Customer Reviews

Public Lives Private Prayers

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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"Public Lives, Private Prayers" works wonderfully on a number of levels. First, we are fascinated by the glimpses into the inner lives of these celebrities, people we feel we know so well at some level. It's amazing how differently you will see each person after you know his or her favorite prayer. Secondly, the totality of the book is a powerful statement on the central importance of the spiritual aspects of life. Not a trendy thought, but true nonetheless. And individually, many of the prayers are touching and wonderful.

I have absolutely loved reading and rereading Reath's book. This is not a typical prayer book. Instead it is a book of inspiration that the reader can identify with. Those who shared prayers or thoughts are so varied in their public lives and that adds to the tenderness of the book. This is a book to cherish and share with others.

I returned to this beautiful book of prayers during the days following the terrible attack on our country. I was able to feel close to the public people in Ms. Reath's book, to find in their prayers inspiration for my own prayer. Since many of the contributions are especially useful for times of distress and pain, this anthology was truly a Godsend. Of course this is not the only time many of us will want be pressed, will suffer, will feel alone, will need to come close to our God. This book, by presenting the prayers of others, of people many of whom bear large responsibilities, helps confirm that we are all in a community. A wonderful book to have, to pass on to others, to keep close by.

I keep one copy of this book in my car and one by my bed so that I can get quick jolts of inspiration, comfort and connection. It has become essential equipment for life in these difficult times.

This slim volume does not contain advice on how to pray, nor does it represent any particular denomination or faith. Instead, it gives the reader a wonderful variety of short prayers and spiritual comments from public people around the world. On one level, it is a fascinating look at the inner lives of people that we see profiled in the media. On another level, it presents a starting point for meditation and prayer by using any one of its many entries. For anyone who wants to add some more contemplative time to your day --keep it handy at all times.

If ever we needed a book like this, this is the time. Flip to any page and you'll read interesting, comforting, engaging prayers from religions around the world. My copy is already dog-eared.

I consider this a valuable small book to have on my night stand. It is filled with prayers which famous people rely on to gain peace before sleep. It has been revealing to know in these times of unease, that public people also have a spiritual side...I am giving it for birthdays and other occasions.

This is a good collection and one to own. Nevertheless, there should be a caveat. The "private prayers" are not necessarily the words of the public person. Usually the prayer is one by some poet, author, or religious leader. Perhaps this book would be better titled, "Public Lives, Favorite Prayers." I don't want to diminish the work of the author or the effort she put into this book, but I think the marketing is a little off-target.