I really thought this was an interesting book. It had a lot of useful information and managed to incorporate humor and helpful advice. I liked the way the author wove in biblical stories and stories of her own. The author really brought the stories to life. This was a very entertaining book, which is very rare for a self help book. I highly reccomend it.

Jo has yet again written a powerful and thoughtful book. She mentors the reader by sharing experiences from her own life..what she learned, and how she grew through the struggles.

She begins each chapter with a personal letter to the reader that is encouraging and yet minces no words when it comes to the challenges and work required when we want to change. Jo weaves scripture throughout her book, reminding us that God's Word provides us with the same encouragement and challenge.

And what Jo also does that many authors don't include, is to provide practical applications that can lead to change. She doesn't just tell us change needs to happen, but helps us create a plan so change can actually occur for each of us.

I really wanted to love The Dream of You by Jo Saxton. I’ve followed her on social media, heard her speak at multiple conferences, and appreciated her perspective on lots of things. The book was endorsed by a bunch of my favourite authors and writers from across the Christian spectrum. She’s generously vulnerable throughout the book, sharing hard and painful experiences from her past when she desperately struggled with her identity and calling. I think if I had read it a couple years ago when it came out, it would have connected deeply. But although I was able to appreciate everything she wrote and didn’t have any major issues with anything, the book just didn’t land for me. That being said, I think that if you’re in a place where you’re struggling with your identity, your calling, and who God created you to be, this might just be the book for you.

I first discovered Jo Saxton a few years ago through the IF:Gathering. She is a gifted teacher who is able to tackle big, complex issues and strip them down til they hit you right in the feels. I think I applied to be on the launch team for The Dream of You and was rejected, so I pouted a little bit but still added this to my "to read" list because I am such a huge fan of hers. I have finally gotten around to reading this and let me tell you, it doesn't disappoint.

From the first chapter I was highlighting quotes like a crazy person. She talks about how society places unattainable standards on women that make us forget who we really are and who we are supposed to be. And how so many of us lack and real relationship with Jesus and have relegated it to a line item on our to-do list.

We are no longer defined or named by our past. Instead we have been given a new identity.

I'm a little biased because I already loved Jo Saxton, but I think every woman needs to read this book. I felt like she shook me by the shoulders and said, "You don't have to keep living by the same, tired narrative!"

Jo Saxton does it again. At almost every personal crossroad, we find ourselves questioning who we are and what we were made for. Especially as women, we have broken identities that we mask with "humility" or "politeness". In The Dream of You, Jo reminds us what we were made for. Jo is vulnerable and honest with her own story to help us navigate the unpacking of our brokenness. I highly recommend Jo's book!

The subtitle reads: Let go of Broken Identities...

That's the reason why I requested this book from Netgalley and I thank Waterbrook Press for granting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.

I thought this book is what I need right now, I'm 25 and have been battling depression since I was a teen. My mistake was, I didn't really ask help from others until last year. I know it will take long to be completely free from this state but at least I can feel little changes, better changes, since I sought help. Depression is one way of killing a dream, especially a dream of YOU. I'm quite aware that I lost my self, along with my dreams and beliefs while struggling with depression.

Jo Saxton is an angel. She made it so easy to understand the hows and why of losing an identity and finding it again. With the help of God, and YOU. The way her words were written felt like we're facing each other in a coffee table drinking tea, I mean coffee. Hehe. What I mean is she makes it so intimate and emotional, it's easy to imagine I'm hearing her sweet voice as I read. Her encouragements and advices ring true and hit deep through me that I know they weren't just written for the sake of this book but taht she really wants to empower women by encouraging us.
And though it appears that this one's written for women, it's okay if others read this as well. Just be creative on interpreting her words. (Like what I usually do. I actually now rereading a book called LOVE DARE intended for couples having problems in their marriage. I'm interpreting it as if God is my partner and I'm doing to deepen my relationship with him. :) )

Overall, I think this is a powerful book, with timeless message and I highly recommend this to all. :)
God Bless.

I’ve had the opportunity to hear Jo speak at the IF:Gathering over the last several years. Reading her book was like having a conversation with an old friend. It was positive, uplifting, and enlightening. I highly recommend!