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Finding Beautiful: Discovering Authentic Beauty around the World
Americans spend millions on beauty products, weight-loss programs, and age-defying medical interventions each year. We set impossible standards and feel bad about ourselves when we don't reach them. Is beauty truly that difficult to attain? Or could it be that our idea of what's beautiful is simply too narrow?
With engaging personal stories and dramatic before-and-after photography, filmmaker Rebecca Friedlander uncovers the true beauty of 12 women from various ethnicities and backgrounds, empowering us to shatter the lies of rejection, doubt, and low self-esteem. Utilizing compelling biblical truth and questions for personal reflection, Friedlander helps us identify our own personal battlegrounds, celebrate our uniqueness, and embrace God's definition of beautiful.
Anyone who loves a great makeover story or who wants to explore their unique identity will love this eye-opening book. Let's stop letting the world define beauty and start being a voice that tells the world what true beauty actually looks like.
With engaging personal stories and dramatic before-and-after photography, filmmaker Rebecca Friedlander uncovers the true beauty of 12 women from various ethnicities and backgrounds, empowering us to shatter the lies of rejection, doubt, and low self-esteem. Utilizing compelling biblical truth and questions for personal reflection, Friedlander helps us identify our own personal battlegrounds, celebrate our uniqueness, and embrace God's definition of beautiful.
Anyone who loves a great makeover story or who wants to explore their unique identity will love this eye-opening book. Let's stop letting the world define beauty and start being a voice that tells the world what true beauty actually looks like.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published April 30, 2019
16 people are currently reading
1056 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
April 24, 2019
As I began reading this book, I found the cover to be beautiful, the inside photos to be beautiful and the writing to be beautiful.
Twelve women search for and find beauty as they are drawn closer into a relationship with their creator. God was with them each step of the way as they became aware of their worth, as they learned to trust in Him and as they began to dream again. They learned to be beautifully secure by spending time in God’s word and in His presence.
Each woman journeyed down a unique path and yet all of them headed in the same direction. They were on their way to a place where they finally realized that God saw them, heard them, understood what they were going through and that He cared deeply for each of them.
I enjoyed getting to know each of the twelve, amazing women. I especially loved reading about how their lives had changed from ones of sadness and depression to ones of excitement and joy. As each one realized that they were loved, chosen and valued, they were able to find beauty and worth.
Now that I have finished reading this beautiful book, I can apply the truths that I have learned as I search for opportunities to serve others. Even though I have never given birth to a girl, I seem to have collected several “daughters” that God has placed in my care. This book will help me to love them better and more. Let the journey begin.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Books and NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Twelve women search for and find beauty as they are drawn closer into a relationship with their creator. God was with them each step of the way as they became aware of their worth, as they learned to trust in Him and as they began to dream again. They learned to be beautifully secure by spending time in God’s word and in His presence.
Each woman journeyed down a unique path and yet all of them headed in the same direction. They were on their way to a place where they finally realized that God saw them, heard them, understood what they were going through and that He cared deeply for each of them.
I enjoyed getting to know each of the twelve, amazing women. I especially loved reading about how their lives had changed from ones of sadness and depression to ones of excitement and joy. As each one realized that they were loved, chosen and valued, they were able to find beauty and worth.
Now that I have finished reading this beautiful book, I can apply the truths that I have learned as I search for opportunities to serve others. Even though I have never given birth to a girl, I seem to have collected several “daughters” that God has placed in my care. This book will help me to love them better and more. Let the journey begin.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Books and NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 26, 2019
I really loved this book!
It is exquisitely composed and photographed, I thought the photos were an amazing complement to the words contained within.
The book follows twelve women and the beauty they have found in their lives. It is meaningful and helped me to see those bits of my life and myself that are beauty--and helped me to see that following Jesus is what put that beauty into my life.
Also included are a True Beauty Tip and Questions for Reflection, which would make this book great for a small group study or just good jumping-off for personal journaling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
It is exquisitely composed and photographed, I thought the photos were an amazing complement to the words contained within.
The book follows twelve women and the beauty they have found in their lives. It is meaningful and helped me to see those bits of my life and myself that are beauty--and helped me to see that following Jesus is what put that beauty into my life.
Also included are a True Beauty Tip and Questions for Reflection, which would make this book great for a small group study or just good jumping-off for personal journaling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
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April 23, 2019Thank you Baker Publishing Group and @rebeccafriedlander for sending me a beautiful hard cover copy of Finding Beautiful: Discovering Authentic Beauty Around the World.
This was a gorgeous book of photographs of 12 women who shared their personal and deeply spiritual stories about loving themselves and finding beauty. Friedlander traveled to find these women, to hear their stories and to give them an opportunity to shine. The testimonies were touching and the photographs stunning.
Releases on April 30.
This was a gorgeous book of photographs of 12 women who shared their personal and deeply spiritual stories about loving themselves and finding beauty. Friedlander traveled to find these women, to hear their stories and to give them an opportunity to shine. The testimonies were touching and the photographs stunning.
Releases on April 30.
April 2, 2019
In Finding Beautiful, Rebecca Friedlander looks at beauty from 12 different angles. Using "before" and "after" photos of women, the author tells their stories and explores aspects of beauty from different points of view. First, she tells the subject's story, then her own, then a Biblical reference. Finally, she ends each section with a "True Beauty Tip" and Questions for Reflection. This book would be a good jumping off point for small group discussions.
I received an advanced reader copy via NetGalley.
I received an advanced reader copy via NetGalley.
April 4, 2019
Inspirational. The author shares personal stories and stories from other women. How we define beauty in the world can bring happiness or sadness. This book is filled with encouragement. Reflecting questions and Scripture is also included. Great read. Perfect to give as a gift. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
April 24, 2019
This is such a beautiful book, one that you want to keep and go back to again and again. The photography is stunning but the stories are what really captivate you.
The stories of women who are all so different yet alike remind us that we are really so similar. We all are searching for the same things and find them when we see ourselves the way God sees us.
The stories of women who are all so different yet alike remind us that we are really so similar. We all are searching for the same things and find them when we see ourselves the way God sees us.
April 18, 2019
Thank you to Baker Books for the advanced copy, all opinions are my own.
Absolutely loved how the Author tells the story of 12 women who lives were filled with pain, brokenness and struggles. But they found “true beauty” and redemption in finding Jesus Christ. This book is filled with hope, inspiration, encouragement, reflecting questions, and scriptures. If you have ever struggled with not being “good enough”, Please read this book! Perfect book for gifting, women’s bible study and All ages.
Absolutely loved how the Author tells the story of 12 women who lives were filled with pain, brokenness and struggles. But they found “true beauty” and redemption in finding Jesus Christ. This book is filled with hope, inspiration, encouragement, reflecting questions, and scriptures. If you have ever struggled with not being “good enough”, Please read this book! Perfect book for gifting, women’s bible study and All ages.
April 22, 2019
Reading Finding Beautiful was a truly moving experience. This book surprised me in so many ways. Not only is this book visually stunning but it is lovely in its very heart as well. It is a collection of stories of the lives of twelve different women, all of whom had pasts filled with pain and brokenness but who found hope and redemption in the love of Christ. It is an inspiring and captivating book and I highly recommend it to any woman who has ever struggled with feeling like she is not enough. It spoke to my heart and I believe it will speak to yours as well.
(I received an advance copy from the publisher for the purpose of giving an honest review.)
(I received an advance copy from the publisher for the purpose of giving an honest review.)
April 14, 2019
I received this book from the publisher. This beautifully written book was one I could not put down. The stories of the 12 woman and their struggles in finding Christ was just amazing. Everyone goes through hard times and this book shows you that we are all Beautiful no matter what we are going through. Thank you Rebecca for this Beautiful read with memorable pictures.
August 31, 2019
Lovingly written with amazing photographs throughout. It showcases what true beauty really is in a real and authentic way. It's a book every woman and young woman should read.
May 2, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed Finding Beautiful by Rebecca Friedlander. Although I was not familiar with Radical Makeovers, the television show related to this book, I was intrigued and inspired by the stories of the women in this book. In the introduction it says that the book “shares far more details than included in the show.” So, for those who have seen the show, this book should still be interesting.
At times, the women's stories moved me to tears. I liked how the Rebecca Friedlander shared each woman's personal story, information about the photo shoot, her (Rebecca's) own story, a story/topic from the Bible, and questions for reflection. The narrative was creative and well-written. The full color photos complemented the featured stories and accented the theme of each chapter.
I recommend Finding Beautiful by Rebecca Friedlander to any woman. The diversity of topics, engaging narrative, and inspiring stories will appeal to many women. With it's hard cover, glossy pages, and full-color photos, it would also make a great gift.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
At times, the women's stories moved me to tears. I liked how the Rebecca Friedlander shared each woman's personal story, information about the photo shoot, her (Rebecca's) own story, a story/topic from the Bible, and questions for reflection. The narrative was creative and well-written. The full color photos complemented the featured stories and accented the theme of each chapter.
I recommend Finding Beautiful by Rebecca Friedlander to any woman. The diversity of topics, engaging narrative, and inspiring stories will appeal to many women. With it's hard cover, glossy pages, and full-color photos, it would also make a great gift.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
April 24, 2019
I recently enjoyed reading to review the book Finding Beautiful, Discovering Authentic Beauty Around The World. It is written by film producer, speaker, worship leader, photographer, and author Rebecca Friedlander. Baker Book Publishing Group sent me an advanced full version hard copy in order to read and write my honest review.
I found this book to be a timely, yet timeless collection of the redemptive life stories of 12 young women from across the globe. The details of these sometimes gritty individual journeys will resonate with women of all ages, and with many men as well. Intertwined with the 12 stand-alone life experiences are portions of Rebecca’s own story, travels, and experiences in writing this book. Beautiful photographs of these brave women thoughtfully illustrate the before and after aspects of each of their paths to discovering what is authentic beauty.
Included in each chapter are quotes from famous people on the vast and misunderstood subject of beauty, true beauty tips (not what you think!), relatable stories from Scripture, and reflective questions for the reader to ponder. All of these round out each of the 12 chapters to extend the applications of this book from individual reading into group studies.
In reading this thoughtful book, I gained the following personal takeaways and gentle reminders. Women and men can easily personalize and internalize subtle negative messages about themselves. The ever-changing “standards” of worldly beauty are impossible to attain. Redirect my heart toward a beauty that is lasting. Discover anew the limitless expanse of true and authentic beauty that can only be found in and through our Creator’s definition. Rebecca encourages each one of us in our individual journeys on this earth to finding the type of true beauty that is eternal and worth pursuing.
Book Release April 30, 2019.
I found this book to be a timely, yet timeless collection of the redemptive life stories of 12 young women from across the globe. The details of these sometimes gritty individual journeys will resonate with women of all ages, and with many men as well. Intertwined with the 12 stand-alone life experiences are portions of Rebecca’s own story, travels, and experiences in writing this book. Beautiful photographs of these brave women thoughtfully illustrate the before and after aspects of each of their paths to discovering what is authentic beauty.
Included in each chapter are quotes from famous people on the vast and misunderstood subject of beauty, true beauty tips (not what you think!), relatable stories from Scripture, and reflective questions for the reader to ponder. All of these round out each of the 12 chapters to extend the applications of this book from individual reading into group studies.
In reading this thoughtful book, I gained the following personal takeaways and gentle reminders. Women and men can easily personalize and internalize subtle negative messages about themselves. The ever-changing “standards” of worldly beauty are impossible to attain. Redirect my heart toward a beauty that is lasting. Discover anew the limitless expanse of true and authentic beauty that can only be found in and through our Creator’s definition. Rebecca encourages each one of us in our individual journeys on this earth to finding the type of true beauty that is eternal and worth pursuing.
Book Release April 30, 2019.
May 2, 2019
- [ ] When I learned that Rebecca Friedlander wrote a book, “Finding Beautiful” I quickly signed on to the launch team. I have followed her videos for some time now and was sure her book would be that of quality and have great photography in it. I was not disappointed, this book is beautifully put together. “Finding Beautiful” is a book for women of all ages. There are 12 stories of 12 truly beautiful women. Their stories are all different yet all have the same grace of God weaving through them. I was unable to choose just one favorite story, but I do have it narrowed down to chapters 8 and 11. Rebecca Friedlander summed it all up in the Conclusion with a quote; “Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not” by Ralph Waldo Emerson. “Finding Beautiful” not only challenged me to see beauty with fresh eyes in my own life, but, also challenged me to seek new ways to share beauty with others. This book has such an impact on me that I had every woman possible read just one chapter of this book. All but one have ordered at least 1 copy of “Finding Beautiful”.
April 26, 2019
Finding Beautiful focuses on discovering beauty in our lives and in ourselves. The author traveled around the world and interviewed 12 women. They told her their stories and talked about how God helped them overcome their hardship and fear. As well as interviewing them, the author also did a before and after photo shoot to tell their story.
I really like how the stories were included and how powerful some of them were. I also like how the author tied in a biblical application as well as putting at the end for discussion. She concludes the book with telling us how we can show beauty though out actions and give about 12 different ways we can do it. With that being said I have few things I didn't like. I've grown up in a Christian house hold, went to youth group and even went to a christian school from Kindergarten all the way through college...I feel like this subject is extremely over done. Not that it doesn't need to be talked about but I think it's just really hard to get a fresh take on it. Thats just me personally thinking that.
Also the photographer in me wasn't huge extremely impressed with the pictures. Again I blame the fact of going to a Christian college for my photography degree. I've seen this type of photo shoot done before. I just think it could have been done a little more uniquely.
I think that this book would be a great book to read with teenage girls in a bible study or even in college age girls. Like I said this is a message that still needs to be heard...especially with the false view of beauty that social media give us. Overall an ok read.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I really like how the stories were included and how powerful some of them were. I also like how the author tied in a biblical application as well as putting at the end for discussion. She concludes the book with telling us how we can show beauty though out actions and give about 12 different ways we can do it. With that being said I have few things I didn't like. I've grown up in a Christian house hold, went to youth group and even went to a christian school from Kindergarten all the way through college...I feel like this subject is extremely over done. Not that it doesn't need to be talked about but I think it's just really hard to get a fresh take on it. Thats just me personally thinking that.
Also the photographer in me wasn't huge extremely impressed with the pictures. Again I blame the fact of going to a Christian college for my photography degree. I've seen this type of photo shoot done before. I just think it could have been done a little more uniquely.
I think that this book would be a great book to read with teenage girls in a bible study or even in college age girls. Like I said this is a message that still needs to be heard...especially with the false view of beauty that social media give us. Overall an ok read.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
April 27, 2019
Telling your own story in a compelling and fully transparent way is a difficult task. But telling someone else’s story in a compelling, fully transparent and truth-honoring way can be an utterly terrifying endeavor. In her new book _Finding Beautiful_ Rebecca Friedlander has accomplished both and, in the process, encouraged a whole new outlook on what true beauty really means.
Amidst gorgeous photos set in a “before and after” makeover-style framework, Rebecca tells the story of brave women from around the globe who have, through faith and the power of God, found redemption and healing and have learned to call themselves “beautiful” in the light of the Truth.
Through each chapter, Rebecca interlaces each woman’s story with a related event from her own life and then ties it all together through Scriptural accounts, even offering thought-provoking focus questions for the reader at the end of each chapter.
For the woman longing to find a bit of community in her own struggles with identity, acceptance and learning to love the woman God has made her, this book was written with you in mind. As I read, I often found myself in these ladies' stories. You, too, may very well find echoes of your own life within the stories of the women in this book, and hopefully will find encouragement to continue to press into truth and overcome the worldly parameters of what is considered “beautiful”.
Amidst gorgeous photos set in a “before and after” makeover-style framework, Rebecca tells the story of brave women from around the globe who have, through faith and the power of God, found redemption and healing and have learned to call themselves “beautiful” in the light of the Truth.
Through each chapter, Rebecca interlaces each woman’s story with a related event from her own life and then ties it all together through Scriptural accounts, even offering thought-provoking focus questions for the reader at the end of each chapter.
For the woman longing to find a bit of community in her own struggles with identity, acceptance and learning to love the woman God has made her, this book was written with you in mind. As I read, I often found myself in these ladies' stories. You, too, may very well find echoes of your own life within the stories of the women in this book, and hopefully will find encouragement to continue to press into truth and overcome the worldly parameters of what is considered “beautiful”.
April 29, 2019
This book made me feel searching and exploring into each women’s life. It is a well woven book of what beautiful can look like in so many ways. I enjoyed the chance to sit down one chapter at a time and see what beauty can look like even through hurts and struggles.
From the cover the reader may think this is a story of the beautiful of creation, like oceans, forests, etc, but it is not. Yet it is a story of the beauty of God’s creation in 12 different women. The author has captured their struggles, their joys and the directions God would have them take. Thought producing photos by the author as the stories are told, reflecting each individual women. Each chapter also contains famous quotes tying into each story.
This book could also be used as a Bible study as each chapter contains a relationship to a Biblical character or event and then ends with reflective questions.
While the author traveled to find each women to fit each chapter I would have liked to see more diversity in the women that the author chose.
I received an advance full version of the book from the publisher for the purpose of giving an honest review. This is an honest review and completely my own.
From the cover the reader may think this is a story of the beautiful of creation, like oceans, forests, etc, but it is not. Yet it is a story of the beauty of God’s creation in 12 different women. The author has captured their struggles, their joys and the directions God would have them take. Thought producing photos by the author as the stories are told, reflecting each individual women. Each chapter also contains famous quotes tying into each story.
This book could also be used as a Bible study as each chapter contains a relationship to a Biblical character or event and then ends with reflective questions.
While the author traveled to find each women to fit each chapter I would have liked to see more diversity in the women that the author chose.
I received an advance full version of the book from the publisher for the purpose of giving an honest review. This is an honest review and completely my own.
April 30, 2019
Finding Beautiful is a wonderful hands on illustration of many women coming to discover their true identities in Christ through the circumstances of life. Each story is so different but all immersed in the simple and profound love of God holding their hearts in His. Each testimony of overcoming trauma and lies reminded me of areas of my own life and inspired me to share this with my teenage daughter. This book is more than a book, it’s a devotional with practical, applicable questions and suggestions to help us to learn, grow, and flourish in our true identities. It does not at all come across as another list for women to change and to fix this and that. No, this book is humble and real. Simple and profound. I believe it will be like a lifelong friend for many, many women.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 14, 2019
A collection of stories from a dozen different women about how God changed their lives and turned things around for them. There's a nice variety of stories being told, the quotes are not necessarily religious but are relevant and a nice touch. The individuals for each story, however, do not come with much variety and are nearly all Caucasian. The writings a bit cliche and nothing earth shattering, but does have a very positive message and comes across very relatable. I do not understand the purpose of giving these women "makeovers". The impression from the writing is that they are all individually beautiful in their own right and through each way God's changed their lives, so why paint them up and throw pearls and a flowy dress on them? Are they not beautiful on their own? Didn't really make much sense to me.
May 2, 2019
I received this book from the publisher as part of the launch team and here is my review.
It’s beautiful illustration of the 12 women their life stories of the triumphs over their struggles when they find Jesus and give their lives to God. Beautiful pictures of before and after where each came from (radical makeover) and now how they overcame make me in tear! The Master’s hand touches and change their lives!! Our God made beauty inside each of us, and when we give ourselves to God, He alone can make change and make something beautiful. I enjoyed reading and recommend to all ages, especially young ladies. This book reminds me of “God made beautiful in all of us” and nothing too difficult to our God!!
It’s beautiful illustration of the 12 women their life stories of the triumphs over their struggles when they find Jesus and give their lives to God. Beautiful pictures of before and after where each came from (radical makeover) and now how they overcame make me in tear! The Master’s hand touches and change their lives!! Our God made beauty inside each of us, and when we give ourselves to God, He alone can make change and make something beautiful. I enjoyed reading and recommend to all ages, especially young ladies. This book reminds me of “God made beautiful in all of us” and nothing too difficult to our God!!
April 26, 2019
I received an advanced copy of Finding Beautiful: Discovering Authentic Beauty Around the World from the Baker Publishing and the author in exchange for my honest review.
I am not really a non-fiction reader, but when offered the opportunity to read this book, I was excited. What could be better than life makeover stories to inspire me and others? From the gorgeous cover to the inspiring stories, this book of inner and outer beauty is touching.
The author interviews and provides life change makeovers for twelve women from "around the world". (I would have liked to see more variety in the around the world, since there is a lot more to the world than the Americas and Western Europe.) Each chapter tells the story of the hardships of one woman and how she made over her life through Christ. The author also tells her story of how she met and interviewed the woman and then provides before and after photos. The photos are both creative, evocative, and beautiful. The final part of each chapter are bible study questions pertaining to that persons story.
The author manages to convey the redemption stories of each woman without being preachy. The bible study questions are thought provoking.
A beautiful book!
Preorder your copy NOW.
I am not really a non-fiction reader, but when offered the opportunity to read this book, I was excited. What could be better than life makeover stories to inspire me and others? From the gorgeous cover to the inspiring stories, this book of inner and outer beauty is touching.
The author interviews and provides life change makeovers for twelve women from "around the world". (I would have liked to see more variety in the around the world, since there is a lot more to the world than the Americas and Western Europe.) Each chapter tells the story of the hardships of one woman and how she made over her life through Christ. The author also tells her story of how she met and interviewed the woman and then provides before and after photos. The photos are both creative, evocative, and beautiful. The final part of each chapter are bible study questions pertaining to that persons story.
The author manages to convey the redemption stories of each woman without being preachy. The bible study questions are thought provoking.
A beautiful book!
Preorder your copy NOW.
April 30, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book as part of the launch team. I received this book as a gift in exchange for the review.
Rebecca has collected some truly amazing stories. A binding theme of all was listening to the God Who Sees, such as Hagar knew. The truth is that we are all Hagar wandering the dessert feeling despised for who we are, until God sees us and accepts us. By that simple act we are changed.
I particularly resonated with the stories of Kat and Charla, in the chapters titled Beautiful Worth Ana Beautiful Vulnerability. Finding my own worth has come from a place of vulnerability. Hearing other women’s stories fills my heart with joy
I hope to find a way to watch Rebecca’s film because I do feel that it will add the visual element that the stories need. The descriptions and photos are beautiful, but I think the contrast of before and after make overs is better suited to the media of film.
All these ladies deserves much support and love for grace that they are putting out into the world.
Rebecca has collected some truly amazing stories. A binding theme of all was listening to the God Who Sees, such as Hagar knew. The truth is that we are all Hagar wandering the dessert feeling despised for who we are, until God sees us and accepts us. By that simple act we are changed.
I particularly resonated with the stories of Kat and Charla, in the chapters titled Beautiful Worth Ana Beautiful Vulnerability. Finding my own worth has come from a place of vulnerability. Hearing other women’s stories fills my heart with joy
I hope to find a way to watch Rebecca’s film because I do feel that it will add the visual element that the stories need. The descriptions and photos are beautiful, but I think the contrast of before and after make overs is better suited to the media of film.
All these ladies deserves much support and love for grace that they are putting out into the world.
April 25, 2019
I was privileged to be on the launch team for this book. I have been following Rebecca online for a few years and I loved what she was doing with the TV show, and when I saw she had written a book about it I had to get my hands on it.
The book is just as powerful as the videos she has shot to tell the stories of women from around the world. The book is full of amazing transformational stories and gives you the ability to look into peoples lives in a way you would never have known without Rebecca and her willingness to do what the Lord has called her too.
If you ever feel like you're alone in your struggles this book is for you. It will open your eyes to see that you are not alone in the struggles and trauma that life brings, and that there is a way out and healing waiting to happen.
I wish there was a book like this for men because I think men often get overlooked when it comes to things like this book goes into. But if you're a man, don't let the fact that it's a book about women make you put it down. The lessons and stories can also speak to you and apply to you. Because God loves you just as much as the women in this book, and He wants to have a relationship with you too.
The book is just as powerful as the videos she has shot to tell the stories of women from around the world. The book is full of amazing transformational stories and gives you the ability to look into peoples lives in a way you would never have known without Rebecca and her willingness to do what the Lord has called her too.
If you ever feel like you're alone in your struggles this book is for you. It will open your eyes to see that you are not alone in the struggles and trauma that life brings, and that there is a way out and healing waiting to happen.
I wish there was a book like this for men because I think men often get overlooked when it comes to things like this book goes into. But if you're a man, don't let the fact that it's a book about women make you put it down. The lessons and stories can also speak to you and apply to you. Because God loves you just as much as the women in this book, and He wants to have a relationship with you too.
May 4, 2019
Really beautiful book highlighting God's love for us through 12 women & their stories. The author has beautifully showcased the stories with before and after photographs of each woman. Very uplifting and an extremely important message, especially to women. No matter where you're from, where you're at on your journey or how well you think you are we all seem to be a little more self-conscious and doubting of our value. This book lifts women up and drives home the love our Father has for each and every one of us.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 30, 2019
Finding Beautiful by Rebecca Friedlander is interwoven with real women’s life stories along with the author’s story and a biblical story in each chapter of the book. The author travels the world & brings to life stories from women who were beaten down, searching for answers and hope in the wrong places until Jesus’ presence and love was made real in each of their lives. The author does a wonderful photo shoot/makeover for each woman as well.
I was surprised by this book; I thought it was going to be about photography & makeovers but it is SO MUCH MORE! The women interviewed along with the author are so real and raw with their stories that I found myself quickly scanning the pages to see their outcomes. I also liked the biblical stories that related to each chapter; they brought the characters alive & made it more real.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good redemption story and also wants to grow themselves as they see the beauty God has created in everyone.
I received a free copy of this book from Baker Publishing. All opinions are mine.
I was surprised by this book; I thought it was going to be about photography & makeovers but it is SO MUCH MORE! The women interviewed along with the author are so real and raw with their stories that I found myself quickly scanning the pages to see their outcomes. I also liked the biblical stories that related to each chapter; they brought the characters alive & made it more real.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good redemption story and also wants to grow themselves as they see the beauty God has created in everyone.
I received a free copy of this book from Baker Publishing. All opinions are mine.
April 14, 2019
Thank you to Just Read Tours for selecting me to be part of the tour; and to the publisher Baker Books for sending this inspirational book.
This is a Christian Living/Women’s self-help book by worship-leader, film-producer, and award-winning photographer Rebecca Friedlander.
This book explores the search for “true beauty” and highlights the best of the stories from “Radical Makeovers”.
Friedlander got the idea after hearing a model’s story about feeling like a piece of meat and Friedlander’s comparison of how butcher shops discarded unwanted carcasses vs. the “meat-market” of today’s society.
The book tells about the various women and their beauty, along with their spiritual intervention with God. The “themed” chapters are told about the subject – their history, explaining the photo shoot, the author’s story relating to the theme, God’s (bible) story relating to the particular chapter, a “true beauty tip”, along with questions for reflection.
Traveling the world; from Paris, Hawaii, England, California, Israel, Ireland, places across the US and Mexico; Friedlander teaches us to not define beauty from outward appearances. She instead has us rely upon uses God’s definition to discover what true beauty is and where our transformation can begin.
Admittedly this book was outside my genre and I really don’t do the “self-help” type of books. But, something about this book seemed to reach out to me.
If you enjoy an inspirational read with Christian inspiration as well as biblical quotes, you will definitely enjoy this read. I honestly couldn’t put it down once I got it! I had to force myself to stop so I could soak it all in and really receive the messages in it. I definitely felt myself changed by it and do feel better about myself after reading it.
I’ll definitely be re-reading it again – especially for the reflection questions.
This is a Christian Living/Women’s self-help book by worship-leader, film-producer, and award-winning photographer Rebecca Friedlander.
This book explores the search for “true beauty” and highlights the best of the stories from “Radical Makeovers”.
Friedlander got the idea after hearing a model’s story about feeling like a piece of meat and Friedlander’s comparison of how butcher shops discarded unwanted carcasses vs. the “meat-market” of today’s society.
The book tells about the various women and their beauty, along with their spiritual intervention with God. The “themed” chapters are told about the subject – their history, explaining the photo shoot, the author’s story relating to the theme, God’s (bible) story relating to the particular chapter, a “true beauty tip”, along with questions for reflection.
Traveling the world; from Paris, Hawaii, England, California, Israel, Ireland, places across the US and Mexico; Friedlander teaches us to not define beauty from outward appearances. She instead has us rely upon uses God’s definition to discover what true beauty is and where our transformation can begin.
Admittedly this book was outside my genre and I really don’t do the “self-help” type of books. But, something about this book seemed to reach out to me.
If you enjoy an inspirational read with Christian inspiration as well as biblical quotes, you will definitely enjoy this read. I honestly couldn’t put it down once I got it! I had to force myself to stop so I could soak it all in and really receive the messages in it. I definitely felt myself changed by it and do feel better about myself after reading it.
I’ll definitely be re-reading it again – especially for the reflection questions.
April 22, 2019
The idea of identity is such a big thing in our world today and Finding Beautiful addresses that issue through the powerful stories of these beautiful women. Along the way, Rebecca Friedlander includes bits of her own personal experiences. She states that she takes artistic license with Bible passages to include a section of Biblical fiction relating to each chapter. Throughout the book, the author asks thought provoking questions. I definitely think that this book would make for a great small group because the content easily lends to discussion. The group could read one chapter a week and have plenty to discuss. My advice is to read this book slowly as these stories of transformed lives are rich in lessons that will touch your heart. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 24, 2019
What an inspirational and encouraging collection of make-overs! Not your standard make-up and hairdo changes. These make-overs that shed light on how our self-view can color our world. We are indeed a reflection of who we know ourselves to be on the inside, and who our Father God says we are. This book is a reminder, full of hope, that we are not “stuck” by what we have experienced in the past, or who we have been told we are. Thanks goes to the author, Rebecca Friedlander, for writing this! Here is my review, and my appreciation for receiving an advance copy of Finding Beautiful from the publisher.
April 22, 2019
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher so I could give my honest opinion.
12 different women. 12 different stories. 1 redeeming God. Although their story is not my story, I could find myself in each of these women. Heartache, self-condemnation, hiding from the world, and shame. But when these women meet God, truly meet the God of love and mercy and grace, their lives are completely transformed. From ashes to beauty.
The author did a beautiful job of telling their stories and the photos that go alongside their stories are truly works of art. I cannot recommend this book enough for the woman who is struggling. In fact, I would recommend loved ones read this who have women and teen girls in their lives who struggle with this as well.
12 different women. 12 different stories. 1 redeeming God. Although their story is not my story, I could find myself in each of these women. Heartache, self-condemnation, hiding from the world, and shame. But when these women meet God, truly meet the God of love and mercy and grace, their lives are completely transformed. From ashes to beauty.
The author did a beautiful job of telling their stories and the photos that go alongside their stories are truly works of art. I cannot recommend this book enough for the woman who is struggling. In fact, I would recommend loved ones read this who have women and teen girls in their lives who struggle with this as well.
April 13, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
In Rebecca Friedlander’s new book, Finding Beautiful: Discovering Authentic Beauty Around The World, we find 12 women from around the world who are showcased telling their story, their truth, and ultimately, their freedom by understanding who they really are. There are beautiful photographs the author took to capture the emotions that each woman’s story reveals. These are amazingly shot and tell a story all on their own!
I love the way that the author gives some detail behind the photo shoot and also writes a small paragraph of her feelings and how she relates to the story. She also gives biblical stories to draw the reader to scripture to see how people in the Bible experienced similar situations in their life.
It breaks my heart that lying at the heart of most of all of these stories, we see the cruelty of childhood bullying, shaming, feelings of unworthiness and feeling unloved at a young age.
My prayer is that those who read this book will come to see
that hurting people hurt people. But God is there for them and He sends others to help guide and change their lives. I think this would be good for early teenage girls who need to grasp their true value so that they will not lose their God-given identity or try to find it in all the wrong places only to end in brokenness.
I think all women will enjoy this book, but I think it would be
particularly good for youth groups and for girls coming of age as a good teaching tool. They are loved, they are accepted and they are valuable!
In Rebecca Friedlander’s new book, Finding Beautiful: Discovering Authentic Beauty Around The World, we find 12 women from around the world who are showcased telling their story, their truth, and ultimately, their freedom by understanding who they really are. There are beautiful photographs the author took to capture the emotions that each woman’s story reveals. These are amazingly shot and tell a story all on their own!
I love the way that the author gives some detail behind the photo shoot and also writes a small paragraph of her feelings and how she relates to the story. She also gives biblical stories to draw the reader to scripture to see how people in the Bible experienced similar situations in their life.
It breaks my heart that lying at the heart of most of all of these stories, we see the cruelty of childhood bullying, shaming, feelings of unworthiness and feeling unloved at a young age.
My prayer is that those who read this book will come to see
that hurting people hurt people. But God is there for them and He sends others to help guide and change their lives. I think this would be good for early teenage girls who need to grasp their true value so that they will not lose their God-given identity or try to find it in all the wrong places only to end in brokenness.
I think all women will enjoy this book, but I think it would be
particularly good for youth groups and for girls coming of age as a good teaching tool. They are loved, they are accepted and they are valuable!
June 5, 2019
Americans spend millions on beauty products, weight-loss programs, and age-defying medical interventions each year. We set impossible standards and feel bad about ourselves when we don't reach them. Is beauty truly that difficult to attain? Or could it be that our idea of what's beautiful is simply too narrow?
With engaging personal stories and dramatic before-and-after photography, filmmaker Rebecca Friedlander uncovers the true beauty of 12 women from various ethnicities and backgrounds, empowering us to shatter the lies of rejection, doubt, and low self-esteem. Utilizing compelling biblical truth and questions for personal reflection, Friedlander helps us identify our own personal battlegrounds, celebrate our uniqueness, and embrace God's definition of beautiful.
Anyone who loves a great makeover story or who wants to explore their unique identity will love this eye-opening book. Let's stop letting the world define beauty and start being a voice that tells the world what true beauty actually looks like.
I would buy this book, love stories of people finding happiness! 5 stars
With engaging personal stories and dramatic before-and-after photography, filmmaker Rebecca Friedlander uncovers the true beauty of 12 women from various ethnicities and backgrounds, empowering us to shatter the lies of rejection, doubt, and low self-esteem. Utilizing compelling biblical truth and questions for personal reflection, Friedlander helps us identify our own personal battlegrounds, celebrate our uniqueness, and embrace God's definition of beautiful.
Anyone who loves a great makeover story or who wants to explore their unique identity will love this eye-opening book. Let's stop letting the world define beauty and start being a voice that tells the world what true beauty actually looks like.
I would buy this book, love stories of people finding happiness! 5 stars
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