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Inventing Joy: Dare to Build a Brave & Creative Life
NATIONAL BESTSELLER
“It was an honor to play Joy on the big screen—she’s such a fearless woman, an incredible business force and an inspiration to everyone she meets.” —Jennifer Lawrence
From Joy Mangano, self-made millionaire, entrepreneur, inventor of the Miracle Mop and inspiration behind the acclaimed film Joy starring Jennifer Lawrence comes a breakthrough story of love and hope that will unlock the best and brightest version of you.
Joy’s rise from single mother of three to the nation’s most celebrated female inventor is truly what dreams are made of. Full of twists and turns, work and love, obstacles encountered and overcome, Inventing Joy is a binge-worthy book in every aspect. Dive in and be swept along for the ride as she relives her incredible and inspiring journey to joy.
But there’s more. Throughout her inspirational rags-to-riches story, Joy points out her very own personal light-bulb moments—lessons that she learned the hard way, and principles she still relies on today. Thoughts and ideas that drive her business, life, and family and are the foundation for her success. These concepts come together in the end to form Joy’s Blueprint, a resource that will help you live your most joyful life—the Blueprint that Joy delivers to the world for the first time. So look inside yourself, grab hold of your dreams, and be brave enough to take that very first step and start your next best chapter. You’ll be in good company with Inventing Joy .
“It was an honor to play Joy on the big screen—she’s such a fearless woman, an incredible business force and an inspiration to everyone she meets.” —Jennifer Lawrence
From Joy Mangano, self-made millionaire, entrepreneur, inventor of the Miracle Mop and inspiration behind the acclaimed film Joy starring Jennifer Lawrence comes a breakthrough story of love and hope that will unlock the best and brightest version of you.
Joy’s rise from single mother of three to the nation’s most celebrated female inventor is truly what dreams are made of. Full of twists and turns, work and love, obstacles encountered and overcome, Inventing Joy is a binge-worthy book in every aspect. Dive in and be swept along for the ride as she relives her incredible and inspiring journey to joy.
But there’s more. Throughout her inspirational rags-to-riches story, Joy points out her very own personal light-bulb moments—lessons that she learned the hard way, and principles she still relies on today. Thoughts and ideas that drive her business, life, and family and are the foundation for her success. These concepts come together in the end to form Joy’s Blueprint, a resource that will help you live your most joyful life—the Blueprint that Joy delivers to the world for the first time. So look inside yourself, grab hold of your dreams, and be brave enough to take that very first step and start your next best chapter. You’ll be in good company with Inventing Joy .
304 pages, Hardcover
Published November 7, 2017
35 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 15, 2018
I've given this 5 stars not because it's great literature, but because it's exactly what it was intended to be: an inspiring self-help book. Joy is such a likable narrator, I began writing a letter to her, which she actually encourages at the end of the book. She's got a great message and the life experience to prove it. I especially recommend it to women, and Moms in particular. Her advice is tailor-made for us.
First, what Joy makes clear about herself is probably true for most Moms: as important as her business and her inventions are to her, her family comes first. To this day, her business employs her parents, her ex-husband, and her now-grown kids. But the years that her kids were growing up coincided with the early years of her business, and she wasn’t afraid to lean on her family to help take care of them. She also involved her kids in the business whenever she could, even when they were little. Sometimes they joined her on business trips, so they got to see new places. Once, she employed her two youngest to unwrap paper-covered drinking straws she was using to construct one of her inventions, and of course, they did it kid-style with spit balls. Involving little kids may not work for every business or creative venture, but it sure beats resenting your kids for cutting into your creative time.
Second, she said she always celebrated small successes, and she involved her kids in those, too. I liked that advice because it dovetailed with another creativity self-help book, The Dip. That book observes that many people embark on all kinds of creative projects with enthusiasm, but it’s a long, hard slog until success, so many people lose steam and get stuck along the way. Joy’s advice to celebrate the small stuff makes the time in the dip more enjoyable, which will help you reach your ultimate goal.
My favorite bit of advice is that just as you should celebrate small gains, you should take small steps toward your goal. You don’t have to take big risks or up-end your life. Most parents are risk averse and can’t up-end their lives anyway, so this particular bit of advice was not just practical but empowering.
Finally, she urged us women to stand up for ourselves. If you’ve seen the movie “Joy,” then you know that one of the manufactures she worked with tried stealing from her. The way she tells it in the book, her being “just a Mom” making household products made them think she’d be easy to take advantage of. But the business world can be cutthroat, and women have to be prepared, even if that means leaning on attorneys for help, just like leaning on family for babysitting. Note that Joy uses the phrase “lean on” as opposed to Sheryl Sandberg’s “lean in.” I’ll get to Sheryl in a future review, as I read her book as a follow-up to this one, but I preferred Joy’s approach. Perhaps even that difference in phrase is part of it. “Leaning on” others may sound needier, but Joy points out that there's no shame in it. Nobody's a superhero. We all need each other.
I highly recommend Joy’s book, even if you’ve already seen the movie. The strength of her message is that she really lived it. By taking small steps toward the creative life you want while simultaneously staying near to the people that you love, your accomplishments might just exceed your dreams.
First, what Joy makes clear about herself is probably true for most Moms: as important as her business and her inventions are to her, her family comes first. To this day, her business employs her parents, her ex-husband, and her now-grown kids. But the years that her kids were growing up coincided with the early years of her business, and she wasn’t afraid to lean on her family to help take care of them. She also involved her kids in the business whenever she could, even when they were little. Sometimes they joined her on business trips, so they got to see new places. Once, she employed her two youngest to unwrap paper-covered drinking straws she was using to construct one of her inventions, and of course, they did it kid-style with spit balls. Involving little kids may not work for every business or creative venture, but it sure beats resenting your kids for cutting into your creative time.
Second, she said she always celebrated small successes, and she involved her kids in those, too. I liked that advice because it dovetailed with another creativity self-help book, The Dip. That book observes that many people embark on all kinds of creative projects with enthusiasm, but it’s a long, hard slog until success, so many people lose steam and get stuck along the way. Joy’s advice to celebrate the small stuff makes the time in the dip more enjoyable, which will help you reach your ultimate goal.
My favorite bit of advice is that just as you should celebrate small gains, you should take small steps toward your goal. You don’t have to take big risks or up-end your life. Most parents are risk averse and can’t up-end their lives anyway, so this particular bit of advice was not just practical but empowering.
Finally, she urged us women to stand up for ourselves. If you’ve seen the movie “Joy,” then you know that one of the manufactures she worked with tried stealing from her. The way she tells it in the book, her being “just a Mom” making household products made them think she’d be easy to take advantage of. But the business world can be cutthroat, and women have to be prepared, even if that means leaning on attorneys for help, just like leaning on family for babysitting. Note that Joy uses the phrase “lean on” as opposed to Sheryl Sandberg’s “lean in.” I’ll get to Sheryl in a future review, as I read her book as a follow-up to this one, but I preferred Joy’s approach. Perhaps even that difference in phrase is part of it. “Leaning on” others may sound needier, but Joy points out that there's no shame in it. Nobody's a superhero. We all need each other.
I highly recommend Joy’s book, even if you’ve already seen the movie. The strength of her message is that she really lived it. By taking small steps toward the creative life you want while simultaneously staying near to the people that you love, your accomplishments might just exceed your dreams.
December 18, 2019
Can’t describe how I love her story as her book and film. It inspires me a lot about my life ( I accidentally watched her movie first and be obsessed with it. It becomes one of my best favorite movie. I even get my name as Joy Kim, you see :))).After that, I accidentally found her book in a second hand store without knowing she published a book. My feeling just get high and so surprised, happy and joyful when I saw it. What a destiny is! Back to her story, I feel the same with her about my idea, my dream, and especially my family. Joy does not give the big secret which people want to hear to get a success. She actually builds a solid foundation and a core value through her journey. She also follows up her dream tightly and always reflect what she is doing with her ethical. Joy never let anything stop her to come to her belief and her idea. I admire the inheritance she gave for her children, and how she connected with them is incredible. She is a warm heart, also an original, creative, brave women who inspires my dream also my heart at the deepest❤️
July 1, 2025
I enjoyed this and found it really interesting to learn more about Joy (I was inspired after seeing Joy the musical).
I didn’t love the blueprints section at the end. It felt like a spark notes version of all the previous chapters and at that point it felt a little more preachy.
I didn’t love the blueprints section at the end. It felt like a spark notes version of all the previous chapters and at that point it felt a little more preachy.
October 20, 2019
Quick, interesting read. Got tired after a while, reading about how amazing and wonderful Joy was. Also was quite surprised that she said that many of her inventions were based off of someone else's invention, and not even patented because she was too late to the game.
June 7, 2023
it was ok, used it for outa my comfort zone prompt, inventor of the mop, lol it seemed like at some point she was not gonna make it then she pulled herself up and poof was back on track again.
December 17, 2017
I loved this book. I listened to it on Audible and would highly recommend that format. It’s great to hear Joy tell her own story. I had seen the movie Joy and was amazed to realize that the “craziest parts of the movie are actually true.” She shares pivotal moments of her life from childhood to current and is able to encapsulate her “light bulb” moments into lessons that she’s learned. She is very positive and upbeat and able to see the value in difficult experience. As one who loves to create and sees how certain products could be improved I found a kindred spirit and it was inspiring to hear how she has accomplished (against great odds at times) her dreams. Great read!
August 11, 2019
I didn't know anything about Joy when I started this book. I vaguely remember the movie title and seeing a preview for it. She has had quite a journey to get where she is today. Although I doubt I will ever use a mop, she really has a way with ordinary objects and creating something new with them.
It was an interesting story, lots of repetition though. You can read the beginning and ending and pretty much know everything about what happened in the middle. Listening to the last 45 minutes or so (The Bluerprint) was just an extremely long summary of everything that had come before.
Joy seems like someone who lives up to her name and really enjoys seeing others succeed too.
It was an interesting story, lots of repetition though. You can read the beginning and ending and pretty much know everything about what happened in the middle. Listening to the last 45 minutes or so (The Bluerprint) was just an extremely long summary of everything that had come before.
Joy seems like someone who lives up to her name and really enjoys seeing others succeed too.
June 15, 2019
From a super early age Joy Mangano has been able to look at things and ask, "Is there a better way" and then actually create a better way. Not everyone has this gift but Joy does. As she grew up and had a family of her own, this gift was sidelined but a divorce and need for income reminded her of her talents. This isn't rags to riches overnight but it is the story of perseverance, commitment, and a strong belief in self.
Joy believed in herself and her abilities so strongly that she wasn't swayed by setbacks and other potential obstacles. That's really inspiring. She had three kids and was raising them alone and yet she kept on, she didn't give up. In a time when women weren't given voice she stood up and used her voice against the no's and against those who tried to take from her what was rightfully hers. She's very down-to-earth and still seems very taken aback by all that has transpired in her life because of her gifts and her belief in herself.
Honestly, I wasn't sure about this title. My Aunt gave it to me along with a bunch of Huggable Hangers (which I LOVE) and a pair of Joy's reinvented reader glasses. (It was a whole package deal.) But I finally picked it up and I'm actually really glad I did. It was an easy read, which I appreciate these days, and it was a really encouraging and inspiring read. For an uplifting and encouraging read I would say pick up this autobiography.
Joy believed in herself and her abilities so strongly that she wasn't swayed by setbacks and other potential obstacles. That's really inspiring. She had three kids and was raising them alone and yet she kept on, she didn't give up. In a time when women weren't given voice she stood up and used her voice against the no's and against those who tried to take from her what was rightfully hers. She's very down-to-earth and still seems very taken aback by all that has transpired in her life because of her gifts and her belief in herself.
Honestly, I wasn't sure about this title. My Aunt gave it to me along with a bunch of Huggable Hangers (which I LOVE) and a pair of Joy's reinvented reader glasses. (It was a whole package deal.) But I finally picked it up and I'm actually really glad I did. It was an easy read, which I appreciate these days, and it was a really encouraging and inspiring read. For an uplifting and encouraging read I would say pick up this autobiography.
December 4, 2017
This is the story of Joy, her background, her first invention, her journey through 30 (?) years of a career as an inventor and salesman. It's a quick read with a very conversational style, and it provides many details of her journey. It's definitely a little sappy which may grate on some readers but the lessons she distills are interesting, some are the usual platitudes found in self-help books and some are new twists. As she does in her infomercials and on the tv shopping channels, Joy comes across as a simply nice person, genuinely interested in people. If she is to be believed, personal integrity is the core of her being, and the value which she preaches most. She talks a lot about values and being very clear about personal values and how they inform a life. She does a great job at the end in summarizing the lessons learned and putting a fine point on them. It was a light, uplifting, and somewhat inspiring book.
June 29, 2023
The book does an excellent job of introducing the author's innovative tools and their potential applications. The ideas presented are thought-provoking and have the potential to make a positive impact on various aspects of life. Learning about the author's motivations and the journey behind the creation of these tools would have added another layer of depth to the book.
It's an inspiring read that introduces valuable tools and ideas. While the focus on family adds a personal touch, it may leave some readers wanting more information about the story of the author's products and the behind-the-scenes aspects. Nevertheless, the book offers an engaging writing style and presents concepts that have the potential to make a positive impact. I would recommend it to individuals seeking inspiration and a fresh perspective on integrating personal and professional aspects of life.
It's an inspiring read that introduces valuable tools and ideas. While the focus on family adds a personal touch, it may leave some readers wanting more information about the story of the author's products and the behind-the-scenes aspects. Nevertheless, the book offers an engaging writing style and presents concepts that have the potential to make a positive impact. I would recommend it to individuals seeking inspiration and a fresh perspective on integrating personal and professional aspects of life.
July 22, 2022
I got to this book through the movie Joy and oh my, thankfully I bought it because I don´t know what would I do wihtout it.
This book is filled with energy, ideas, encouragement and lovely words from the successful Americal inventor. I read it in one day, couple of hours during my travels by train.
When you read this book you just want to create, make life better, be with your family as much as possible and suddenly money somehow doesn´t play a role anymore. It motivatedd me to start thinking about few ideas.
100% recommend this book. Great vibe and you can see that Joy Mangano is really and truly talking from her heart.
This book is filled with energy, ideas, encouragement and lovely words from the successful Americal inventor. I read it in one day, couple of hours during my travels by train.
When you read this book you just want to create, make life better, be with your family as much as possible and suddenly money somehow doesn´t play a role anymore. It motivatedd me to start thinking about few ideas.
100% recommend this book. Great vibe and you can see that Joy Mangano is really and truly talking from her heart.
September 6, 2018
I bought this book at the HSN Outlet store because it was only $1.00, and it came with a pair of Joy's reading glasses, which I love. 😊 I was only going to skim the book, but once I started reading it, I was surprised to find that I was really interested in Joy's life story, the obstacles she overcame, and the story of how her inventions came to be. After finishing the book, I came away with a new-found respect for the lady. She is passionate about her work and her family, while making life a little easier for her customers. It's an upbeat, encouraging book.
November 30, 2017
I received an Advance Uncorrected Proof of this book as Goodreads giveaway. Since I had seen the movie, JOY, I was very familiar with Joy Mangano's life story. The book is a quick read and positive despite the obstacles that she had to overcome to become successful. In the last few pages, Joy outlines her core principles and beliefs plus there are several quotes from famous people. This is an inspirational book and would be a good read for anyone, but especially for would be entrepreneurs.
July 23, 2018
So much adversity in life but if you are committed and determined than you can make it happen somehow. You just need to keep calm and figure out the way, the solution just the way Joy has been doing since she was born...truly inspirational the stories of your life was...really a great read for the people who want to follow unconventional way, who want to create something useful, invent something valuable or solve a problem...great book.
December 12, 2017
I received an ARC and I really enjoyed it! It was highly entertaining (especially that Tony -- what a character!), but was way more inspirational than I was expecting. I was going through a bout of impostor syndrome before I read it, and it gave me some perspective. Wasn't expecting that! I highly recommend for those looking for a good inspirational story.
December 28, 2017
I so admire Joy writing her stories and advice. My mom’s been a big fan all of my life. Huggable Hangers, luggage, and most importantly her pillows have changed my life - thanks mom! I give the stories with some of the encouragement of using your unique creativity a higher rating. I just felt like it got to be a little too much. I’m especially sensitive to the whole work hard for success theme and got a little tired when that kept getting hit at. (Please don’t leave me comments about this. I’m too tired.) I borrowed the audiobook and the kindle book from the library. I enjoyed hearing Joy’s stories in her own voice. Overall, I found the book okay, so two stars?
January 7, 2018
Too much and yet not enough reality
Full of cliches .... cheerleading at the end was too much. Wish she gave credit where it be,I fed, her start and success was launched by her father's girlfriend' money. She did all the hard work of standing it up but without the backing, she'd have sunk
Full of cliches .... cheerleading at the end was too much. Wish she gave credit where it be,I fed, her start and success was launched by her father's girlfriend' money. She did all the hard work of standing it up but without the backing, she'd have sunk
January 9, 2018
I connected to a lot of Joy's story, from being competitive in sports, to making products better with small tweaks, to being a mom and feeling like you have to be perfect and do everything for everyone all the time. I was left wanting more guidance and direction, otherwise I would have given it 5 stars.
April 10, 2018
Joy is a rock star! She read her audio book with such personality that by the end, I felt as If I were her close friend. And her story is immensely inspiring! It was a perfect blend of autobiography and self help. I enjoyed hearing the stories behind what shaped her life and business, and the advice she gives is applicable to anything from your home to your career. Great read!
December 27, 2017
Not my typical read/genre for books, but with all the hype I had heart about Inventing Joy by Joy Mangano, I just had to read it. This was an inspiring read and will certainly help others in some first steps in creating their own.
January 29, 2018
I won a copy of this book.
I saw the movie before I read the book, but still very much enjoyed the book. Mangano comes off as a very genuine person and her personality shines through the pages. Quick, easy, enjoyable read.
I saw the movie before I read the book, but still very much enjoyed the book. Mangano comes off as a very genuine person and her personality shines through the pages. Quick, easy, enjoyable read.
June 16, 2021
A great inspirational read. Joy shares her journey of how she became a successful inventor. She encourages everyone to follow their dreams and never take no for an answer. If you follow your heart and do what you love, you will find joy!
July 15, 2025
3.5 Stars Her Entrepreneurship is admirable and loved to learn about why and how she came up with the product ideas but the storytelling in the beginning was not that interesting. Plus her approach to life "everything is a product" doesn't resonate with me.
January 4, 2018
A great read not just for entrepreneurs but for anyone who needs some uplifting words of advice.
May 11, 2018
The memoir of Joy Mangano the inventor of the Miracle Mop and other various home shopping ideas.
August 2, 2018
I love reading about self-made women- especially Moms. If you are a woman or a Mom who has ever had an idea or a tucked away dream, READ THIS BOOK! It really lit a fire inside me!
August 6, 2018
WOW SHW HAS A LOT OF ENERGY!
September 19, 2018
3.4 out of 5 stars.
Inspirational and entertaining book. Highly recommend listening to the audiobook version of this book that’s read by the author herself, Joy Mangano.
Inspirational and entertaining book. Highly recommend listening to the audiobook version of this book that’s read by the author herself, Joy Mangano.
November 27, 2018
Very easy read. Great for inspiration, especially for entrepreneurs. Loved it. Going to re-watch the movie.
July 28, 2019
Inspirational story of Joy Mangano!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews