From the best-selling author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People, an illuminating book about fear—and what we can do to overcome it. An inescapable component of our lives, fear comes in many guises: fear of unemployment; fear of aging, illness, losing beauty; fear of a terrorist attack or natural disaster. In uncertain times, coping with these fears can be especially challenging, but in this indispensable, hopeful book, Harold S. Kushner teaches us to confront, master, and even embrace fear for a more fulfilling life. Drawing on the teachings of religious and secular literature and on the true stories of people who have faced their fears, Kushner helps us to see that fear can present us with extraordinary opportunities—to connect with our emotions, rethink our values, and change our lives, and the world, for the better. For those who fear helplessness, he suggests empowerment: through prayer, service, and education. For those who fear for mankind’s future, he insists on hope and pragmatic measures, such as working to protect the environment. For those who fear death, he proposes life—lived boldly and purposefully. In Conquering Fear, we are again inspired by Harold S. Kushner’s wisdom, at once deeply spiritual and eminently practical.
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"This is a fine book, definitely written from a Jewish viewpoint, but with an openness and breadth that makes it appealing and helpful for those of us who are not Jewish."
— Leroy (4 out of 5 stars)
" This book amounted to a good pep-talk. Nothing earth shattering. But a good reminder to engage in life fully, and question the emotional fears that inhibit us. I most enjoyed Kushner's insightful interpretations of the old biblical stories. "
— Kate, 1/19/2014" Usually I enjoy Kushner's books and find them helpful as reference for the talks I do. Even when not always agreeing totally with what he says, I usually still find his books helpful, but this one, just didn't do it for me. "
— Shirley, 1/19/2014" Kushner is always worth reading. "
— Pam, 1/5/2014" Kushner is probably my favorite non-fiction writer however this my least favorite of his writings. He is a master at weaving other sources into his writing and I appreciated that aspect most about this book. "
— Dawn, 12/31/2013" I've read several of Rabbi Kushner's books. I always find comfort, strength and much wisdom from his writing. He is truly inspiring and always give me a sense of peace. "
— Linda, 11/13/2013" The most important lesson I'm reminded from the book is that I need not fear because I don't have to go through it alone. And that the cure for the fear of life is a sense of duty. Interesting and thoughtful read. "
— Winifred, 9/23/2013" There is much to digest in this book and I certainly benefitted from reading it and thinking about our fears in the world at this time such as change and terrorism. I have enjoyed his other books more, but certainly would recommend this one. "
— Marge, 10/4/2012" This book isn't bad, but it's not what I thought. However, it's written by a Rabbi so it makes sense. There are some good points for those who are afraid whether you believe in God or not. "
— Tim, 9/27/2012" This book has been highlighted, underlined and is referred to often. "
— Marika, 9/10/2012" Easy read, nothing amazing, I didn't get much of this book. It's more informative than practical. "
— Atanas, 7/12/2012" Some interesting insights on what and why we fear. "
— Nancy, 3/2/2012" Beautiful, if simple. "
— Booklover1951, 10/1/2010" There is never anything earth shaking or particularly new in a Kushner book but his compassionate voice and simple writing style make them a bit like a cup of hot chocolate on a wintry night - comforting. "
— Barb, 3/8/2010Harold S. Kushner is the author of several bestselling books on coping with life’s challenges. He has been honored by the Christophers as one of the fifty people who have made the world a better place. He is Rabbi Laureate of Temple Isreal in Natick, Massachusetts.