Review of Keys to Harmony

[Hydah Katrina Kerry]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Keys to Harmony" by Margalit Jakob.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Keys to Harmony is an insightful memoir by Margalit Jakob. The author shares the story of her depression, based on the loss of a dream. Based on her experiences as a victim of depression and a therapist, the author presents effective strategies to help us heal from our past traumas and focus on a present and future free of depression. You will learn about crucial aspects of depression such as its triggers, phases, and the available treatment and management modalities. Depression has fatal effects on the victim's personal and professional growth, the people surrounding them, and enthusiasm for life. You will also take a deeper look into the role of therapists in helping their depressed clients overcome depression.

Margalit introduces herself as a young, vibrant woman eager to pursue her passion at 'The Rubin Academy of Music.' During an audition at the academy, Margalit encounters individuals whose words and actions impact her dreams negatively. Margalit takes us through her childhood, teenagerhood, college life, marriage, and parenthood. She is an Israelite proud of the Jewish culture, language, and uniqueness of other places she has lived. She is a detailed storyteller who allows you to identify significant events in her life that contributed to her long-term depression. I appreciate the thorough discussion of various depression phases, such as low-functioning state, moderate functioning state, mildly depressed state, and non-depressed state. While reading, you can easily spot common signs of depression and even those that usually go unnoticed. As I walked with her through the torture of this condition, I kept wondering if help would ever come her way.

This book emphasizes the critical role of therapists, psychiatrists, family, and friends in the fight against depression. The therapist-client relationship between Sara and Margalit is a good example for therapists dealing with depressed clients. My favorite character is Dr. Gold, who is empathic and supportive of Margalit to the extent of helping her find the solution to her long-term problem. Although Margalit was a talented and passionate pianist, low self-esteem denied her the joy of performing in public. Luckily, one of her friends came up with six effective steps that boosted Margalit's confidence. I acknowledge Margalit's unwavering determination and resilience while fighting depression. Despite experiencing an unending cycle of low and high moments, she was willing to seek help when overwhelmed and daring to explore all the available treatment options.

I am glad that Margalit analyzed her journey and noted the many relevant but ignored things. As she shifts from a victim to a therapist, she handles other victims with empathy, professionalism, and love. There is nothing I disliked about this book to deny it a perfect rating.

The editing team did well; I encountered no errors while reading. I rate this book five out of five stars because it is insightful and interesting to read. I recommend it to therapists and victims of depression.

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Keys to Harmony
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