Whelchel covers developing friendships that encourage and strenghten each party. She takes the reader through the mountains and valleys of her journey.  Whelchel discusses her struggle with self-sufficiency and the coping mechanisms she developed to hold her friends at a distance.  There are times when it is ok to be needy but you also need to make sure you choose the people you confide in wisely.  Each person in the friendship must be willing to be vulnerable and be willing to deal with conflict when it arises.

Much of this book is geared toward friendship among women but there are nuggets of truth applicable to everyone.  Despite the differences in our upbringings and life experiences, I found similarities in our dysfunctional behaviors.  Whelchel weaves in quotes from other authors and Bible verses which place her experiences in a larger context.

And for someone who likes lists, Whelchel gives discussion questions and conversation starters to use as you work to deepen your own friendships.  I enjoyed this book and it made me evaluate how I relate to my friends.  In the end, that is the whole point of this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their __BookSneeze.com_ book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “_Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising_.”_