Becoming a Woman of Destiny: Turning Life's Trials into Triumphs!

In this short but spirited volume, Cook, first female president of the Hampton University Ministers' Conference, presents the biblical judge and prophet Deborah as a model for women looking for purpose and fulfillment in a new season of life. As she examines what she calls the four pillars of Deborah's personality—intelligence, spirituality, action, and community–Cook creates a bold and meaningful template for self-actualization among women over fifty, replete with personal stories of "women of destiny" of her acquaintance, told skillfully and with respect and admiration. Although the focus of the book is narrow, with too many of her illustrative stories revolving around women in the ministry, its clear central metaphor and logical organization are strengths, as is its practicality: discussion questions and checklists are included at the end of every chapter. Cook herself is a strength; her experience in religious counseling, as well as her clear, optimistic take on Christian values and her obvious enthusiasm for the subject, will leave readers in all phases of life inspired. (Sept.)