Joy Worthy

Joy Worthy

A Mother's Guide to More Joy, Less Stress and No Guilt

Julie McGrath

The premise for this book is about rediscovering the you that was lost when you became a mom. Put yourself first and you will become a better person as well as a better mom.

I was asked to read this book while I was reading a book about thankfulness and joy and thought it would be a perfect fit. As I read the book I tried very hard to ignore the tone and grasp what the writer was trying to say and not what was actually being said. My take on this book seems to be completely different from the other reviewers so clearly I "heard" the message wrong. I walked away feeling like the author wrote this book to justify spending large amounts of time away from her children. I understand needing a break, but it seemed to be the only way to find joy was to leave your children with a babysitter so you could find yourself again. I felt she wasn't promoting Christian reactions to situations, she was negative about certain types of friends, and the vibe about non supportive, joy sucking husbands was to leave them. "You are my soul mate, my love, my heart...now go away."

As I mentioned, I think I understand the point the author was trying to make. But the tone of the book did not bring me joy or make me feel less stressed. The negativity was actually surprising to me and I kept reading to see if I'd been mistaken. Sadly it never got better. I also realize by writing this review that I will be one of "those women" mentioned in the book. But for the readers who are just like me I felt I had to be honest. Go read One Thousand Gifts if you want a life changing book about joy from a mother who's been there.

I received this book free of charge from Kelley & Hall Book Publicity in exchange for my honest review.