I’m usually wary of books that leave a copious amount of blank journal pages intended for my note keeping. I tend to fill them with jabs like “Note to author: finish book.”  While having spots dedicated to readers’ personal reflections always feels like a bit of a cop-out, there still seems to be some promise in Dr. Vonda Wright’s Guide to Thrive. As soon as I realized that the teenage-looking model on the cover was actually orthopedic surgeon, mother, and author Vonda herself, I knew she had to be doing something right.

This book operates with a “New Year, New You!” premise. The “Thrive” Program goes beyond a basic self-help books, intending to help readers excel in different areas in order to be more healthy all around. It’s based on the idea of a six-month well-rounded transformation.  Because of Dr. Wright’s background in orthopedic surgery, there is a heavy emphasis on injury prevention in the advice she shares. Perfect for klutzes like me, who can’t do a toe-touch without slipping a disc! In addition to workout routines on every fitness level (the moves get harder as you progress through your 6 months), Dr. Wright includes helpful nutrition information and easy recipes.

Readers need not necessarily jump on board the 6-month plan to glean some helpful hints. Try a recipe or two, even if you are not trying to lose weight. Illustrated directions on how to do classic push-ups seem redundant and unnecessary, but Dr. Wright’s writing style makes you feel like you are at one of her one-on-one consultations. BEWARE! This book comes with homework! Keep your pen handy, as Vonda will need some help filling in her empty pages.

If you’re on board to  THRIVE, pick your copy up here. ($24.95, Independent Publishers Group)