missjenthelibrarian's Reviews (240)

Technically, I didn’t “read” this book. I listened to the audiobook - for the second time in one year. It was just as inspirational and thought-provoking as it was the first time I listened to it. I love that Jen Sincero narrates it. Something about the way she talks and explains her ideas makes it easy to let go of any possible hesitations about reading this book and to genuinely use her methods in real life. Any time I feel like I’m in a rut or just unmotivated, this book gives the much needed kick in the butt to Get. Sh*t. Done! I recommend this book to EVERYONE. It doesn’t matter if you “already know” that you’re a badass. This isn’t just for people who want a confidence boost. This is for people who seriously want to improve their life and to learn how to live with the kind of energy that helps you surpass your wildest dreams, that gets you through the toughest storms, and that sparks true appreciation of your life.

Note: I wrote this review in 2018 (I think), but still completely agree with everything I wrote. I listen to this book almost every other year and it’s just as motivating every time.

Note: I listened to the audiobook, but plan to read a physical copy.

I knew this would be a great story, but I didn’t expect to love it as much as I do. This middle-grade magical realism book shows the importance of our personal stories and how although it requires vulnerability to share these stories, it also gives us strength. It also made me greatly appreciate culture — my own and others.

It teaches so many vital life lessons: the power of family, being brave when life gets sad or difficult, and the magic of our beliefs. No wonder it won the Newbery Medal! It’s not just for kids though; it’s also for adults! I will definitely share this story with others and read it again

For five years, Coyote and her dad, Rodeo, have lived on the road and traveled all around the nation in an old school bus. They haven’t been home in all those years, ever since Coyote lost her mom and two sisters in a car accident. But when she finds out that her old neighborhood park — the one where she, her mom, and sisters buried a memory box — is about to be demolished, she creates a stealthy plan to get her dad to drive across the country in just four days without him realizing it.

Their journey includes picking up a few strangers, making some crazy detours, and discovering how everyone has a complicated journey. This story has wonderfully diverse characters with realistic character development and great book references scattered throughout it. The vivid descriptions of Coyote picking up on things like other people’s facial expressions or changes in their tone illustrate the power of empathy. This middle-grade book also subtly addresses a variety of social issues, which I won’t go into since it’ll give away parts of the story. Overall, this book truly tugged on my heartstrings and has me eagerly looking forward to my next road trip!

In this heartfelt memoir, Kristina Kuzmič shares how she endured some of the toughest points of her life and the lessons she learned from them. She illustrates how her persistence, creativity, and compassion helped her overcome her struggles. The many parenting stories included in this memoir might make some people misjudge this as a story that is just for parents. However, it is not only for anyone who wants to raise better humans but also, become one. Kuzmič teaches self-parenting skills in such a witty and honest way, that it feels like “a long coffee date with a best friend, or the eleventh-hour text message that gives you just the boost you need to get through the night.” (Synopsis)

Kristina, your story made me laugh, gave me chills, made me cry, and most importantly, gave me hope. Understatement. I found myself wishing I could just hug you to thank you for being so authentically you and for somehow connecting with the authentic me. This world is so much better with you and your story in it. Thank you for sharing, even the most vulnerable aspects. And thank you for the new mantra: Hold on, but don’t hold still.

Note: I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Kristina Kuzmič. It was so good, that I’m buying a physical copy!