Wholly Naomi by Louise Gilbert

A captivating exploration of self-discovery and transformation, Wholly Naomi: One Woman, Nine Numbers, and a Cat Looking for Love by Louise Gilbert is a captivating combination of fiction and self-help.

Gilbert’s work of narrative non-fiction takes the ready on a journey with Naomi, a character who embodies the universal struggle of feeling disconnected, while continually searching for meaning in life. Through Naomi’s eyes, readers are introduced to the MyNine Ways method, a unique process that uses numbers as guides for personal growth and well-being. This approach, rooted in Gilbert’s own experiences and research, offers a refreshing perspective on tackling life’s challenges, covering a myriad of issues, such as addiction, parenting, personal relationships, and more.

What separates the book from other works of self-help, which may cover some of the same issues, is the interweaving of a fictional lead character with practical life coaching principles. While other works of self-help can seem dry or even pedantic in their examination of self-help concepts, the added layer of fictional storytelling makes the narrative particularly absorbing and effective. Gilbert skillfully uses Naomi’s journey to highlight the importance of being fully present in one’s life in a way that is immediately recognizable and relatable.

At times, the narrative can seem somewhat like an advertisement for the MyNine Ways pathway, with Naomi touting its effectiveness throughout, but the theory itself is unique in its outlook and process. Offering practical solutions to common problems, Gilbert’s original work is a thought-provoking examination of the hidden power of numbers, which has genuine potential to be transformative for those seeking to find their place in the world.