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Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso): The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together
We all long to do life together with people who really "get" us. Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston, bestselling authors and founders of the wildly popular "Sister, I Am with You" online community, simplify some of the trickier aspects of friendship and give readers practical ways to deepen the friendships they already have.
Making friends as an adult is hard! It's weird and it's tricky and it can feel overwhelming. Maintaining those friendships and taking them to a deeper level can be even harder. Just as Amy and Jess gave readers a road map for finding real, authentic relationships with I'll Be There (But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants), they now provide a toolkit for building up and building on those friendships. Here For It (The Good, the Bad, and the Queso) will dig deeper into the hows and whys of doing life together in a culture that constantly tries to keep us separate. Readers will learn how to
distinguish between different types of friendships and recognize when a seasonal relationship has run its course;understand the importance of self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and differing love languages in friendship; andmaintain long-distance friendships, foster real relationships with your neighbors, and establish traditions that strengthen your connections.
With this new book, Amy and Jess give readers the tools they need to continue laying a strong foundation and building relationships that are steady, secure, and made to withstand whatever life throws their way.
Making friends as an adult is hard! It's weird and it's tricky and it can feel overwhelming. Maintaining those friendships and taking them to a deeper level can be even harder. Just as Amy and Jess gave readers a road map for finding real, authentic relationships with I'll Be There (But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants), they now provide a toolkit for building up and building on those friendships. Here For It (The Good, the Bad, and the Queso) will dig deeper into the hows and whys of doing life together in a culture that constantly tries to keep us separate. Readers will learn how to
distinguish between different types of friendships and recognize when a seasonal relationship has run its course;understand the importance of self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and differing love languages in friendship; andmaintain long-distance friendships, foster real relationships with your neighbors, and establish traditions that strengthen your connections.
With this new book, Amy and Jess give readers the tools they need to continue laying a strong foundation and building relationships that are steady, secure, and made to withstand whatever life throws their way.
224 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2024
142 people are currently reading
5520 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
January 19, 2024
This book is so well written! Easy to read and incredibly relatable. I feel like I’m listening to long time friends of mine tell stories and give advice. Highly, highly recommend this one. You won’t regret it.
March 2, 2024
The subtitle of this book says it all ... "The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together". These two fun friends present heartfelt advice to really encourage and support you in your quest to build and keep meaningful friendships in your life.
Yes, Amy and Jess are young, cute and lots of fun, but they share great lessons and suggestions for women at all ages and stages. As a "seasoned" woman of 60, some topics were more relatable to me than others, but I really feel like I have gained valuable, insightful ideas to improve my relationships. I have jotted down several quotes to look back on. (In fact, although I read the e-book, this is one of those books
I will be buying a copy to keep.) Here are a couple of my favorite quotes ...
"To invite someone is a gift. To include someone is a gift. To ask them to hang out is a gift. To check on someone is a gift. To initiate a conversation with someone is a gift."
"(S)how up for your people. Reliability is everything to a relationship."
Thank you to NetGalley and the authors for an Advance Copy
Yes, Amy and Jess are young, cute and lots of fun, but they share great lessons and suggestions for women at all ages and stages. As a "seasoned" woman of 60, some topics were more relatable to me than others, but I really feel like I have gained valuable, insightful ideas to improve my relationships. I have jotted down several quotes to look back on. (In fact, although I read the e-book, this is one of those books
I will be buying a copy to keep.) Here are a couple of my favorite quotes ...
"To invite someone is a gift. To include someone is a gift. To ask them to hang out is a gift. To check on someone is a gift. To initiate a conversation with someone is a gift."
"(S)how up for your people. Reliability is everything to a relationship."
Thank you to NetGalley and the authors for an Advance Copy
February 5, 2024
Yes yes yes!! I am HERE FOR IT!! 🙌🏻 I have NEVER related to a book so much in my life. Great read. Well written! I recommend every woman who has endured a friendship breakup/rocky unsure friendships to read. You are worth it!!!
January 23, 2024
I'm thankful for NetGalley, the publishers, and authors letting me in on the launch team. My review is my own and I am not receiving any reward for me review.
This second book from Jess and Amy has been a fun read, with deep thoughts and lots of humor. Lots of queso references too! There's parts of it that I feel like I could have written myself. Almost every woman I know (myself included) is yearning for deeper friendships, and this book has good insight on how to be a friend.
This second book from Jess and Amy has been a fun read, with deep thoughts and lots of humor. Lots of queso references too! There's parts of it that I feel like I could have written myself. Almost every woman I know (myself included) is yearning for deeper friendships, and this book has good insight on how to be a friend.
March 23, 2024
Just love the way Amy and Jess tell it like it is. Another great book about friendship with some tactical advice along the way
February 11, 2024
Here for it is a great collection of friendship stories, conflicts, and solutions that make for an encouraging read. If you are wanting to deepen your friendships, or repair a friendship that has experienced hurt- this book may be exactly what you’re looking for. You can always count on Jess and Amy to be honest and vulnerable (while still making you laugh!)
January 7, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the authors for the opportunity to review this book. All opinions are my own.
This was a quick, easy read that felt good! It hit some hard topics about friendship but gave both practical advice and grace in a lighthearted way. It felt like pulling up a chair and talking with a friend about friendship, and I’m here for it!
This was a quick, easy read that felt good! It hit some hard topics about friendship but gave both practical advice and grace in a lighthearted way. It felt like pulling up a chair and talking with a friend about friendship, and I’m here for it!
March 16, 2024
In the middle of this book as part of the launch team and am absolutely loving it! So many fabulous nuggets about dealing with all the good,bad, and ugly that comes with to friendship! Cant wait to read more! Preorder this book!!🩷
January 25, 2024
From the moment I saw the title of this book, I knew I was going to love it. Because this is me! This is my friendships. In my maid of honor speech at my best friend’s wedding I even referenced our M&M nights- Margaritas and Mexican Food. It’s always our default mode when we need some time together, we send out a text calling for an emergency M&M night. That’s how I knew ‘Here for It (The Good, the Bad, and the Queso)’ was going to be a hit!
Let’s break this review down into a few items of business, shall we?
Who is this for?
Anyone! While I would say this is more directed for women in the thick of being the family Uber driver and asking questions like can my kids survive on a third night in a row of frozen chicken nuggets, it has various sections that can meet you where you are at in your friendship journey. I especially thought Part 1- Recipes for Working on Yourself and Showing Up, held a lot of valuable information for my younger self. Don’t be afraid to share this with the teenager or college student in your life.
General Comments
The layout of this book was great! Broken down into two parts, with multiple supporting chapters. Each chapter includes relatable stories from the authors followed with ‘the good’, ‘the bad’, and ‘the takeaway’ on how to apply or reflect on each teaching. Really though, this felt like grabbing an iced coffee at a favorite local café with my new friends Amy and Jess. I mean- you know your friends when you're talk about chin hairs, right?
Of course, some parts of the book resonated more with me, than others. But that’s understandable, we all have different experiences, and are in different places in our lives.
While this is clearly focused on building quality friendships, I think there is a lot of practical advice for ANY relationship in your life.
Personal Favorite Chapters
Chapter 7: I Would Rather Eat Soggy Cheetos Than Admit I’m Wrong (A Recipe for Humility)
Chapter 13: Well, That Went Over My Head (A Recipe for Speaking Someone Else’s Love Language) – This one was good, y’all!
Chapter 19: We Share a Fence, But I Don’t Even Know Your Name (A Recipe for Knowing Your Neighbors)
Chapter 20: Well, You Just Honked at Me, So Now I’m Going to Sit at This Stoplight for All Eternity (A Recipe for Handling Confrontation)
Chapter 21: How to Walk Through Pain With Your Friends (A Recipe for Loving Well, Even If You Feel Unqualified)
Favorite Quotes
“But sometimes the most beautiful things slip through our fingers. It doesn’t mean they didn’t matter. It doesn’t mean they weren’t important. Sometimes it’s the opposite.”
“Remind yourself that one person in your corner is enough- it’s actually more than enough. Sometimes I think we get so focused on who we don’t have that we forget to treasure who we do.”
“Trying to control somebody else is like running a race with no finish line. It’s going to leave you exhausted and anxious.”
“I think we lose out on so much connection when we try to fit people in a box they were never meant to go into in the first place. We are different. We’re supposed to be different. It is so very easy to see the world through our own limited view and criticize people who do things differently.”
“Every good and lasting friendship requires intentionality, whether they live next door or on another planet. --- It means you care enough to focus on them and, like a plant you really want to survive, you water them and tend to them regularly.”
“The most important thing you can do is be there. That’s it. Just be there. I believe (and I could be wrong) that when we choose to be present in those moments, God uses us as a conduit of his love and presence, his nearness. Our shoulder against their shoulder becomes his shoulder against their shoulder. Our hand on their hand becomes his. We’re a space-holder, a vessel of comfort, a present reminder of peace.”
Final Thoughts
Buy this book. Then take your sweatpant wearing, messy hair self over to your friends house and just be.
Maybe grab some queso and margs on your way for good measure.
It’s all nourishment for the soul.
Let’s break this review down into a few items of business, shall we?
Who is this for?
Anyone! While I would say this is more directed for women in the thick of being the family Uber driver and asking questions like can my kids survive on a third night in a row of frozen chicken nuggets, it has various sections that can meet you where you are at in your friendship journey. I especially thought Part 1- Recipes for Working on Yourself and Showing Up, held a lot of valuable information for my younger self. Don’t be afraid to share this with the teenager or college student in your life.
General Comments
The layout of this book was great! Broken down into two parts, with multiple supporting chapters. Each chapter includes relatable stories from the authors followed with ‘the good’, ‘the bad’, and ‘the takeaway’ on how to apply or reflect on each teaching. Really though, this felt like grabbing an iced coffee at a favorite local café with my new friends Amy and Jess. I mean- you know your friends when you're talk about chin hairs, right?
Of course, some parts of the book resonated more with me, than others. But that’s understandable, we all have different experiences, and are in different places in our lives.
While this is clearly focused on building quality friendships, I think there is a lot of practical advice for ANY relationship in your life.
Personal Favorite Chapters
Chapter 7: I Would Rather Eat Soggy Cheetos Than Admit I’m Wrong (A Recipe for Humility)
Chapter 13: Well, That Went Over My Head (A Recipe for Speaking Someone Else’s Love Language) – This one was good, y’all!
Chapter 19: We Share a Fence, But I Don’t Even Know Your Name (A Recipe for Knowing Your Neighbors)
Chapter 20: Well, You Just Honked at Me, So Now I’m Going to Sit at This Stoplight for All Eternity (A Recipe for Handling Confrontation)
Chapter 21: How to Walk Through Pain With Your Friends (A Recipe for Loving Well, Even If You Feel Unqualified)
Favorite Quotes
“But sometimes the most beautiful things slip through our fingers. It doesn’t mean they didn’t matter. It doesn’t mean they weren’t important. Sometimes it’s the opposite.”
“Remind yourself that one person in your corner is enough- it’s actually more than enough. Sometimes I think we get so focused on who we don’t have that we forget to treasure who we do.”
“Trying to control somebody else is like running a race with no finish line. It’s going to leave you exhausted and anxious.”
“I think we lose out on so much connection when we try to fit people in a box they were never meant to go into in the first place. We are different. We’re supposed to be different. It is so very easy to see the world through our own limited view and criticize people who do things differently.”
“Every good and lasting friendship requires intentionality, whether they live next door or on another planet. --- It means you care enough to focus on them and, like a plant you really want to survive, you water them and tend to them regularly.”
“The most important thing you can do is be there. That’s it. Just be there. I believe (and I could be wrong) that when we choose to be present in those moments, God uses us as a conduit of his love and presence, his nearness. Our shoulder against their shoulder becomes his shoulder against their shoulder. Our hand on their hand becomes his. We’re a space-holder, a vessel of comfort, a present reminder of peace.”
Final Thoughts
Buy this book. Then take your sweatpant wearing, messy hair self over to your friends house and just be.
Maybe grab some queso and margs on your way for good measure.
It’s all nourishment for the soul.
May 16, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
“Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso)” by Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston is a refreshing take on the complexities of adult friendships. The authors, known for their bestselling work and the “Sister, I Am with You” online community, delve into the intricacies of nurturing and deepening relationships that go beyond the superficial.
The book is structured as a practical guide, offering readers a toolkit for fostering friendships that are not only meaningful but also resilient in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. Weatherly and Johnston address the awkwardness and difficulties of making friends as an adult with humor and honesty, acknowledging the weirdness and the overwhelming nature of it all.
What sets this book apart is its focus on the “how” rather than just the “why” of friendships. It’s not just about finding people who “get” you, but also about maintaining those connections and taking them to a deeper level. The authors provide actionable advice on distinguishing between different types of friendships, understanding the importance of self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and love languages in friendship, and even maintaining long-distance relationships.
The book’s title, “Here For It”, encapsulates the authors’ message: being present and committed to the friendships we value. The addition of “the Good, the Bad, and the Queso” adds a playful touch, suggesting that true friends are there for each other through life’s ups and downs—and perhaps over a shared love of queso.
In a culture that often emphasizes individual success and self-reliance, Weatherly and Johnston offer a counter-narrative that champions the power of community and collective joy. Their writing is accessible, their advice is grounded, and their anecdotes are relatable. This is a book for anyone who has ever felt alone in a crowded room and wondered how to bridge the gap between acquaintance and confidant, which is exactly why I read it..
Overall, “Here For It” is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of friendships and a call to action to invest in them. It’s a must-read for those looking to deepen existing relationships or forge new ones in the complex dance of adult socialization. With its blend of wisdom, wit, and warmth, this book is a valuable addition to the conversation about the art of friendship in the modern age.
“Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso)” by Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston is a refreshing take on the complexities of adult friendships. The authors, known for their bestselling work and the “Sister, I Am with You” online community, delve into the intricacies of nurturing and deepening relationships that go beyond the superficial.
The book is structured as a practical guide, offering readers a toolkit for fostering friendships that are not only meaningful but also resilient in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. Weatherly and Johnston address the awkwardness and difficulties of making friends as an adult with humor and honesty, acknowledging the weirdness and the overwhelming nature of it all.
What sets this book apart is its focus on the “how” rather than just the “why” of friendships. It’s not just about finding people who “get” you, but also about maintaining those connections and taking them to a deeper level. The authors provide actionable advice on distinguishing between different types of friendships, understanding the importance of self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and love languages in friendship, and even maintaining long-distance relationships.
The book’s title, “Here For It”, encapsulates the authors’ message: being present and committed to the friendships we value. The addition of “the Good, the Bad, and the Queso” adds a playful touch, suggesting that true friends are there for each other through life’s ups and downs—and perhaps over a shared love of queso.
In a culture that often emphasizes individual success and self-reliance, Weatherly and Johnston offer a counter-narrative that champions the power of community and collective joy. Their writing is accessible, their advice is grounded, and their anecdotes are relatable. This is a book for anyone who has ever felt alone in a crowded room and wondered how to bridge the gap between acquaintance and confidant, which is exactly why I read it..
Overall, “Here For It” is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of friendships and a call to action to invest in them. It’s a must-read for those looking to deepen existing relationships or forge new ones in the complex dance of adult socialization. With its blend of wisdom, wit, and warmth, this book is a valuable addition to the conversation about the art of friendship in the modern age.
February 24, 2024
Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso)
The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together
by Amy Weatherly; Jess Johnston
Pub Date 30 Jan 2024
Nelson Books,Thomas Nelson
Christian| Nonfiction \(Adult\)| Self-Help
Nelson Books, Thomas Nelson, and Netgalley sent me a copy of Here For It for review:
It's hard to make friends as an adult! It can seem overwhelming, it's tricky, and it's weird. Making those friendships last and taking them to the next level can be challenging as well. With I'll Be There (But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants), Amy and Jess gave readers a road map for finding real, authentic relationships; now they provide a toolkit for building them up. In Here For It (The Good, the Bad, and the Queso), the reader will explore the whys and hows of living together in a culture that constantly tries to separate us. Readers will learn how to:
distinguish between different types of friendships and recognize when a seasonal relationship has run its course;In this book readers will learn how to recognize when a seasonal relationship has run its course and distinguish between different types of friendships; understand the importance of self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and differing love languages in friendship; and Understanding self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and differing love languages in friendship is essential; maintain long-distance friendships, foster real relationships with your neighbors, and establish traditions that strengthen your connections. Establish traditions that strengthen your relationships with your neighbors, foster long-distance friendships, and foster real relationships with your neighbors.
In this new book, Amy and Jess give readers the tools they need to lay a strong foundation and build relationships that stand the test of time.
I give Here for It five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together
by Amy Weatherly; Jess Johnston
Pub Date 30 Jan 2024
Nelson Books,Thomas Nelson
Christian| Nonfiction \(Adult\)| Self-Help
Nelson Books, Thomas Nelson, and Netgalley sent me a copy of Here For It for review:
It's hard to make friends as an adult! It can seem overwhelming, it's tricky, and it's weird. Making those friendships last and taking them to the next level can be challenging as well. With I'll Be There (But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants), Amy and Jess gave readers a road map for finding real, authentic relationships; now they provide a toolkit for building them up. In Here For It (The Good, the Bad, and the Queso), the reader will explore the whys and hows of living together in a culture that constantly tries to separate us. Readers will learn how to:
distinguish between different types of friendships and recognize when a seasonal relationship has run its course;In this book readers will learn how to recognize when a seasonal relationship has run its course and distinguish between different types of friendships; understand the importance of self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and differing love languages in friendship; and Understanding self-awareness, healthy confrontation, and differing love languages in friendship is essential; maintain long-distance friendships, foster real relationships with your neighbors, and establish traditions that strengthen your connections. Establish traditions that strengthen your relationships with your neighbors, foster long-distance friendships, and foster real relationships with your neighbors.
In this new book, Amy and Jess give readers the tools they need to lay a strong foundation and build relationships that stand the test of time.
I give Here for It five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
July 24, 2024
Loved it.
The Good:
This book is written by two very practical, real women who are living in the thick of life. They show their vulnerability in how they describe themselves and their weaknesses (and strengths for that matter), their current relationships, and as they describe hard situations where there is no longer a friendship there. They called me out on some sin I have that is hindering my stronger friendship building skills while also encouraging me with things I'm already doing right. I loved the chapter on love languages as it pertains to friendships, and I really liked the chapter on different attachment styles. I'd never heard about that before and learned about me a little.
The Bad:
The ONLY critique I have for this book is this. While I deeply appreciate what Amy and Jessica were trying to relay to readers when they kept repeating, "everyone is trying their best," the reality is that everyone is not always trying their best. I understand that their point was that I need to strive to see friends this way and give grace, and I do, but sometimes you can give grace and loving rebuke simultaneously. They do address thoughts on stepping away when a friendship gets toxic, but I'd have loved to hear a little more on loving your friend enough to fight with them to build them up. Maybe it was in there, and I missed it. 100% possible.
The Queso:
After reading this, I am convinced adults do actually need help, sometimes building strong, meaningful friendships. Things are too complicated. Long gone are the days on the slide where you see someone wearing the same color as you and say, "Hi! I'm Amanda. Let's be best friends." And you skip hand in hand into the sunset. There are tools in this book that I will be using to better my friendships.
Also, does anyone know the recipe for the queso? I need that...
The Good:
This book is written by two very practical, real women who are living in the thick of life. They show their vulnerability in how they describe themselves and their weaknesses (and strengths for that matter), their current relationships, and as they describe hard situations where there is no longer a friendship there. They called me out on some sin I have that is hindering my stronger friendship building skills while also encouraging me with things I'm already doing right. I loved the chapter on love languages as it pertains to friendships, and I really liked the chapter on different attachment styles. I'd never heard about that before and learned about me a little.
The Bad:
The ONLY critique I have for this book is this. While I deeply appreciate what Amy and Jessica were trying to relay to readers when they kept repeating, "everyone is trying their best," the reality is that everyone is not always trying their best. I understand that their point was that I need to strive to see friends this way and give grace, and I do, but sometimes you can give grace and loving rebuke simultaneously. They do address thoughts on stepping away when a friendship gets toxic, but I'd have loved to hear a little more on loving your friend enough to fight with them to build them up. Maybe it was in there, and I missed it. 100% possible.
The Queso:
After reading this, I am convinced adults do actually need help, sometimes building strong, meaningful friendships. Things are too complicated. Long gone are the days on the slide where you see someone wearing the same color as you and say, "Hi! I'm Amanda. Let's be best friends." And you skip hand in hand into the sunset. There are tools in this book that I will be using to better my friendships.
Also, does anyone know the recipe for the queso? I need that...
March 18, 2024
Rating 4.5 stars rounded off to 5
A great hand-holding read for nurturing everlasting female friendships!
Thanks NetGalley , Nelson Books, Thomas Nelson for this ARC! I am so glad I read this.
I rarely pick self-help books, but this one was enlightening and so simple to adapt in our daily lives as we navigate one of the most important facets of it – ‘friendships’.
The authors are the bestselling authors of “I’ll Be There” and the founders of the hugely popular “Sister, I Am with You” online community.
Focusing on adult friendships and how complicated/tricky they can be in our chaotic, busy worlds, the authors give us pragmatic, easy to follow ‘recipes’ in the form of chapters, for various situational circumstances in a friendships. These are followed by ‘the good’, ‘the bad’ and ‘the takeaways’ from each of them. I thought these were excellent as they made it all so relevant, relatable with anecdotes that help us visualize these aspects.
They cover almost every kind and flavour of female friendships - long-distance, differing in capacities, the unique love language of it, dealing with confrontations, finding friends in neighbors, seasonal relationships, setting healthy boundaries and right priorities, being self-aware, knowing when to show up (of course with ‘queso’) or give space and many more that help us to understand or correlate to our own experiences.
These made me reflect on my own friendships both from the past and in the present- the estranged ones, the lost ones and the ones that truly make a difference to my life now. I never thought any of the suggestions sounded preachy - they are all extremely practical and adaptable. They are invaluable in a world where we are constantly wired and hooked to the internet rather than the person sitting in front of us.
Having made such close connections and great friends here on booksta myself, I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to further ‘deepen’ their friendships, transform an acquaintance to a true sisterhood and form lifelong bonds.
A great hand-holding read for nurturing everlasting female friendships!
Thanks NetGalley , Nelson Books, Thomas Nelson for this ARC! I am so glad I read this.
I rarely pick self-help books, but this one was enlightening and so simple to adapt in our daily lives as we navigate one of the most important facets of it – ‘friendships’.
The authors are the bestselling authors of “I’ll Be There” and the founders of the hugely popular “Sister, I Am with You” online community.
Focusing on adult friendships and how complicated/tricky they can be in our chaotic, busy worlds, the authors give us pragmatic, easy to follow ‘recipes’ in the form of chapters, for various situational circumstances in a friendships. These are followed by ‘the good’, ‘the bad’ and ‘the takeaways’ from each of them. I thought these were excellent as they made it all so relevant, relatable with anecdotes that help us visualize these aspects.
They cover almost every kind and flavour of female friendships - long-distance, differing in capacities, the unique love language of it, dealing with confrontations, finding friends in neighbors, seasonal relationships, setting healthy boundaries and right priorities, being self-aware, knowing when to show up (of course with ‘queso’) or give space and many more that help us to understand or correlate to our own experiences.
These made me reflect on my own friendships both from the past and in the present- the estranged ones, the lost ones and the ones that truly make a difference to my life now. I never thought any of the suggestions sounded preachy - they are all extremely practical and adaptable. They are invaluable in a world where we are constantly wired and hooked to the internet rather than the person sitting in front of us.
Having made such close connections and great friends here on booksta myself, I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to further ‘deepen’ their friendships, transform an acquaintance to a true sisterhood and form lifelong bonds.
August 18, 2024
The book is centered around the topic of friendships and recipes to make lasting friendships. Some of these enclosed a recipe for grit, speaking up, listening well, humility, grace, self-awareness, and much more. One of the chapters discussed being offended. Amy shared how she dealt with rejection and not being invited to an event she thought they would have included her. She felt left out and she felt hurt. Her hurt turned into bitterness. She began to try and figure out why and she took it as a direct insult. She took the wound to heart and let it fester into bitterness. She finally realized that this was getting her nowhere and her offence was a choice she was making. She explained how we can’t allow our feelings to run the show. She worked with a therapist to discover hidden roots and her experiences with bullying. She learned the importance of letting things go and not being offended. Each chapter she breaks down the good and the bad and the takeaway for each lesson in this book. The book also contained a special recipe on how to make the best queso. One of their suggestions was to buy cheese from the deli because it makes this recipe with better.
I would recommend this book to women who are seeking a book too build their friendships and relationships with others. There are tons of recipes on how to connect and go deeper with others. The book will help readers to distinguish the different types of friendships, learn when a friendship has run its course, and help you to maintain and make lasting friendships.
“I received this book free from Thomas Nelson for my honest review.”
I would recommend this book to women who are seeking a book too build their friendships and relationships with others. There are tons of recipes on how to connect and go deeper with others. The book will help readers to distinguish the different types of friendships, learn when a friendship has run its course, and help you to maintain and make lasting friendships.
“I received this book free from Thomas Nelson for my honest review.”
January 30, 2024
This book is absolutely heart and soul changing! Jess and Amy don't shy away from any of the uncomfortable, strange, or dicey things that we encounter in friendships. Their first book was magical, and it changed my life. This book is that next step- the deep dive into every niche part of what it is to be a friend, to find friendships, and to think about friendship from a whole new angle. You always wonder if a follow-up book from an author will just be a retelling of what they've already said. But, Jess and Amy really did a hard look at research and everyday, relatable situations and produced another fabulous, hard-hitting, and needed book on this difficult topic. I love that they dive right in to real life stories that make the reader feel seen. I felt like I was having a conversation with a friend the whole time. They aren't scared to unpack what it is like to be the bad friends sometimes. We don't like to think about that-when it's our fault. They address this topic in such a gracious, and loving way. A way that emboldens the reader to accept responsibility and be okay with not being the perfect friend. They also embolden the reader to understand what they deserve in a friendship, and that it's okay to stand up and create boundaries for oneself. I feel like this book gently forces you to self-examine and take ownership of your role in adult friendships. This isn't a "How To" book of droll advice, and it's not just for women!!!! Everyone needs to participate in this next-level heart work. Absolutely buy this book!!
February 25, 2024
Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso): The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together
By Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
****
I was here for all the cheesy Queso Dip references! ~See what I did there?
I’m not the only person with no friends?!?!~ I thought it was just me.
I love a good self help book! This one was particularly interesting because, as an adult, I have had such a difficult time making and maintaining friends. I have recently had yet another friend “breakup” and I was left confused and thinking I was alone in my lack of friendship. I understand we are all busy with our families and careers. I long for a deep connection with another person but for whatever reason, am unable to maintain it. For so long, I’ve felt like there was only one type of friendship and if people weren’t living up to it I would let the relationship go.
The book was so helpful for me! It explained different types of friendships and different ways to look at friends. The authors gave great examples of ways to protect yourself from possible negative friends and also examples of how to be a good friend. The chapter that resonated with me the most was the theme ‘Everyone is doing their best’. It is important to believe that everyone is doing the best they can. It can make a much happier life.
In my opinion the book would be good for all age levels, teen through adult. I would have no hesitation recommending this book to a patron.
By Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
****
I was here for all the cheesy Queso Dip references! ~See what I did there?
I’m not the only person with no friends?!?!~ I thought it was just me.
I love a good self help book! This one was particularly interesting because, as an adult, I have had such a difficult time making and maintaining friends. I have recently had yet another friend “breakup” and I was left confused and thinking I was alone in my lack of friendship. I understand we are all busy with our families and careers. I long for a deep connection with another person but for whatever reason, am unable to maintain it. For so long, I’ve felt like there was only one type of friendship and if people weren’t living up to it I would let the relationship go.
The book was so helpful for me! It explained different types of friendships and different ways to look at friends. The authors gave great examples of ways to protect yourself from possible negative friends and also examples of how to be a good friend. The chapter that resonated with me the most was the theme ‘Everyone is doing their best’. It is important to believe that everyone is doing the best they can. It can make a much happier life.
In my opinion the book would be good for all age levels, teen through adult. I would have no hesitation recommending this book to a patron.
January 24, 2024
I’m honored to be on the Book Launch team for this book. I’d read the authors’ first book a couple of years ago, and I was so impressed with their authenticity and no holds barred (yet gentle) approach to the topic of friendship — talking about all of the highs, lows, ups and downs of connecting with people.
I can attest to the fact that making friends as a now 50 year old woman (who previously had a social circle, but it’s nonexistent now) is extremely challenging. Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso): The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together makes me feel not so alone in the struggle, and excited about the things I am already doing to deepen my online friendships.
What I love about Amy and Jess is that they’re REAL. They don’t just share their good friendships, they also share personal stories of friendships that went sideways, or friendships that didn’t work out. And, most importantly, they don’t make themselves or the readers wrong. They give themselves grace, and they encourage us to do the same.
The statistics on the loneliness epidemic are staggering. People crave connection now more than ever. Get a copy of Here For It; you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll relate, and you’ll learn how to move from living life alone to doing life together with friends you already have, or you’ll be inspired to get out there (or use the Internet like I did) to meet new people who might just be forever friends.
I can attest to the fact that making friends as a now 50 year old woman (who previously had a social circle, but it’s nonexistent now) is extremely challenging. Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso): The How-To Guide for Deepening Your Friendships and Doing Life Together makes me feel not so alone in the struggle, and excited about the things I am already doing to deepen my online friendships.
What I love about Amy and Jess is that they’re REAL. They don’t just share their good friendships, they also share personal stories of friendships that went sideways, or friendships that didn’t work out. And, most importantly, they don’t make themselves or the readers wrong. They give themselves grace, and they encourage us to do the same.
The statistics on the loneliness epidemic are staggering. People crave connection now more than ever. Get a copy of Here For It; you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll relate, and you’ll learn how to move from living life alone to doing life together with friends you already have, or you’ll be inspired to get out there (or use the Internet like I did) to meet new people who might just be forever friends.
February 13, 2024
I requested the book Here for it the good the bad and the queso because I red the authors first book and because I follow them on Facebook. I think they are amazing women who make other women feel loved and understood. This book demonstrates that same thing. Writen in the pages of this book is a journey of understanding yourself better and how your relationships with your friends shape who you are. This book will help you navigate the feelings you have surrounding some of the most important connections you have in your life. FRIENDS! Relationships can be hard. The author shares personal and authentic stories. Some are funny and some are heartbreaking. You feel the raw honesty as the author shares ways to deepen bonds of relationships and also how to let go of past hurts and self doubts that may be hindering you from growing in surface level friendships. This book is beautifully written and so inspiring. This book will call you to be vulnerable at times. Show yourself grace as you go through this book. Take your time as you read it. Become aware of things that you feel need changing in areas of your life. Be open and honest with yourself allowing yourself to process feelings you didn't know you had. This book should be read and experienced. Thank you netgalley for sharing this book with me in exchange for my honest review.
January 25, 2024
This book goes beyond the surface level of friendships and delves into the intricacies of strengthening and deepening these relationships. While it may require you to take a closer look at yourself and the people in your life, this introspective journey is ultimately a positive one. The process of improvement can be intimidating, but it can also be immensely rewarding, and this book serves as a catalyst for personal growth.
What sets this book apart is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. It has the power to make you laugh with its humorous anecdotes, cry with its poignant stories, and stir up a mix of other feelings along the way. It offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the complexities that come with interpersonal connections, leaving no stone unturned. By the end, you will likely be left with a newfound understanding of your relationships and a renewed motivation to work towards bettering them.
If you are open to experiencing a range of emotions, seeking an introspective reminder, and yearning for a deeper understanding of your relationships, then this book is a must-read. It offers a captivating journey that will push you out of your comfort zone and encourage growth in your connections with those around you.
What sets this book apart is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. It has the power to make you laugh with its humorous anecdotes, cry with its poignant stories, and stir up a mix of other feelings along the way. It offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the complexities that come with interpersonal connections, leaving no stone unturned. By the end, you will likely be left with a newfound understanding of your relationships and a renewed motivation to work towards bettering them.
If you are open to experiencing a range of emotions, seeking an introspective reminder, and yearning for a deeper understanding of your relationships, then this book is a must-read. It offers a captivating journey that will push you out of your comfort zone and encourage growth in your connections with those around you.
March 30, 2024
"Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso)" by Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston offers a refreshing take on the dynamics of friendship that feels like an intimate conversation with your closest confidantes. What sets this book apart is the authors' willingness to candidly share their own experiences navigating various aspects of friendship. Through their stories, readers discover a comforting reassurance that they are not alone in facing the complexities of different relationships.
While the perspectives presented may not be groundbreaking, Weatherly and Johnston offer valuable reminders scattered throughout the book. Their insights serve as gentle nudges for readers to reflect on their own friendships and consider how to nurture them more effectively. Particularly beneficial are the practical suggestions provided at the end of each chapter, offering tangible steps for improving and deepening connections with others.
Overall, "Here For It" is a warm and relatable guide for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of friendship dynamics. While it may not introduce entirely new concepts, its authenticity and practical advice make it a valuable resource for those looking to strengthen their bonds with others.
While the perspectives presented may not be groundbreaking, Weatherly and Johnston offer valuable reminders scattered throughout the book. Their insights serve as gentle nudges for readers to reflect on their own friendships and consider how to nurture them more effectively. Particularly beneficial are the practical suggestions provided at the end of each chapter, offering tangible steps for improving and deepening connections with others.
Overall, "Here For It" is a warm and relatable guide for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of friendship dynamics. While it may not introduce entirely new concepts, its authenticity and practical advice make it a valuable resource for those looking to strengthen their bonds with others.
February 18, 2025
Just reading this book made me crave deeper friendships! Authors Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston share their friendship insights and experiences, and we see how to be braver in reaching this goal. One of the most interesting chapters was about long distance friendships, in the chapter called "I Know You Live 1,200 Miles Away, But Can You Be Here in Five Minutes?" You have to see the humor and originality in the chapter headings, such as "You've Got a Voice, Don't Forget to Use It" and "You Are Welcome in My Home, But Maybe Not in My Bathroom"! One thing that struck me was that we want to be around people who want to be around us. For example, if you are a talker and a friend lets you know that they wish you were quieter, then realize that you are not their people. "We want to surround ourselves with friends who champion us becoming the best version of ourselves." We crave friends "who will run with us toward the things in our hearts." These friends love us like we are.
I very much appreciate being able to read this complimentary book from the editors. The thoughts expressed are my own.
I very much appreciate being able to read this complimentary book from the editors. The thoughts expressed are my own.
January 30, 2024
I have been very blessed to participate on the Launch Team for this book… my thanks to the authors and NetGalley!
You know how challenging you have felt in trying to begin new friendships as an adult or to deepen the friendships that you already have? Well, guess what… all this time, you’ve been thinking “what is wrong with me? Why can’t I seem to navigate this terrain?” Come to find out - You. Are. Not. Alone!!! We are ALL out here trying our best to foster healthy, meaningful relationships along with the myriad of responsibilities that we each have in our hectic lives.
This well-written book is not your typical, stuffy “self-help” book outlining academic “steps” to achieve your goals… but rather like a couple of friends opening up their joint diary to share their experiences with us - their frailties and struggles, their insights and practical advice, their small victories and larger triumphs, their faux-pas and their humor. You will laugh, cry, and relate to these two women like they are two of your close friends… and if you have good sense, you’ll make the QUESO!
You know how challenging you have felt in trying to begin new friendships as an adult or to deepen the friendships that you already have? Well, guess what… all this time, you’ve been thinking “what is wrong with me? Why can’t I seem to navigate this terrain?” Come to find out - You. Are. Not. Alone!!! We are ALL out here trying our best to foster healthy, meaningful relationships along with the myriad of responsibilities that we each have in our hectic lives.
This well-written book is not your typical, stuffy “self-help” book outlining academic “steps” to achieve your goals… but rather like a couple of friends opening up their joint diary to share their experiences with us - their frailties and struggles, their insights and practical advice, their small victories and larger triumphs, their faux-pas and their humor. You will laugh, cry, and relate to these two women like they are two of your close friends… and if you have good sense, you’ll make the QUESO!
February 20, 2024
Here For It is well written and easy to read. It’s hard to develop friendships as an adult and sometimes that makes it harder for adults to let go of friends. This book speaks to building and maintaining healthy friendships. I love that two girlfriends are talking about their lives and their relationships. Amy and Jess let the readers in on their story’s and their suggestions. Reading this book felt like discussing life with good girlfriends. They share the good, the bad, and what we can learn. I recently had a friend who lost her mom and loss of a family is always hard. It’s hard to know how to react and reading a section about a death in the family reminded me that all I really need to do is be there. “Be there for the long haul…. Always let them know their grief is legitimate, and never make them feel like they should be over it.” This book was worth the read, there are many takeaways.
Thank you to Amy and Jess, the publisher, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Thank you to Amy and Jess, the publisher, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
January 22, 2024
I have been looking forward to another book from Amy Weatherly after “I’ll Be There (but I’ll be wearing sweatpants)” and this one didn’t let me down. As someone who’s struggled with friendships and my self worth my entire life, this book has made me realize so many things about myself that I need to change when it comes to friendships. Not just looking at myself but also who’s in my “circle”. I found comfort in knowing I’m not the only person who struggles in this area and what I can do moving forward in my life. I highly recommend this book and if you haven’t read “I’ll Be There (but I’ll be wearing sweatpants)”, try it also. I sent that book to several people I know and will also be sending copies of this book as it’s just as great and helps you even more!
I am thankful for being included in a Facebook group of women who received a digital copy of the book before it is released after I pre-ordered it on Amazon.
I am thankful for being included in a Facebook group of women who received a digital copy of the book before it is released after I pre-ordered it on Amazon.
January 22, 2024
WOW. When Amy and Jess wrote their first book on friendship, I was completely blown away by the enormity of it. There was so much research and personal discoveries written in that book that it really made me THINK and assess the friendships I've had in my life.
This book... completely blows that one out of the water! Where I'll Be There (but I'll be wearing Sweatpants)- the first book- teaches about friendship and the instinctual need for it, Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso)- this new book- talks about how to KEEP those friendships that are true and how to let go of the ones that aren't. It's gritty and it's raw- but that is exactly what is needed for a follow up. It's the book we always needed but never knew we needed. It makes you look at yourself and dissect where your thoughts and mannerisms are coming from so you can be the best person- and friend- you can possibly be.
Oh- and there is a recipe for the most amazing queso in there too!
This book... completely blows that one out of the water! Where I'll Be There (but I'll be wearing Sweatpants)- the first book- teaches about friendship and the instinctual need for it, Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso)- this new book- talks about how to KEEP those friendships that are true and how to let go of the ones that aren't. It's gritty and it's raw- but that is exactly what is needed for a follow up. It's the book we always needed but never knew we needed. It makes you look at yourself and dissect where your thoughts and mannerisms are coming from so you can be the best person- and friend- you can possibly be.
Oh- and there is a recipe for the most amazing queso in there too!
January 23, 2024
A MUST read!!!
One of my favorite quotes used in the book was “Don’t let anyone treat you like free salsa, you’re the guacamole baby girl, guac.” -Unknown
Our friendships matter. We matter. Equally. We dont shrink ourselves to be less because someone may not appreciate that part of us. If that is what starts to happen, those are not your people. You matter!! I matter!!
Jess & Amy’s wisdom poured out in this book will make you feel seen, “normal”, loved, challenged and valued. It will spur you in to be a better friend, find your people and stand up for yourself and others in your friendships as well. It will challenge you to listen better and love better. No matter what season of friendship you find yourself in there’s always a chance for good fruit. Friendships cost us something but they are so worth it!! Be courageous, vulnerable and willing to put in the work. You’ll be so glad you did.
Thank you Jess & Amy for such a wonderful book.
One of my favorite quotes used in the book was “Don’t let anyone treat you like free salsa, you’re the guacamole baby girl, guac.” -Unknown
Our friendships matter. We matter. Equally. We dont shrink ourselves to be less because someone may not appreciate that part of us. If that is what starts to happen, those are not your people. You matter!! I matter!!
Jess & Amy’s wisdom poured out in this book will make you feel seen, “normal”, loved, challenged and valued. It will spur you in to be a better friend, find your people and stand up for yourself and others in your friendships as well. It will challenge you to listen better and love better. No matter what season of friendship you find yourself in there’s always a chance for good fruit. Friendships cost us something but they are so worth it!! Be courageous, vulnerable and willing to put in the work. You’ll be so glad you did.
Thank you Jess & Amy for such a wonderful book.
January 30, 2024
If you want to dig deeper into your friendships, there’s a certain level of reflecting that you need to do in order to make sure you’re not letting past hurts hold you back from being the “best” version of yourself, but in return, becoming the same kind of friend you’ve dreamed about. Sometimes that past stuff is still aching, raw and fresh - and sometimes it’s something deeper that you might’ve pushed so down so far, you forgot all about it. In THIS book, these girls bare it all - the hurt, the pain, the past and present stories of their friendships gone awry - all to remind us we are NOT alone in these hurts and in our sadness, but mostly that there is a path of light ahead. I think we all have our own stories of friendship heartbreak, and if you’re looking for a level of solidarity that feels like it’s next to you, holding your hand - and a true message to the heart after that kinda pain.. you need this book, I promise.
February 7, 2024
HERE FOR IT (THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE QUESO) by Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston is the warm hug and chair at the kitchen table with lively, smart, really fun friends I have never met in real life, but who have shared an incredible queso recipe with and who speak right to my heart about friendships, both beginnings, endings, and the marvelous middles. I loved every moment with them, felt like I was listening to my best friends on a night when we're alone with the queso, the realities of our lives, and the chips are flying -- such great ideas and so engaging. A rousing wonderful read I cannot wait top share with my real friends, the ones close and the ones miles away. A standing ovation for an essential, life-affirming and really fun read. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.
February 10, 2024
Women friendships can be complicated any time in life. The authors of Here For It (the Good, the Bad, and the Queso) have written their second book on friendship and that we all share the same good and bad they bring.
The authors are honest about their own friendships and how they have been blessings but can also be hurtful. They share the simple steps of how to go deeper in a friendship to when you may need to apologize. Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston do a good job of making the reader feel like she is their friend and experiences she may have had in friendship are normal.
All readers will enjoy the writing style of this book and the personal stories they share. All readers will come away from this book with advice on making a friendship better, regardless if they have many or want to make one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley.
The authors are honest about their own friendships and how they have been blessings but can also be hurtful. They share the simple steps of how to go deeper in a friendship to when you may need to apologize. Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston do a good job of making the reader feel like she is their friend and experiences she may have had in friendship are normal.
All readers will enjoy the writing style of this book and the personal stories they share. All readers will come away from this book with advice on making a friendship better, regardless if they have many or want to make one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley.
March 23, 2024
I guess I was expecting more.
It's filled with good sentiment and basically all the common-sense ways to be a good human with a heavy dash of American evangelization.
All the themes are pretty high level with a peppering of supposedly personal experiences from the authors that are so bland and common you're pretty sure to have lived through something similar.
There is not much depth or practical advice, actually, just a lot of encouragement and positive affirmation. Which is always nice to boost self-esteem, I guess, but not really useful if you truly struggle with connecting to people on deeper levels.
There is also a lot of repetition.
It's full of nice feelings, but I'm afraid it won't teach much to anyone, just confirm what most of us already do and pat us on the back about it. Admittedly, I don't read self-help books so I have nothing to compare this with, I was just curious.
It's filled with good sentiment and basically all the common-sense ways to be a good human with a heavy dash of American evangelization.
All the themes are pretty high level with a peppering of supposedly personal experiences from the authors that are so bland and common you're pretty sure to have lived through something similar.
There is not much depth or practical advice, actually, just a lot of encouragement and positive affirmation. Which is always nice to boost self-esteem, I guess, but not really useful if you truly struggle with connecting to people on deeper levels.
There is also a lot of repetition.
It's full of nice feelings, but I'm afraid it won't teach much to anyone, just confirm what most of us already do and pat us on the back about it. Admittedly, I don't read self-help books so I have nothing to compare this with, I was just curious.
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