The creator of the breakout Instagram account, @JustSkrmetti, comedian Ellen Skrmetti shares stories behind her wildly popular “Hey Jesus, It’s Me” sketches of a middle-aged, southern-woman's focus on mamas, menopause, and menus--and on giving the Lord a bit of advice about those unspoken prayer requests.
As a young girl, Ellen Skrmetti loved performing. She starred in plays, sang in the church choir, and even won the chance to represent her town at the Miss Mississippi pageant. But backstage at the pageant, she was gripped by severe stage fright and made a deal with If you help me get through this, I will never, ever get onstage again. After successfully hitting the high note in “Adelaide’s Lament” from the musical Guys and Dolls, she packed up her drama clothes for good—or so she thought. When the pandemic hit, Ellen longed to bring a little joy to the dark struggles the world was facing. She thought about all of times she’d asked Jesus to walk with her through pain and heartache—and how often He’d laughed with or comforted her, even during her blazing hot flashes. So she decided to share that message with others, in 30-second videos on Instagram that quickly went viral. Holding a remote control in her hand, Ellen "calls" Jesus with comments and questions, including asking Him not to make her an advance maternal age mama (again) and if He could bless the nourishment of her food to someone else’s body. She also asks for advice when her best friend’s ex-husband’s new wife shows up in the next pew, or what nursing home plans to make when she's eight years past your first geriatric pregnancy. From a pageant queen with stage fright, to viral videos, to her growing popularity as a stand-up comedian with sold-out performances, Ellen’s humor is rooted in southern charm and culture. Her relatable stories in Hey Jesus, It’s Me will bring levity to our lives, or at least some validation that we’re not the only ones asking if we can ghost our relatives in heaven.
Ellen reminds me of another Southern lady comedian, Leanne Morgan! These ladies can make us laugh, tear up, or shake our heads with an AMEN! It is wonderful to read about someone who is genuine about her faith. She could be our wonderful fellow church goer or neighbor. Keep it coming, Ellen!
I really enjoyed the audiobook! I related to so much of her story growing up in a small, southern town. From church pot lucks to SEC football — Ellen gets me.
***audiobook*** A delightful entertaining commentary on southern graces that will have you giggling and then throw in a line to make you think. An easy read with gentle lessons that makes it a southern masterpiece. The south will chuckle and nod along in understanding and those not from the south may be puzzled but will laugh along anyway and everyone will walk away better for it.
So let me put a bug in your ear that you may just want to add this book to the top of your TBR
A funny easy read and a look into southern culture in a way that surprised me to learn things about considering I’ve been living in the south for so long
I LOVE LOVE LOVE Ellen’s comedy bits on insta, and now her book too! I have both the print and the audible versions, for which I’m glad (I’ll have the caramel cake recipe in print too), but LOVED listening to Ellen narrate in her own voice. I could just picture her holding her remote control “phone.”
Such a delightful, fun book! I highly highly recommend for a great feel-good read/listen!! Bonus: you get to hear Ellen’s sweet southern mama’s voice in the audio version.
This book must be listened to, not read, as it is narrated by the author, and comedian, Ellen Skrmetti. She is known for her fun TikTok and Instagram reels, "Hey, Jesus, It's Me", sketches from a middle-aged, southern woman. She is hilarious, and this book blends her humor with a deeper message that does not often make it in the 30-second videos.
Y’all if you enjoy Leanne Morgan’s comedy, you will love Ellen Skrmetti’s book, and be sure to follow her on Instagram too. Loved her take on all things southern - from church and family to SEC football and good food.
I expected to have more explanations behind the IG posts the author shares. This was covered, but it was more about encouragement and self-acceptance in God. Humor is sprinkled throughout with anecdotes. These personal stories are primarily about women in her life and range from feeding her first baby to menopause. Bible verses are used to highlight a point or quip. This would make a nice buddy read with a friend, sister, or mother.
Book Review: Hey, Jesus, It’s Me: I Have Questions, Comments, and Concerns by Ellen Skrmetti
Ellen Skrmetti’s “Hey, Jesus, It’s Me: I Have Questions, Comments, and Concerns” offers readers a delightful and introspective exploration of faith, family, and the nuances of Southern upbringing. With a unique blend of humor and warmth, Skrmetti invites us to engage with her personal reflections on spirituality and life in Mississippi, crafting a narrative that serves both as an intimate memoir and a broader window into Southern culture.
At the heart of the book lies Skrmetti’s candid and often witty dialogue with Jesus, where she articulates her questions, comments, and concerns about faith and the world around her. This conversational approach humanizes the often daunting subject of spirituality, allowing readers to connect with her reflections on a personal level. Skrmetti’s signature humor infuses the text with levity, enabling her to tackle serious topics while keeping the tone approachable and engaging. By framing her inquiries in a relatable manner, she invites readers to examine their own beliefs, doubts, and experiences, making the exploration of faith a shared journey rather than a solitary endeavor.
One of the delightful side effects of Skrmetti’s narrative is its ability to inspire an interest in Southern cuisine, particularly through her vivid descriptions of traditional dishes like caramel cake and the art of bread-making. This culinary thread not only enriches the narrative but also serves as a metaphor for the warmth and hospitality embedded in Southern culture. The act of sharing food becomes a powerful symbol of connection—both within families and within the community. Readers will find themselves not only appreciating the evocative descriptions of these dishes but also drawn into the communal aspect of Southern heritage, where food serves as a medium for love and connection.
Moreover, Skrmetti’s portrayal of Mississippi adds depth to her narrative, challenging preconceived notions and stereotypes often associated with the region. Through her anecdotes and reflections, she paints a more nuanced and positive impression of Mississippi, showcasing its beauty, resilience, and the richness of its cultural tapestry. By emphasizing the strength of community and the complexity of Southern identity, Skrmetti encourages readers to approach the South with curiosity and an open heart, rather than dismissive stereotypes.
In addition to its humorous and heartwarming moments, “Hey, Jesus, It’s Me” ultimately serves as a valuable exploration of faith in a contemporary context. Skrmetti’s honesty about her struggles, doubts, and triumphs in her spiritual journey resonates with anyone who has grappled with their beliefs in the face of life’s challenges. Her reflections invite readers to embrace their questions and uncertainties as integral parts of their faith journeys, rather than obstacles to be overcome.
In conclusion, Ellen Skrmetti’s “Hey, Jesus, It’s Me: I Have Questions, Comments, and Concerns” is a profound and delightful contribution to the conversation surrounding faith and cultural identity. It stands out for its ability to merge humor with heartfelt introspection, providing a relatable and insightful perspective on Southern life and the complexities of belief. This book is highly recommended for anyone seeking a fresh take on spirituality, an appreciation for Southern culture, and a reminder of the importance of community, connection, and culinary tradition in our lives. Through Skrmetti’s engaging prose, readers are sure to find themselves both entertained and inspired, reflecting on their own questions and concerns along the way.
My Interest I found a short reel on Instagram that was funny, but in no way disrespectful of the faith, on Instagram. Then, as I was tying out the Libby app’s new (longed-for) seach audio books by duration feature, I stumbled up on this. I thought it was the lady I saw on IG so I downloaded it. It was better thant he lady on IG. [I do report people who steal content, but I haven’t had the time or energy to research who did this first].
The Story Although Ellen competed in the preliminary pagaent to try to become Miss Mississippi, she was NOT, I repeat NOT, in a sorority. Now your sorority may be fabulous and never hurt anyone, but I went to an uber-Greek [i.e. Sorority/Fraternity college and they all acted like the GOP members of the current congress]. In the South not pledging a sorority, I understand is like coming out as whatever is worse these days than being a Comminist-Fascist-Vegan-Woke-Scooter-Rider. I was impressed from the start with this little memoir.
Ellen started learning stand-up comedy during Covid. She took online classes on writing it even from Chicago’s famed Second City. [I was really impressed]. Even better–she’s a foodie and knows food. She has never “blimped out” to a Size 2. No–she’s the real deal–double-digist and a Weight Watcher’s membership. I liked that, right off. Plus, she was an early adopter of….SPANX. Yep, the very same–Oprah gave them out, remember? Like the most business-like of 1940s girdles only thin.
Even more than all the Southern stuff–which immediatley brought to mind The Southern Lady Code by Helen Ellis and the fun YouTube videos by It’s A Southern Thing which I enjoy, Ellen’s no-nonsense faith kept me hooked. There’s no politics or I would have hurled this in the trash. There’s no insistence on this or that translation of the Bible. Just a firm faith in Jesus as her Savior. I liked that. I liked that she didn’t judge or condemn. Sadly, I was driving to-and-from spending part of the work day with my new team member in Lexington, Kentucky [home of Mary Todd Lincoln and of Rupp Areana and the “other” UK–the University of Kentucky] so don’t have any great quotes–and there were some. Sadly, no one has put the ones I wanted on Goodreads and there is a waiting list for the audio book.
Take my word for it–this is a deeper book than it suggests, but also a delightful memoir and a good exploration of a lot of great-sounding food. Now–who’s for Carmel Cake or a Thanksgiving Tail Gate at football? Chocolate Gravy [sauce]? Pimento Cheese is more my love language, but heck I’d devour any of the stuff she mentions. I even Googled that cookbook!
And, I’ll remember to ask “Hey Jesus?”
For those of you outside the USA, No No and NO “ALL Chiristans” are not one thing. Don’t assume, ok?
From a pageant queen with stage fright, to viral videos, to her growing popularity as a stand-up comedian with sold-out performances, Ellen’s humor is rooted in southern charm and culture. Her relatable stories in Hey Jesus, It’s Me will bring levity to our lives, or at least some validation that we’re not the only ones asking if we can ghost our relatives in heaven.
Yes, I have known this author since she was born. Yes, I have known her whole family for years. But, y’all…this book is good! And if you know me, you know I do not give praise where praise is NOT due. This book deserves tons of praise. I laughed out loud and I was so upset when I finished! I wanted more!
I am definitely going to have to read this again and mark some passages! Y’all! I never want to reread. But this is so wonderful and such a feel good read! And so freaking southern!
When she starts talking about funerals….I swear! I had to stop and gasp for air! She nailed it…and so much more!
I love that she added her family recipes! If you know you know!!
Need a book in which you will definitely laugh out loud…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this from the author for a honest review.
I started reading this book in print but was thrilled to be able to get an audiobook from the library. The author's narration brings the story alive. Listening to it felt like sitting in the backyard on a summer day sipping lemonade with a friend and getting caught up on all of the family news.
She covers a wide range of female-centered topics including menopause, pregnancy, loss of dear relatives, going to church, Thanksgiving dinner, and even her experience completing in a local Miss Mississippi qualifier pageant.
Here "Hey, Jesus, It's Me" used throughout the book reinforces that prayer doesn't have to be just the standard prayers we memorized as a child or what you say in Church, it can be a conversation with Jesus about your concerns of day and questions about life.
I met Ellen in the summer of 2022. It was our first big in person work meeting after the pandemic, and she was new to the company. I remember meeting her and her training class and her having to leave because she was about to do standup in her hotel room. Now, this is where I call myself out. I was like oh thats a fun little side hobby! Comedy is so competitive, but I was so excited to learn that I was wrong and Ellen is killing it! I love her skits on instagram at @justkrmetti which if you don’t follow, you need to! This book is an extension of her short reels and I so enjoyed every minute of the audiobook (read by Ellen herself!) If you need something with a southern twist that will make you laugh, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of this one!
I’ve been looking forward to Ellen’s book since I pre-ordered it at her Charlotte show. I very unexpectedly lost one of my dearest friends a few weeks ago and she was actually the one who introduced me to Hey Jesus and Ellen on IG. As I read the book I couldn’t help but remember my beautiful friend. I remember leaving the show and being so impressed and after reading the book I am so impressed and impacted!!! Wonderfully written and I literally could not put it down once I started reading!
Audiobook is the way to go with this gem! I absolutely loved this book as Ellen took me back to my own childhood growing up in Ripley, MS. Having graduated with her brother, I know this is a genuine, from the heart book. I CACKLED at the chapter on funerals. Why? Because absolute truth was spoken😂 I managed to get all of my Christmas in the attic, laundry caught up, and a closet cleaned out because I had to finish this book. I was asked several times….what are you laughing at in there? Great job Ellen! Proud of you from another late in life (IYKYK) Ripleyian!
This was a lovely book full of humor, southern charm, and God fearing Christian beliefs. The world outside my four(4) walls today is full hate and anger. More shootings, legalized cruelty, … I needed something to help me laugh. This book (shall I say it) was a God send. The chapters are short and independent. So it is a great book for someone that struggles spending time reading.
Highly recommend for a causal read. Sometimes we just need a break.
“Hey, Jesus, it's me...I did it. I killed 'em with kindness. Just one question. Where do I hide the body?”
Fun and funny, this is a great book for anyone who loves reading about life in the South. Ellen Skrmetti grew up in Mississippi. She was "raised right," and she's here to share all of her colorful stories about family, marriage, cooking, & church. I did not know who Ellen was before picking up this book but I enjoyed this light and easy read and thought her explanation of all things southern was spot on. I am also thankful she included a few recipes too.
Quick, humorous entertainment for those that love hearing about the south and religion. I think fans of this viral social media author will enjoy this. I’ve seen a few of her videos but don’t actively seek out her content. The audio was less than a handful of hours.
That said, this is kind of a random hodge-podge of her life stories without any real, solid substance or depth. I honestly didn’t understand the point other than to give her fans a longer bout of her entertainment. 🤷🏻♀️
Ellen talks to the reader about important parts of life in the south. She covers topics like hot flashes, growing up southern, southern funerals, and unspoken prayer requests. This is a quick, entertaining read and clues in us northerners about some of the things we’ve always wondered about our southern counterparts. If you want a funny, laugh outloud read, containing a kernel of southern truths, this book is for you!
Audiobook is a must for this one! After following Ellen for a while on Instagram, I expected funny stories with many lol moments. But it was that and so much more! I did not anticipate the anecdotes from her life to be as tear-jerking, heart-warming, and inspirational as they were. Highly recommended for anyone who loves Jesus and the South. And for those who don’t, after reading this book you might just have a change of heart.
For those of you who enjoy Ellen Skrmetti's Instagram shorts, this book will be a little different. It's far more memoir than comedic commentary. It's sweet and Southern. If you are religious and from the South, I believe you will really enjoy it. Very short - could easily be read in one sitting.
So many funny stories from Ellen! She talks about growing up in the south and how she wants to be close to family but not too close for a quick pop in. Quick and easy read like your chatting with a girlfriend over a cup of coffee. Though there are religious undertones, hence the title, the stories outweigh it. Don't let it steer you away from this read!
Loved this!!! Little bit of southern sass, couple of delicious recipes, and a mix of faith equal a perfect read. She’s hilarious online and these stories of her life were so personal and funny and show how much she truly loves her family and her people. Ordering a handful for Christmas gifts and really, really want to see her live!
I heard Ellen on a podcast and enjoyed her stories, so I downloaded her book with an Audible credit I had available. Good choice! This book is funny and endearing. She especially loves breaking down Southern stereotypes many women can relate to hearing and believing. The last chapter about Unanswered Prayers was especially poignant and brought home a favorite topic of mine: community.
Ellen Skrmetti offers a sweet and funny outlook on faith, family and growing up in the south. This book made me hungry and promoted me to look up caramel cake, and buy a bread making magazine and the southern sides cookbook. I definitely have a more favorable view of Mississippi now. This book was a window into the south. I appreciate it.
What a refreshing, funny, and hope-filled read. There is something so completely wonderful about the heartfelt simplicity and love that comes through in Ellen’s storytelling. I’m so glad she took time to write about these beautiful memories in her life because I feel warmer having listened to them.
This is a collection of essays by a comedian I’d never heard of until someone recommended her audibook as being laugh-out-loud funny.
I did not, in fact, laugh out loud. But I found her anecdotes about life in the South amusing: church potlucks, college football, funeral etiquette and more, all laced with a message of faith, as the title implies.
I listed to the audiobook at the recommendation of a friend but I’d never heard of Skrmetti or her social media accounts. She’s funny, especially if you live in the world of Southern Christianity like me. As a Northerner, it gave some funny insights and chuckles. Overall, though, just a light and easy listen without much depth, insight, or real substance.