Story Work
Field Notes on Self-Discovery and Reclaiming Your Narrative
GG Renee Hill’s Story Work is about breaking the chains of limiting beliefs by creatively reframing one’s internalized personal stories.
Conversational, thoughtful, and encouraging, this book explores how one’s identity, beliefs, and concepts of “good” and “bad” are formed and shaped by stories rooted in cultural, family, and religious histories, serving as templates for human behavior. Housed in the unconscious, these socially sanctioned narratives become stories that can stifle personal authenticity and autonomy. The text argues that inner exploration, overcoming the fear of vulnerability, using creativity as a tool for healing, and reframing limiting internalized stories are the keys to wholeness and authenticity.
Supporting its arguments with research in fields as diverse as neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality, the book also includes personal anecdotes of struggle and triumph. It illuminates the complex and long-lasting issues that arise from dysfunctional early family life and includes insights into cultural expectations specific to Black women. Its practical and accessible suggestions for self-care include thought labeling and taking an unflinching look at one’s personal values. Prompts for reflection are included at the end of each chapter.
Satisfying and hopeful, the book asserts that vulnerability is not a weakness to be feared, but a strength that can help forge connections with others. Rather than being “selfish,” it claims, self-care is essential for well-being. Most of all, it emphasizes that the internalized stories that lead to limiting beliefs and negative self-image are not written in stone; they can be rewritten and revised at any time to reflect one’s personal truths.
Story Work is an empowering self-help guide about using creativity as a tool for healing, authenticity, and wholeness.
Reviewed by
Kristine Morris
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
