When [the Enemy] makes us feel like we can't share the most broken parts of ourselves with one another, he wins. If I'm afraid of what you might say or think about my choices or decisions, if I believe that you can't understand, I stay alone in my pain." Please don't stay alone. Share with someone trustworthy and you will immediately begin to feel a difference in the weight of these things. I loved the wisdom from this quote on page 58: "Telling our stories is only the beginning of the healing process, but as the first step, it's often the hardest."
I felt the author did an excellent job being real and focusing on healing while not glorifying pain and tragedy. These things are hard, but they are not all there is, and we need to remember that. It's part of being brave and making the best choices we can even if we don't like the options. We don't stay stuck. We reach for Jesus, we reach for our community, and we be brave. I found something thought-provoking in every chapter, but I especially loved the last two where the author explored the importance of realizing God is not through with our stories and that we need to be cheering one another along the way. This is so important, and it's where we can find the courage to go on one step at a time. "To think we don't face this choice between life and death every day is denial. We *need* to talk about this. This is why we need a Savior and why we need one another. Real life is hard stuff." (page 202)
I would recommend this to all the brave, beautiful women in my life who need to know they are seen, loved, and appreciated. We are in this together.
I received my copy of the book from LitFuse Publicity. All opinions in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
February 18, 2019
Confession: I thought this might be a self-help-ish type book, and I generally don’t read literary pep talks. I couldn’t have been more wrong. I read through this book in one spell bound sitting, mesmerized by the powerful, gut-wrenching, hard stories of real people in the real muck of life... and it WAS beautiful. This is a book of hard and hopeful stories. Zero pep talk. And yet so deeply encouraging.
March 25, 2017
An easy, gorgeous read that's like a Christian version of Brent Brown's bravery message - and my story is retold in chapter six, so there's that!
March 18, 2017
I seriously burned through this book in an afternoon. I couldn't put it down! Lee shares the most engaging, heartbreaking stories that speak to so many things we don't talk about in the church (but NEED to talk about). She weaves in hope and God's perspective and encouragement-I honestly think every woman should read this book. It would be a great book to read and discuss in a group!
March 2, 2017
In her beautiful and authentic book, Brave is the New Beautiful, Lee Wolfe Blum encourages her readers: "Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful."
The book tells painful stories of women who have experienced some of the worst tragedies you can imagine. But the book is full of hope because each woman faced her agony with bravery. They are able to walk through the pain because they walk with God. Their stories encourage us when we are facing life's worst. With God, we can be brave.
The author talks about worrying she would have to search far and wide for stories of brave women. Everywhere she looked, she saw women who looked perfect. But it turned out that many of those women who looked perfect on the outside had painful tales to tell. She found more than enough brave women in her neighborhood, office, and church. She encourages us all to share our imperfect stories. Because that is how we can help others be brave.
Live vulnerable, brave, and beautiful.
The book tells painful stories of women who have experienced some of the worst tragedies you can imagine. But the book is full of hope because each woman faced her agony with bravery. They are able to walk through the pain because they walk with God. Their stories encourage us when we are facing life's worst. With God, we can be brave.
The author talks about worrying she would have to search far and wide for stories of brave women. Everywhere she looked, she saw women who looked perfect. But it turned out that many of those women who looked perfect on the outside had painful tales to tell. She found more than enough brave women in her neighborhood, office, and church. She encourages us all to share our imperfect stories. Because that is how we can help others be brave.
Live vulnerable, brave, and beautiful.
March 11, 2017
The stories Lee tells in this book are honest, and they are true. Because of this, they had me spellbound - laughing, crying, shouting, and yes, even throwing the book across the room at one point. These stories are BRAVE and they are BEAUTIFUL. Not the made-up, put-together sort we strive for, but the real lives of real women. Read this book - and then let's build communities where we become brave and beautiful by being honest and true. Thank you for leading the way, Lee.
May 14, 2022
Too often we think bravery and courage is overcoming some huge obstacle or staring down a giant; when in reality bravery and courage is getting up each day doing what needs to be done despite setbacks. Bravery and courage is taking some hits in life but getting back up to try again. Bravery and courage is putting one foot in front of another , taking life as it comes and doing the best we know to go at any given moment. And this type of bravery snd courage is a beautiful thing and should be celebrated. What if instead of competing with each other as women, we instead acknowledged the beauty of each other’s bravery and courage. That’s what I loved about this book. It inspires the reader to face the trenches of life with bravery and courage and it celebrates examples of woman who keep fighting despite difficulties in their path.
December 4, 2017
Blum helps readers to understand that courage is not denying, coping, or white-knucking it but rather accepting our brokenness as a gateway to joy. She skillfully guides us through narratives of loss, disappointment, and pain so that we might develop more authentic faith and become the beautifully brave women God created us to be.
May 31, 2017
"I don't want to be the broken one who needs fixing again." (44)
"I don't want to be the broken one who needs fixing again." Sounds familiar? Well, you don't have to. In Brave is the New Beautiful, author Lee Wolfe Blum inspires us to be real, be vulnerable, be true and in all, start with courage. In the forward, author Shannon Ethridge said:
"Isn't that what we all should strive to reveal to the world around us - that we are not alone in our struggles, our strife, our disillusionments, our disappointments. . . our life experiences most certainly mater, especially when we bravely use them for God's glory, and for the comfort and encouragement of his people." (16)
And that is what Brave is the New Beautiful is talking about. With true stories from the author and author's friends, readers will be inspired, encouraged and empowered. Courage isn't just about heroic deeds, but courage itself is personal and displays in all forms. Brave is beautiful. Courage is beautiful. Honesty is beautiful. Scars are beautiful. Don't hide and don't doubt.
"Faith doesn't come when we have all the right answers but when we offer our questions to God." (214)
Find faith to trust, to hope and to be real. How beautiful this book is! How beautiful life is! How beautiful we all are. Be brave. This is one of those books that engages readers on a very personal and emotional level. It'll be great for yourself, a gift to a female love one or use it in a small group setting. The reflection questions at the end of each chapter makes it great for discussions. I highly recommend it. To end, I'll let the author's words sum up Brave is the New Beautiful.
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful." (215)
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
"I don't want to be the broken one who needs fixing again." Sounds familiar? Well, you don't have to. In Brave is the New Beautiful, author Lee Wolfe Blum inspires us to be real, be vulnerable, be true and in all, start with courage. In the forward, author Shannon Ethridge said:
"Isn't that what we all should strive to reveal to the world around us - that we are not alone in our struggles, our strife, our disillusionments, our disappointments. . . our life experiences most certainly mater, especially when we bravely use them for God's glory, and for the comfort and encouragement of his people." (16)
And that is what Brave is the New Beautiful is talking about. With true stories from the author and author's friends, readers will be inspired, encouraged and empowered. Courage isn't just about heroic deeds, but courage itself is personal and displays in all forms. Brave is beautiful. Courage is beautiful. Honesty is beautiful. Scars are beautiful. Don't hide and don't doubt.
"Faith doesn't come when we have all the right answers but when we offer our questions to God." (214)
Find faith to trust, to hope and to be real. How beautiful this book is! How beautiful life is! How beautiful we all are. Be brave. This is one of those books that engages readers on a very personal and emotional level. It'll be great for yourself, a gift to a female love one or use it in a small group setting. The reflection questions at the end of each chapter makes it great for discussions. I highly recommend it. To end, I'll let the author's words sum up Brave is the New Beautiful.
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful." (215)
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
May 10, 2017
Bravery seems to be a common theme among bloggers these days. Some of my friends have even been focusing on this theme and sharing their thoughts on being brave. The idea of brave has typically been physical in nature. Now, we are beginning to understand that brave means doing something that is hard. To come out on the other side of something that seems like it should cripple you with strength and courage is brave.
When we forge ahead and press into the pain of a difficult experience, we see bravery, and as a result, we also see beauty. Lee Wolfe Blum, in her new book, Brave is the New Beautiful, works hard to help us understand that as hard as bravery may seem, it is also beautiful. There can be beauty found on the other side of extremely difficult situations.
Blum shares the heartbreaking stories of friends she's met throughout her life. Through these stories, Blum illustrates several areas of our lives where we find opportunities to choose brave. Through submission to God's plan, forgiveness, and so so many other hard things.
By inviting us into the stories of others lives, Blum illustrates how we can be brave, even when it may not seem like we are actually brave. It's also an example of how we can live to be authentically us. To embrace the challenges that God has placed before us in order to make us into more of His likeness.
At the end of each chapter, Blum provides thought-provoking questions to help you reflect on how you are being brave in your everyday life. Even though the stories in this book are about mostly big life events, Blum also reminds us that it's okay to feel overwhelmed in the small moments. To need to rely on God through the big things and the small things. To lean on him when there are questions and when we have answers.
These stories in Brave are the New Beautiful are not for the faint of heart. They are hard. But they are good reminders that we can prevail with God's help. That we do nothing in our own strength.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and David C. Cook. This review is my own, honest opinion.
When we forge ahead and press into the pain of a difficult experience, we see bravery, and as a result, we also see beauty. Lee Wolfe Blum, in her new book, Brave is the New Beautiful, works hard to help us understand that as hard as bravery may seem, it is also beautiful. There can be beauty found on the other side of extremely difficult situations.
Blum shares the heartbreaking stories of friends she's met throughout her life. Through these stories, Blum illustrates several areas of our lives where we find opportunities to choose brave. Through submission to God's plan, forgiveness, and so so many other hard things.
By inviting us into the stories of others lives, Blum illustrates how we can be brave, even when it may not seem like we are actually brave. It's also an example of how we can live to be authentically us. To embrace the challenges that God has placed before us in order to make us into more of His likeness.
At the end of each chapter, Blum provides thought-provoking questions to help you reflect on how you are being brave in your everyday life. Even though the stories in this book are about mostly big life events, Blum also reminds us that it's okay to feel overwhelmed in the small moments. To need to rely on God through the big things and the small things. To lean on him when there are questions and when we have answers.
These stories in Brave are the New Beautiful are not for the faint of heart. They are hard. But they are good reminders that we can prevail with God's help. That we do nothing in our own strength.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and David C. Cook. This review is my own, honest opinion.
May 15, 2017
I was interested in reading Lee Wolfe Blum's new book, Brave Is The New Beautiful, because I'm not a very brave person. In fact, I could be described as timid, shy, meek, or basically any word you can think of that is the opposite of brave! I'm always looking for ways to step out and become a bit more brave and bold. The book description says:
"In a culture that bombards women with "thinspiration" messages and pressure to "do it all" while wearing the mask of perfection, women are left feeling alone and overwhelmed. How can they stop comparing themselves to others? How can they live out who they really are?
Lee Wolfe Blum offers stories from everyday women who have answered these questions with their lives—and found true beauty in the process. In Brave Is the New Beautiful, Blum weaves reflections from her own journey with inspirational stories from everyday women who chose to take off their masks and live authentically. Through call-to-action questions and ideas, she encourages readers to be brave enough to be who they really are and the beloved that God knows they are."
Brave Is The New Beautiful was the most powerful books I've read in a long, long time. I picked it up to read a chapter or two and didn't put it down till the last page. Each chapter details one "brave" story from either Lee or another woman she knows. Reading all these heartfelt stories encouraged me and made me feel more connected to the larger Christian community. I could relate on so many levels to Lee and the other women as well, and their stories resonated with me on a deep level. I loved Lee's mission of encouraging women to be more brave with sharing their stories and being real, open, and honest. I highly, highly recommend this book to every Christian woman.
I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in order to provide an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
"In a culture that bombards women with "thinspiration" messages and pressure to "do it all" while wearing the mask of perfection, women are left feeling alone and overwhelmed. How can they stop comparing themselves to others? How can they live out who they really are?
Lee Wolfe Blum offers stories from everyday women who have answered these questions with their lives—and found true beauty in the process. In Brave Is the New Beautiful, Blum weaves reflections from her own journey with inspirational stories from everyday women who chose to take off their masks and live authentically. Through call-to-action questions and ideas, she encourages readers to be brave enough to be who they really are and the beloved that God knows they are."
Brave Is The New Beautiful was the most powerful books I've read in a long, long time. I picked it up to read a chapter or two and didn't put it down till the last page. Each chapter details one "brave" story from either Lee or another woman she knows. Reading all these heartfelt stories encouraged me and made me feel more connected to the larger Christian community. I could relate on so many levels to Lee and the other women as well, and their stories resonated with me on a deep level. I loved Lee's mission of encouraging women to be more brave with sharing their stories and being real, open, and honest. I highly, highly recommend this book to every Christian woman.
I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in order to provide an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
July 3, 2022
In the culture of perfectionism, to thrive means to be under the pressure of doing it all, while wearing a mask all the time. One might be left overwhelmed and alone. Brave is the New Beautiful by Lee Wolfe Blum deals with the idea about addressing the issues of personal pain through inspirational stories of women who have bravely stepped beyond their suffering to true beauty. This book is about recognising a new kind of beauty.
Take off your mask
In these Inspirational stories that Blum address, one pattern I noticed for every women to be able to do what they want to do, and to live authentically is that they have taken off their masks. Some have hide them in the smallest trunk of their basements and some have killed those masks completely by drowning them under water such that they would never dare to crawl back.
This book has a powerful message to acknowledge:
Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful. Now go forth and be that for one another, you brave and beautiful women!
My Take
I liked the idea and concept behind the book. I think this is no different than any other book that share similar boundaries and genre. It’s however dedicated to one half of species and that make its presence to feel strongly. It won’t take you much time to read this one as I really like how precise the content of the book is organized.
I was not impressed by her writing style and content. However, Lee Wolfe Blum’s words are an encouraging reminder needed to be shared. I am still looking forward to her next work.
3 out of 5!
Take off your mask
In these Inspirational stories that Blum address, one pattern I noticed for every women to be able to do what they want to do, and to live authentically is that they have taken off their masks. Some have hide them in the smallest trunk of their basements and some have killed those masks completely by drowning them under water such that they would never dare to crawl back.
This book has a powerful message to acknowledge:
Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful. Now go forth and be that for one another, you brave and beautiful women!
My Take
I liked the idea and concept behind the book. I think this is no different than any other book that share similar boundaries and genre. It’s however dedicated to one half of species and that make its presence to feel strongly. It won’t take you much time to read this one as I really like how precise the content of the book is organized.
I was not impressed by her writing style and content. However, Lee Wolfe Blum’s words are an encouraging reminder needed to be shared. I am still looking forward to her next work.
3 out of 5!
May 12, 2017
Brave is the New Beautiful was an eye opening and insightful read with many truths for today’s woman. How many of us hide behind our job, marriage, family, friends, or a forced smile to show the world that we have it all together and we are not in need of any help? I really liked the concept of this book that we need to show who we are, warts and all; to be brave and show the real us. I liked the message that the author put across, that if we were perfect we wouldn’t have need of a Savior. But we are not perfect and in our imperfections is where we learn to rely on God and trust Him. That we live in a broken world and we are broken people, but we are loved fiercely by a Heavenly Father who spared not even His own Son for us.
Some of these stories were painful to read; of women who are still living this life and may not have the answers that they are searching for in the here and now. I liked that the author said that we need to quit hiding our painful stories and shine a light on them, to speak the truth about them. To have others come alongside of us and help as we come alongside others and help them. I appreciate the author and her willingness to share her heart on this messy life along with the other women in this book, who speak the truth about their situations, and in all realize that being brave, are being beautiful.
This was a fresh and honest look at how a Christian woman should view herself in light of what the world says is beautiful.
I received a copy of this book for free through Litfuse. I was not required to give a positive review and the views and opinions expressed are my own.
Some of these stories were painful to read; of women who are still living this life and may not have the answers that they are searching for in the here and now. I liked that the author said that we need to quit hiding our painful stories and shine a light on them, to speak the truth about them. To have others come alongside of us and help as we come alongside others and help them. I appreciate the author and her willingness to share her heart on this messy life along with the other women in this book, who speak the truth about their situations, and in all realize that being brave, are being beautiful.
This was a fresh and honest look at how a Christian woman should view herself in light of what the world says is beautiful.
I received a copy of this book for free through Litfuse. I was not required to give a positive review and the views and opinions expressed are my own.
May 16, 2017
I love the cover of this book - that and the title is what drew me to it. Something about the title made me think of women I knew who were struggling to be brave in the face of life's difficulties and how much I admire them. You might think by the title that this book is about outward beauty. It's not. This book dives deep into real life and the bravery it takes to face whatever situation you're going through. And EVERYONE is going through something. Also, you're not alone! If you're going through something you think no one else has experienced - think again.
Each chapter is a story about an everyday woman who is living the everyday struggle of real life and how they find the courage to be real with themselves, with others, and with God. The stories are not pretty but they show the beauty of being brave, having hope, and finding faith and healing. At the end of each chapter are questions for reflection that help you focus on the thoughts and points that were made.
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful. Now go forth and be that for one another, you brave and beautiful women!" (Brave is the new Beautiful, page 215)
This is a well written and inspirational book and by the end of it, you'll be inspired to be more real with yourself and God and allow healing to take place and to help others do the same.
*Thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid or required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
Each chapter is a story about an everyday woman who is living the everyday struggle of real life and how they find the courage to be real with themselves, with others, and with God. The stories are not pretty but they show the beauty of being brave, having hope, and finding faith and healing. At the end of each chapter are questions for reflection that help you focus on the thoughts and points that were made.
"Be vulnerable. Be real. Be raw and let your naked bravery shine bright. In doing so, you help others see hope. You help others have faith. That is brave. That is beautiful. Now go forth and be that for one another, you brave and beautiful women!" (Brave is the new Beautiful, page 215)
This is a well written and inspirational book and by the end of it, you'll be inspired to be more real with yourself and God and allow healing to take place and to help others do the same.
*Thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid or required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
May 6, 2017
Brave is the New Beautiful: Finding the Courage to be the Real You is a book that, to me, gives a new look at what truly is beautiful. So many of us are focused on thinking that beauty is defined by expensive clothes, jewelry, trips to the nail and hair salons, staying thin and looking gorgeous on the outside. This book looks beyond the appearance into the beauty that is within everyone--waiting to be tapped and shared. Author Lee Wolfe Blum has beautifully chronicled stories in this book from ladies who've faced hardships and revealed to others that bravery is beautiful.
Each chapter focuses on a topic word like Hoping and Trusting. Each story is from real people and Lee's own experiences with counseling as a mental health professional. At the end of each chapter, there are questions for the reader to reflect and examine themselves.
The general premise of this book is to be courageous in who we are as people. We all have fires to walk through. Our raw honesty, communication with others, and how we cope will provide hope and faith to others.
Readers will find stories about people who have struggled to fight and overcome tremendous life situations. Additionally, some of the stories are very raw and will draw you in emotionally. Others will make you laugh and smile and feel thankful.
Devotional-like, Brave is the New Beautiful is a book that you will enjoy if you love hearing about the testimonies of others. No doubt about it, you will be inspired by the stories documented here.
http://www.jamiswords.com/review-brav...
Each chapter focuses on a topic word like Hoping and Trusting. Each story is from real people and Lee's own experiences with counseling as a mental health professional. At the end of each chapter, there are questions for the reader to reflect and examine themselves.
The general premise of this book is to be courageous in who we are as people. We all have fires to walk through. Our raw honesty, communication with others, and how we cope will provide hope and faith to others.
Readers will find stories about people who have struggled to fight and overcome tremendous life situations. Additionally, some of the stories are very raw and will draw you in emotionally. Others will make you laugh and smile and feel thankful.
Devotional-like, Brave is the New Beautiful is a book that you will enjoy if you love hearing about the testimonies of others. No doubt about it, you will be inspired by the stories documented here.
http://www.jamiswords.com/review-brav...
May 18, 2017
This book is so encouraging and truly did help me to see that brave is beautiful!
I love the writing style of Lee as she writes as though she is sitting with us and talking with us as a friend. She drew me into the book on the first page and I just couldn't put it down! It was so exciting to realize that being me was beautiful and that all the scars and hard things were what make me...me!
We are so caught up in our culture of presenting a good face. Perfect pictures of our perfect homes (when there is no such thing) and hiding the pain that we are feeling as we go through the hard things. I absolutely loved the stories she shares throughout and they were so encouraging and gave me confidence to go forward. I had tears in my eyes while reading some of these stories but not because of sorrow but because of the bravery I saw in the pages.
My favorite part of this book are the questions for reflection at the end of each chapter. She asked the right questions to help me become the person I want to be. They weren't always easy questions to answer but that's the point. They made me dig deep into what I truly believe about myself.
I love this book and will definitely be reading it again. I gained so much from this book and I believe you will, too. Every woman really should read this book! I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by LitFuse Publicity Group
I love the writing style of Lee as she writes as though she is sitting with us and talking with us as a friend. She drew me into the book on the first page and I just couldn't put it down! It was so exciting to realize that being me was beautiful and that all the scars and hard things were what make me...me!
We are so caught up in our culture of presenting a good face. Perfect pictures of our perfect homes (when there is no such thing) and hiding the pain that we are feeling as we go through the hard things. I absolutely loved the stories she shares throughout and they were so encouraging and gave me confidence to go forward. I had tears in my eyes while reading some of these stories but not because of sorrow but because of the bravery I saw in the pages.
My favorite part of this book are the questions for reflection at the end of each chapter. She asked the right questions to help me become the person I want to be. They weren't always easy questions to answer but that's the point. They made me dig deep into what I truly believe about myself.
I love this book and will definitely be reading it again. I gained so much from this book and I believe you will, too. Every woman really should read this book! I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by LitFuse Publicity Group
May 11, 2017
Brave is the New Beautiful dares to redefine beauty, to reshape it in the face of exquisite bravery. The stories, the women, that Blum profiles on these pages are inspiring and authentic. Real women living real life – with real pain. Women whose stories aren’t all tied up with a ‘happily ever after’ bow, stories that are far from fairy tales. Yet they continue to be authentically themselves and to lean in to the God who created them.
This book is something every woman needs to read. The writing style is engaging and accessible and the stories are such that everyone can find at least one chapter (probably more) that meets her where she is now or where she’s been. The questions for reflection at the end of each chapter are great for application and healing, and I love the quotes/verses that begin each chapter as well. A brave and beautiful book with brave and beautiful stories of … you guessed it … bravery and true beauty. Not to be missed!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
see my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
This book is something every woman needs to read. The writing style is engaging and accessible and the stories are such that everyone can find at least one chapter (probably more) that meets her where she is now or where she’s been. The questions for reflection at the end of each chapter are great for application and healing, and I love the quotes/verses that begin each chapter as well. A brave and beautiful book with brave and beautiful stories of … you guessed it … bravery and true beauty. Not to be missed!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
see my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 12, 2017
In Brave is the New Beautiful Lee Blum invites the reader to face fears and step into faith, which is hard for all of us to do, especially women. This book invites the reader into a place of vulnerability, while sharing pain, dealing with disappointment and heartache and being the women God has called us each to be. This book will help you peel back the layers and hurts that are deep that you didn't realize you had been carrying for years. I found this book to be refreshing and soul deep, full of help to hit the places in my life where I had not surrounded areas in my life to the Lord. I give this book 4.5 /5 stars. Thank you to the publishers for providing me a complimentary copy for review purposes. A favorable review was not required. I recommend this book for anyone who you know needs a new definition of self or someone who is struggling with something. I recommend this book for yourself if you know their are areas in your life where you've been running and you need to surrender those areas in your life.
July 16, 2017
This book is filled with so many truths and hope and moments of pure beauty that I found myself holding my breath. I want every woman I know to read this. We are all brave. We all have stories, we all have struggles. We are in this TOGETHER and should lift each other up instead of comparing. There were several chapters that caused the tears to flow but in particular chapters 4 (Telling), 8 (Separating), 10 (Enduring), and 15 (Trusting). Blum has a beautiful way of writing--she paints a picture and tells a story and then brings it all together with the idea of what it means to be brave and how bravery IS beautiful. If you like Brené Brown or Glennon Doyle Melton you will love Lee Wolfe Blum and this book.
{NOTE: I don't consider myself a religious person and there was a number of God-centric passages, but I found it overall comforting and not off-putting. I was raised in a Catholic family and in the past would find myself resisting this "type" of book, but I thought the overall message and themes were beautiful and not "preachy"--which is what I try to avoid.}
{NOTE: I don't consider myself a religious person and there was a number of God-centric passages, but I found it overall comforting and not off-putting. I was raised in a Catholic family and in the past would find myself resisting this "type" of book, but I thought the overall message and themes were beautiful and not "preachy"--which is what I try to avoid.}
March 15, 2022
Read this Book
This book is heartbreakingly honest while portraying real women with real struggles. As I read each story, I thought of the ladies in my life who could benefit from reading them.
We all have a story with highs and lows. Our stories are neither good nor bad, just different. Concerning judging others, Blum mused, “I wonder how many God encounters I’ve missed because of my misguided judgments.” It’s sobering to think of how many times I have done the same.
Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you’re just coming out of one, or you’re getting ready to go into another one. The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort.… We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that’s not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ-likeness. – Pastor Rick Warren
I received this book FREE from the author, publisher, distributor, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.
This book is heartbreakingly honest while portraying real women with real struggles. As I read each story, I thought of the ladies in my life who could benefit from reading them.
We all have a story with highs and lows. Our stories are neither good nor bad, just different. Concerning judging others, Blum mused, “I wonder how many God encounters I’ve missed because of my misguided judgments.” It’s sobering to think of how many times I have done the same.
Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you’re just coming out of one, or you’re getting ready to go into another one. The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort.… We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that’s not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ-likeness. – Pastor Rick Warren
I received this book FREE from the author, publisher, distributor, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.
May 11, 2017
Women of all ages need to read books such as this one. Brave is the new beautiful is eye-opening, inspiring, and encouraging. With all the stories of women who have fought through trials and tragedy, it is also convicting. It puts our personal disappointments in perspective when compared to women's stories of losing a child, health, etc. I love how the author, Lee Wolfe Blum masterfully blended all her thoughts and convictions into a sensible and rock-solid book for women. I appreciated how the author was open with her own story and thoughts. I was humbled and encouraged as I read this book! Basically, it gently tells women to look beyond the surface and the image the media tries so hard to ingrain in us as ''the right image''. We need to realize there is more to ourselves than our outward appearance. Because truly, brave is the new beautiful!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 4, 2019
I loved this book.
I say that about a lot of books, because there are many great books out there. But this one is a little more personal to me. Everyone's experience with a particular book is a little different. Mine with this book is hard to explain. In these pages, I found a friend- a very relatable friend. One who wasn't afraid to be honest with me, but then comforted and encouraged me while I wrestled.
Every so often, I run across a book that just changes my life. This one did that by going deeper than the nice Christian things we say about the difficult things in our lives. It changed my mind a little in the way I look at myself, and that is life-changing. That is also the highest praise I can give a book.
I will be reading it again soon, if not right away.
I say that about a lot of books, because there are many great books out there. But this one is a little more personal to me. Everyone's experience with a particular book is a little different. Mine with this book is hard to explain. In these pages, I found a friend- a very relatable friend. One who wasn't afraid to be honest with me, but then comforted and encouraged me while I wrestled.
Every so often, I run across a book that just changes my life. This one did that by going deeper than the nice Christian things we say about the difficult things in our lives. It changed my mind a little in the way I look at myself, and that is life-changing. That is also the highest praise I can give a book.
I will be reading it again soon, if not right away.
May 13, 2017
One great aspect of this book is the variety of women that Lee highlights, she really tackles the most real stories. This book was speaking of each woman’s changing moment and calling for me to have one. It just begs for the reader to say ” okay, I am going to just be me”. God gave us the opportunity to live within him and be ourselves, why should we want to change that? I could see this book becoming a revolution, women having their moments of brave and allowing their masks to come off. I hope this for all women.
I was provided a copy of this book, and have chosen to express my opinions.
Full Review: https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
I was provided a copy of this book, and have chosen to express my opinions.
Full Review: https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
August 14, 2018
This book has really stepped on my toes, made me cry, and had me taking a step back. I saw myself printed in this book. It was like a gab session with a bunch of close friends who opened up about the bad times but were presented an epiphany with God and their own faith walk.
Would be a great book for bible study or book club!
I came across this book while searching for a new book to take with me in the down times when I am on errands or doctors appointments. The book arrived and of course I thumbed through it. A few things caught my eye so I began to read it. I had to reread some parts just to let it soak in to my thick skull.
Would be a great book for bible study or book club!
I came across this book while searching for a new book to take with me in the down times when I am on errands or doctors appointments. The book arrived and of course I thumbed through it. A few things caught my eye so I began to read it. I had to reread some parts just to let it soak in to my thick skull.
January 2, 2023
Raw and Real
We can most definitely find ourselves among the women in these pages, who realise, yes, life has thrown us one heck of a curve ball. And we can learn like others have among these pages that it doesn't define us. And perhaps if we dare to be brave like they were, then we can move beyond ourselves and see the beautifully bravery of others! And reach out to each other, instead of sitting forever in a wilderness of isolation.
Thank you for a beautiful and brave revealing of lives torn by the harshness of being human, but who travelled to restoration through faith in our Lord and Saviour.
We can most definitely find ourselves among the women in these pages, who realise, yes, life has thrown us one heck of a curve ball. And we can learn like others have among these pages that it doesn't define us. And perhaps if we dare to be brave like they were, then we can move beyond ourselves and see the beautifully bravery of others! And reach out to each other, instead of sitting forever in a wilderness of isolation.
Thank you for a beautiful and brave revealing of lives torn by the harshness of being human, but who travelled to restoration through faith in our Lord and Saviour.
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