The Healing Heart ~ Families Storytelling to encourage caring and healthy families
FIGURE
The Healing Heart ~ Communities Storytelling to build strong and healthy communities
Cox, Allison M. and Albert, David H. (Eds). Gabriola Istad, British Columbia: New Society Publishers, 256, pp, $39.95
Most likely, storytelling is not something that will spring to the top of any APNs list of "things they must know." Nonetheless, it is because of the serious work APNs undertake that they may find these companion books offer a perspective on care that results in creative, surprisingly balanced, "nonfluffy" work.
The books describe the use of storytelling to address populations' needs that are prevention-oriented and efficacious. Research, resources, and stories contribute to the richness of these books. Reading this series is an experience in rediscovering the art of helping with pragmatic ways to bring ideas to diverse populations and settings. Contributors address topics such as health promotion, chronic illnesses, children in school, sexual identity, grief, women's issues, and resilience. APNs are frequently in decision-influencing positions; understanding alternative approaches to healing is essential.
As health care professionals and researchers struggle to understand nonadherence to treatments and environmental variables that contribute to poor outcomes, approaches such as those examined in this book will become more normative over time.