How to live and thrive amid the challenges we face is the theme of Cathy Madavan’s latest book, Irrepressible – a fitting book to feature during this time of crisis. She offers twelve principles for building “courageous, resilient, and fulfilling lives that make a difference”. She defines being irrepressible as “uncontained, unrestrained, and incapable of being repressed”. She knows that in life we’ll face not only joys but challenges too, often at the same time. Her principles will help you to develop a robust character as you work through both the hard things but the wonderful things too. Didn’t I say this book’s release was timely?

What I like best about Irrepressible is how it feels like Cathy is with you as a mentor, cheering you on, not only with encouragement but speaking truth. True confessions, I know Cathy, which means I can confirm that her irrepressible voice comes through on the page just as it does in real life. Her stories of the challenges she’s faced are compelling, including how her husband’s rapidly diminishing eyesight has affected their family.

Cathy has written the book in an outward-facing manner. That is, she’s written so that Christians will think and pray about the people who aren’t Christians that they could give this book to. I’m glad that Cathy doesn’t hide her faith in the book – I’ve criticised that approach more than once over the years. But she takes a gentle tone as she points to the foundation of God for her life and beliefs.

This book is packed with some really simple yet powerful maxims. It has its fair share of cliches, but they somehow work as gentle reminders and stepping stones of wisdom.

This is a fun way to read through on ways to become courageous and press on in our lives. The author shares 12 principles and though each one is not particularly new, what's great about them is her approach and understanding, and how she unpacks them.
I know anyone looking to be better, irrepressible and kind would read this book with a pen and notebook in hand for the summary questions at the end are just great.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.