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Class Mom #2
You've Been Volunteered
If you’ve ever been a room parent or school volunteer, Jen Dixon is your hero. She says what every class mom is really thinking, whether in her notoriously frank emails or standup-worthy interactions with the micromanaging PTA President and the gamut of difficult parents. Luckily, she has the charm and wit to get away with it—most of the time. Jen is sassier than ever but dealing with a whole new set of challenges, in the world of parental politics and at home.
She’s been roped into room-parenting yet again, for her son Max’s third grade class, but as her husband buries himself in work, her older daughters navigate adulthood, and Jen’s own aging parents start to need some parenting themselves, Jen gets pulled in more directions than any one mom, or superhero, can handle.
Refreshingly down-to-earth and brimming with warmth, Dixon’s next chapter will keep you turning the pages to find out what’s really going on under the veneer of polite parent interactions, and have you laughing along with her the whole way.
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First published July 23, 2019
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About the author
Laurie Gelman
5 books1,385 followersLaurie Gelman was born and raised in the Great White North. She spent twenty-five years as a broadcaster in both Canada and the United States before trying her hand at writing novels. Laurie lives in New York City with her husband, Michael Gelman, and two teenage daughters. Class Mom is her first book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,591 reviews
July 26, 2019
Okay, friends. This book is too much fun! I had some big ‘ole belly laughs, which I needed. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Jen Dixon is the main character here. She’s a class mom, and this is the follow-up to the first book, aptly named Class Mom. If you’ve ever been a school volunteer, or worked in a school period, you’ll appreciate Jen’s frankness. She doesn’t hold back in her emails to the annoying PTA president and with other parents either.
This time she’s room mom for Max’s third grade class. But now Jen has more on her plate, including aging parents, adult daughters finding their way, and a sometimes neglectful husband.
Jen says what we all may have thought at one point or another, so her voice is innately refreshing and bold. It’s also distinctly relatable, as are Jen’s difficulties trying to manage it all at home and balance her volunteering.
Overall, You’ve Been Volunteered is an entertaining story, one that I’m sure will make you belly laugh, too, and it will also feel like a warm hug from someone who understands. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Jen Dixon is the main character here. She’s a class mom, and this is the follow-up to the first book, aptly named Class Mom. If you’ve ever been a school volunteer, or worked in a school period, you’ll appreciate Jen’s frankness. She doesn’t hold back in her emails to the annoying PTA president and with other parents either.
This time she’s room mom for Max’s third grade class. But now Jen has more on her plate, including aging parents, adult daughters finding their way, and a sometimes neglectful husband.
Jen says what we all may have thought at one point or another, so her voice is innately refreshing and bold. It’s also distinctly relatable, as are Jen’s difficulties trying to manage it all at home and balance her volunteering.
Overall, You’ve Been Volunteered is an entertaining story, one that I’m sure will make you belly laugh, too, and it will also feel like a warm hug from someone who understands. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
August 11, 2019
Laurie Gelman has spun a whimsical tail full of humor and fun. This is the follow-up to “Class Mom”. I did not read the first book and I don’t feel as though that impacted my enjoyment of the story, however he better bet I’m going to try to squeeze the first book in as soon as I can! Jen Dixon was such a marvelous character. So snarky, so sassy, someone you’d love to be friends with. Her outlook was so real and so refreshing! The emails she sent to the class parents were priceless, especially the one from Las Vegas! What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, that is unless you email the entire class about it!
Jen has not only been roped into being class mom this year, but she is also in charge of the safety patrol (a job nobody wants). Third grade son Max is becoming a little more opinionated, a little more mouthy. Her daughters are now in their 20s, that fun age when they think they are adults, until they aren’t. Her husband Ron is consumed with his business and starting a chain of yoga studios. Her parents are getting older and her mother has just won her fight with cancer. Jen certainly has a lot on her plate, but she handles it all with grace and a sense of humor (OK not all that much grace, but a lot of humor). I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I spend with Jen and her antics and I am keeping my fingers crossed that there is a follow-up to this follow-up!
*** A big thanks to Henry Holt for my copy of this book ***
Jen has not only been roped into being class mom this year, but she is also in charge of the safety patrol (a job nobody wants). Third grade son Max is becoming a little more opinionated, a little more mouthy. Her daughters are now in their 20s, that fun age when they think they are adults, until they aren’t. Her husband Ron is consumed with his business and starting a chain of yoga studios. Her parents are getting older and her mother has just won her fight with cancer. Jen certainly has a lot on her plate, but she handles it all with grace and a sense of humor (OK not all that much grace, but a lot of humor). I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I spend with Jen and her antics and I am keeping my fingers crossed that there is a follow-up to this follow-up!
*** A big thanks to Henry Holt for my copy of this book ***
May 24, 2020
Dear Laurie Gelman,
Thank you so, so much for writing this book. Without it, I'm not sure how I would have gotten through my stay at the hospital. It kept me laughing, giggling and nearly peeing my pants. It lifted my spirits. It was honest, funny and heartbreaking. I have never read a book like it. I look forward to your next novel.
Best,
Tucker A.
| Goodreads | Blog | Pinterest | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
Thank you so, so much for writing this book. Without it, I'm not sure how I would have gotten through my stay at the hospital. It kept me laughing, giggling and nearly peeing my pants. It lifted my spirits. It was honest, funny and heartbreaking. I have never read a book like it. I look forward to your next novel.
Best,
Tucker A.
| Goodreads | Blog | Pinterest | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
September 2, 2019
3.5 stars.
Jen Dixon from Gelman’s first book, Class Mom , returns for another year as class mom, this time for her son’s third-grade class.
With Jen as class mom you may not get satisfying answers to all of your questions, and you may get smart-ass replies, but you know her heart is (mostly) in it. And although the PTA president doesn’t always agree with Jen’s communication style, she knows she can count on Jen to do what must be done—even handle the safety patrol.
When she’s not sending out snarky reminders about permission slips, seeking volunteers for class trips, or haranguing parents about what they need to bring for parties, she’s got more than enough to deal with in her own family. Whether it’s dealing with her son’s suddenly snarky behavior, having to navigate her husband’s increased financial anxiety, or figuring out what’s going on with her two older daughters, Jen’s in-your-face style will get her through—or she’ll fall on her sword.
This was an enjoyable, amusing book. I chuckled more than laughed out loud, and again, I wondered whether Jen’s behavior would actually fly at a real school. Regardless, Gelman writes in an easy, approachable style, one which engaged me from start to finish.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2018 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2018.html.
You can follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Jen Dixon from Gelman’s first book, Class Mom , returns for another year as class mom, this time for her son’s third-grade class.
With Jen as class mom you may not get satisfying answers to all of your questions, and you may get smart-ass replies, but you know her heart is (mostly) in it. And although the PTA president doesn’t always agree with Jen’s communication style, she knows she can count on Jen to do what must be done—even handle the safety patrol.
When she’s not sending out snarky reminders about permission slips, seeking volunteers for class trips, or haranguing parents about what they need to bring for parties, she’s got more than enough to deal with in her own family. Whether it’s dealing with her son’s suddenly snarky behavior, having to navigate her husband’s increased financial anxiety, or figuring out what’s going on with her two older daughters, Jen’s in-your-face style will get her through—or she’ll fall on her sword.
This was an enjoyable, amusing book. I chuckled more than laughed out loud, and again, I wondered whether Jen’s behavior would actually fly at a real school. Regardless, Gelman writes in an easy, approachable style, one which engaged me from start to finish.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2018 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2018.html.
You can follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
August 28, 2019
Jen Dixon is the class mom for her son’s third-grade class. It's a thankless job and she is always short on help. To enlist others, she entertains the parents with emails loaded with sarcasm and snark that makes it hard for them to resist. At the same time, Jen finds herself enlisted by the new PTA president to manage the safety patrol during the morning and afternoons. Jen is now faced with the training of additional parents and ensuring that they don’t shirk their responsibilities to their untrained spouses or nannies.
At home, Jen is contending with a budget crisis. Her husband is expanding his sporting good store and has her clipping coupons and decreasing her gourmet coffee consumption. While this is going on, she also needs to address a personal issue. She is perplexed about one of her daughters who continually ignores her text messages and phone calls.
You’ve Been Volunteered by Laurie Gelman was a fun book to read and is the sequel to Class Mom. If you have ever been an elementary school parent, you will love how the author exposes the petty gossip that is generated by the parents and teachers alike. Having been a classroom volunteer and PTA president, this story hit home and was a joy to read.
At home, Jen is contending with a budget crisis. Her husband is expanding his sporting good store and has her clipping coupons and decreasing her gourmet coffee consumption. While this is going on, she also needs to address a personal issue. She is perplexed about one of her daughters who continually ignores her text messages and phone calls.
You’ve Been Volunteered by Laurie Gelman was a fun book to read and is the sequel to Class Mom. If you have ever been an elementary school parent, you will love how the author exposes the petty gossip that is generated by the parents and teachers alike. Having been a classroom volunteer and PTA president, this story hit home and was a joy to read.
February 2, 2019
4.5 Stars
Jen Dixon is back!!! I loved "Class Mom" so you can imagine how excited I was to get an advanced copy of "You've Been Volunteered", sequel to the first book. Thank you NetGalley, Laurie Gelman, and Henry Holt & Company for the opportunity to be one of the first ones to read and review this awesome book!
And once again Laurie Gelman does not disappoint...I was belly laughing while reading about Jen Dixon's new adventures in being Class Mom! As I was reading the novel I kept thinking that I wish all class mom's were so much fun...I wanted to be Jen's best friend! The writing style and the witty humor in both books reminds me a lot of Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovitch. Both author are great story tellers with an excellent sense of humor. So if you are in a need of a light, funny, quirky, and sassy book, ready "Class Mom" and " You've Been Volunteered" and you wont' be disappointed! Now, I am waiting for the third book in the series....I mean there has to be another one, right?
Jen Dixon is back!!! I loved "Class Mom" so you can imagine how excited I was to get an advanced copy of "You've Been Volunteered", sequel to the first book. Thank you NetGalley, Laurie Gelman, and Henry Holt & Company for the opportunity to be one of the first ones to read and review this awesome book!
And once again Laurie Gelman does not disappoint...I was belly laughing while reading about Jen Dixon's new adventures in being Class Mom! As I was reading the novel I kept thinking that I wish all class mom's were so much fun...I wanted to be Jen's best friend! The writing style and the witty humor in both books reminds me a lot of Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovitch. Both author are great story tellers with an excellent sense of humor. So if you are in a need of a light, funny, quirky, and sassy book, ready "Class Mom" and " You've Been Volunteered" and you wont' be disappointed! Now, I am waiting for the third book in the series....I mean there has to be another one, right?
July 23, 2019
In the latest book, Jen Dixon our snarky entertaining hero from Class Mom reluctantly becomes the room parent for her son Max's third grade class. Although many of the parents/children have returned, Gelman introduces us to even more new quirky parents.
With her best friend having moved away, Jen must also deal with a new PTA President she can't quite figure out as well as reluctantly volunteering as the new safety guard coordinator.
Meanwhile back at the home...Jen is dealing with a mouthy Max, a husband who is never home anymore, a mother who has just finished Chemo for breast cancer and a daughter who is...following a band around Europe...sound familiar?
Gelman knows just how to deal with serious issues with a light hearted spin never detracting from the importance of the subject.
And spin she does...when a new couple they meet takes them on one heck of a ride!
You can't help but love Jen Dixon! My hope is there will be a sequel to the sequel and Max will never grow up!
Laurie Gelman has another winner with You've Been Volunteered.
Thank you #NetGalley #HenryHoltandCo #LaurieGelman #You'veBeenVolunteered for the advanced copy. You've Been Volunteered is out today.
With her best friend having moved away, Jen must also deal with a new PTA President she can't quite figure out as well as reluctantly volunteering as the new safety guard coordinator.
Meanwhile back at the home...Jen is dealing with a mouthy Max, a husband who is never home anymore, a mother who has just finished Chemo for breast cancer and a daughter who is...following a band around Europe...sound familiar?
Gelman knows just how to deal with serious issues with a light hearted spin never detracting from the importance of the subject.
And spin she does...when a new couple they meet takes them on one heck of a ride!
You can't help but love Jen Dixon! My hope is there will be a sequel to the sequel and Max will never grow up!
Laurie Gelman has another winner with You've Been Volunteered.
Thank you #NetGalley #HenryHoltandCo #LaurieGelman #You'veBeenVolunteered for the advanced copy. You've Been Volunteered is out today.
September 26, 2022
Another school year, another year of volunteering at school for Jen Dixon. Fortunately, she's just as sassy and witty as she was in Book 1. Her endless list of responsibilities, witty observations, and snarky comments made this story as funny as I'd expected 😁.
This is Book 2 in the series, and I do recommend reading Book 1 before this one. If you can, listen to the audiobook. It's read by the author, and it's terrific!
My thoughts on Book 1:
Class Mom
This is Book 2 in the series, and I do recommend reading Book 1 before this one. If you can, listen to the audiobook. It's read by the author, and it's terrific!
My thoughts on Book 1:
Class Mom
July 18, 2019
Release Date: July 23, 2019
Genre: Chick Lit
Actual Rating: 4 stars
While I was slightly disappointed that this book wasn't as funny as the first book in the series I did enjoy it quite a bit. You've Been Volunteered should be read after Class Mom . I say this because both books follow Jen Dixon, her family, and her classroom duties (that she may or may not dislike). However, this book CAN stand on it's own if you choose to do so. Both books are light, funny, and have their own story line. Also you wouldn't necessarily feel lost because everything you need to know about the characters happen within each book. So while I do suggest reading them in order it's not an absolute must. You can enjoy this on it's own.
You've Been Volunteered falls within the chick lit category (in my opinion). The story follows Jen Dixon as she navigates yet another year being a class mom in her son's classroom. Jen is a funny character there is no doubt about that. However, I felt like the heavier issues within this book (pregnancy, aging parents, money problems, etc.) took away from the humor. Jen still has a snarky attitude and she still gets herself into trouble with her witty emails, but she just wasn't as hilarious as she was in the first book. I really missed the humor if I am being honest!
That being said, this is still a great book and I look forward to many more books by Laurie in the future. I hope she continues to write about Jen and her family (it will be fun to see how she navigates Hawaii).
Genre: Chick Lit
Actual Rating: 4 stars
While I was slightly disappointed that this book wasn't as funny as the first book in the series I did enjoy it quite a bit. You've Been Volunteered should be read after Class Mom . I say this because both books follow Jen Dixon, her family, and her classroom duties (that she may or may not dislike). However, this book CAN stand on it's own if you choose to do so. Both books are light, funny, and have their own story line. Also you wouldn't necessarily feel lost because everything you need to know about the characters happen within each book. So while I do suggest reading them in order it's not an absolute must. You can enjoy this on it's own.
You've Been Volunteered falls within the chick lit category (in my opinion). The story follows Jen Dixon as she navigates yet another year being a class mom in her son's classroom. Jen is a funny character there is no doubt about that. However, I felt like the heavier issues within this book (pregnancy, aging parents, money problems, etc.) took away from the humor. Jen still has a snarky attitude and she still gets herself into trouble with her witty emails, but she just wasn't as hilarious as she was in the first book. I really missed the humor if I am being honest!
That being said, this is still a great book and I look forward to many more books by Laurie in the future. I hope she continues to write about Jen and her family (it will be fun to see how she navigates Hawaii).
July 17, 2019
To: My bookstagram peeps
From: Basic B’s Guide
Date:
Re: You’ve been Volunteered review
Greetings nerds,
Jen Dixon is back and as snarky as ever. With Max now in 3rd grade she’s roped into being class mom again and back at it with her sassy emails. She’s giving me great material for my current job as PTA treasurer 😉. Like her previous book, Class Mom, we have a cast of characters that feel all too familiar. Gelman even tackles some heavy topics while still keeping it light and breezy. While I didn’t completely fall in love with this follow-up I did enjoy it. It just wasn’t quite as fresh as Class Mom.
Relatable and Funny I give it 3.5 stars. Rounded up for Goodreads.
Xoxo
Your most basic PTA sucker
Ps response times will be noted
From: Basic B’s Guide
Date:
Re: You’ve been Volunteered review
Greetings nerds,
Jen Dixon is back and as snarky as ever. With Max now in 3rd grade she’s roped into being class mom again and back at it with her sassy emails. She’s giving me great material for my current job as PTA treasurer 😉. Like her previous book, Class Mom, we have a cast of characters that feel all too familiar. Gelman even tackles some heavy topics while still keeping it light and breezy. While I didn’t completely fall in love with this follow-up I did enjoy it. It just wasn’t quite as fresh as Class Mom.
Relatable and Funny I give it 3.5 stars. Rounded up for Goodreads.
Xoxo
Your most basic PTA sucker
Ps response times will be noted
February 1, 2019
3.5 stars
I was so pumped to start this after reading Class Mom, but in retrospect I should have waited a little bit. It is still the same funny book with snarky Jen, but it's not quite as fresh and funny as the first book. This one tackles a few heavier issues: cancer, unexpected pregnancy (not a spoiler because I'm not telling you who it is), aging parents, and it takes a bit of the edge off of the humor.
Just a bit though, and there are many hilarious incidents that I totally could relate to, or at least be very glad that it was Jen experiencing it and not me.
I'd love to read another book in this series, because I want to know what happens!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I was so pumped to start this after reading Class Mom, but in retrospect I should have waited a little bit. It is still the same funny book with snarky Jen, but it's not quite as fresh and funny as the first book. This one tackles a few heavier issues: cancer, unexpected pregnancy (not a spoiler because I'm not telling you who it is), aging parents, and it takes a bit of the edge off of the humor.
Just a bit though, and there are many hilarious incidents that I totally could relate to, or at least be very glad that it was Jen experiencing it and not me.
I'd love to read another book in this series, because I want to know what happens!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
August 25, 2019
Jen Dixon is BACK. And she is snarky as EVER!
The Class Mom and all her wit, sarcasm, and super sass returns in this hilarious sequel as we follow her in even more ridiculous situations both in and out of the classroom. She's now third grade Class Mom and has been roped into Safety Patrol duty, and the laughs continue with even more parental politics. We've got new moms, new teachers and if you thought her personal life was chaotic in the first book, you've got to see what the entire Dixon family is up to now.
Ron (her husband) is working all sorts of crazy hours, her aging parents are needing her more and more, and her adult daughters are trying to navigate the real world...and kind of failing. As Jen gets pulled in every direction you can imagine, you find yourself rooting for her to figure it all out. Can she get through everything, including her new roll as Class Mom and Safety Patroller - and still manage to stay sane and keep her endearing sense of humor?
I think I liked the sequel even more! Jen is definitely still as down-to-earth as ever but she definitely seems much more relatable and at times refreshing in You've Been Volunteered. I zipped though the pages just as quickly as the first book and I laughed just as hard. Jen is back, and I'm so glad she is!
The Class Mom and all her wit, sarcasm, and super sass returns in this hilarious sequel as we follow her in even more ridiculous situations both in and out of the classroom. She's now third grade Class Mom and has been roped into Safety Patrol duty, and the laughs continue with even more parental politics. We've got new moms, new teachers and if you thought her personal life was chaotic in the first book, you've got to see what the entire Dixon family is up to now.
Ron (her husband) is working all sorts of crazy hours, her aging parents are needing her more and more, and her adult daughters are trying to navigate the real world...and kind of failing. As Jen gets pulled in every direction you can imagine, you find yourself rooting for her to figure it all out. Can she get through everything, including her new roll as Class Mom and Safety Patroller - and still manage to stay sane and keep her endearing sense of humor?
I think I liked the sequel even more! Jen is definitely still as down-to-earth as ever but she definitely seems much more relatable and at times refreshing in You've Been Volunteered. I zipped though the pages just as quickly as the first book and I laughed just as hard. Jen is back, and I'm so glad she is!
July 23, 2019
I cannot tell you how excited I was to learn that Laurie Gelman, author of the absolutely hilarious book Class Mom was writing a sequel! If you have or had elementary aged children, you will most definitely relate to the funny situations and amusing characters which Gelman has introduced to the reader.
In the latest book, Jen Dixon our snarky entertaining hero from Class Mom reluctantly becomes the room parent for her son Max's third grade class. Although many of the parents/children have returned, Gelman introduces us to even more new quirky parents.
With her best friend having moved away, Jen must also deal with a new PTA President she can't quite figure out as well as reluctantly volunteering as the new safety guard coordinator.
Meanwhile back at the home...Jen is dealing with a mouthy Max, a husband who is never home anymore, a mother who has just finished Chemo for breast cancer and a daughter who is...following a band around Europe...sound familiar?
Gelman knows just how to deal with serious issues with a light hearted spin never detracting from the importance of the subject.
And spin she does...when a new couple they meet takes them on one heck of a ride!
You can't help but love Jen Dixon! My hope is there will be a sequel to the sequel and Max will never grow up!
Laurie Gelman has another winner with You've Been Volunteered.
Thank you #NetGalley #HenryHoltandCo #LaurieGelman #You'veBeenVolunteered for the advanced copy. You've Been Volunteered is out today.
In the latest book, Jen Dixon our snarky entertaining hero from Class Mom reluctantly becomes the room parent for her son Max's third grade class. Although many of the parents/children have returned, Gelman introduces us to even more new quirky parents.
With her best friend having moved away, Jen must also deal with a new PTA President she can't quite figure out as well as reluctantly volunteering as the new safety guard coordinator.
Meanwhile back at the home...Jen is dealing with a mouthy Max, a husband who is never home anymore, a mother who has just finished Chemo for breast cancer and a daughter who is...following a band around Europe...sound familiar?
Gelman knows just how to deal with serious issues with a light hearted spin never detracting from the importance of the subject.
And spin she does...when a new couple they meet takes them on one heck of a ride!
You can't help but love Jen Dixon! My hope is there will be a sequel to the sequel and Max will never grow up!
Laurie Gelman has another winner with You've Been Volunteered.
Thank you #NetGalley #HenryHoltandCo #LaurieGelman #You'veBeenVolunteered for the advanced copy. You've Been Volunteered is out today.
May 15, 2019
4 laugh out loud, wipe the tears, don’t wet your pants stars to You’ve Been Volunteered!
I enjoyed Laurie Gelmans first book, Class Mom. I am happy to report that there is no sophomore slump in book two! In fact, I think the author has found her stride and I enjoyed book two even more!
In this installment, Jen Dixon is back as class mom for her sons 3rd grade class. In addition to her role, Jen has been tasked as the head of the safety patrol volunteers. Shenanigans ensue and her class emails are back in action.
I LOVE the snark and witty writing that Laurie Gelman nails in these books. Because I was already invested in the characters I quite enjoyed reading the update on their lives. I highly recommend reading Class Mom before this. While it could work as a stand alone, I think the first book leads into You’ve Been Volunteered quite nicely. Thank you @henryholtbooks for this advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed Laurie Gelmans first book, Class Mom. I am happy to report that there is no sophomore slump in book two! In fact, I think the author has found her stride and I enjoyed book two even more!
In this installment, Jen Dixon is back as class mom for her sons 3rd grade class. In addition to her role, Jen has been tasked as the head of the safety patrol volunteers. Shenanigans ensue and her class emails are back in action.
I LOVE the snark and witty writing that Laurie Gelman nails in these books. Because I was already invested in the characters I quite enjoyed reading the update on their lives. I highly recommend reading Class Mom before this. While it could work as a stand alone, I think the first book leads into You’ve Been Volunteered quite nicely. Thank you @henryholtbooks for this advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2019
I seem to be in a reading slump lately. This was a sequel to “Class Mom” and it had absolutely nothing to distinguish it from the first book. What was original and humorous the first time around, was no longer original and not so humorous.
May 15, 2020
So after reading Classmom and loving it! I was pleased to get my hands on You’ve Been Volunteered...I definitely needed a light, fun, silly read in this current atmosphere. Well, once again Laurie Gelman had me in stitches! As a mom of Elementary school kids as well as 2 high schoolers (who are such a JOY...laying on the sarcasm thick HERE... 😑) I relate to this book SO MUCH! Here’s the thing.. I am NOT PTA President or even on the PTA (gasp!) I have been a classmom twice in my four kids entire lives. And I drew the line there. I have NO aspirations of being the over-zealous, micromanaging moms that Gelman writes about living in beautiful? Kansas City. BUT I see it every.single.day FIRSTHAND. Me and my husband just observe and laugh at what the world of elementary school volunteering has turned into....when did we get so obsessive compulsive about what goes on at their respective schools? When I was growing up in the 80’s & 90’s..my mom WAS on PTA and you know what? I rarely saw her at school. She also was a classmom and we only saw her there for parties....gone are the good ol days of releasing our kids to fly by themselves and just sit on the sidelines and watch.... Anyways....here’s to letting our kids fly....and learning from their own mistakes...without a parent right behind them to pick them up....
4-stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S I realize I went on somewhat of a “rant” in this review...I don’t judge ANYONE and the way they parent. You do YOU. These are just my thoughts 💭 Carry on....
4-stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S I realize I went on somewhat of a “rant” in this review...I don’t judge ANYONE and the way they parent. You do YOU. These are just my thoughts 💭 Carry on....
July 12, 2020
As a mom in the suburbs where this book is set, I find probably more humor and connection than I would than with another book in a similar setting. She missed a couple of points, but since she asked for no fan mail. I guess I will let it go.
It was nice to have back Jen and her cast of characters back. It follows up nicely to the first book in the series and leaves you eager for third.
I was that I was in a class with her, but since I’m usually eager to be a class mom they would make sure that I’m not usually with her. Elementary staff no how to place students to spread their volunteers around.
If you need a light, easy read that will prepare you for
Back to school (hey, we can hope. Right?) then read this today.
It was nice to have back Jen and her cast of characters back. It follows up nicely to the first book in the series and leaves you eager for third.
I was that I was in a class with her, but since I’m usually eager to be a class mom they would make sure that I’m not usually with her. Elementary staff no how to place students to spread their volunteers around.
If you need a light, easy read that will prepare you for
Back to school (hey, we can hope. Right?) then read this today.
August 21, 2019
LG-you make me wanna be a class mom (minus the tasteless and questionable book 1 shenanigans 🤔🥵😫 )... love this series and crossing my fingers for a third!!!
September 3, 2019
I contributed this review to Really Into This
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Special thanks to Laurie Gelman, Over The River PR & Henry Holt Books for providing our free copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
We are thrilled to be on the blog tour for You’ve Been Volunteered by Laurie Gelman! School is back in session & Jen Dixon is ready to man her post. Parents, get ready for snark, brutal honesty & load of e-mails about this upcoming school year. In addition to Class Mom, Jen is handling crossing guard duties as well. Throw in health issues with her parents, big business decisions with her husband’s store & two adult daughters, her hands are full! Buckle up & get ready to check your inbox because You’ve Been Volunteered.
LAUGHS, HEART & PTA E-MAILS
While You’ve Been Volunteered is technically book two in the Class Mom series, it can be a stand-alone. But seriously, just read Class Mom. Both books are on the shorter side (under 300 pages) & so enjoyable. Both books are honest & relatable for any parent of school-age children.
Whereas Class Mom is fun & zany, You’ve Been Volunteered pulls a bit more on the heartstrings. Jen is in the thick of it this year. She’s not only dealing with demanding school parents & a myriad of volunteer duties, but she’s shouldering a lot more on the home front. Laurie Gelman shines here as she gives Jen a bit more depth.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! Read this if you’re in the mood for a few laughs & a fun cast of characters. This is a clever, quick read that is sure to make you chuckle.
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Special thanks to Laurie Gelman, Over The River PR & Henry Holt Books for providing our free copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
We are thrilled to be on the blog tour for You’ve Been Volunteered by Laurie Gelman! School is back in session & Jen Dixon is ready to man her post. Parents, get ready for snark, brutal honesty & load of e-mails about this upcoming school year. In addition to Class Mom, Jen is handling crossing guard duties as well. Throw in health issues with her parents, big business decisions with her husband’s store & two adult daughters, her hands are full! Buckle up & get ready to check your inbox because You’ve Been Volunteered.
LAUGHS, HEART & PTA E-MAILS
While You’ve Been Volunteered is technically book two in the Class Mom series, it can be a stand-alone. But seriously, just read Class Mom. Both books are on the shorter side (under 300 pages) & so enjoyable. Both books are honest & relatable for any parent of school-age children.
Whereas Class Mom is fun & zany, You’ve Been Volunteered pulls a bit more on the heartstrings. Jen is in the thick of it this year. She’s not only dealing with demanding school parents & a myriad of volunteer duties, but she’s shouldering a lot more on the home front. Laurie Gelman shines here as she gives Jen a bit more depth.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! Read this if you’re in the mood for a few laughs & a fun cast of characters. This is a clever, quick read that is sure to make you chuckle.
July 23, 2019
It’s like Laurie Gelman is in my head. I’ve been Class Mom. I’ve been voluntold to do something. I’ve written ALL the emails. The wit and sass that go into Jen’s…it could be me. IF I wrote everything I wanted to write. Remove my filter and I am Jen Dixon. And I love every bit of it. I even read a few emails from the book to my husband and he agreed. What can I say?
For every parent that has been class mom, knows a class mom, or has been suckered into something, this one’s for you. You will understand and laugh at Jen’s attitude in the books, her sassy emails to the parents, and of course, the responses back. In the middle of all that, you’ll see Jen’s relationship with her kids, her husband and you’ll learn that you really don’t know someone else’s struggles. And still end up laughing.
You’ve Been Volunteered is a Class Mom novel, but you don’t have to read Class Mom first. It would technically help you understand certain attitudes, relationships, and some of the things Gelman mentions in the story, but hey, if you don’t want to put in the work, you’ll get by. She provides a tiny review for the new (slacker?) reader.
Pick up this one and enjoy. You will not regret it.
I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
For every parent that has been class mom, knows a class mom, or has been suckered into something, this one’s for you. You will understand and laugh at Jen’s attitude in the books, her sassy emails to the parents, and of course, the responses back. In the middle of all that, you’ll see Jen’s relationship with her kids, her husband and you’ll learn that you really don’t know someone else’s struggles. And still end up laughing.
You’ve Been Volunteered is a Class Mom novel, but you don’t have to read Class Mom first. It would technically help you understand certain attitudes, relationships, and some of the things Gelman mentions in the story, but hey, if you don’t want to put in the work, you’ll get by. She provides a tiny review for the new (slacker?) reader.
Pick up this one and enjoy. You will not regret it.
I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
February 22, 2019
OMG I loved this book. I devoured Class Mom in a matter of hours, and this book fell into the same easy pattern. I love that Laurie Gelman was able to pick up Jen's character like she hadn't missed a beat. I felt like I was still flipping through Class Mom. Sequels are hard to read sometimes, because the main character that you love isn't always the same. Carrying a character's voice into a second, or third, book is a challenge, but Laurie did a remarkable job.
This book has just as many LOL moments. As a fifth grade teacher that deals with "class moms" I found so many of Jen's comments toward the other parents hysterical and very "on point" with how things are in the real world.
I also enjoyed Jen's mom's story line in this book. I think the cancer angle really helped show Jen's growth as a character, and it made the book that much more enjoyable.
This is not one to be missed by any class moms, teachers, or humans in general. Thank you to Henry Holt & Company for the advance copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
This book has just as many LOL moments. As a fifth grade teacher that deals with "class moms" I found so many of Jen's comments toward the other parents hysterical and very "on point" with how things are in the real world.
I also enjoyed Jen's mom's story line in this book. I think the cancer angle really helped show Jen's growth as a character, and it made the book that much more enjoyable.
This is not one to be missed by any class moms, teachers, or humans in general. Thank you to Henry Holt & Company for the advance copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
October 30, 2019
HEAR YE, HEAR YE! STARTING TODAY AND HENCEFORTH FOREVERMORE I DECLARE THAT ANY MODERN BOOK THAT TELLS A SMART GIRL TO ACT DUMB SHALL AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE A 1-STAR REVIEW.
“Remind her to dumb it down and pretend she’s an idiot... Nobody likes a smarty-pants.” (32)
“Remind her to dumb it down and pretend she’s an idiot... Nobody likes a smarty-pants.” (32)
March 21, 2023
I devoured this book over the weekend. I absolutely love the authors sense of humor. This book and also the first in the series, class mom, will keep you in the stitches! This is the continuing saga of a 47-year-old mother of an elementary student, who spends her time as class mom. If you need a light hearted, laugh out, loud book, give Laurie Gelman a try. I promise you won’t be able to read it without laughing out loud.
January 31, 2019
I have had a wonderful few weeks of reading some terrific books. I processed, I cried, I reflected....then I read “You’ve Been Volunteered” and I laughed. I enjoyed “Class Mom” so I eagerly read this follow-up. It did not disappoint.
Alas, poor Jen is back as class mother and coordinator of the crossing guard program. Every step of this third grade journey is witty and funny. Jen is beset by problems, all met with incredible good spirit. With 2 problematic older daughters, parents with health problems and third grader Max, her life is very full. Her letters as class parent are absolutely funny. The other parents range from potential best friends to particularly awful.
Having taught for many years, I love the way Gelman captured every archetype that I dealt with. Oh, some of them hit mighty close to home. From the super-allergic kid to the troublemaker whose foibles his mother refuses to recognize, I’ve been there.
I’d love the chance to swap stories with Laurie or Jen. Simply a delightful read! I have one caveat, read CLASS MOM. first. I actually have it on my recommended reading list for student teachers. I hope they all learn to cope with parents in the same good humored way that Jen does.
Thank you Laurie Gelman and Netgalley for letting me stay warm and cuddle up with this charming novel!
Alas, poor Jen is back as class mother and coordinator of the crossing guard program. Every step of this third grade journey is witty and funny. Jen is beset by problems, all met with incredible good spirit. With 2 problematic older daughters, parents with health problems and third grader Max, her life is very full. Her letters as class parent are absolutely funny. The other parents range from potential best friends to particularly awful.
Having taught for many years, I love the way Gelman captured every archetype that I dealt with. Oh, some of them hit mighty close to home. From the super-allergic kid to the troublemaker whose foibles his mother refuses to recognize, I’ve been there.
I’d love the chance to swap stories with Laurie or Jen. Simply a delightful read! I have one caveat, read CLASS MOM. first. I actually have it on my recommended reading list for student teachers. I hope they all learn to cope with parents in the same good humored way that Jen does.
Thank you Laurie Gelman and Netgalley for letting me stay warm and cuddle up with this charming novel!
February 6, 2019
I love Laurie Gelman's first book Class Mom and I loved her 2nd book even more!
I'm a class mom, grade parent, PTA Board Member and party chair galore at my kids schools. So relating to this book was easy as can be! I love LOVE LOVE the main character's sense of humor, especially because she says everything that I am secretly, thinking out and in email.
Are there any crazy life lessons in this book? No
Will it make you cry? Maybe from laughing to hard at Jen Dixon (The main characters) emails
Will it change your life? Only from the stand point that you are not alone in your crazy thoughts about the PTA and moms at the schools.
This is the perfect book to read after a heavy emotional book, full of fun and laughter! Great read as always Laurie.
Thank you NetGalley for the Arc!
I'm a class mom, grade parent, PTA Board Member and party chair galore at my kids schools. So relating to this book was easy as can be! I love LOVE LOVE the main character's sense of humor, especially because she says everything that I am secretly, thinking out and in email.
Are there any crazy life lessons in this book? No
Will it make you cry? Maybe from laughing to hard at Jen Dixon (The main characters) emails
Will it change your life? Only from the stand point that you are not alone in your crazy thoughts about the PTA and moms at the schools.
This is the perfect book to read after a heavy emotional book, full of fun and laughter! Great read as always Laurie.
Thank you NetGalley for the Arc!
February 24, 2019
I loved this book even more than the first one! I was laughing out loud at lots of parts and tearing up towards the end. I can't wait to read more of Laurie's books! One of my favorite parts was the naming of Ron's BMW! If you liked the first book, youre going to love this one.
#YouveBeenVolunteered #NetGalley
#YouveBeenVolunteered #NetGalley
August 17, 2019
Plenty fun and funny. I snort laughed a couple times, for sure. Felt kind of like a rehash of the 1st one though.
October 27, 2022
I love this series! I do have to tell you, though, I'm not reading it in order. I started with the third book. Jen Dixon rules the world or at least the school and they way she words an email, she is my heroine! With two older daughter who she is trying to get to talk to her, she still manages to wrangle the troops together for all the necessary aspects of her son's third grade class since she is once again class mom and now she also has to organize the crossing guards for the student after school pick up lanes. Oh joy! All this with her son having a melt down every time she turns around. Pre-teen boy angst. I really need to go back and grab that first book now to see where it all started. I cheated and grabbed this one up in audio to listen to and the author is the narrator and she does a fantastic job!
**Received this ARC from the publisher for review via NetGalley**
**Received this ARC from the publisher for review via NetGalley**
August 13, 2019
So funny!
July 15, 2020
Love when a book makes me laugh out loud! Fast and fun read!
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