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Able to Laugh: Finding joy though the struggle is real
Why is your wife in a wheelchair?
Because she can't walk.
Why were you ironing in the nude anyway?
No wait, I can explain...
Why would this happen to you?
Why wouldn't it?
People ask the silliest things.
But for Jade and John Reynolds it's the silence surrounding disability that's the strangest of all.
When Jade unexpectedly suffered from a rare condition which left her paralysed and in a wheelchair at the age of twelve, she never imagined that she'd one day meet her husband John and that together they would take to social media to dispel the stigma surrounding disability, one story at a time.
From questions about suffering and sex to family and faith, Jade and John speak honestly and humorously about life as an inter-able couple. And here, they bring together the big questions (and big jokes) that have made them so popular online onto the page in a debut book that will help you reframe your hardship into reasons to hope.
It's time to discover that no matter what life throws at you, you are truly, able to laugh.
Because she can't walk.
Why were you ironing in the nude anyway?
No wait, I can explain...
Why would this happen to you?
Why wouldn't it?
People ask the silliest things.
But for Jade and John Reynolds it's the silence surrounding disability that's the strangest of all.
When Jade unexpectedly suffered from a rare condition which left her paralysed and in a wheelchair at the age of twelve, she never imagined that she'd one day meet her husband John and that together they would take to social media to dispel the stigma surrounding disability, one story at a time.
From questions about suffering and sex to family and faith, Jade and John speak honestly and humorously about life as an inter-able couple. And here, they bring together the big questions (and big jokes) that have made them so popular online onto the page in a debut book that will help you reframe your hardship into reasons to hope.
It's time to discover that no matter what life throws at you, you are truly, able to laugh.
160 pages, Hardcover
Published December 3, 2024
10 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 17, 2024
Audiobook - A real and honest life story. Jade and John are so personable, you feel like you know them. An insightful glimpse into a life with disability and the encouragement of Gods faithfulness throughout. Jade presents her faith in a real but non threatening way, showing respect for all, regardless of beliefs. As a squeamish individual there were a couple of times I had to pause the story while driving with some of the more graphic accounts of injury!!
Thank you Jade and John for sharing your story :)
Thank you Jade and John for sharing your story :)
October 24, 2024
I really liked this story of Jade as a wheelchair user and their life together. It's funny and interesting and thought-provoking. It's helpful to consider what is meaningful and important about disability, and I really like both John and Jade. I'm so glad they read it (the audiobook) together.l because it adds a lot to hear their voices. (John as his daughter makes me laugh every single time.) What a lovely couple!
Also, it's heavy on Jesus, which feels perfectly reasonable since religion is obviously a fundamental part of their lives and the way they view the world.
Also, it's heavy on Jesus, which feels perfectly reasonable since religion is obviously a fundamental part of their lives and the way they view the world.
October 10, 2024
Great couple. I love the videos and their sense of humor. I was happy to find out that they are Christians and have such a strong faith that they're not afraid to share. Thank you for sharing your story.
October 27, 2024
Brilliant book - not preachy but explains their outlook on life and how incredibly strong they are to be overcoming such adversity with grace and humour. Thank you!
February 22, 2025
Really hard to review this - as a wheelchair user myself with my able bodied partner we found some bits really relatable and funny, some bits that we disagreed on and other bits where it was a mirror to all the struggles - my favourite part was right at the end at the point where it is acknowledged that not all those who are disabled (in my case chronically ill with a delicious cocktail of rather horrific diseases all the way through to syndromes) look for a cure or want to be healed for a lot of different reasons -
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2024
I love reading about real people and hearing about their biggest challenges alongside their every day reality, so having followed John and Jade on social media I was excited to get their book. And it did not disappoint.
As well as being really interesting people, they are also really good writers. Jade is so clear and eloquent in the way she unfolds her story about life with disability, giving us insights into elements we may never have thought of, and showing just how important perspective is when dealing with life’s ups and downs. John provides plenty of humour and pathos as he helps to carry the narration along, steering each topic into broader food for thought so we end up reflecting on our own lives as well as theirs.
The premise of the book, with its chapter headings that answer genuine questions that people regularly ask them, is to satisfy the readers’ curiosity and to get people really thinking about important issues. It’s a really clever approach because we feel like we are fully involved in their story. It’s less like a memoir of random memories and more like a conversation with friends over coffee. At the end of the experience, not only do you feel like you understand more about them, but you’re also challenged to think how humour and your response to your own trials in life have impacted those around you.
As well as being really interesting people, they are also really good writers. Jade is so clear and eloquent in the way she unfolds her story about life with disability, giving us insights into elements we may never have thought of, and showing just how important perspective is when dealing with life’s ups and downs. John provides plenty of humour and pathos as he helps to carry the narration along, steering each topic into broader food for thought so we end up reflecting on our own lives as well as theirs.
The premise of the book, with its chapter headings that answer genuine questions that people regularly ask them, is to satisfy the readers’ curiosity and to get people really thinking about important issues. It’s a really clever approach because we feel like we are fully involved in their story. It’s less like a memoir of random memories and more like a conversation with friends over coffee. At the end of the experience, not only do you feel like you understand more about them, but you’re also challenged to think how humour and your response to your own trials in life have impacted those around you.
January 26, 2025
From someone who has had a tough year, this book has been a real help. Thank you, Jade and John, for sharing your experiences.
October 8, 2024
I am the mother of a little girl with Spina Bifida. She uses a wheelchair. So when I first saw his video about when he carried her in the movie theater I became a super fan. I hope my daughter marries someone like him one day. I did want more specifics about their sex life, though. When you say you enjoy it, like a hug or like…really enjoy it? I guess the answer is no. But I’m scared to Google it, I don’t want to find freaky stuff.
I usually listen to audiobooks while I clean and today I was having to carry a box of tissues with me from room to room. And then laughing with tears still on my face and a big booger hanging from my nose. My children were concerned. I can relate so much. My daughter burned herself and I felt so badly! It was horrifying to look at but at least she didn’t feel a thing, which is why it happened in the first place.
Her mother almost killing her by forcing her to drink massive amounts of water reminds me why new doctors always talk to me like I’m an idiot…most people are. It takes a minute for them to get to know me.
I’m so grateful I live in America. The British healthcare system sounds horrible. They probably don’t even realize how bad it is compared to here because they talk about it like it’s normal. I’ve never had to wait or had to beg someone to take my concerns seriously. My problem is when doctors try to push things on her that she doesn’t really need, because they make a commission like car salesman. But I’d much rather have that problem. And the handicap accessibility is really good in most places in America.
I would like a sequel, please!
I usually listen to audiobooks while I clean and today I was having to carry a box of tissues with me from room to room. And then laughing with tears still on my face and a big booger hanging from my nose. My children were concerned. I can relate so much. My daughter burned herself and I felt so badly! It was horrifying to look at but at least she didn’t feel a thing, which is why it happened in the first place.
Her mother almost killing her by forcing her to drink massive amounts of water reminds me why new doctors always talk to me like I’m an idiot…most people are. It takes a minute for them to get to know me.
I’m so grateful I live in America. The British healthcare system sounds horrible. They probably don’t even realize how bad it is compared to here because they talk about it like it’s normal. I’ve never had to wait or had to beg someone to take my concerns seriously. My problem is when doctors try to push things on her that she doesn’t really need, because they make a commission like car salesman. But I’d much rather have that problem. And the handicap accessibility is really good in most places in America.
I would like a sequel, please!
November 3, 2024
Uplifting book so nice to see disability discussed with humour instead of the typical doom and gloom
November 3, 2024
Great book that made me giggle out loud a few times! Love the honest and conversational nature of the book. Gives me so much admiration for Jade (and John too I guess) 🤭
August 12, 2025
Fantastic book. Loved reading/listening to this book. The Audible version is narrated by Jade and John themselves which I found to be really special. Loved hearing their stories with humor mixed in with their beautiful faith. The couple also offered so many great points to think about and self reflect on no matter who you are. Definitely think this is a book everyone should read.
February 1, 2025
Absolutely beautiful! Funny but serious and so genuine in sharing the highs and lows of life while still proving that God is good!
March 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book jade has definitely taught me a thing or too.jade has a wonderful sense of humor John and jade are both Christians and firm belivers in their faith.this book had my laughing out loud in certain chapters.it was good to see how jade and John over came any obsitcsls and that laughter is the best medicine
October 14, 2024
Absolutely brilliant. Jade and John are hilarious but so down to earth. I got my copy signed by them and the kids and it's adorable
September 8, 2025
Most people who know me know I’m not usually drawn to autobiographies or romance, nothing against them, I just tend to gravitate toward sci-fi and mystery. But I follow Jade and John on TikTok, and their story made me want to give this book a try.
This book is funny, sad, insightful and everything in between!
I read it in one sitting, completely absorbed, and then immediately got the audiobook (which I highly recommend too). As someone who’s lived with Cerebral Palsy my whole life, the book resonated with me in ways I didn’t expect. Being disabled as an adult brings its own set of challenges some visible, some deeply personal. I’ve been with my partner for over seven years now. We’ve built a home and a life together and I love him more than I have the words to express. But there are moments when I wonder if I struggle with my disability, how can I expect someone else to carry that with me? Is it fair?
This book, whether it meant to or not, helped me see those questions from a different angle. Jade is amazing and resilient but also funny and realistic, her stories about her time in hospital especially hit home. I spent a lot of time in hospitals growing up for all sorts of reasons. I made friends, I lost friends, and I learned to see life in a whole different way. Reading about someone else who’s been through that made me feel all sorts of feels.
When you live with a disability, it’s often the first thing people notice. And while that usually comes from a place of care, it can be exhausting. You want to shout, “Yes, it’s part of me but it’s not all of me” And then there’s the other extreme, where people try to overcorrect and say, “You’re fine, there’s nothing wrong with you,” which also isn’t true. It’s a strange balancing act.
What I loved most was John’s perspective how he sees Jade, how they work together as a couple. It’s not about everything being perfectly split down the middle. Relationships aren’t always 50/50. Some days are harder than others. Sometimes you lean more, sometimes you carry more. That’s what partnership is. And despite everything, life can be pretty damn good.
Well at least that’s what I took from this book.
This book is funny, sad, insightful and everything in between!
I read it in one sitting, completely absorbed, and then immediately got the audiobook (which I highly recommend too). As someone who’s lived with Cerebral Palsy my whole life, the book resonated with me in ways I didn’t expect. Being disabled as an adult brings its own set of challenges some visible, some deeply personal. I’ve been with my partner for over seven years now. We’ve built a home and a life together and I love him more than I have the words to express. But there are moments when I wonder if I struggle with my disability, how can I expect someone else to carry that with me? Is it fair?
This book, whether it meant to or not, helped me see those questions from a different angle. Jade is amazing and resilient but also funny and realistic, her stories about her time in hospital especially hit home. I spent a lot of time in hospitals growing up for all sorts of reasons. I made friends, I lost friends, and I learned to see life in a whole different way. Reading about someone else who’s been through that made me feel all sorts of feels.
When you live with a disability, it’s often the first thing people notice. And while that usually comes from a place of care, it can be exhausting. You want to shout, “Yes, it’s part of me but it’s not all of me” And then there’s the other extreme, where people try to overcorrect and say, “You’re fine, there’s nothing wrong with you,” which also isn’t true. It’s a strange balancing act.
What I loved most was John’s perspective how he sees Jade, how they work together as a couple. It’s not about everything being perfectly split down the middle. Relationships aren’t always 50/50. Some days are harder than others. Sometimes you lean more, sometimes you carry more. That’s what partnership is. And despite everything, life can be pretty damn good.
Well at least that’s what I took from this book.
February 28, 2025
I always thought it was hopelessly idealistic to imagine gratitude and suffering could go hand in hand. Since being diagnosed at 17 with a chronic illness that changed the entire trajectory of my life, I thought it would be impossible.
Over the past three years, a lot has changed. I see God differently, see myself differently. And this book has managed to sum up exactly what I’ve learned and how I wish to continue my lifelong journey of healing.
Chronic illness does not change who or whose you are, but it invites you to grow around the challenge and grow stronger. Grieving well is necessary. Sitting in the suffering is natural, and resorting to false positivity when your heart feels abandoned will only make things worse. But genuine joy and laughter heal as well. I have faith that gently inviting God into the ups and downs will make all the difference. Besides, have you got any better idea? (My plan b is lying in bed all day with a lifelong supply of raspberry Jaffa Cakes, which might sound lovely but I’ll take the option with joy and fulfillment)
I’m only twenty. There is a long way to go and I still have very little understanding of how my life will look. But John and Jade’s testimony will stay on my bookshelf as a reminder to hope. Not only will my life get better, it promises to be beautiful. And no storms can take that truth away :)
Over the past three years, a lot has changed. I see God differently, see myself differently. And this book has managed to sum up exactly what I’ve learned and how I wish to continue my lifelong journey of healing.
Chronic illness does not change who or whose you are, but it invites you to grow around the challenge and grow stronger. Grieving well is necessary. Sitting in the suffering is natural, and resorting to false positivity when your heart feels abandoned will only make things worse. But genuine joy and laughter heal as well. I have faith that gently inviting God into the ups and downs will make all the difference. Besides, have you got any better idea? (My plan b is lying in bed all day with a lifelong supply of raspberry Jaffa Cakes, which might sound lovely but I’ll take the option with joy and fulfillment)
I’m only twenty. There is a long way to go and I still have very little understanding of how my life will look. But John and Jade’s testimony will stay on my bookshelf as a reminder to hope. Not only will my life get better, it promises to be beautiful. And no storms can take that truth away :)
October 27, 2024
An honest and thought provoking read that really resonated with me, both as a Christian and as a disabled person.
I've snorted, laughed and cried my way through this book - my absolute favourite excerpt pgs. 94 - 95
John - Earlier in the day, I'd remarked to Jade, 'It's cool we've got a bath." She didn't even look up from her magazine as she said, 'You're not having one.' ... It got to 6 p.m. and I pondered in an off-hand way 'Do you think any nurses or doctors will come by at this time?'
She instantly replied, 'You're not having a bath, mate.' How did she know? ... So there I was... In the bath, reclining in the steamy paradise, bubbles up to my shoulders, candles lit, reading my Kindle, 'Sounds of the rainforest' playlist on, rubber duck bobbing laps around the tub ... I blew out the candles, paused the sounds of the rainforest and even completely removed the Father Christmas beard. The moment had passed.
🤣🤣🤣 I won't spoil the chapter, but it's not to be missed. The whole book, is not to be missed.
It's a book that really challenged me, as well as being a source of entertainment.
I've snorted, laughed and cried my way through this book - my absolute favourite excerpt pgs. 94 - 95
John - Earlier in the day, I'd remarked to Jade, 'It's cool we've got a bath." She didn't even look up from her magazine as she said, 'You're not having one.' ... It got to 6 p.m. and I pondered in an off-hand way 'Do you think any nurses or doctors will come by at this time?'
She instantly replied, 'You're not having a bath, mate.' How did she know? ... So there I was... In the bath, reclining in the steamy paradise, bubbles up to my shoulders, candles lit, reading my Kindle, 'Sounds of the rainforest' playlist on, rubber duck bobbing laps around the tub ... I blew out the candles, paused the sounds of the rainforest and even completely removed the Father Christmas beard. The moment had passed.
🤣🤣🤣 I won't spoil the chapter, but it's not to be missed. The whole book, is not to be missed.
It's a book that really challenged me, as well as being a source of entertainment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2024
WOW!
John and Jade, this was such an incredible read! As someone in an interabled relationship myself, it’s such an inspiration to see the similarities and differences in your journey to mine. The moments of heartbreak and tough times, quickly before bringing you back up with silly humour, has made the past few nights reading so much more enjoyable!!
Thank you so much for blessing us with this book. All the best and so much love to you two and the kids! ❤️❤️
- Fin
John and Jade, this was such an incredible read! As someone in an interabled relationship myself, it’s such an inspiration to see the similarities and differences in your journey to mine. The moments of heartbreak and tough times, quickly before bringing you back up with silly humour, has made the past few nights reading so much more enjoyable!!
Thank you so much for blessing us with this book. All the best and so much love to you two and the kids! ❤️❤️
- Fin
June 23, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! I've been following Jade and John for a while and love their humor. The chemistry between the two of them is undeniable and their openess about their faith in God is refreshing. As the parent of a disabled daughter there was so much I could relate to. This book will have you laughing and crying all at once.
November 22, 2024
I really enjoyed Able to Laugh! John and Jade are real and honest, they don’t try to hide the fact that sometimes things are difficult! Being disabled myself, I could relate to some things they wrote about! I also understand the need to find a reason to laugh! Absolutely loved this book!
December 31, 2024
Even though I have no relation to Jade’s story, the book still has a way of touching your own life no matter how different it is to Jade’s. A wide range of emotions are explored when reading this book, definitely worth purchasing!
June 2, 2025
I very much enjoyed this read! It’s a great mix of humor, faith, and inspiration. Even though I don’t have near as major health struggles as Jade, I did find it very relatable and encouraging for the chronic illness I do face.
November 9, 2025
I loved this. An honest account of their lives together, and the uncountable challenges Jade faces as a disabled person, Jade and John talk about love, family and faith in a straight up, open way, warts and all. Real and true.
December 6, 2025
The book includes the humour and quippiness John and Jade show on their social media posts and videos while also sharing their deep faith in God. I listened to the audiobook narrated by the both of them and really enjoyed it. One of the best books I've read this year.
November 5, 2024
Very funny very true highly recommend
January 9, 2025
This book made me laugh out loud and also felt incredibly honest and truthful. I found it encouraging and their faith shone from the pages. Only problem was it was too short!
January 21, 2025
Loved it! Real, fun, encouraging and challenging. Thank you both for your honesty!
February 26, 2025
Really enjoyed it - very funny, hopeful and inspiring. It really tips perceptions of disability on its head. Laugh out loud funny
March 9, 2025
Audiobook
March 9, 2025
Lovely! Really enjoyed the insight, honesty, and faith. (And humor!)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews