Book Review: Strength In Motion

Reviewed by Elizabeth Reiser

An honest look at the challenges of stroke recovery and the empowerment that comes with overcoming adversity

Since suffering a stroke in August 2020, Terence Ang has put precedent on educating the public on the harsh realities of life after a stroke. He has done so with two books: A Cry in the Dark, “an emotional rollercoaster” of an illustrated memoir about recovery (IBR); and Emerging from the Dark, “an inspirational and unique guide to navigating mental health struggles after suffering a stroke” (IBR). 

This third installment, Strength in Motion, focuses on the physical wellness perspective of the aftermath of a stroke. Ang shares how exercise and motion specifically helped with his recovery process. By developing a more active lifestyle, Ang learned the long road to a new normal can be achieved. 

Various health professionals work alongside Ang to offer medical perspectives on recovery and why the physical element is of such importance. This, along with the shared perspectives from other stroke survivors, offers insight into different ways people work through their recovery process. 

Ang includes several unique elements throughout this book, including handwritten notes serving as a visual representation of how he has had to relearn daily tasks people often take for granted. It is an impactful way to convey this message. Throughout the book, the reader will also find QR codes with a direct link to the exercises presented, giving the book the feel of a modernized workbook. 

As far as the narrative style, Ang is an eternal optimist, and his energy is infectious. It is clear he has worked hard to overcome the physical and mental hardships of having a stroke, and he’s done great work to show others how they can do the same. 

Ang is honest about the fact that he was not always the best at taking care of himself before his stroke. In this way, his achievements feel attainable rather than something requiring superhuman capabilities. There is also the acknowledgment of having a strong support system making a huge difference; truth is, for those without support, recovery is less attainable. Ang does a lovely job using this book to raise awareness in this regard. 

This book offers a compelling look at how resilient humans can be. Those who have had a stroke will surely benefit from the material provided—both the practical and the inspirational. This is a great resource for stroke survivors and their families to use to get a better understanding of the recovery process.

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