More Beautiful Than Before: How Suffering Transforms Us Hardcover – November 7, 2017

A truly uplifting, sensitive book. If only we could all live this way.

There is nothing like discovering a book that is just what you need, written so eloquently and truthfully on paper that you feel the author must have reached into your soul. This book was that to me. Admittedly, it came at at time when I was searching for answers following loss and hurt. But it was also after many other reads. The catch for me was, “don’t come out empty handed”. During this pandemic I am/ was determined this time would not be wasted, and it hasn’t. I have lost over 60 pounds and reframed the course of my life and it started with the phrase, “don’t come out empty handed”. And please note, this book was written three years before the pandemic hit. This book tells of great loss, but more importantly how to survive. It is a kind friend holding your hand saying it won’t be easy but you will make it and you will be better than ever.If you are searching, at least let your search go down this wonderful path. I have purchased this book and given as gifts over twenty times.

I now need to sit back, reflect, and also, let the pages of this wonderful book sink in. I will be sending this book to some of my family.

Good reading.

These reflections, on suffering are powerful. I recommend it to anyone because we all suffer, and they will be suffering and every life. It’s something we simply cannot avoid. Let these reflections help you find new ways to live with meaning in the midst of suffering.

This book was powerful and thought provoking while at the same time easy to understand and relatable. Rabbi Leder was able to take the notion of how suffering transforms people and bring it to life in a meaningful and digestible way. I went through the passing of both parents a few years back and wish I had this book then. Its messages and anecdotes really speak to me and what I went through at that time. The short section on Prayer and how he prayed for his father with Alzheimer’s reminded me of my thoughts for my mother who also suffered from the same terrible condition. I also connected with the section on apologies and forgiveness. Most of us have been angry at the world at some time and the section on “anger is a lot of work” really rang true. I’d highly recommend this book for those who are working through difficult periods or those who have yet to face them. I often give books to friends and family that I find inspiring, empowering or moving and I’ve already shared this one! Thank you Rabbi Leder.

I originally bought this book because I was having difficulty coping with the anxiety that covid-19 tends to bring with it. shortly after starting it however my son had surgery and my father-in-law, the man who walked me down the aisle and loved me as a daughter unconditionally, passed away suddenly. I am a woman without a religion to belong to. I do not believe as Christians do and my beliefs tend to fall in line with Judaism however I am not converted and cannot be considered a Jew. Regardless of your religious affiliation this book will speak to your heart. It speaks to humanity as a whole and everyone has something to gain from reading this book.

For anyone who has suffered intense pain/loss, this will be like a salve for the soul. The book gives strength and helps rebuild confidence that life can eventually be more than "ok" or "bearable." (And the tears and laugh-out-loud moments are priceless!)But this book may be even more valuable for those that have not yet suffered their first crushing pain. As I think of my own adult children, I need them to read this now. I can then know that they will know - they will be able to handle what comes their way. These words will resonate from within, when it matters most - at life's darkest, most difficult times. As a parent (or relative or friend), it's one of the most important and kind things we can do. Truly a gift for today.

A real sorce of strength in the midst of overwelming pain, this book help me walk through it and gave me hope and insight to grow, to embrace and to love again. Highly recommend to any struggling to be move on and be a better person!

I was so moved by the open heartedness, empathy, wisdom and poetic holding of suffering in this book. Thank you.

Schönes Buch

This book speaks to those who have suffered or are suffering by offering a wide range of intelligent perspectives that you may not be aware of. Easy to read with stories to illustrate ideas. Written by a Jewish Rabbi with personal wisdom. Life can be short ,but life can be long in enabling people to learn from their suffering and can offer these insights to others in a transformative way.

Great book, highly recommend it.