I’ve recently launched Along Came A Gardener, my non-fiction book containing tips on riding life’s emotional roller coaster. We all have challenges in life, whether it’s in our personal relationships, or at work, or, as it is now, in our countries. These inner and outer conflicts are what drives many to seek help.
Along Came A Gardener is a book close to my heart, as I’ve drawn from personal memories of my work as a family therapist in a variety of mental health settings. I was blessed to have worked with so many wonderful people who trusted me with their stories. We talked about how to manage conflict, stress, anger, and the clouds of depression. And because I’m an avid gardener, I also wove into the book, lessons I took from Nature.
The Upheaval in Our Countries
Given how much the political landscape has shifted both in Canada and the USA, I’m hoping my book will help many who are riding the emotional roller coaster that comes with drastic changes. Now that social media has captured our attention, no matter where we live in the world, we can’t avoid the news. Not surprisingly, anxiety and depression have risen.
As a result of Trump’s tariffs and threats of annexation, Canadians have renewed their patriotism. Though we’re sad to see our enduring friendship with Americans change, we have never felt stronger. Unfortunately, we suspect it will be frosty for a while. At least while the current president is in the White House. We are stronger as a nation, but the fear of what these changes mean remains.
Americans are also trying to manage the emotional roller coaster their president creates with every major decision. Their country is divided. There is confusion, regret, and lost hope, as his promises to make lives better for the average American are still only promises.
And we have continuing wars in Ukraine and in the Middle East. The news is so depressing, my husband stopped watching it. Trump said he’d end the war between Ukraine and Russia (the invader) the first day he was in office, but it didn’t happen. With Putin as his friend, it’s hard to see how this war will end well for Ukraine.
The war between Hamas and Israel is another complicated mess. It doesn’t help that Trump suggests Gaza would make a great resort, which seems to please Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, no end.
Meanwhile, in both wars, the innocent are being maimed or dying and there is no comfort for those whose lives have been forever interrupted and no safe home for those who continue to live in these war zones. It’s an emotional roller coaster for everyone caught in wars that never should’ve started.
My book is about finding the balance in life. With all the sad stories, we need to maintain our emotional and physical health in order to cope and/or provide solace to those who are struggling. I hope my book will inspire readers to take care of themselves in our precarious times.
A Stellar Book Review
I’ve had some lovely reviews, including one by Selena Mercouri for The British Columbia Review. I encourage you to read the whole review. But here are a few quotes:
“Diana Stevan’s Along Came a Gardener is a masterful meditation on healing, personal growth, and the art of tending to the self, all framed through the evocative metaphor of gardening.”
“Stevan’s approach is deeply compassionate, drawing from personal experiences, client stories, and broader psychological principles to create an accessible and engaging guide for self-reflection and personal development.”
“Beyond its psychological depth, Along Came a Gardener is a book of quiet encouragement. “
“The interplay between personal anecdotes and universal truths makes Along Came a Gardener a book that readers can return to repeatedly, drawing new insights with each read.”
“For those seeking actionable advice, Along Came a Gardener offers a compelling and rewarding read. Stevan’s book is a testament to the enduring power of hope and perseverance, an essential read for anyone looking to nurture their well-being and embrace the full potential of their personal growth.”
If you decide to buy my book and like what you find, please leave a review on the site where you bought it. Every author will tell you how much it helps. Thank you.
Book Signings
This month, I’ll be signing my new book, Along Came A Gardener, at several lovely independent bookstores on Vancouver Island.
Saturday, April 26th, 11 am to 1 pm at Mulberry Bush Bookstore in Qualicum Beach.
Saturday, April 26th, 2 to 4 pm at Fireside Books in Parksville.
Sunday, April 27th, noon to 1:30 at Windowseat Books in Nanaimo.
I hope to see you there.
If you can’t make it to the book signing, Along Came A Gardener is available on all major booksellers’ websites: Amazon , Barnes and Noble , Chapters Indigo , Apple, Kobo, Books-a-Million, Powells .
You can also ask your local bookstore or library to bring it in for you.
Happy Reading!
