Joanna Gaines

'I thought I'd found myself in a world that, in order for me to fit into it, I had to fold myself up and break myself down. But it's a tight squeeze in a box that's only good for hiding.'

Every Piece of Your Story Matters

The Stories We Tell

Erin Darlyn

I listened to this book rather than reading a hard copy, as the audiobook is narrated by Joanna and there is something quite special about being able to listen to the author of a book read it in their own voice. It's my favorite way to enjoy a modern memoir. 

Whilst full of lovely sentiments, inspiring thoughts and sweet memories, I found myself wishing that Joanna had let us in a little more as she wrote. The book gave me the feeling that she was holding back and I think it could have been so much more special if she had gone just a little bit deeper.

Rachel

3 / 5 stars 

I love Joanna Gaines and the concept of this book, but I believe it drug on a little longer than necessary. 

Joanna had some great points about why our stories are important and how we can embrace ourselves as a whole person. The past is just as important as the present and future when it comes to looking at our lives and telling our stories. 

Joanna talks about past hurts that formed her into who she is today and how she is breaking free of the molds she put herself in, even when there seems to be a risk involved. If she were to have the life she wanted, she would be a new anchor and have a predictable life, but she married Chip, and predictable is the furthest thing from her life.

Perhaps I’ve just read too many books like this, but I found that it was alright. I’m not a die hard fan of Fixer Upper but i respect Joanna Gaines. While I resonated with lots of her sharings, I found it a bit predictable. Not an awful book, just be warned if you’re a fellow perfectionist like Joanna and I. It almost sounds like your own journal 😂

The Stories We Tell Every Piece of Your Story Matters