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January Online Book Club: The Stories We Tell by Joanna Gaines

The Stories We Tell by Joanna Gaines

My husband gave me this book for Christmas. He must have noticed my Magnolia magazines on the coffee table, or that I’ve given Joanna’s cookbooks as gifts before. He definitely scored points for observing what I like!

In The Stories We Tell, Joanna Gaines reveals a side of herself readers likely haven’t seen in her other books or television shows. This book isn’t a memoir, although she does recount some family stories, more about herself as a child and young woman, and some about her family now. She encourages readers to think about their own stories, and how they might also benefit from connecting their past hurts to their current situations.

The Stories We Tell encourages us to find healing for our pasts and to take steps toward finding peace in the present moment. She wrote about how we can use our pasts as fuel to create beauty and joy in the here and now.

The book reads like a conversation between Joanne and the reader, with her gently guiding them to explore their own story. Her personal stories of hurt and healing are interwoven with lessons and encouragement on how we can all learn to accept who we are and make meaningful connections with those around us.

With a degree in journalism, it’s no surprise that Joanna’s writing is clear and eloquent. It serves as an inspirational guide on how to slow down, reflect on your past and how it affects your current situation, and ultimately find joy in life. Those familiar with the Magnolia magazine will recognize many of the ideas from there as well. If you enjoy Joanna Gaines’ blog or TV shows, you’ll certainly find something to appreciate in this more personal work.

I’ve read two of Chip’s books before, and Joanna’s style is much different. Her books are like her on-screen personality: more quiet, more thoughtful, less goofy. Having read both, I can see how they complement each other as a couple. (Kind of like my hubby and me. … I’ll let you guess who’s quiet and who’s goofy.)


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