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Class Mom #3
Yoga Pant Nation
A Good Morning America Buzz Pick
From the author of Class Mom and You've Been Volunteered comes a book on one mom's challenges through parenting and life, keeping her on her toes and perpetually in yoga pants.
Jen Dixon of Overland Park, Kansas—fearless mother of a fifth-grade boy and two thirty-something daughters—is used to juggling a lot, from her mission to become a spin instructor, to stepping in as the most acerbic class mom ever (again), to taking care of her two-year-old granddaughter. But when the PTA president throws her a mandate to raise $10,000 for the fifth-grade class, even unflappable Jen is going to need more than her regular spin class to get her through this final year at William Taft Elementary School.
In the midst of new complications—organizing the class overnight to Topeka, an unexpected spin class fan in the form of her husband’s crazy ex-wife, and trying to navigate her parents’ sudden descent into apparent delusions—Jen hardly has the patience to listen to yet another half-baked idea (come on, ladies, another wrapping paper sale?) from WeFUKCT (We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team), her fundraising committee. But if anyone can get elementary parents to pull off the impossible, it’s Jen Dixon.
With her always irreverent and laugh-out-loud humor—boldly holding forth on those things you’re thinking, but would never dare say out loud—Laurie Gelman's Yoga Pant Nation shines a light on the indignities and hilarities of modern parenting.
From the author of Class Mom and You've Been Volunteered comes a book on one mom's challenges through parenting and life, keeping her on her toes and perpetually in yoga pants.
Jen Dixon of Overland Park, Kansas—fearless mother of a fifth-grade boy and two thirty-something daughters—is used to juggling a lot, from her mission to become a spin instructor, to stepping in as the most acerbic class mom ever (again), to taking care of her two-year-old granddaughter. But when the PTA president throws her a mandate to raise $10,000 for the fifth-grade class, even unflappable Jen is going to need more than her regular spin class to get her through this final year at William Taft Elementary School.
In the midst of new complications—organizing the class overnight to Topeka, an unexpected spin class fan in the form of her husband’s crazy ex-wife, and trying to navigate her parents’ sudden descent into apparent delusions—Jen hardly has the patience to listen to yet another half-baked idea (come on, ladies, another wrapping paper sale?) from WeFUKCT (We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team), her fundraising committee. But if anyone can get elementary parents to pull off the impossible, it’s Jen Dixon.
With her always irreverent and laugh-out-loud humor—boldly holding forth on those things you’re thinking, but would never dare say out loud—Laurie Gelman's Yoga Pant Nation shines a light on the indignities and hilarities of modern parenting.
256 pages, Paperback
First published July 13, 2021
272 people are currently reading
11716 people want to read
About the author
Laurie Gelman
5 books1,384 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 1,121 reviews
September 26, 2022
Jen Dixon is back for her final school year as Class Mom. That's right, another year of Jen's antics and snarky emails as Class Mom 😁. If you've read the two previous books, you won't want to miss this one!
This is Jen's last year as Class Mom (it's Max's last year in elementary school), and her schedule is busier than ever. On top of all her family responsibilities, she's also the PTA Fundraiser Chairperson and a spin class instructor. How does she make it all work? Just as before, by constantly flying by the seat of her pants 😆.
There are plenty of shenanigans and quirky characters to deliver an entertaining story. I especially loved Jen's parents, Kay and Ray. While I really enjoyed Book 3, I especially loved listening to Laurie Gelman reading the story.
My thoughts on the previous books in this series:
Class Mom
You've Been Volunteered
This is Jen's last year as Class Mom (it's Max's last year in elementary school), and her schedule is busier than ever. On top of all her family responsibilities, she's also the PTA Fundraiser Chairperson and a spin class instructor. How does she make it all work? Just as before, by constantly flying by the seat of her pants 😆.
There are plenty of shenanigans and quirky characters to deliver an entertaining story. I especially loved Jen's parents, Kay and Ray. While I really enjoyed Book 3, I especially loved listening to Laurie Gelman reading the story.
My thoughts on the previous books in this series:
Class Mom
You've Been Volunteered
August 13, 2021
Calling all moms! Grab your best Lululemon because Jen Dixon is back!
Yoga Pant Nation is the third book in the hilariously funny Class Mom series. Keep up with Jen as she maneuvers through life as an “older” mom, volunteering for her son Max’s fifth grade class, managing difficult parents, and leading the way to a successful fundraiser. Jen also takes care of her elderly parents, while also pursuing her dream job as a spin class instructor. She solves everyone’s problems with humor and grace and will keep you laughing as she manages to do it all.
Laurie Gelman’s Class Mom books always put a smile on my face. Jen Dixon is a highly relatable character with a sarcastic wit that readers will love to fall in love with. From naming her volunteer group WeFUKCT (you read that right), to dealing with “Crazy Cindy,” Jen engages the reader in an over the top, fast-paced sequel to the book series. While all three books follow a similar formula, one thing I know for sure is that Jen is going to get the job done. It is helpful to read the books in order, but they can also be read individually. While I’m more of a thriller junkie, I enjoy the levity that this series adds to my routine.
I highly recommended this book if you want to LOL 😂!
4/5 stars
Yoga Pant Nation is the third book in the hilariously funny Class Mom series. Keep up with Jen as she maneuvers through life as an “older” mom, volunteering for her son Max’s fifth grade class, managing difficult parents, and leading the way to a successful fundraiser. Jen also takes care of her elderly parents, while also pursuing her dream job as a spin class instructor. She solves everyone’s problems with humor and grace and will keep you laughing as she manages to do it all.
Laurie Gelman’s Class Mom books always put a smile on my face. Jen Dixon is a highly relatable character with a sarcastic wit that readers will love to fall in love with. From naming her volunteer group WeFUKCT (you read that right), to dealing with “Crazy Cindy,” Jen engages the reader in an over the top, fast-paced sequel to the book series. While all three books follow a similar formula, one thing I know for sure is that Jen is going to get the job done. It is helpful to read the books in order, but they can also be read individually. While I’m more of a thriller junkie, I enjoy the levity that this series adds to my routine.
I highly recommended this book if you want to LOL 😂!
4/5 stars
July 2, 2021
3.5 stars, rounded up
Cute addition to the series, listened to the audiobook narrated by the author and I love her sarcasm and tongue in cheek comments.
I think this is a series you should read in order so that you'll know who all of the people are, because she doesn't really explain it in the narrative. Plus you'll get more out of knowing Jen's progression as a class mom and a parent and grandparent.
There aren't any real surprises or anything groundbreaking here, but it's certainly a quick and entertaining read. For anyone who is offended by this series or this book in particular (and I've definitely seen it in the reviews I've read) I'll say that this is definitely meant to be a snarky parody, not a treatise on fabulous parenting. This is humor people, don't get so bent out of shape, she's not calling you out or showing off.
Keep writing them Ms. Gelman and I'm here for it. Thanks for a light, fun novel for the summer.
I voluntarily reviewed both the audio and print copies of this book, all opinions are my own.
Cute addition to the series, listened to the audiobook narrated by the author and I love her sarcasm and tongue in cheek comments.
I think this is a series you should read in order so that you'll know who all of the people are, because she doesn't really explain it in the narrative. Plus you'll get more out of knowing Jen's progression as a class mom and a parent and grandparent.
There aren't any real surprises or anything groundbreaking here, but it's certainly a quick and entertaining read. For anyone who is offended by this series or this book in particular (and I've definitely seen it in the reviews I've read) I'll say that this is definitely meant to be a snarky parody, not a treatise on fabulous parenting. This is humor people, don't get so bent out of shape, she's not calling you out or showing off.
Keep writing them Ms. Gelman and I'm here for it. Thanks for a light, fun novel for the summer.
I voluntarily reviewed both the audio and print copies of this book, all opinions are my own.
July 11, 2021
Confession: I want Jen Dixon, first introduced in Laurie Gelman's 𝘾𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙨 𝙈𝙤𝙢, to be my best friend. She's a snarky, hysterical, wine-loving wife and mother attempting to make it through her 40s with her sanity intact. To say I relate is an understatement.
So it's not surprising that 𝗬𝗢𝗚𝗔 𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗧 𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 (the third in the series after 𝙔𝙤𝙪'𝙫𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙑𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙) was one of my most anticipated books for this year. Jen's son Max is now in fifth grade and she's juggling more than ever - her new gig as a spin instructor, watching her young granddaughter, caring for her aging parents, being class mom (again!) and the head of THE PTA'S WeFUCKT (We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team - I mean, how great is that?), tasked with raising $10,000 before the year is out.
Having Jen back is like having lunch with an old friend - there's so much to get to and not enough time to do it. As with the previous books, I laughed out loud and 100% identified with the school politics and crazy mom antics plus this one has the added bonus of Jen teaching spin (I'm part of the Peloton cult so once again, I relate). I hope this isn't the last we see of my literary BFF.
If you haven't read the other two in this series, I don't know what you're waiting for. And if you're already a fan, grab 𝙔𝙤𝙜𝙖 𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 - you won't be disappointed.
Thanks to Henry Holt Nooks and NetGalley for the copy to review.
So it's not surprising that 𝗬𝗢𝗚𝗔 𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗧 𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 (the third in the series after 𝙔𝙤𝙪'𝙫𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙑𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙) was one of my most anticipated books for this year. Jen's son Max is now in fifth grade and she's juggling more than ever - her new gig as a spin instructor, watching her young granddaughter, caring for her aging parents, being class mom (again!) and the head of THE PTA'S WeFUCKT (We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team - I mean, how great is that?), tasked with raising $10,000 before the year is out.
Having Jen back is like having lunch with an old friend - there's so much to get to and not enough time to do it. As with the previous books, I laughed out loud and 100% identified with the school politics and crazy mom antics plus this one has the added bonus of Jen teaching spin (I'm part of the Peloton cult so once again, I relate). I hope this isn't the last we see of my literary BFF.
If you haven't read the other two in this series, I don't know what you're waiting for. And if you're already a fan, grab 𝙔𝙤𝙜𝙖 𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 - you won't be disappointed.
Thanks to Henry Holt Nooks and NetGalley for the copy to review.
January 5, 2023
Yoga Pant Nation is the third book in the hilarious Class Mom series. Jen Dixon (our favorite class mom) may be a little bit older, but she hasn't missed a beat in wit and is more spry than ever.
This year she is her son's fifth-grade class mom. Who would have thought after such a rocky start all those years ago she would end up being "THE" class mom for the duration of her son's elementary years? She has (more than) earned her stripes and is now (mostly) respected and trusted by her fellow class parents. This year she has been tasked by the PTA president with raising ($10,000) an astronomical amount of money in order to pay for the fifth-graders' new Chrome books. On top of that, her her daughter's mother-in-law (who Jen has never met before) suddenly wants to meet her grandchild and decides she is coming for Christmas.
Jen's go to source of solace - aka: escape from the craziness - comes from her impassioned quest to become a spin instructor. However, even that is disrupted when her husband's ex (already a fully-trained spin teacher) shows up to the very first class Jen is leading. The bright side is that she tells Jen she thinks she rocked the class.
I have always looked forward to the next installment in this series as it guarantees me a few hours of riotous escapism. In addition, Laurie Gelman is also the solo narrator for her book and does a fine job bringing her written words to life for the listener. An all around fantastic job.
This year she is her son's fifth-grade class mom. Who would have thought after such a rocky start all those years ago she would end up being "THE" class mom for the duration of her son's elementary years? She has (more than) earned her stripes and is now (mostly) respected and trusted by her fellow class parents. This year she has been tasked by the PTA president with raising ($10,000) an astronomical amount of money in order to pay for the fifth-graders' new Chrome books. On top of that, her her daughter's mother-in-law (who Jen has never met before) suddenly wants to meet her grandchild and decides she is coming for Christmas.
Jen's go to source of solace - aka: escape from the craziness - comes from her impassioned quest to become a spin instructor. However, even that is disrupted when her husband's ex (already a fully-trained spin teacher) shows up to the very first class Jen is leading. The bright side is that she tells Jen she thinks she rocked the class.
I have always looked forward to the next installment in this series as it guarantees me a few hours of riotous escapism. In addition, Laurie Gelman is also the solo narrator for her book and does a fine job bringing her written words to life for the listener. An all around fantastic job.
May 11, 2021
I love these books! Tremendously normalizing with a hefty dose of fun. I am morning the loss of Jen's homeroom mom gig as Max heads into middle school, but hoping there are still more books in this series so I don't have to say goodbye!
September 7, 2021
If you want a humorous look at how one woman balances it all when everything happens at once, check out Laurie Gelman's newest novel,
Yoga Pant Nation
.
Jen Dixon from Gelman's Class Mom and You’ve Been Volunteered is back for another year as class mom. It’s the last year for her to do this, since her son is in 5th grade and heads to middle school next year.
As she tackles her responsibilities with her usual sarcastic flair, she also finds herself getting roped into heading up a major fundraising effort for the school, leading a task force she’s named WeFUCKT—We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team.
Beyond that, though, life is getting out of control. She’s trying to gain traction as a spin instructor, her adult daughter is in the midst of a custody battle, her own parents are suddenly acting strangely and having delusions, and she and her husband are trying to figure out whether their son is being bullied or is actually being the bully.
It’s a lot to handle, even for someone who tends to let everything bounce off of her. But when everything comes to a head at once, what’s a multitasking mom to do?
I’ve definitely enjoyed this series of books and Jen is a great character. I felt like in Yoga Pant Nation she was a little less flippant and sarcastic, and it was a great balance between snark and seriousness. There were times in the other books I wondered whether someone would actually send emails like the ones Jen did, but this seemed a bit more realistic.
While this is a series, you could read any of the books as a standalone. It was great to see Jen grow alongside her son!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Jen Dixon from Gelman's Class Mom and You’ve Been Volunteered is back for another year as class mom. It’s the last year for her to do this, since her son is in 5th grade and heads to middle school next year.
As she tackles her responsibilities with her usual sarcastic flair, she also finds herself getting roped into heading up a major fundraising effort for the school, leading a task force she’s named WeFUCKT—We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team.
Beyond that, though, life is getting out of control. She’s trying to gain traction as a spin instructor, her adult daughter is in the midst of a custody battle, her own parents are suddenly acting strangely and having delusions, and she and her husband are trying to figure out whether their son is being bullied or is actually being the bully.
It’s a lot to handle, even for someone who tends to let everything bounce off of her. But when everything comes to a head at once, what’s a multitasking mom to do?
I’ve definitely enjoyed this series of books and Jen is a great character. I felt like in Yoga Pant Nation she was a little less flippant and sarcastic, and it was a great balance between snark and seriousness. There were times in the other books I wondered whether someone would actually send emails like the ones Jen did, but this seemed a bit more realistic.
While this is a series, you could read any of the books as a standalone. It was great to see Jen grow alongside her son!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
January 27, 2021
I stalked netgalley until I was finally approved for this book. I found this author several years ago and look forward to each of her books.
Jen Dixon is at it again-class mom for her sons 5th grade class. Almost every chapter starts with a snarky letter to the parents about what's happening in the classroom. This year she has the added responsibility of a fundraiser.
These books always keep me with a smile on my face. There is something fun about a little bit of sarcasm. .
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Jen Dixon is at it again-class mom for her sons 5th grade class. Almost every chapter starts with a snarky letter to the parents about what's happening in the classroom. This year she has the added responsibility of a fundraiser.
These books always keep me with a smile on my face. There is something fun about a little bit of sarcasm. .
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
April 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I needed a good laugh and I laughed out loud several times while reading this book. I wasn't aware this was a third book in her Class Mom series. I want to read the other two books now, although you can just jump into this book without reading the other two. I think this book will hit close to home to many people. This book hits on everyday issues like being a mom, grandma, a spin teacher, a class mom, which I can really relate to, and a wife, daughter and friend. Laurie Gelman you are so funny. Thanks for the laughs. Highly recommend.
June 14, 2021
Annoying from the very beginning. Snarky, insulting, and offensive to anyone other than those who think they are superior. Is there a person not insulted in this book? There is nothing at all charming or likable about most of the characters - they are narcissistic, self-involved, too far embedded in the stupidities of modern life and so on.
I was offended in the first few pages and read more only to see how far the author would go to make every day people in every day situations look "less than" what she believes to be the standard for normalty.
Clearly Ms. Gelman does not have any connection to society other than her close-knit group of friends and has no understanding about the lives of most. If you live in the same bubble as this vacuous and unfunny, uninteresting and bored "former" personality trying desperately to make a new name for herself, you can read it under duress and then tell her how wonderful she is. Otherwise don't bother.
Yuk.
(Received this from a friend who got an early release - so glad I didn't pay for it.)
I was offended in the first few pages and read more only to see how far the author would go to make every day people in every day situations look "less than" what she believes to be the standard for normalty.
Clearly Ms. Gelman does not have any connection to society other than her close-knit group of friends and has no understanding about the lives of most. If you live in the same bubble as this vacuous and unfunny, uninteresting and bored "former" personality trying desperately to make a new name for herself, you can read it under duress and then tell her how wonderful she is. Otherwise don't bother.
Yuk.
(Received this from a friend who got an early release - so glad I didn't pay for it.)
July 14, 2021
As a retired PTA chairperson this book and series is spot on perfection and I love it.
.
It’s now 5th grade and the final
Year as class mom for Jen, before middle school hits. Not only is she class mom but she’s also running the fundraiser to raise $10,000 for tablets. Their challenge is huge especially when they have already sold candy, candles, wrapping paper and popcorn.
.
She names her assembled team WeFUKCT (we fundraiser until kingdom come team) which is quite frankly my favorite fundraising team name ever. Jen’s emails are the highlight in this hilarious, quick paced book. Anyone who’s ever attended a parent teacher conference, meet and greet, fundraiser and general nonsense that is parents in pe, state parade or colonial market which is my favorite…..please read this in your most sarcastic voice as colonial market is done the WEEK BEFORE School ends for the summer and it’s a big ass project when the kids only care about summer. Sorry that took a turn to vent said school activity. Either way this book highlights the humor that comes with being a parent of a school age child.
.
Thank you to @netgalley and @henryholtbooks for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
.
It’s now 5th grade and the final
Year as class mom for Jen, before middle school hits. Not only is she class mom but she’s also running the fundraiser to raise $10,000 for tablets. Their challenge is huge especially when they have already sold candy, candles, wrapping paper and popcorn.
.
She names her assembled team WeFUKCT (we fundraiser until kingdom come team) which is quite frankly my favorite fundraising team name ever. Jen’s emails are the highlight in this hilarious, quick paced book. Anyone who’s ever attended a parent teacher conference, meet and greet, fundraiser and general nonsense that is parents in pe, state parade or colonial market which is my favorite…..please read this in your most sarcastic voice as colonial market is done the WEEK BEFORE School ends for the summer and it’s a big ass project when the kids only care about summer. Sorry that took a turn to vent said school activity. Either way this book highlights the humor that comes with being a parent of a school age child.
.
Thank you to @netgalley and @henryholtbooks for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2021
Another funny and pleasant installment in the Class Mom series. If you need a break from all the serious books you've been working your way through, you can't go wrong with picking up this.
Read
February 8, 2021If this book had a name it would be “Peggy”. At first, I thought it would be Becky, but our main character is 53 years old and has a grandchild, so she’s Peggy. This book would wear leggings (aka yoga pants), have an “I need to speak to the manager hair cut” and feel like a naughty girl for watching Outlander and having fantasies about Jamie. This book is also def involved in an MLM scheme, most likely Lula Roe clothing.
Don’t get me wrong, the book goes down fast as do most things without substance like popcorn or bubblegum. I just don’t think I am the right audience for this book as I spent an inordinate amount of time side-eyeing our main character.
When told that she has to address the adults of the 5th-grade classroom as “caregivers” and not “parents” as some may not necessarily be parents, she rolls her eyes and grumbles about how far is this whole PC thing going to go. Will she just be silenced completely one day? Perhaps, but not in this book.
A few pages later she tells the reader about the Jewish community center and how they have a pool and childcare. This leads her to think “Lucky Jewish People!” Lucky Jewish people. Ok. Soon, she realizes that *gasp* anyone can go to this community center! Not just lucky Jewish people! Even put-upon white women such as herself are welcome!
Now, if you are a person who finds things like "Rose all day!" or "Did you say exercise? I thought you said EXTRA FRIES!" Then this is the book for you!
Kudos and 4 stars to the author because either she knows her audience so well that she is just giving them pure LIVE LAUGH LOVE service. Or, perhaps she is making a parody of these middle-aged Facebook aunties and if that's the case then she is a genius!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for providing with an E-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Don’t get me wrong, the book goes down fast as do most things without substance like popcorn or bubblegum. I just don’t think I am the right audience for this book as I spent an inordinate amount of time side-eyeing our main character.
When told that she has to address the adults of the 5th-grade classroom as “caregivers” and not “parents” as some may not necessarily be parents, she rolls her eyes and grumbles about how far is this whole PC thing going to go. Will she just be silenced completely one day? Perhaps, but not in this book.
A few pages later she tells the reader about the Jewish community center and how they have a pool and childcare. This leads her to think “Lucky Jewish People!” Lucky Jewish people. Ok. Soon, she realizes that *gasp* anyone can go to this community center! Not just lucky Jewish people! Even put-upon white women such as herself are welcome!
Now, if you are a person who finds things like "Rose all day!" or "Did you say exercise? I thought you said EXTRA FRIES!" Then this is the book for you!
Kudos and 4 stars to the author because either she knows her audience so well that she is just giving them pure LIVE LAUGH LOVE service. Or, perhaps she is making a parody of these middle-aged Facebook aunties and if that's the case then she is a genius!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for providing with an E-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 28, 2021
***Goodreads Giveaway Win***
I have mixed thoughts about this book. On the one hand, it was a fun escape. However, as implied when you call something an escape, it went down like empty calories. Throughout it had the read of a mom blogging about her busy life - rife with the sarcastic, snarky cliches. I don't think this was the intent, but the book had no overall literary theme. And this is fine, not all books have to be some kind of meditation on the human condition.
I also had some issues with weird plot dead-ends. The run-in with the husband's ex went no where, as did the mention of why the main character started feeling light-headed in nauseated while on the class trip. I'm guessing the author is leaving open plot points for the next book.
I recommend this book to people who like reading mom blogs and Facebook memes.
I have mixed thoughts about this book. On the one hand, it was a fun escape. However, as implied when you call something an escape, it went down like empty calories. Throughout it had the read of a mom blogging about her busy life - rife with the sarcastic, snarky cliches. I don't think this was the intent, but the book had no overall literary theme. And this is fine, not all books have to be some kind of meditation on the human condition.
I also had some issues with weird plot dead-ends. The run-in with the husband's ex went no where, as did the mention of why the main character started feeling light-headed in nauseated while on the class trip. I'm guessing the author is leaving open plot points for the next book.
I recommend this book to people who like reading mom blogs and Facebook memes.
July 2, 2021
In this third installment of Laurie Gellman’s hysterical series we find Jen Dixon, class mom extraordinaire eagerly awaiting her last year in the elementary school system. It has been two years since Jen has given us an update and in that time so much has happened.
She is now a certified spin instructor looking for a job. Her son Max will be graduating elementary school and is eagerly awaiting the right of passage overnight class trip to Topeka . Her daughter gave birth to a daughter and has decided to be a single parent. Jen helps out by babysitting while her daughter works. Her parents seem to be having some mental issues…and not the usual ones. She has reluctantly committed to heading up a school fundraiser which hopes to raise $10,000. Oh and yes, she is once again the class mom of her son’s class!
So much for some Jen time!
But in this hilarious, incredibly relatable story we empathize as Jen sarcastically, comically plods her way through life. As she tries to hold herself together and keep control of her uncontrollable family, she does encounter some obstacles. And of course there is drama. Someone is bullying Max and he will not tell anyone why. Jen’s daughter’s baby daddy who found out late he was a dad, and his mother who lives in India are trying to take her granddaughter away for an extended trip back to India.
Her parents are acting strange. Staying in their pajamas all day. Forgetting to eat. Forgetting to get up from the kitchen table all day. It may be time to look for an assisted living facility, something Jen is dreading.
The school fundraiser group which Jen has aptly named We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team or WeFuckT for short has three women with the exact same name with one who does not do social media anything. Sadly, they are out of ideas as to how on earth to raise so much money.
With Jen’s cornucopia of problems, and her best friend now living in another state, can she push through and get everything done? But of course! And she craftily solves her dilemmas with love, empathy, anger and of course humor. My only wish would be we get to continue to read more of Jen’s misfortunes. I am addicted.
Thank you #NetGalley #HenryHoltandCo. #LaurieGelman #YogaPantNation for
She is now a certified spin instructor looking for a job. Her son Max will be graduating elementary school and is eagerly awaiting the right of passage overnight class trip to Topeka . Her daughter gave birth to a daughter and has decided to be a single parent. Jen helps out by babysitting while her daughter works. Her parents seem to be having some mental issues…and not the usual ones. She has reluctantly committed to heading up a school fundraiser which hopes to raise $10,000. Oh and yes, she is once again the class mom of her son’s class!
So much for some Jen time!
But in this hilarious, incredibly relatable story we empathize as Jen sarcastically, comically plods her way through life. As she tries to hold herself together and keep control of her uncontrollable family, she does encounter some obstacles. And of course there is drama. Someone is bullying Max and he will not tell anyone why. Jen’s daughter’s baby daddy who found out late he was a dad, and his mother who lives in India are trying to take her granddaughter away for an extended trip back to India.
Her parents are acting strange. Staying in their pajamas all day. Forgetting to eat. Forgetting to get up from the kitchen table all day. It may be time to look for an assisted living facility, something Jen is dreading.
The school fundraiser group which Jen has aptly named We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team or WeFuckT for short has three women with the exact same name with one who does not do social media anything. Sadly, they are out of ideas as to how on earth to raise so much money.
With Jen’s cornucopia of problems, and her best friend now living in another state, can she push through and get everything done? But of course! And she craftily solves her dilemmas with love, empathy, anger and of course humor. My only wish would be we get to continue to read more of Jen’s misfortunes. I am addicted.
Thank you #NetGalley #HenryHoltandCo. #LaurieGelman #YogaPantNation for
August 5, 2021
Yoga Pant Nation is Laurie Gelman's latest installment in the Class Mom series, and it is everything I hoped it would be: funny, snarky, and remarkably touching. I have wanted to read the Class Mom series for some time but have not yet made the time to do so; when I had the opportunity to read Yoga Pant Nation, I couldn't pass it up, even though I have not yet read the first two books in the series. Now, I'm even more convinced I need to get my hands on the first two books, Class Mom and You've Been Volunteered.
Jennifer, our main character and wearer of all styles of yoga pants, is snarky yet hilarious, driven yet weary, no-nonsense yet protective. She is Class Mom for 10-year-old Max's 5th grade class, the final year of the elementary school journey. She spearheads the school's fundraising efforts, chaperones the 5th grade overnight trip, organizes class parties, and sends lots of really funny class emails.
Meanwhile, Jennifer is also working to become a spin instructor, she's watching her two year old granddaughter a few times a week, navigating the murky waters of helping her elderly parents, spending time with her two grown daughters, helping her divorced friend find a new beau, and supporting her oldest daughter through a custody battle. I love Jennifer's entire attitude toward life. I love her drive and perseverance as she works to become a spin instructor. I love her fierce protectiveness toward her parents and her children. I love her dry wit, the trouble she gets herself into, and the love and support she gives and receives from her family and friends.
This book is really light and funny, and yet it also covers some heavy topics with grace and respect: bullying, co-parenting, and aging parents.
I absolutely will be reading more Laurie Gelman books! Thank you to NetGalley, Ms. Gelman, and publisher Henry Holt & Co. for an advanced copy of Yoga Pant Nation in exchange for my honest review.
Jennifer, our main character and wearer of all styles of yoga pants, is snarky yet hilarious, driven yet weary, no-nonsense yet protective. She is Class Mom for 10-year-old Max's 5th grade class, the final year of the elementary school journey. She spearheads the school's fundraising efforts, chaperones the 5th grade overnight trip, organizes class parties, and sends lots of really funny class emails.
Meanwhile, Jennifer is also working to become a spin instructor, she's watching her two year old granddaughter a few times a week, navigating the murky waters of helping her elderly parents, spending time with her two grown daughters, helping her divorced friend find a new beau, and supporting her oldest daughter through a custody battle. I love Jennifer's entire attitude toward life. I love her drive and perseverance as she works to become a spin instructor. I love her fierce protectiveness toward her parents and her children. I love her dry wit, the trouble she gets herself into, and the love and support she gives and receives from her family and friends.
This book is really light and funny, and yet it also covers some heavy topics with grace and respect: bullying, co-parenting, and aging parents.
I absolutely will be reading more Laurie Gelman books! Thank you to NetGalley, Ms. Gelman, and publisher Henry Holt & Co. for an advanced copy of Yoga Pant Nation in exchange for my honest review.
July 8, 2021
**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I have no words to describe how I hated the main heroine, Jen Dixon, at the beginning of this book. She is this kind of unpleasant person that claims that she is not mean, she is just very snarky. Sprinkle it with the upper-middle class entitled attitude (one of my pet peeves) and I began this book wondering if it's going to be a 1 star story or maybe, somehow it will manage to scramble to 2 stars. Then, I don't really know exactly when, I really started caring.
Jen has problem to juggle it all - her parents declining health, her budding career as a spin instructor, the volunteering job she doesn't really want to do, problems with his youngest kid and some drama around her granddaughter. Her plate is full and she runs around trying to meet all the deadlines and fulfill all the commitments and that made her extremely relatable. Before I turned the last page I found myself actually liking Jen, cheering for her and her lovely family. There must be some dark sorcery involved because I never expected I can go from hate to love in the short span of ~250 pages. In the end its a very enjoyable, fast and fun story that is perfect for beach/commute read. I would recommend.
Also: I didn't read the previous installments of this series and I didn't feel I'm missing any information so it seems you can read this book as a standalone.
I have no words to describe how I hated the main heroine, Jen Dixon, at the beginning of this book. She is this kind of unpleasant person that claims that she is not mean, she is just very snarky. Sprinkle it with the upper-middle class entitled attitude (one of my pet peeves) and I began this book wondering if it's going to be a 1 star story or maybe, somehow it will manage to scramble to 2 stars. Then, I don't really know exactly when, I really started caring.
Jen has problem to juggle it all - her parents declining health, her budding career as a spin instructor, the volunteering job she doesn't really want to do, problems with his youngest kid and some drama around her granddaughter. Her plate is full and she runs around trying to meet all the deadlines and fulfill all the commitments and that made her extremely relatable. Before I turned the last page I found myself actually liking Jen, cheering for her and her lovely family. There must be some dark sorcery involved because I never expected I can go from hate to love in the short span of ~250 pages. In the end its a very enjoyable, fast and fun story that is perfect for beach/commute read. I would recommend.
Also: I didn't read the previous installments of this series and I didn't feel I'm missing any information so it seems you can read this book as a standalone.
June 23, 2021
This third entry in the Class Mom series, out 7/13/21, is just as fun, funny, and relatable as the first two books. Our favorite class mom, Jen Dixon, is back, and now is class parent for 5th grader, while also juggling being a young grandmother to a 2 year old, aging parents, being a newly certified spin teacher, and running a PTA fundraiser, with her usual snarky class and PTA emails included. If you haven’t read this series yet, and are looking for a light, quick, humorous mom read, go back and start with the first book, Class Mom. And if you loved the first two books, you’ll love this one too.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
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July 14, 2021Review to follow
June 17, 2022
Another fun installment in the Class Mom series! These novels are just the right balance between fun and serious topics. In every novel, there's always some obstacle the Dixon family has to overcome. In this novel, there were two major things going on that Jen had to deal with.
From running spin classes, to being a nanny to her granddaughter, and being class mom in charge of a massive fundraiser, Jen somehow finds time to do it all, including set up blind dates for friends and chaperone over-night trips for her son's class.
I've grown to love all the characters & I'm enjoying seeing them grow throughout the series. These books can probably stand alone, but they are so much better read in a series. Take it from me - someone who is not a series fan - this one's worth sticking with!
I can't wait to start Book 4 and see what the whole crew is up to next!
One thing, as a devoted Peloton fan, I must mention: Jen's favorite spin instructor says she left her job at Peloton because she wasn't allowed to say "spin bitches".. uh...have you ever taken a Cody class? 😂 He wouldn't get through one class without using foul language & he's arguably one of the most loved Peloton instructors.
This really has nothing to do with the book... just sticking up for my love of all things Peloton. 🤷🏻♀️😂
From running spin classes, to being a nanny to her granddaughter, and being class mom in charge of a massive fundraiser, Jen somehow finds time to do it all, including set up blind dates for friends and chaperone over-night trips for her son's class.
I've grown to love all the characters & I'm enjoying seeing them grow throughout the series. These books can probably stand alone, but they are so much better read in a series. Take it from me - someone who is not a series fan - this one's worth sticking with!
I can't wait to start Book 4 and see what the whole crew is up to next!
One thing, as a devoted Peloton fan, I must mention: Jen's favorite spin instructor says she left her job at Peloton because she wasn't allowed to say "spin bitches".. uh...have you ever taken a Cody class? 😂 He wouldn't get through one class without using foul language & he's arguably one of the most loved Peloton instructors.
This really has nothing to do with the book... just sticking up for my love of all things Peloton. 🤷🏻♀️😂
August 31, 2021
This was a fun addition to the Class Mom series. I don't think anything will beat the first one for me, but this installment was effective in showing how moms change through different seasons of life. Here we find Jen juggling a prepubescent son, an aging mother, a daughter who is now a single mom, a new career, her marriage, friendships, and as always her responsibilities as class mom. It makes for quite a ride. I always enjoy Laurie Gelman's sarcasm and humor while still showing the humanity and compassion amongst moms.
July 30, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for my ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book was published July 13, 2021.
This is the third book in a fun series about class mom Jen Dixon. She’s older now and while trying to become a spin instructor, she gets assigned lead on the upcoming school fundraiser. There are some extremely funny lines and a very clever acronym to describe the fundraising committee.
It’s not a literary masterpiece but it’s a quick and fun read.
This is the third book in a fun series about class mom Jen Dixon. She’s older now and while trying to become a spin instructor, she gets assigned lead on the upcoming school fundraiser. There are some extremely funny lines and a very clever acronym to describe the fundraising committee.
It’s not a literary masterpiece but it’s a quick and fun read.
July 13, 2021
Just what I expect from Jen Dixon. 🤪
3.5 stars- lots of laughs and good material for when I’m voluntold for all the PTA activities and fundraising.
3.5 stars- lots of laughs and good material for when I’m voluntold for all the PTA activities and fundraising.
January 29, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Jen Dixon is back and she is now Class Mom for her son’s 5th-grade class. She is also working hard to because a spin instructor while taking care of her two-year-old granddaughter. Then the president of the PTA tasks her to lead a fundraising drive to raise $10,000 to buy new tablets for the students of William Taft Elementary School and the WeFUKCT (We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team) is born. Part of her Class Mom duties also has her organizing the 5th grade’s overnight field trip to Topeka too. There is also a lot of drama between her daughter and her baby daddy and his mother. Hold on to your funny bone because Jen is back and better than ever.
This grandma loves this series because it brings back delightful and some harrowing memories of when my children were in elementary school. The fundraisers, the parent-teacher conferences, concerts, and all those events a parent must attend and sometimes lead or chaperone.
Laurie Gelman takes us right into the middle of Jen’s life and all her trial and tribulations. Most of the parents are now used to Jen’s emails but they still are so funny. She hits the nail on the head with the WeFUKCT committee and everything that can and does go wrong but surprisingly works out perfectly in the end.
There are some serious moments too, with Jen’s daughter trying to co-parent with her ex-boyfriend. Things take a scary turn when his mother arrives for the holidays. Jen also has to deal with her parents getting older and having some health issues. Add to that her husband’s ex AKA Crazy Cindy is back on the scene and someone may be bullying Max. Jen juggles it all with a few assists from her hubby wearing her yoga pants that we all know we live in as much as we can.
I know when I pick up a book by this author that I am going to smile and laugh. Jen deals with life, things we all have dealt with or will deal with in the future and makes us laugh and maybe even shed a tear like I did this time when she was taking care of her parents. Life is hard but Ms. Gelman reminds us how important it is to find the humor anytime we can.
Lighthearted and entertaining just like the previous two books in this series Yoga Pant Nation was a Perfect Escape. Next up! Smells Like Tween Spirit is set to be released on August 2.
Jen Dixon is back and she is now Class Mom for her son’s 5th-grade class. She is also working hard to because a spin instructor while taking care of her two-year-old granddaughter. Then the president of the PTA tasks her to lead a fundraising drive to raise $10,000 to buy new tablets for the students of William Taft Elementary School and the WeFUKCT (We Fundraise Until Kingdom Come Team) is born. Part of her Class Mom duties also has her organizing the 5th grade’s overnight field trip to Topeka too. There is also a lot of drama between her daughter and her baby daddy and his mother. Hold on to your funny bone because Jen is back and better than ever.
This grandma loves this series because it brings back delightful and some harrowing memories of when my children were in elementary school. The fundraisers, the parent-teacher conferences, concerts, and all those events a parent must attend and sometimes lead or chaperone.
Laurie Gelman takes us right into the middle of Jen’s life and all her trial and tribulations. Most of the parents are now used to Jen’s emails but they still are so funny. She hits the nail on the head with the WeFUKCT committee and everything that can and does go wrong but surprisingly works out perfectly in the end.
There are some serious moments too, with Jen’s daughter trying to co-parent with her ex-boyfriend. Things take a scary turn when his mother arrives for the holidays. Jen also has to deal with her parents getting older and having some health issues. Add to that her husband’s ex AKA Crazy Cindy is back on the scene and someone may be bullying Max. Jen juggles it all with a few assists from her hubby wearing her yoga pants that we all know we live in as much as we can.
I know when I pick up a book by this author that I am going to smile and laugh. Jen deals with life, things we all have dealt with or will deal with in the future and makes us laugh and maybe even shed a tear like I did this time when she was taking care of her parents. Life is hard but Ms. Gelman reminds us how important it is to find the humor anytime we can.
Lighthearted and entertaining just like the previous two books in this series Yoga Pant Nation was a Perfect Escape. Next up! Smells Like Tween Spirit is set to be released on August 2.
July 14, 2021
Do you ever read a book and feel like you could be friends with its author?
After reading all three of her books, I have a feeling Laurie Gelman and I could be friends. I mean I’m not a parent, but I am a teacher. A teacher who finds her snark totally relatable.
In the latest installment of her Class Mom series, we return to reluctant Class Mom Jen Dixon and her antics. This time around she’s still begrudgingly carrying out Class Mom duties, but she’s also added on other jobs- namely fundraiser chairperson, a spin class instructor, and part time caretaker fo her grand child, as well as her parents.
There’s a lot going on in this book, but at the same time it’s all slice of life stuff. As you get older, worrying about your parents well being is inevitable. And you never stop worrying about your children’s well being, and their children and so on. These are serious topics, but Gelman writes about them with a good balance of humor and insight.
While trying to juggle her caretaker duties, she’s also living out more light hearted endeavors like aspiring spin class instructor extraordinaire and being the sarcastic Class Mom readers like myself have grown to know and love. There’s a lot to have fun with, but her emails to parents are the highlight of this series. Gelman’s creation of Jen Dixon tells things like they are and doesn’t hold back. In my opinion you don’t have to be a parent to find the world Gelman has created as one worth visiting!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt Books for allowing me the opportunity to visit the world of Overland Park again!
After reading all three of her books, I have a feeling Laurie Gelman and I could be friends. I mean I’m not a parent, but I am a teacher. A teacher who finds her snark totally relatable.
In the latest installment of her Class Mom series, we return to reluctant Class Mom Jen Dixon and her antics. This time around she’s still begrudgingly carrying out Class Mom duties, but she’s also added on other jobs- namely fundraiser chairperson, a spin class instructor, and part time caretaker fo her grand child, as well as her parents.
There’s a lot going on in this book, but at the same time it’s all slice of life stuff. As you get older, worrying about your parents well being is inevitable. And you never stop worrying about your children’s well being, and their children and so on. These are serious topics, but Gelman writes about them with a good balance of humor and insight.
While trying to juggle her caretaker duties, she’s also living out more light hearted endeavors like aspiring spin class instructor extraordinaire and being the sarcastic Class Mom readers like myself have grown to know and love. There’s a lot to have fun with, but her emails to parents are the highlight of this series. Gelman’s creation of Jen Dixon tells things like they are and doesn’t hold back. In my opinion you don’t have to be a parent to find the world Gelman has created as one worth visiting!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt Books for allowing me the opportunity to visit the world of Overland Park again!
November 17, 2021
Another fabulous book following Jen Dixon's never boring life! I absolutely love this series and this one did not disappoint. The character of Jen Dixon is written so well that I feel like she is a friend. Her struggles are real and very relatable. I enjoyed this book very much and finished it in one sitting because I could not find a good place to put it down!
November 1, 2021
I've enjoyed this series. As I've said before, it's a nice change of pace from my usual reading....suspense, psychological thriller, or romance. I can relate with many situations in Jen's life.
July 4, 2021
I love this series. So funny! I hope there are more to come.
July 19, 2021
So much FUN! I love this series for it’s relatability and how it pokes fun at Mom life in the best way possible. It’s witty and so down to earth. I love returning to this series, as they are always good for a laugh. It’s fresh, its funny, it’s REAL. My thanks to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2021
The third (and final?) book in the Class mom series. In this book, Jenn's youngest son Max (her surprise baby after already having two grown daughters) is now in his final year of elementary school (Gr. 5). Jenn's life is filled with her ambition to be a spin class instructor, taking care of her 2 year old granddaughter part time and heading the fundraising committee for the end of the year class trip. Still full of Gelman's trademark mom humor and witty jokes. Anyone who has had to suffer through fundraising hell is going to appreciate this book a lot. A solid finale that is more about mid-life women's problems than younger mom's problems. If you enjoyed the first two books you will likely love this one too. Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan audio for my advanced listening review copy.
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