Joy for Beginners by Erica Bauermeister

When Kate survives cancer and chemo with the help of her close-knit circle of friends, a celebration is in order. During the party, one of Kate's friends finds out that Kate's daughter wants the two of them to go white water rafting, the prospect of which makes Kate very nervous. She agrees to go if each of her friends will also agree to do one thing outside their comfort zone--and Kate gets to pick what that is. And so begins the charming Joy for Beginners. As each woman tries to comply with Kate's request, her story unfolds--and we find out how the group became friends. Bauermeister really has a way with words. Whether she's describing baking, gardening or white water rafting, you really become involved in the experience.