cover image The Miracle of Change the Path to Self Discovery

The Miracle of Change the Path to Self Discovery

Dennis Wholey. Atria Books, $23 (304pp) ISBN 978-0-671-51891-2

In his bestselling book The Courage to Change, talk-show host Wholey shared his own story of alcoholism and recovery, along with those of many other recovering alcoholics. Now, Wholey looks at a range of life changes, including marriage, divorce, the death of a loved one, job and career shifts, moving and health problems. Again, he shares his own experiences, as well as those of people as diverse as Hazel O'Leary, Betty White, Thomas Moore, Nina Totenberg, Les Brown, Ann Richards and Michael J. Fox. Brief personal stories capture the unique perspective of these individuals in their own work, creating a tapestry of wisdom gleaned from current American lives. Whether it's newswomen Andrea Mitchell and Judy Woodruff talking about changing jobs, actress Kelly McGillis recounting several residential moves she and her family have made, or choreographer Bill T. Jones relating his experiences as an African American gay man who has lost his lover to AIDS and is himself HIV positive, the common theme of coping with change draws them--and readers--together. Wholey reminds readers that ""the ultimate certainty of life is that there is change and change is uncomfortable,"" and contributor Les Brown says, ""It's important for you to challenge yourself, to go beyond your comfort zone."" From the comfort of their armchairs, Wholey's readers can find inspiration and encouragement here to seek, welcome or at least accept the inevitable changes of life. Author tour. (Apr.)