This positive-thinking book aims to show us how we need to be mentally tough enough and savvy enough at listening to gut feelings, in order to take advantage of opportunities in life. THE HINGE effect is what makes an obstacle a door instead of a wall, and our actions form the handle that opens the way for us.

Fine in prospect, but I found that every chapter and theme is illustrated with sporting stories, and all but a few are intricate tales of American-specific sports about which I know nothing. "In Orel Hershisher's book 'Between the Lines' he tells a story about how he threw a two-hit shutout at Wrigley Stadium in cold, windy conditions." I don't know what sport this relates to, and whether this was good or bad performance, and after a book filled with much the same in the way of illustrations, I'm not going to look it up. So this book won't suit everyone, but if you're a sporting kind of person, it might be just right for you. Not all the athletes are male; a lady golfer is presented, Se Ri Pak, who determinedly stood knee deep in a water feature to take a shot, but females are few. Roger Bannister, first to break the four-minute mile, is one fine example of a sportsman everyone should know, and he is used to demonstrate confidence in oneself to do the impossible.

There are also lessons relating to musicians, including the air disaster that killed Buddy Holly and other young talents. Quotes from inspirational leaders such as Gandhi are given to us, as well as a few nice stories about a grandmother making a regular gift of Readers' Digest magazines, or an unexpected job offer.

Dr Rob Bell tells us his five maxims, which include that things happen for a reason, and that we should trust our gut feelings. He explains that there are turning points in our lives like the first job, or the driving licence, but the biggest turning points are those we don't see coming. These may be a tragedy, a second place when we hoped for a first, or losing a position. Relationships get deeper or they die, adds the author (reinforcing it with a tale about a coach) and at times we will need to be the hinge for others; we will have to support them and help them make the right decision for their lives.

Provided you like sports - a lot - you may find inspiration from this book and it may help you find, or be, THE HINGE.