With a sweet-as-sugar voice and an equally cheery demeanor, Clairmont dishes out the upbeat, slightly hokey advice that has become her hallmark in this audio version of her recent book. Clairmont, inspirational speaker and author of Stepping-Stones: A Garden Path
and Stardust on My Pillow: Stories to Sleep On, has the reassuring confidence-building shtick down to a science. Here, she coaches listeners on recovering from loss or pain. Drawing on excerpts from the Old Testament's Book of Nehemiah, Clairmont explains how to live in the royal servant's image. Each chapter includes descriptions of Nehemiah's life and good deeds along with comparable modern-day stories, many of which are personal anecdotes from Clairmont's own life. She ends each chapter with practical questions and suggestions she calls "heart menders." Though rife with potentially distracting remarks (she quips that some of her idiosyncrasies "drive my family banana crackers!"), Clairmont's clear, straightforward counsel will be a beacon to those reeling from inner pain. And how can one condemn a person who merrily recommends, "try Psalm 100—it's a real spirit lifter!" Simultaneous release with the Warner hardcover (Forecasts, July 27). (Sept.)
