The Stories We Tell

I like being able to get what my granddaughter wants online.

Not very substantive. If you're younger it's good advice.

If you are looking for more cute Chip and Joanna stories, this is not the book for you. If, however, you are looking for deep reflection on Joanna's life, what makes her tick, and how she works to overcome insecurities, you are going to love this book.I struggle with placing The Stories We Tell in the genre of memoir, as it includes only a few stories from Joanna's life, and is comprised mostly of her inner dialogue as she has worked through emotional pain from childhood bullying and the lifelong self-doubt it inspired. The professional persona Joanna Gaines presents to the world as a coping mechanism is contrasted with the person she is in her innermost thoughts and dreams. The result is an easy-reading, almost conversational, look into the emotional growth of a woman who has lived the larger part of the last decade in the spotlight.Once I got over my expectations for this book, I enjoyed reading, and will likely reread in the future for personal inspiration and self-growth. Overall, I grew to respect Joanna Gaines more as a flawed, yet inspirational human.Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Select for the digital ARC of The Stories We Tell. The opinions in this review are my own.

I've been a huge fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines since Fixer Upper! I have both of her cookbooks along with some of her magnolia kitchen items. I was excited to be able to get an advanced copy of this book. It has some insight into her life and her family but it's more about helping yourself through life. I've been going through some things lately and this book gave me inspiration . This book is a must read for people wanting to get inside of their head and really think about things in life and ways to make our lives easier. Not letting things get to us and do more journaling to get it out and help you down the road. I would definitely recommend this book. Thanks again for allowing me the opportunity to read this early.

The Stories We Tell: Every Piece of Your Story Mattersby Joanna Gaines is a great memoir that gives us a deeper look into the mind and life if a truly inspiring woman.I have been a fan of Joanna Gaines for quite some time. I was super excited to jump at the chance to read more about her life, thoughts, past, and experiences.In this memoir, we are able to get more insight into what Joanna has felt, experienced, and her outlook and determination through the ups and downs she has been handed throughout her life. Some moments were lighter than others, and while I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a few more of the “deeper” moments would have been welcomed.Still a great read for any fan of Joanna and her family.4/5 stars

I made quick work of this book. I was a follower of the Gaines from 2012 until 2018. When they went to streaming I gave up since I refuse to pay for shows I’ve already paid.Gaines’ book is about reflection on self improvement. She uses the word intentional quite a bit. Her writing is like her: purposive, straight forward, and inspiring.She interspersed a few stories within the reflections, but I was hoping for more of her stories.I think she has learned to slow down and enjoy the ride instead if rushing to the next thing.I did miss out on portions of sentences due to the publisher’s notification on every page, a sentence would become fragmented and I had no idea what the next line was.

I have enjoyed Joanna and Chip Gaines' books in the past and was very excited to read more from them. This one has a different tone and comes from journals that Joanna has written over many years. She imparts great wisdom in this book along with deep insight regarding balancing work and home. Joanna and I have similar personality types, so this book was written for me! She is talking straight into my brain and heart. I would recommend this book to anyone who has past baggage, is burnt out, or just needs some encouragement. Everyone has a story to tell. The bad in life makes the good parts even better. Joy comes from being present and not taking small blessings for granted along our journey, and much more. I know I did not catch everything during this first read, so I will need to read this again and again. I enjoy hearing the audiobook narrated by the author so I can hear it straight from Joanna herself.

A look into Joanna's earlier years and the stories she told herself in later years. Reevaluating those stories and asking if they are true. A deeper dive into Joanna's journey and what drives her both then and now. Things she has held onto in the past and holds onto now. The journey includes importance of things in her life as her kids grew up and enjoying the moments with them. Being intentional with time.One of my biggest take always from the book is continuously asking myself the same questions she asked herself. Digging deeper. Learning about yourself and asking the question, "Why". The book has already started multiple conversations with my wife and I and our business.I suppose we all get something different from a book.