I have agreed to review books periodically for Thomas Nelson Publishers. Here is my first review.
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Have you ever wondered why some folks seem to have a difficult time getting happy? Why is true joy so elusive for so many? As a Christian working in the field, Dr. Earl Henslin believes he has some answers. He believes there are often completely treatable, completely understandable brain issues driving many of our persistent mood problems. He makes a very convincing case.
Dr. Henslin has an engaging writing style making complex issues approachable for the average lay person. He also has a cheerful sense of humor. Any serious author able to find a way to use the line, “Everybody knows it is just not a good idea to put a gerbil in charge of your mind” is worth a read! Not only does he regularly bring a smile to a potentially dry subject, his approachability actually makes brain research comprehensible.
I have only two hesitations with this book, both of which might be overly picky on my part.
When I’m listening to anyone discussing complex scientific issues, I appreciate a genuine sense of humility. In the constantly changing field of medical research in particular, I want to see a very obvious recognition the writer understands medicine is still something of an art form. While I am thrilled by all we have learned about the human body in recent decades, scientists have been wrong enough in the past that I want to hear some honest humility in their pronouncements. I rarely do. While Dr. Henslin isn’t particularly offensive in this area, I guess I would have liked to hear a bit more humility as he discussed all the treatments/experiments possible for our brains. Last time I checked, the brain is still at least little tricky to fully understand! I’m just not completely comfortable with some of his certainty.
The second issue relates to the nature of self-help books. I am always concerned when an author gets overly specific and prescriptive. While it might be helpful to discuss medicines and supplements found helpful in treating certain brain issues, I am very uncomfortable listing dosages and regimens. I am uncomfortable with the detail given in the book. The potential for abuse and confusion is too great. I would have thinned the self-help stuff significantly. I don’t like the idea of people self-medicating for potential brain issues.
These concerns aside, the book was still a thought-provoking and encouraging read. Perhaps the most encouraging message of the book is that our brains can be treated and can recover from seemingly hopeless situations. This is a very hopeful and useful book in the right hands. Anyone dealing with emotional issues might do well to give it a peek. But talk to a professional before you start popping any pills!
