Not Null Book Review: One Heart with Courage
A beautiful collection
One Heart with Courage by Teri Rizvi is a collection of beautifully written essays and stories. If you need an infusion of hope or a reminder that there are good people and love in this world, read this book.
Why did I read it?
I received a free copy of One Heart with Courage when I interviewed Rizvi a few years ago. I also know her through work and her leadership of the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop.
What’s it about?
This book is a collection of personal essays and stories on various topics that Rizvi wrote over a few decades. She wanted to put together this collection for a long time, and did so during the pandemic.
What’s the longer review?
The topics covered in this book are varied and include friendship, faith, motherhood, work-life balance, sports, and, of course, courage. There’s also a section on writing, which includes an interview with Erma Bombeck that Rizvi did for the University of Dayton Quarterly in 1991.
The University of Dayton appears in several pieces, but you don’t have to be familiar with the people or location to appreciate the themes presented, especially community, friendship, and support.
Probably the most unique feature of the book is her group of essays titled “2 Cultures, 2 Religions, 1 World.” Rizvi, a Catholic American, is married to a Muslim Pakistani and she shares stories related to that experience. It’s wonderful to see people embracing differences and living their lives from a place of love.
Reading this book made my heart happy with its stories highlighting some good people who have made a positive difference in the world.
Even the title is encouraging! It was inspired by the words of Martin Sheen when he received an honorary degree from the University of Dayton: “Remember this above all: One heart with courage is a majority.” If you take nothing else from this review, remember to keep courage in your heart.
Any additional information?
Rizvi and publisher Braughler Books are donating all proceeds from book sales to the Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop endowment. So buying a copy gets you an amazing collection of essays and stories — plus you’ll be supporting a wonderful writing workshop that brings a bit more joy, humor, and laughter into this world. Win win!
What did you think?
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