There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologetically  herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty. ~ Steve Maraboli

This pretty much sums up the theme of this awe-inspiring book by Miriam Khalladi, Real Talk Real Women. What started out as an exploration of personal inspiration, gradually took form of a movement, touching and inspiring millions of women out there.

The book begins with the author narrating her own story about how she was challenged by fear of failure for not being a native English speaker. And how she overcame it, with a proof so visible in form of this book, which is a compilation of interviews of 105 women in field of health and fitness. These inspirational figures include Olympic Gold medalists, elite fitness competitors, military moms, cancer survivors, physicians, celebrity trainers and martial arts champions. Each one recounting her times of hardships and victories herself.

I feel, keeping their voices alive by not altering or re-phrasing, is something that has really brought out the flavor. Compiled in five volumes, like five steps on a ladder of personal transformation, the book has come out as a group of women teaming up to inspire and support each other.

In life, we all get scared. But, what one needs more than fearlessness is the courage to say, ‘Bring it On!‘ Because what happens next, is what gives people something to look up to. Real Talk Real Women, is about women talking about real struggles. The war within. It talks of life in terms of defining moments. Moments of impact. Moments that hold the maximum potential.

Before reading the book, I thought of mentioning one portion that touched or moved me most. But, now when I am sitting here to review, I feel it’ll be bias against rest of them. What they faced, I have faced too. Every single one of them. I won’t say the book takes you on a journey, but it subtly lets you know, you are not alone in this struggle.

And, you wouldn’t be anywhere near to the end of this 500 page publication, when you’ll start to feel, ‘If she can do it, then so can I.’ You see that? It’ll not stuff you ways to chase your dream like a self-help would, but will instill you with feelings of self-belief, assurance, bravery and self-love. As ingeniously as it can ever be.

With the help of small anecdotes, the author has strived to remove various mental blocks of not being able to or not feeling suitable for doing something. Its a noble attempt to ward off fears, insecurities, feelings of self-doubt and righteousness. These are anecdotes not of freedom, but the process of unshackling. Its a book of self-discovery. A must for everyone lost in this world !!