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Simple Joys: Discovering Wonder in the Everyday
Laughter that makes your stomach hurt, the perfect cup of coffee, a few moments alone with your Bible - these are moments of joy to be found on even the most difficult days. When you know you can trust God no matter what, lasting joy will be yours. Find your joy in Simple Joys: Discovering Wonder in the Everyday by Candace Payne.
Who hasn’t struggled with discontent, being overwhelmed, and the fight to be happy? You know that you have much to be grateful for, but sometimes the world feels so heavy and it’s hard to recognize the good stuff, let alone find and experience true, lasting joy.
Candace Payne, better known as “Chewbacca Mom,” reached more than 200 million people when her surprise outburst of joy at the simplest pleasure of a Star Wars mask went viral. Her story of struggling with loneliness, discontent, and unhappiness came out soon after, which made the world question: What makes her different?
“I could write a million words, books, and even songs to explain this,” Candace says, “but my gut feeling tells me you didn’t buy this book for a theology debate. You are reading these pages hoping to find joy - real, authentic, and unwavering in any and all circumstances. The kind of contentment that says, ‘I’m not only happy, but I’m satisfied as well. I have enough and I am enough.’ Because what I’ve discovered is this: contentment will often lead to more joy.”
Do you have that kind of joy?
Do you want it?
Find the secret to happiness, satisfaction, joy, and more in Simple Joys, a beautiful, full-color book that walks you through Candace’s journey so that you can replicate it in your own life. Read about several simple ways you can reclaim joy in your day-to-day routine and start living more joyfully today.
Who hasn’t struggled with discontent, being overwhelmed, and the fight to be happy? You know that you have much to be grateful for, but sometimes the world feels so heavy and it’s hard to recognize the good stuff, let alone find and experience true, lasting joy.
Candace Payne, better known as “Chewbacca Mom,” reached more than 200 million people when her surprise outburst of joy at the simplest pleasure of a Star Wars mask went viral. Her story of struggling with loneliness, discontent, and unhappiness came out soon after, which made the world question: What makes her different?
“I could write a million words, books, and even songs to explain this,” Candace says, “but my gut feeling tells me you didn’t buy this book for a theology debate. You are reading these pages hoping to find joy - real, authentic, and unwavering in any and all circumstances. The kind of contentment that says, ‘I’m not only happy, but I’m satisfied as well. I have enough and I am enough.’ Because what I’ve discovered is this: contentment will often lead to more joy.”
Do you have that kind of joy?
Do you want it?
Find the secret to happiness, satisfaction, joy, and more in Simple Joys, a beautiful, full-color book that walks you through Candace’s journey so that you can replicate it in your own life. Read about several simple ways you can reclaim joy in your day-to-day routine and start living more joyfully today.
176 pages, Hardcover
Published September 25, 2018
44 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 29, 2018
This was a simple book that was simply delightful. It was an easy read and each chapter was enjoyable. It wasn’t a large book, but was easy to tuck into a bag or purse to enjoy at later times. It is written in a way that it pulls you and you become a part of what she is sharing. A way of finding joy in life again.
I loved that it was a hardback book and money was not skimped to make this a true quality book.
I received this book from Book Look Bloggers and was happy that the publisher, Zondervan, gave me the opportunity to read it.
I loved that it was a hardback book and money was not skimped to make this a true quality book.
I received this book from Book Look Bloggers and was happy that the publisher, Zondervan, gave me the opportunity to read it.
December 14, 2018
Downright hilarious - this book was a fun and simple read. I was able to finish this book in just a couple days. The author, Candance Payne was so funny... I loved every one of the hilarious stories she shared and I appreciated the simple applications she made to encourage readers to find joy in the simple things.
I am only giving this book three stars because it was very short and simple. I think there could have been more meat to the book. Overall, it was an entertaining and enjoyable book, but not a must-read.
I am only giving this book three stars because it was very short and simple. I think there could have been more meat to the book. Overall, it was an entertaining and enjoyable book, but not a must-read.
November 9, 2018
Simple Joys: Discovering Wonder in the Everyday by Candace Payne is a lovely hardback book that is the perfect size to fit in your purse or to take along in your bag. An easy read that with short chapters that are full of information and scripture making this a lovely addition to your day. A lovely book that would make a great gift or a lovely addition to your own library
November 11, 2022
Sweet book of essays that remind you to search for the joy in life in the most unlikely places. It offered up great reminders to not check off all the bad things, all the time. Plus it is the Chewbacca woman…you can’t not smile when you see her viral video. I may have to watch daily now!
August 20, 2022
Seemed like this book would have been fine as a journal that the author just kept to herself. It seemed like she was telling stories so that she could remember them and not really for the benefit of the audience. Wasn’t terrible, but just didn’t really give much.
January 16, 2020
The cover of my copy has a different subtitle, "Discovering Wonder in the Everyday," as opposed to "Laughing Your Way to Authentic Happiness." But the cover looks the same, and this was the only one listed on Goodreads.
I believe (?) I got this book from a closing bookstore. It's written by that funny internet "Chewbacca Mom," Candace Payne, and one of the verses discussed was Proverbs 31:25, "She is clothed with strength and dignity. She can laugh at the days to come." That's always mystified me, how someone can laugh at the unknown future, no matter how prepared they are.
Chewbacca Mom mentions a (loose) translation that says, "She always faces tomorrow with a smile," which sounds less like mirth and more like putting a brave face on it, whether "it" is aging, or taking care of those who are aging, or suffering from some disease, or ... whatever the latter stages of life might bring. Hmm. I like the idea of mirth better, although that might be less attainable. Or maybe not. I have known people who have sustained their sense of humor throughout their final illnesses.
This book didn't really unlock that mystery for me.
I did enjoy the silliness, particularly the story about Candace performing with a choir in "trash bag" choir robes, and falling down. Or the story of her mission trip. The story of taking her two babies to the dr's office didn't sound all that bad to me. She gets a gold star for creative problem solving.
There were other stories, too, that didn't particularly "hit my funny bone." Some of them, like the impromptu chili gathering, felt like one had to be there to truly appreciate it.
Two different reviewers complained about the book being so short. That didn't bother me. Usually the length of a book, whether long or short, doesn't affect my review, unless, perhaps it's so long I start to get bored. That was not the case with this one. I don't know what the right length for a humor book would be. I think the length of this book was about right. I tend to like shorter humorous books than books of other genres that I read. I don't know why, but a little dab of humor can go a long way.
I believe (?) I got this book from a closing bookstore. It's written by that funny internet "Chewbacca Mom," Candace Payne, and one of the verses discussed was Proverbs 31:25, "She is clothed with strength and dignity. She can laugh at the days to come." That's always mystified me, how someone can laugh at the unknown future, no matter how prepared they are.
Chewbacca Mom mentions a (loose) translation that says, "She always faces tomorrow with a smile," which sounds less like mirth and more like putting a brave face on it, whether "it" is aging, or taking care of those who are aging, or suffering from some disease, or ... whatever the latter stages of life might bring. Hmm. I like the idea of mirth better, although that might be less attainable. Or maybe not. I have known people who have sustained their sense of humor throughout their final illnesses.
This book didn't really unlock that mystery for me.
I did enjoy the silliness, particularly the story about Candace performing with a choir in "trash bag" choir robes, and falling down. Or the story of her mission trip. The story of taking her two babies to the dr's office didn't sound all that bad to me. She gets a gold star for creative problem solving.
There were other stories, too, that didn't particularly "hit my funny bone." Some of them, like the impromptu chili gathering, felt like one had to be there to truly appreciate it.
Two different reviewers complained about the book being so short. That didn't bother me. Usually the length of a book, whether long or short, doesn't affect my review, unless, perhaps it's so long I start to get bored. That was not the case with this one. I don't know what the right length for a humor book would be. I think the length of this book was about right. I tend to like shorter humorous books than books of other genres that I read. I don't know why, but a little dab of humor can go a long way.
October 22, 2018
This book, "Simple Joys" by Candace Payne, is a book that looks at what happens in normal everyday life. She is able to put joy in every circumstance, no matter the outcome. There are quite a few experiences she goes through that just strikes a chord with the reader. It’s easy to relate to her stories in her book. She also asks you questions throughout the book to get you to think about joy in your own life.
When was the last time you felt joy in your life? Are you searching for a moment to see what it feels like? I would recommend this book if you are looking for something to help steer you in the direction of finding joy. It seems that we are all in such a fast paced world that we hardly slow down to see what we have right in front of us. Maybe it's time to take a look at joy from another perspective. Candace Payne, also known as “Chewbacca Mom”, brings light and laughter to everyday situations that some of us might find hard to laugh about. This is such a great book that is hard to put down.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission.
When was the last time you felt joy in your life? Are you searching for a moment to see what it feels like? I would recommend this book if you are looking for something to help steer you in the direction of finding joy. It seems that we are all in such a fast paced world that we hardly slow down to see what we have right in front of us. Maybe it's time to take a look at joy from another perspective. Candace Payne, also known as “Chewbacca Mom”, brings light and laughter to everyday situations that some of us might find hard to laugh about. This is such a great book that is hard to put down.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission.
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September 26, 2018I enjoyed Candace Payne's first book released last year, “Laugh It Up!” SO MUCH that I bought 15 copies for friends and family. In her new book, “Simple Joys”, Candace delivers heartwarming and delightful stories from her own life about how to find joy, no matter the circumstances.
You might think, "What in the world does a lady who put on a Chewbacca mask and laughed for a few minutes know about LIFE? Come on...."
But Candace gets it. She understands what is important and what isn't. As she shares stories from her own life, you will learn how she found joy in the midst of the everyday. Nothing complicated. Nothing hard to understand. Simple. Joys.
(Oh, and the artwork in this book is BEAUTIFUL, also created by Candace herself. I bought a second copy to be able to tear out the illustrations...carefully!)
If you’re disgusted by the hatefulness we see in the world every day, take a break, get off the merry-go-round, sit down, put your feet up, and read some stories to warm your heart and help you focus on what really matters in life – finding simple joys in the everyday.
You might think, "What in the world does a lady who put on a Chewbacca mask and laughed for a few minutes know about LIFE? Come on...."
But Candace gets it. She understands what is important and what isn't. As she shares stories from her own life, you will learn how she found joy in the midst of the everyday. Nothing complicated. Nothing hard to understand. Simple. Joys.
(Oh, and the artwork in this book is BEAUTIFUL, also created by Candace herself. I bought a second copy to be able to tear out the illustrations...carefully!)
If you’re disgusted by the hatefulness we see in the world every day, take a break, get off the merry-go-round, sit down, put your feet up, and read some stories to warm your heart and help you focus on what really matters in life – finding simple joys in the everyday.
September 12, 2018
Well Chewbacca Mom is at it again with her new beautiful book, Simple Joys: Discovering Wonder in the Everyday. First of all, this is a beautiful and colorful gift book full of incredible artwork from Candace herself. I'm keeping it on my coffee table to both brighten up my living room and provide some wisdom whenever I need a pick-me-up.
In each chapter if Simple Joys, you get a little glimpse into Candace's very relatable life. But it's not only that. She gives little snippets of advice for prospecting joy and questions to ponder all along the way. I both cried and laughed out loud in the first chapter.
One of the insights from the book that really stood out to me was the fact that you need to share when you're in the storm. Invite others in and look for the simple joys in the people who love you. Your joy-filled life depends on how you respond to storms.
Some other fun ones are to not take yourself too seriously, and that joy is valuable but use it or lose it!
In each chapter if Simple Joys, you get a little glimpse into Candace's very relatable life. But it's not only that. She gives little snippets of advice for prospecting joy and questions to ponder all along the way. I both cried and laughed out loud in the first chapter.
One of the insights from the book that really stood out to me was the fact that you need to share when you're in the storm. Invite others in and look for the simple joys in the people who love you. Your joy-filled life depends on how you respond to storms.
Some other fun ones are to not take yourself too seriously, and that joy is valuable but use it or lose it!
August 28, 2023
Was gonna rate it lower until I thought about the whole point of the book…
There was nothing too special or too profound about the concept or truths shared, but as I think back to the experience of reading this book, I felt true joy in the simplicity of this book.
A fun and simple read. And that’s the whole point!
I spaced out reading this book over a few months, reading a chapter at a time! I enjoyed the stories and prose and the moments of being reminded to pause and notice the simple joys in life, literally discovering the awe in every day, and noticed how my days became more joyful and exciting even in amidst the tiredness and challenges. So thanks Candace! And for my friend, who gifted me this book ♥️
There was nothing too special or too profound about the concept or truths shared, but as I think back to the experience of reading this book, I felt true joy in the simplicity of this book.
A fun and simple read. And that’s the whole point!
I spaced out reading this book over a few months, reading a chapter at a time! I enjoyed the stories and prose and the moments of being reminded to pause and notice the simple joys in life, literally discovering the awe in every day, and noticed how my days became more joyful and exciting even in amidst the tiredness and challenges. So thanks Candace! And for my friend, who gifted me this book ♥️
March 18, 2020
I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I picked up “Simple Joys” by Candace Payne. I knew that she was the “Chewbacca Mom” & that she has a podcast with Jenny Randle, but that’s about all I knew about her.
It’s kind of a weird book, but I like how the end of each chapter has a prompt that has to do with the chapter with space to write it out. I also love the artwork throughout it! Very fun!
It’s only 8 short chapters. So, it’s a quick read. I feel like it’s more like a coffee table book, but the stories did bring me joy. It makes you rethink your mindset about the unexpected things in life.
It’s kind of a weird book, but I like how the end of each chapter has a prompt that has to do with the chapter with space to write it out. I also love the artwork throughout it! Very fun!
It’s only 8 short chapters. So, it’s a quick read. I feel like it’s more like a coffee table book, but the stories did bring me joy. It makes you rethink your mindset about the unexpected things in life.
October 16, 2018
Candace Payne touches on so many aspects of life with candid thoughts and shares ways she chose joy through each story she shared. She was able to tap into so many emotions that I have felt and captured joy moments in a relatable and thoughtful way. I loved the way she shared her heart, her wonderful artwork, and most especially, all the many applicable truths in scripture. You will laugh, nod your head in agreement and take away ways to prospect for joy in each and every circumstance. I highly recommend you read it!
November 23, 2018
Many people know Payne as "Chewbacca Mom," from the viral video. In her latest release, she infuses some of the joy found in that video in hopes of reminding the reader that we all struggle with being joyful (versus being discouraged or overwhelmed), but it is possible.
Overall, the book is a quick read that's easy to digest. The small size makes it extremely portable, and I really enjoyed the colorful illustrations throughout. The chapters are short and full of relatable stories and experiences.
You can read the full review on my blog: https://lmckeeediting.blogspot.com/20...
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy at part of the BookLook Bloggers program, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Overall, the book is a quick read that's easy to digest. The small size makes it extremely portable, and I really enjoyed the colorful illustrations throughout. The chapters are short and full of relatable stories and experiences.
You can read the full review on my blog: https://lmckeeediting.blogspot.com/20...
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy at part of the BookLook Bloggers program, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
July 27, 2019
This one was not my cup of tea. I was disappointed by this book. Probably the written book works better than the audio version. In the audio she tries so hard, she’s loud and not funny, nor joyful. I was expecting something else I guess, the way her voice calls for forced attention was just dissonant with the rest I guess. The stories are quite trite to me and I had s hard time listening to it. I got to the end hoping for a redeeming chapter but I have to give it a two star which is painful for me. Maybe because this lady is a total stranger to me but she seems to be quite a celebrity to some of the reviewers.
April 26, 2021
What a wonderful book and I love her message of just be you and live life. I also liked her style of writing and that she keeps her stories short so they don't get lost in the words, you can just feel the moments. Candace Payne is known for her record breaking Facebook live video, she put on a Chewbacca Mask and laughed. I love that video and her laugh. You can't help but smile. This book has been added to my favorites.
September 29, 2018
Thank you!
Just what I needed after the one year mark of the death of the only parent I really knew. Your life stories brought back my own, and your wisdom to keep the good, get rid of the bad, and make every proverbial penny count. From a fellow Southerner/Texan, thank y'all!
Just what I needed after the one year mark of the death of the only parent I really knew. Your life stories brought back my own, and your wisdom to keep the good, get rid of the bad, and make every proverbial penny count. From a fellow Southerner/Texan, thank y'all!
December 22, 2018
Good, heartfelt, funny, easy read.
I loved reading Simple Joys & will be reading it again. I will also be sharing it with others. It is extra special to know she's a fellow Arkansan...WPS!
I loved reading Simple Joys & will be reading it again. I will also be sharing it with others. It is extra special to know she's a fellow Arkansan...WPS!
August 21, 2020
laugh laugh laugh
enjoy the day
p. 98 "The storm may be outside but it doesn't have to be inside of you"
p. 100 "YOU CAN FIND SIMPLE JOYS IN UNEXPECTED INTERRUPTIONS THAT OFTEN LOOK LIKE DISTRACTIONS"
enjoy the day
p. 98 "The storm may be outside but it doesn't have to be inside of you"
p. 100 "YOU CAN FIND SIMPLE JOYS IN UNEXPECTED INTERRUPTIONS THAT OFTEN LOOK LIKE DISTRACTIONS"
June 20, 2021
I enjoyed certain parts of this and didn't enjoy other parts. Some of the chapters were long and I didn't feel like they fit the theme whereas others were spot on. I loved the artwork Bible verses though. They were pretty and uplifting.
October 1, 2018
The author is authentic, funny, and someone I’d love to share a belly laugh with. My only complaint was that I would have liked the book to be longer. 😊
October 9, 2018
While it wasn't the book I was necessarily expecting, I really liked it and I like how she writes. You will learn a lot about her. Read my full review here: http://bit.ly/2ys2yhP
February 5, 2019
Such a fun read! Lots of great stories that are so funny.... and encouragement to find the simple joy in your own everyday life!
April 15, 2019
I laughed out loud several times as I read this book. The artwork on the pages is also quite joyful.
July 9, 2019
I love Candace Payne's deep abiding faith that shows through and supports the joy she finds in life. This book shows that there is joy all around us - we only need to look for it!
August 8, 2019
Not what I thought
I went in thinking it was going to help find joy, but it was mostly stories. They were great stories, but I don't feel like I gained a lot by reading this book.
I went in thinking it was going to help find joy, but it was mostly stories. They were great stories, but I don't feel like I gained a lot by reading this book.
November 6, 2019
Was a nice read- very short with no true originality to it. Reminded me a lot of Rachel Hollis' Girl Wash Your Face books.
January 11, 2020
Fast read. Great reminder to find joy in every day life.
March 28, 2020
Love this book about finding joy in life. So timely for these strange days we’re in right now.
January 12, 2021
A great book to gift to someone or to enjoy yourself. The author provides short, entertaining stories to engage the readers in learning how everyday living can produce long-lasting joy.
I enjoyed the book. I love her stories and how she made the connections to joy.
I enjoyed the book. I love her stories and how she made the connections to joy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews