Bring The Joy

by Jessica Janzen

In Bring the Joy, Jessica Janzen shares her experience in following those nudges of her heart to find true and lasting joy. From the bliss of her dramatic, romantic saga with her now husband, to the trials and triumph of her career journey as a young women, to the devastating loss of her son when he was only six months old, Jessica's commitment to follow the nudges of her heart have seen her through every season. Through her hilarious, inspiring stories and refreshing honesty, Jessica will challenge you start looking for ways to brings more joy to your life and the lives of those around you. Life lived to the fullest can only happen when you bring the joy.

Genres: Personal Development, Nonfiction

203 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 26, 2020

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 1 out of 5]

Followed Jess forever and truly thought I’d enjoy the book but I didn’t. The pieces about losing her son were horribly gut wrenching to read and I wish were the only focus of the book. However. Reading this book I couldn’t help but notice the amount of toxic positivity that isn’t realistic unless you live a very privileged life like Jess. There is a lack of understanding that her social positioning and relationships with “powerful people in Calgary” have propelled her to where she is. I won’t say she didn’t work hard but the book didn’t acknowledge the resources, lack of obstacles and oppression and luck to do so. I had to unfollow on all platforms after reading this book.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I may be biased because this book is written be a fellow rad Calgarian, and I know of her and her story because she and my sister were friends. However, even with my "book critic" hat on, this is a really heartwarming and special memoir. I wasn't convinced at first... the first few chapters read like a teen romance novel (but they are still fun to read). But Jessica's story about her son Lewiston and his fight with SMA, and growing and working on her marriage - these are the true gems of this book!

The style of writing and layout of the book is written in very much the same vein as Rachel Hollis's "Girl Wash Your Face", but Jessica's story is completely her own. Jessica's writing is fresh and cheery and relatable (which makes her books a breeze to read). However, that didn't stop me from crying while I read the chapters about Lewiston in the hospital. This would be a wonderful book to read for someone who is struggling with the pain of losing a loved one, because I think it could be really healing on how to deal and work through grief. But even if you (like me) are living a pretty cushy and coasty life - it's still a great read that lights a fire under your butt to get moving, follow your dreams (or nudges) and live life to the fullest.

[Lucynelsonloveslife · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book but just didn’t. A few chapters were heart breaking and I felt connected to the author at those points but most of it came across as surface, immature and poorly written. I just did not relate to her personality. There were several editing misses making some of it awkward to read. It seems harsh to review it this way but I feel like her story should’ve been kept to her experiences with her child. The rest seemed fluffy and privileged.

[Kendahl Cowan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’ve never felt compelled to review a book until now. It’s just not a good book and was so hard to read. The author gives off mean girl vibes, a lot of subtle “better than” type language and a level of toxic positivity I have never seen in a non-fiction book. It read a lot like the author is trying to convince other people things are ok, or sell people on unrealistic perspectives. A really icky, uncomfortable feeling reading this book.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I met Jessica in person at a conference. This book carries her authentic voice. If you enjoyed this book, spending time in her presence is 10 X better! I knew a lot about her story from her speaking session but enjoyed the book nonetheless.

[Lisa-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the book. The one chapter about fighting for your marriage was difficult because I’m in a hard season. And it seems every book someone talks about marriage they always make it work. Makes me feel like I need to write a book about giving it your all and it doesn’t work and how you survive and keep going. Sorry I digress. I kept listening and I’m glad I did. Jessica’s energy is infectious and we can find joy in the most difficult situations. Dig deep, God is fighting your battles and seek the joy!

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book though! I laughed, I cried, and in the end wanted to revamp my entire life to run towards the roar. Jessica has written a brilliant book that kept me flipping pages until I was done. Read this baby in 2 days.
I cannot thank her enough for sharing her story, being real and raw, for inspiring all of us to be a warrior and live our days to the fullest.
I have told the world about this book it is a must read for everyone.

[Leslie-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of real life happenings. Jessica shares her story about love, loss, immense grief and bringing the joy back into her life. Her vulnerability is written out on each page. Read this book....oh and make sure to have a box of tissues!

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would have loved for the book to have started on Chapter 13. Jessica Janzen is honest and vulnerable in her writing, but the real power of her strength does not enter into the equation until Lewiston is born. Overall it is a good read and a tremendous, heartfelt true story.

[Michele Wedemire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good book! Jessica writes from such an amazing place of honesty and authenticity. While her story is truly heartbreaking it is so beautiful how she and her family have found the Joy in their journey. This is a must read for everyone!! 💕

[Chelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to this on audible. It was good for the most part. I strive to be more positive, but she is on some whole new level of positivity that I think very few people will ever achieve. Her positivity almost drove me a little crazy at times 😬

[Christine Polasek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! As a bereaved mother, this book moved me to my core. I can resonate with many pieces within this story. I appreciate Jess’ honesty as she speaks her truth and shares her story. A must read book for anyone in a dark place, living through grief and trauma.

[Brittney · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the heart!

[Jody Carrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing. From start to finish. In the middle of a global pandemic, this is the read to lift your spirits and revive your soul. xo

[Jessica Janzen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s funny, it’s raw and honest. From joy to grief and everything in between if you are navigating loss this book is a must read.

[Rita Pearsall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica has a lot of wisdom to share. I am much older than she and I gained many good insights. Her ideas and encouragement can be applied in many life situations, even if one hasn’t lost a child.

[Melissa Krause · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book! Thank you Jessica for writing this inspiring memoir 💜

[Sherry Lee Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

So vulnerable, open and honest. Loved this book so much

[Bailey Hewlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This woman is so so inspiring. Her book and story made me cry my eyes out, but also brought a smile.

[Kendra · Rating 2 out of 5]

blah blah blah gods will blah blah blah gods plan.

it had some good takeawys in the chapter summaries, I just yah... I'm not the chosen Christian audience its intended for

[Edna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like I have a new friend. Jessica is funny, forceful but real! You will read some realities in this book that no one else will tell you. She combines otherwise offensive language with her faith story, but it may give her an "in" with many who can relate to the hard punches life throws you. I laughed, I cried, I disagreed, I felt inspired to listen to the nudges. Thanks for the ride, Jessica!

[Shelby Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish that I could give this book 10 stars. This is a wonderful book is every way. Jessica’s story is so inspiring and she has motivated me to keep following my nudges and believing that God has a plan. I would recommend this book to all my girlfriends! I’m so glad she followed though and wrote this book after years of working on it. Thank you Jessica!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly - one of the best books I have read recently. Honest, raw and truthful ... Jessica is wise beyond her years and her words have literally changed my perspective. I had originally borrowed this book from a friend but quickly went out and purchased it, as I can't wait to go back and re-read it and highlight all the lightbulb moments.

[Jennifer Kraus bach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome. Heart felt. Easy to read and relate! Very motivating!!

[Meg Rivers · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked that she didn’t shy away from real life, not only the good stuff, but the very real and hard parts of her life too.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have your tissues ready, but also be prepared to smile. Jessica has a knack for realistic and colorful storytelling. Definitely feeling the nudges from this book!