I found Getting to Center extremely hard to follow. I tend to enjoy the “stream of consciousness” style of writing, however, I felt that there was a lack of organization throughout its entirety that really took away from anything Grace was trying to convey to the reader.

This is a very sweet, loving, quirky little book with a lot of gems inside. As Marlee Grace says at one point in the book, every ugly rock is beautiful inside. But then again, no rocks are ugly, because they are from nature. But the point remains that everything has its own inner sparkle.

I really liked the affectionate, stream of consciousness writing here. I first have to point out that this book contains a lot of stuff that might be considered "woo." I for one am not the person who would go about creating an altar with a tarot card and essential oil, or spend time thinking about Mercury retrograde. BUT, that is okay....because these practices are parts of larger themes of the book that are valuable for everyone. Also, Grace is not asking you to do these things or accept her same beliefs, but simply sharing a wealth of fun things that have helped her find her center. Amidst each chapter there are some really lovely revelations. I think the book is at its best and most moving when talking about Grace's coming out, which is presented in a way that relates to the theme of the book, and is very genuine and real. I also love all the creative themes and practices in the book. Among the chapters are gems such as "I don't have writers' block; I have 'sitting down to write' block" (me too) and "Belief clings, but faith lets go."

Like her Instagram, the book has the feeling of an old soul much wiser than her years. I like some of her somewhat radical ideas, like the fact that it is not bad for socially conscious people to make a "shit ton of money" (she points out that you can redistribute this in ways that help causes and people that are important to you, and bring ease to yourself) and the idea that marginalized folks can create their own ease and access in the world. Even the ideas I did not identify with (see the aforementioned tarot card altar, and protection spells) were fun to read about.

Another thing I thought was really cool was her emphasis on practice -- including thinking about practicing after your practice, and thinking about practicing before your practice. This is useful to think of in her context as a ballerina but can really apply to anything in your life. Coincidentally I am also reading a book on neuroplasticity - there have been studies where people just THINK about doing an action (such as running, jumping, or completing a task) and monitoring doctors have observed that the parts of their brain light up as if they are actually doing that task. So Grace is really onto something here and science supports her theory that thinking about and envisioning your practice is also a form of practice.

If you can keep an open mind, this is a unique and interesting escape into a creative and interesting mind. A fast and rejuvenating read which I read in one sitting. I have not read "How to Not Always Be Working," but I want to now.

Many thanks to Harper Collins, Marlee Grace and NetGalley for the advance copy of this quirky and sweet read.

I like Marlee Grace and follow her on social media because her posts brighten my day and obviously I have a crush on her. We share similar interests, I like dancing, astrology, queer people, art, self-care, loving oneself. I don't read too many self help-ish type books, but I wanted to give this one a shot because I really like her.

This book was not made for me, but it might be made for you. It does feel like you're talking to a friend while you're reading it, it's sweet and reassuring and relatable and kind and encouraging. Light hearted.

I don't think I'm at a place right now where I'm looking for advice, or at least the advice offered here. I always appreciate Marlee Grace's vulnerability, openness, generosity, playfulness -- honestly, I totally want to be friends with her. For whatever reason, the book just wasn't speaking to my life in this moment: existing during COVID, in a presidential election year, during a summer of mass protest against police murdering Black and Brown folks, the year 2020 where literally everything is on fire. And that's okay. I genuinely hope it gives other people comfort! I think I now know that I prefer her insights in small doses and social media is really the most impactful way for me to receive what she is trying to give. The book format did not resonate with me personally.

I think if you're into Marlee Grace on social media, you should give this book a shot. For me, the book felt all over the place to the point I forgot what each chapter was about as I was reading it, I didn't want or feel I needed the advice given, it rambled and repeated itself a lot, felt poorly edited, and reading it felt like a chore right now. I wanted to like this, I know other people will. It seems to me this could be the type of book that would be comforting and warm if it reaches you at the time you need it. My experience probably says more about where I'm at in my life right now than the book itself.

Thanks to #NetGalley and Harper Collins for providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3520787235