Every so often publishers will send me emails offering review copies of their latest offerings. When I saw the title Crazy Joy, I was automatically drawn to it and asked for a copy. You see of late, things happening in our world have been weighing on me and maybe even stealing my joy. I figured I needed to read this book. When I review books, I will often look up the author just to find more about them and I did so with Ms. Backstrom. I found some things that showed we would likely have some pretty major disagreements. I became worried specifically because of the sub title of the book: “Finding wild happiness in a world that’s upside down.” I began to wonder what if she spends her time on what is upside down and the things she thinks are upside down are what I think is right side up? Would I finish this book crazy but without the joy I have been seeking?
I considered not reading the book, but seeing as how I hate cancel culture with the white hot passion of a thousand suns, I decided it would be best not to engage in it. I determined to read the book. I am glad I did. I finished it in two days. This book is devoid of controversy but instead deals with the matter at hand, helping people to find joy and she does it masterfully. This book is chock full of humorous and poignant stories from the author’s life (and a few other sources) that meld beautifully with the point she is making. If you are a person who is struggling to find joy, this is a book for you. It is well written, thought provoking and joy invoking. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it reminded me of something else, that I know pretty well but that is missing in much of our society. We don’t have to agree on every point to gain from each other. What we need to do is learn to understand each other, “hear” each other out, disagree agreeably and love our neighbors. I think we’d find a lot more joy in life if we did. Nice work Ms. Backstrom.
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