Today, Dienece is reviewing a Christian resource for silencing the storm of depression, D.M. Samms’ Storm Breakers.
Back Cover Copy
A small phrase [pictured above] began a search to understand how and why depression is affecting so many people, and to find a biblically-based approach to overcoming its effects.
This book is one author’s revelation, and subsequent journey, to overcoming a lifelong struggle with depression. Using the Bible to develop tactical approaches to overcoming deep and dark struggles, Storm Breakers equips readers to silence the storm of depression, just as Jesus did in Mark 4:39:
“And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”
There is Hope. There is a Way.
Dienece’s Review
This book was an enjoyable, easy, and thought provoking read. I gleaned several nuggets to combat negative thoughts with a simple read through and could see deep potential for more if one really dug into the methods and tips shared in this book.
The author was professional, and even though I do not suffer from depression, he explained things in a way I could relate to and understand.
Depression is “difficult to pin down…” the author said. Because “it is anything but fair, neat, or presented with a pretty bow. Depression is dark and messy.” However, I thought the author did an admirable job at attempting to neatly and fairly sum up and explain a very messy and difficult situation.
Only, once did I think the author let his passion override his professionalism when he discussed the tendency to immediately medicate sufferers instead of giving them tools to combat their storms. However, the rest of the book was a great balance between relatable and professional.
Intended audience:
I highly recommend this book as an excellent resource for Christians struggling with depression. In my opinion, I doubt a non-believer would manage to look past all the Bible verses to the underlying battle plan for depression. Although, a Christian could probably read it and help the non-believer implements the concepts.
My recommendations:
- Don’t skip the theology parts.
They create a solid deck for you to stand on when the storms of depression hit. Also, the practical made more sense when I understood the reasoning behind why certain thoughts are triggers.
The good news is that the author is very efficient, and it won’t take you long to finish the theology if you struggle reading things like that.
- Read this when you are doing well
I can see this book being a beacon during a storm, but I believe the maximum benefit will be reached if one reads it during a calm period first. But by all means, don’t wait to grab a copy if you need help now.
- Ask someone else to read it with you
The tips shared can be implemented alone, but I would strongly recommend having someone read it with you. That way they can discuss what you’ve learned and perhaps give you little reminders should you need a nudge.
- Don’t judge this book by its length.
Yes, it’s short, but there was a wealth of information and years of experience boiled down into an easy-to-read nutshell. The author is just very efficient while being open and honest.
Two of my favourite quotes:
Yes, you read that right. The chapter title ‘Cheese is…’ stopped me in my tracks. I read it twice and wondered if the author had made some sort of typo, but he didn’t. You’ll just have to read the book to find out what cheese has to do with depression.
The Nitty Gritty
This book is available in English and Spanish. I am sharing the USA Amazon link, but the Australian site has both the English and Spanish versions available in Kindle Unlimited (as of December 2022).
The printed copy includes prompt cards one can cut out and slip into their wallet or purse. While these are technically present in the eBook, one would have to copy out the information.
You can contact D.M. Samms through his website link below.
Thanks so much for this book review, Dienece.
You’re welcome, Susan. This book was a pleasure to read and review. Thank you for commenting!