Book Review: Wake Up to Wonder by Karen Wright Marsh

About the Book:

In her quest to live a vibrant spiritual life, Karen Wright Marsh had a revelation: she didn't need to find and follow the perfect plan; she needed people she could follow.

In Wake Up to Wonder, Marsh introduces you to those people--faithful yet oh-so-human Christians from across centuries and cultures. Inspired by their example, she offers playful, simple practices that bring deeper meaning and purpose to everyday life.

In the company of diverse spiritual companions, you'll journey through physical health, prayer, activism, Scripture reading, creativity, and beyond. Each chapter includes hands-on invitations such as writing prompts, space for personal reflection, and "Try This," a collage of spiritual and personal experiments anyone can do.

As you wake up to wonder, you'll discover what these twenty-two historical figures already knew: that a life of spiritual depth, amazement, and connection is within reach--today and every day.

Read an excerpt from Wake Up to Wonder by Karen Wright Marsh on the publisher's website.

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My Thoughts:

Reading Wake Up to Wonder by Karen Wright Marsh felt like a conversation with a kind, wise mentor. The content focused on living life with intention and wonder, making it more of a practical self-care book than a devotional book. I admit that I was sold on the book when I read the first invitation (aka daily reading) because it discussed the benefits of journaling (a hobby near and dear to my heart). Other invitations in Wake Up to Wonder included singing, gratitude, examining the day, and solitude. Wake Up to Wonder also recommended the common sense practices of proper nutrition, daily walks, and short rests which are easily skipped over in the rush of life.

Wake Up to Wonder cited many works by Christian thinkers as the book’s premise was that the author sought to learn from reputable people of faith. I enjoyed the mini-biographies of Martin Luther, Margery Kempe, Augustine, Brother Lawrence, Fannie Lou Hamer, Dorothy Day, and many more. The author drew together historical documents/information, Scriptures, and her own story/thoughts. Often, she included questions for reflection or suggestions on how to implement the ideas presented. My list of want-to-read books grew as almost every book Marsh recommended sounded like something I would learn from or like to read for enjoyment.

I thoroughly enjoyed Wake Up to Wonder by Karen Wright Marsh. Five stars!

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.