With a title like 101 Simple Suggestions and Quotations to Express Compassion and Empathy: An Aid in Healing Ourselves and the World, Linda M. Furiate's book sounds like a dozen similar books, found in chain bookstores, promising wisdom in a nutshell. Rather, this appears to be a publication of someone's notebook full of personal observations, few of which are truly quotable or insightful.

For example: "Be willing to do absolutely nothing. It is when we have time to stop and reflect we are able to determine, whether or not, we are living up to our destiny."

Or the similarly wordy: "Sing to yourself. Make up the words as you sing. The vibration of the music my have a positive effect on your overall being." Why not just say, "Sing to yourself"?

Despite the title, this is not the sort of book you'd turn to if you wanted to find something to insert into a speech or a sympathy card, or to work into your Live Journal profile. This is simply a very personal project from somebody who felt she had some insights worth sharing. Unfortunately, in the current state, it's best shared with friends and family.

iUniverse, 2004: ISBN 0-595-32413-4