Book: The Grumble Free Year
Author: Tricia Goyer
My Rating: 5 out of 5 “Preach it, sisters”
Before I give you my feelings about this book, let me set the stage for you. Tricia Goyer of Bryant, Arkansas is a mom of TEN. Yes, you read that correctly. In addition to their three biological children, she and her husband adopted seven children (six of them from foster care). Personally, this fact alone was enough to make me want to absorb every piece of wisdom in this book. My husband and I adopted our son from foster care almost two years ago.
But this book isn’t about the bravery and commitment it takes to raise ten children in today’s society. It’s about their commitment as a family to go “grumble-free” for a year. It’s not a “how-to manual,” but it is an extremely honest account of their experiences. She doesn’t try to gloss over their failures and make it look easy. Instead, she boldly acknowledges what worked and what didn’t.
I had some very strong reactions to this book, y’all. I was so excited to read it, because I know this is something I can work on in myself (be honest – you can too). So, I enthusiastically texted two of my friends the night I started it. “Starting this book tonight. I’m kinda scared.”
Half an hour later I sent another text. “ONLY ON PAGE 16 AND I HAVE BEEN ATTACKED. CALL 911!”
It’s one of those books that makes you think “Ouch, this hurts!” and “Dang, that’s good!” in the same breath. I went at this book full throttle, y’all. We’re talking book, notebook, and multiple pens in different colors. I wasn’t just reading this for a review. I think one of the most poignant messages I found in her writing was the dichotomy of complaining vs. gratitude. I even consider myself a grateful person, but when Tricia put into words the root of our grumbling, I had to rethink my self-assessment.
This was a great book for me to read right before Christmas. I’m more aware of my thoughts, and as a result I’m more cautious with my words. I find myself intentionally taking on a mindset of gratitude, and letting that be the filter for my words and actions. I recommend this book to everyone! But beware, if you take it seriously it’s probably gonna hurt a little bit. This is one book that will genuinely make you a better person if you’re brave enough to try.
Krystle Goodman is a crazy cat lady, who loves to drink exorbitant amounts of coffee, and read a shocking amount of books. She lives in Benton with her husband Josh, her son Roman, and their two cats Roxanne and Abby. When she isn’t reading, you’ll find her cooking, painting, or watching true crime shows. Watch for Krystle’s book reviews every other Friday. Send fanmail to: [email protected]
See more of Krystle’s reviews at www.mysaline.com/krystle.