Wake Up Laughing: Offbeat Devotions for the "Unconventional" Woman

by Rachel St. John-Gilbert

Discover dozens of ways to Wake Up Laughing with author Rachel St. John-Gilbert. Each of Gilbert’s brief readings will keep you in stitches, as you encounter her unusual observations on everyday life experiences—like the clunky cart at the grocery. You’ll find the unpredictable yet inspirational thoughts, accompanied by a hearty dose of humor, to be a blessing!

Genres: Devotional, Nonfiction, Christian

186 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2004

About the author

www.facebook.com/thewelllivedlaugh
GOOD-READERS: Thank You! Would love to have you at THE WELL-LIVED LAUGH FB PAGE!

Some reviewers say the book could be a "game changer"--helping women reconsider how they make choices that shape the quality of their lives.

Here's a snippet from a professional review:
"I highly recommend this creative, easy-read book to women who feel pressured (trapped) in any area of life."-- Jolane Shaffer (Aug. 2012 CBA Retailer Magazine):

This is "the" industry magazine that makes recommendations for Christian booksellers (The Christian Booksellers Association).


TIDBITS ABOUT ME:

1) My first writing assignment was for Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

2) I've been a freelance writer for 15 years, having contributed stories to, edited, or written about a dozen inspirational gift books for women.

3) I'm represented by a literary agent.

4) Barbour, a traditional publisher for over 30 years, has published all 3 of my "laugh titled" books.

5) My husband and I met in Virginia Beach, VA. We've been married 25 years. He is hugely supportive of my writing and our family.

6) I have 2 school-aged daughters. The ballerina is constantly twirling into things and yells, "OW!" a lot. The comedian relentlessly trolls for laughs--and often nabs them.

7) My son is a music theatre major at the University of Michigan. He has one of the biggest hearts for God and other people I've ever seen. Several of his peers are performing on Broadway and national tours.

Here's some shameless name-dropping for you Broadway fans out there:

(Taylor Louderman who was a headliner for "Bring It On" was one of the 20 kids in his class. Sam Lipps is with the national tour of "Wicked," another is "swing" in Annie--and the list goes on with the UMich phenoms!)

8) I have my struggles with losing weight, saying "So long!" to my youthful looks, being a good wife, mother, Christian, dog-mom, decent human being... and library patron.

9) I tend towards introvert though I can appear extroverted for about 3 hours. Then I need a cocoon and a nap.

10) I tend towards "Realist," but have grown into an "Optimistic Realist."

11) My life is anchored by a small, slightly nutty and loyal circle of friends and family.

Reviews

[Rachel John-Gilbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm reposting a review for my 1st book. It's from an online retailer (see below). There are more good reviews on Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/Wake-Laughing-O...

This book was very well received. In fact, WAL-Mart contracted for an exclusive "special edition hardback" at one point.

I would like to see the GoodReads rating pop up for this little quirky devotional to reflect the success it enjoyed. I hope that women who enjoyed The Well-Lived Laugh will give it a read.

REVIEW FROM OTHER SITE:
"This book is a handy size to take with me and is an enjoyable read. It lifted my spirits and lighted up my day several times. It would be a great gift to give to someone who needs to laugh!"

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book I'm sure would be fine for Christians.
I only got half way through - couldn't finish it.
I maybe laughed once.
Plus, it's more for the younger crowd that are just having children.

[Oridisi]

Very well written and I definately did laugh a lot

[Sparrow12 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book overall.
Some parts were funnier than others..
The closings to each chapter were the best part.

[Almira]

wonderful fun and inspiration!