Write Your Story: A Self-Start, Write Your Own Biography by Jennifer Carlson is a mixture of an autobiography and “how-to” book. It's an ingenious guide to writing your own story through the inspiration of reading one woman's heartfelt telling of her own. Using a train journey as a metaphor, Jennifer Carlson takes us on a trip through her life revealing intimate details of the abuse she experienced as a child, the tragedy of losing her husband to Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease, her impressive professional achievements and the love she has for her son, Chris. Nothing short of inspirational, Jennifer Carlson scatters her favourite quotes, the names of books as additional resources, and thought-provoking questions throughout the book to prompt you into thinking about the story of your life.

Write Your Story gives insight into the vulnerability of human beings as we navigate our way through life. I found it refreshing to read an autobiography of a person who is neither famous nor infamous, simply humble. This book was moving and lovely in its honest and humble telling. Jennifer Carlson's guide to telling your life story reminds us that no matter who we are, our story is powerful in the telling and interesting to read. It takes a special kind of courage to reveal our innermost feelings, but she does so in such a wonderfully relatable voice, you feel as though you are saying goodbye to a friend when you finally put it down. Expect to experience a range of intense human emotions while reading this book and you won't be disappointed.

Over two years ago, Dr. Jennifer Carlson lost her husband to vascular dementia that was caused by Alzheimer’s disease. She was devastated. Their marriage and life together would never be the same again. As she watched him slip away each day, her worry grew and her pain continued. They tried all they could but at one point she realized she had to let him go. At this point, sorrow clung to her like an unwelcome friend. As the days passed, she started healing through the help of amazing friends and family. Dr. Jennifer Carlson’s memoir, Write Your Story: A Self-Start, Write Your Own Biography follows this painful journey. It sheds light on the effect of Alzheimer’s disease on families and relationships. The memoir also presents Dr. Carlson’s painful childhood and how she overcame adversity and followed her dreams.

Every bit of Write Your Story is inspirational. From struggling to move forward from an abusive mother to dealing with the loss of her husband, the memoir is painful but, most importantly, Dr. Carlson proves that it is possible to regain your life even after devastation. The tone is gentle and encouraging. The author also opens up about many traumatic incidences and revelations. The fact that she continues to try to remain positive, despite the many setbacks, shows her courage and determination to live and make the best out of life. The photos included are beautiful and they complement the account. Write Your Story is an uplifting book that is a must-read for anyone who has gone through devastating events and needs courage to move forward and tell their story.

Write Your Story: A Self-start, Write Your Own Biography by Jennifer Carlson, Ph.D. is both a memoir and a self-help book. The author decides to share her story and helps readers understand what is so important about sharing one's story—however intimate it may be. She writes: "The beautiful thing about this process of writing, which you may find to be true for you as well, is that in telling your story, you release it. And you feel better—about yourself, about the world around you, and about the contributions you are intending to make in your life for yourself, your family, and your community." In this book, readers encounter a very vulnerable yet powerful woman in the author. She suffered the loss of the most important person in her life, Cliff, and has had to bear the pain of it alone with her son, Christopher. In this book, the author shares her journey towards healing.

Jennifer Carlson's writing is deceptively simple, and beneath that simplicity flows a stream of wisdom garnered through painful experiences. While sharing her story with readers, the author asks questions that compel readers to dig deeper into themselves and identify life-changing moments. Questions like: What is new and exciting happening in my life? What do I expect will happen in my life next? What goals and dreams do I have? are among some of the questions readers will find and they are great questions for those who want to find the kind of material they need for a book. Write Your Story: A Self-start, Write Your Own Biography is a powerful testament to how writing our life can be a healing journey. One is never the same after writing their story and this book, while helping readers know the author, offers tools for self-discovery and healing. The prose is simple and beautiful, punctuated with lovely photographs. I gained so much from the author's insight and encouragement. If you plan on writing a book, then start by reading this one.