Title: When Hope Is Your Only Option
Subtitle: One Man’s Brave Journey Through Life’s Adversity
Author: Jim Stavis
Publisher: URLink Print and Media, LLC
ISBN: 978-1-68486-079-1
Pages: 220
Genre: Self-Help
Reviewed by: Margie Przybylski
Hollywood Book Reviews
Jim Stavis’ life journey in battling diabetes and other health issues serves as inspiration to others in his Self-Help book titled When Hope is Your Only Option. He begins his book describing his most recent encounter with a health issue – the doctor explaining the dire circumstances of failing organs, Stavis is determined to fight and try everything possible to get better and continue living. “The purpose of this book is to help you see that no matter what happens or what you are faced with, there is a way forward—a way through,” he states.
This book is perfect for any age confident readers. Stavis’ story as well as his advice on conquering adversity is a wonderful read for people finding they struggle with day to day life, whether they face major health issues or not. Stavis explains after reading his book the reader will be able to create a “new normal, even in the face of adversity.”
Stavis’ voice is strong and inspiring, he tells stories from his own life that inspire a certain awe in the reader. While his storytelling makes the book a light hearted read, he helps the reader find their own potential within themselves even if they may feel completely lost or hopeless in life.
While it makes up 220 pages it is a fast read, and at the end of the book it feels like Stavis is an old friend – with some great advice to share. I loved reading his book and found many lessons apply to my own life. As a mom of two kids the days get away from me easily and I find myself overwhelmed by the small stuff – Stavis’ perspective provides hope for readers in any stage in life, regardless of what their problems may be.
Even when his life sentence seems dire – Stavis’ positive mindset allows him to lead his life and enjoy it. When Stavis came across hardship in his life he didn’t ask himself “why me?” Instead, he realized the real question is “why not me?” He explains in chapter 7 that we need hardship in life in order to grow, we need to fail before we succeed – the only way to accomplish greatness is to struggle. This was a pretty eye-opening passage for me as struggling and failing are extremely uncomfortable for me! However, after a quick thought I realized that Stavis is right and it is easy to see how right he is just by looking at your own life. After reading this I found myself inspired to try something new, and not worry so much about being perfect right away.
Stavis’ book comes with a great deal of practical wisdom. It truly is a universal good read – whether you need some advice or not. I enjoyed reading every page and am sure you will too.