6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Let the Healing Begin, April 4, 2003
Dr. Singleton prefaces the novel, Broken Silence, by quoting an axiom from a t-shirt she once saw: "Being a Black Woman Is One of the Hardest Jobs in the World." She comments that this maxim has proven itself true as evidenced in the lives of her clients. Too often women of color hide behind walls of silence (with disastrous consequences), only turning to therapy when the burdens become too heavy to bear. I loved the way the author substantiated this point by citing the historical "silent suffering" experienced by African American slaves as fodder for pain; how religion is repeatedly viewed as the only means of relief; and how the "silent suffering" is still deeply rooted in the modern African American psyche.
The middle portion of the book contains eight success stories of black women who have benefited from therapy. Each woman has different types of issues ranging from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship issues, and self-respect/identity problems. Dr. Singleton introduces each story with care and compassion. Her objectivity, presentation of the issues, and counsel to her patients are helpful, sound, and sensible. She has simplified highly complex problems which allow the reader to easily empathize and learn from the lessons of others. My only comment here is she might have over-simplified a bit too much, but her advice and strategies to minimize stress and encourage her clients are wonderful.
I think this book is an excellent resource for women, especially black women, who need to know that they are not alone in their experiences with abuse, failed relationships, and/or career disappointments. It also provides clear explanations and warning signs along with practical suggestions and exercises for healthier living. It demonstrates that personal change is possible and helps women realize that if they choose to overcome the cultural stigma of therapy, they will find the support, comfort, relief, and balance needed to let the healing begin.
Reviewed by Phyllis
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A great beginning!!, May 15, 2003
This book is great beginning for women who are uncertain about whether they need to seek professional help! She really has captured the essence of Black women and their path to therapy. I have recommended it to many of my friends.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Not Another "How -To" Book, February 14, 2004
Dr. Singleton's book is right on time for the African American woman of today, because as quiet as it's kept, we are hurting and need to be healed. As a 17 year old African American female I opened the book and from reading the first page I knew that it was not another one of those "How-To" books. We all know about the sudden trend in writing motivational books where the author has an eyecatching title like "How To Heal Your Broken Soul With Five Easy and Totally Doable Steps!", written by some person who couldn't be further away from their target readers.
Dr. Singleton's book is far from anything like that. This book is real and with every chapter dedicated to another hurt and troubled Black woman, the reader can relate to one,if not two or three of the women. This book is not just for middle-aged Black woman.It is for any woman of any age."Broklen Silence" is simply put and can be read in no time, and even if you find that every chapter is not aplicable to you, each reader should find Singleton's ending 10 Priciples of Affirmation.
Thank you for writing this book Dr. Singleton.There is someone of my generation out here reading it.
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