When I learned that Emely Rumble was a fellow therapist who uses books as healing tools in her clinical practice, I was thrilled to read her debut book, Bibliotherapy in the Bronx!
It’s no secret that stories (music, books, and poetry) enable us to empathize, educate, and comfort. But most people aren’t familiar with the term, bibliotherapy.
In bibliotherapy, therapists and healers support clients through their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual challenges using literature as the vehicle towards growth and understanding.
The American Library Association (ALA) issued the first official definition of bibliotherapy in 1966: “The use of selected reading materials as therapeutic adjuvants in medicine and psychiatry; also guidance in the solution of personal problems through directed reading.” ~Emely Rumble, LCSW
Noteworthy Quotes:
“As an African American, Puerto Rican, femme psychotherapist, I am committed to helping my people heal and reminding us that the best defense against a racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, xenophobic (we can go on and on) world is to educate ourselves.”
“Books are trusted companions that support us when we can’t rely on others. Books act like mirrors, giving comfort to those who feel broken. They teach us, give us strength, and help us identify and express our feelings.”
“It’s also important to honor that, as we build our personal libraries, we are engaging in an act of reclamation and access to ease and knowledge that our ancestors did not have. And it’s important that we make the connection that when we buy or borrow books, we are providing ourselves with opportunities for growth and healing that our ancestors did not have.”
“Despite their simplicity, children’s books possess a profound capacity to resonate with the nuances of adult experiences. Revisiting these tales allows adults to access a symbolic realm that transcends age, offering a bridge to childhood memories, emotions, and imagination.”
Takeaways
This book is best suited for counselors, social workers, librarians, coaches, and educators.
Our stories are powerful and Bibliotherapy in the Bronx is going to be a trusted guide I’ll refer to as I enter my 10th year of clinical practice!
You can order Bibliotherapy in the Bronx in hardback, ebook, or audiobook.
Thanks for reading.
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