Brene Brown, The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are (Center City, MN: Hazelden), 2010.

I'm not a fan of self-help books in general. I believe, as the title of Brown's book suggests that human happiness and self-worth are achieved by discovering and embracing one's own identity, not by following another person's path to success. However, I belong to a group that decided to read and discuss this book and the book has produced some very good discussion indeed. We did not use the book as a formula or pattern, but rather as a stepping off point in looking at ourselves.

Brown is a researcher whose general field is shame, authenticity and belonging. After a couple of introductory chapters, the book focuses on ten guideposts to developing courage, compassion and connection. These three words are really the core of the book and open ways to think about pursuing a more meaningful life.

The book is a good read, and even better when discussed in a trusted and caring community.