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Unstoppable in Stilettos: A Girl's Guide to Living Tall in a Small World
How to Live Large Every Day and Kick Butt Along the Way! How does a girl who was originally predicted to live a wheelchair-bound existence become adventurous, self-assured, successful, and . . . unflappable? Standing 4 feet 2 inches tall in flats (which she would never be caught dead in, anyway), Lauren Ruotolo has spent her thirty-four-ish years seeing the world from a unique angle—upward facing. Lauren was born with McCune-Albright syndrome, a mysterious and rare genetic disease that researchers say occurs in anywhere between 1 in 100,000 and 1 in 1 million people. Some people with the condition tend to go the wheelchair route, but that was never a road Lauren wanted to travel. Her preferred method of transportation, instead, includes stiletto heels. Lauren has avoided the label of 'disabled' through uniquely discovering who she really is, and now you, too, can learn the secrets to living life in a big way. In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Lauren offers you 'Lauren's Lessons,' in which she shares her hard-earned wisdom and life experiences to offer you a unique brand of life philosophies that you can apply to any of the rights of passages you may be experiencing as a Twenty-first Century Woman, With Unstoppable in Stilettos you will have the tools to carve out your own path to self-confidence, success, and individualism . . . and have a blast along the way. Lauren Ruotolo is the director of entertainment promotions at Hearst Magazines in New York City, where she is responsible for developing strategic key partnerships with television and cable networks, music labels, and movie studios. She recently helped produce E!'s Style Network show about the inner workings at Marie Claire fashion magazine and is working on two one-hour specials with Scripps Networks for Esquire and Food Network Magazine . Lauren joined Hearst Magazines from TV Guide magazine, where she was the director of consumer marketing and promotions and created the first-ever newsstand promotion in the United States with a CD on the cover. Ruotolo's first-person essay, 'Get Shorty,' which shared her philosophies on living with the rare genetic disorder McCune-Albright syndrome, was published in Marie Claire magazine in 2009 and was one of the most responded-to articles in the magazine's history. Ruotolo is on the advisory board of GlamourGals Foundation, Inc., Love Our Children USA, and is an active member in the New York chapter of Women in Communications. Visit Lauren on Facebook, follow her on Twitter (Laurenjaenyc), or log on to www.unstoppableinstilettos.com and www.laurenruotolo.com.
- GenresNonfiction
190 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 9, 2021
How I read this: Free ebook copy received through NetGalley
Lauren Ruotolo is a person who deserves tremendous respect - with her challenges, she really did achieve a lot, and her point of view is incredibly positive and strong. She is really very inspiring and seems to be an amazing person.
Despite the fact that most of us haven't suffered such challenges as Lauren has, however, her outlook might not be for everyone. Lauren seems to be an extremely tough person, raised to be such by incredibly supportive parents and hard challenges who made her that way early on, as formative experiences. Those of us who may not have had strong allies as we were forming our personalities, may find it much harder to keep a stiff upper lip as Lauren does through all sorts of hardship, or the will to keep going.
This is why I don't think most of the stuff Lauren lives by is something I can live by myself, unfortunately. I believe a part of that is also because she's American, and the life and work ethic and also what's normal about it in the States is very different from how we think of it in Europe, particularly the Scandinavian work and life balance that's being more and more recognized. While I agree that Lauren has achieved great and truly amazing things, I don't know if that life is for everyone, and I also don't know if every and any kind of personality can just as simply adopt the Polyanna attitude that "nothing will break you", because we are all very different, and we deal with things differently (for example, a lot of the stuff works out for Lauren the way it does is because she's extroverted - it's very different for introverts, and I don't believe there's anything wrong with being an introvert - we should all be who we are). More than that, Lauren was blessed with knowing exactly what she wanted out of life and how she wanted it - and it seems that most of us are not, and that's the primary reason many of us don't do anything 'grand' - and there's nothing wrong with that either. Plain, simple lives have plenty of value too - I don't believe everyone should be some sort of superstar or guru of their industry. That's not how it works. I also don't believe we should all be high achievers. That's the difference between the US and European view. We value quality of life much more than some career achievements. Your life isn't the sum of your jobs.
Lauren also goes on about how important it is to be, and to aim to be unforgettable - but as an introvert, I'm not sure I agree. I don't want to stand out - I can think of nothing worse than always being the center of attention (although my work often calls for me to be that). That's one thing extroverts never understand about introverts, and they mistake quietness and 'preferring to stay behind the scenes' for 'is afraid and is unhappy'. Being unforgettable and the star of the show isn't everyone's ambition, and it's alright if it isn't. Stars need an audience to be stars. Let people be the audience. It doesn't make you inherently 'less valuable' if you'd prefer the stay in the audience.
Despite that, Lauren does give some compassionate, smart advice about how to care less about people who are essentially making your life harder (I especially applaud all she said about dating and your love life! So many things every woman should know, regardless of how she looks or how popular she is, I feel like we all fall for so many of the same things in dating.) There are certainly things you can learn from her experience, and like I said, I have nothing but respect for this amazing person. Her passion for life is quite unbelievable, and very inspiring. I am happy to have read her life story - to be able to see a person make a brilliant life for herself, despite the obstacles, is always really wholesome.
One of my favorite things Lauren teaches about rejection, is this: "Just because someone cannot see the obvious talents you possess doesn't mean they're not there." That is certainly a thing to keep in mind, and I'll leave this review with that vibe.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
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Lauren Ruotolo is a person who deserves tremendous respect - with her challenges, she really did achieve a lot, and her point of view is incredibly positive and strong. She is really very inspiring and seems to be an amazing person.
Despite the fact that most of us haven't suffered such challenges as Lauren has, however, her outlook might not be for everyone. Lauren seems to be an extremely tough person, raised to be such by incredibly supportive parents and hard challenges who made her that way early on, as formative experiences. Those of us who may not have had strong allies as we were forming our personalities, may find it much harder to keep a stiff upper lip as Lauren does through all sorts of hardship, or the will to keep going.
This is why I don't think most of the stuff Lauren lives by is something I can live by myself, unfortunately. I believe a part of that is also because she's American, and the life and work ethic and also what's normal about it in the States is very different from how we think of it in Europe, particularly the Scandinavian work and life balance that's being more and more recognized. While I agree that Lauren has achieved great and truly amazing things, I don't know if that life is for everyone, and I also don't know if every and any kind of personality can just as simply adopt the Polyanna attitude that "nothing will break you", because we are all very different, and we deal with things differently (for example, a lot of the stuff works out for Lauren the way it does is because she's extroverted - it's very different for introverts, and I don't believe there's anything wrong with being an introvert - we should all be who we are). More than that, Lauren was blessed with knowing exactly what she wanted out of life and how she wanted it - and it seems that most of us are not, and that's the primary reason many of us don't do anything 'grand' - and there's nothing wrong with that either. Plain, simple lives have plenty of value too - I don't believe everyone should be some sort of superstar or guru of their industry. That's not how it works. I also don't believe we should all be high achievers. That's the difference between the US and European view. We value quality of life much more than some career achievements. Your life isn't the sum of your jobs.
Lauren also goes on about how important it is to be, and to aim to be unforgettable - but as an introvert, I'm not sure I agree. I don't want to stand out - I can think of nothing worse than always being the center of attention (although my work often calls for me to be that). That's one thing extroverts never understand about introverts, and they mistake quietness and 'preferring to stay behind the scenes' for 'is afraid and is unhappy'. Being unforgettable and the star of the show isn't everyone's ambition, and it's alright if it isn't. Stars need an audience to be stars. Let people be the audience. It doesn't make you inherently 'less valuable' if you'd prefer the stay in the audience.
Despite that, Lauren does give some compassionate, smart advice about how to care less about people who are essentially making your life harder (I especially applaud all she said about dating and your love life! So many things every woman should know, regardless of how she looks or how popular she is, I feel like we all fall for so many of the same things in dating.) There are certainly things you can learn from her experience, and like I said, I have nothing but respect for this amazing person. Her passion for life is quite unbelievable, and very inspiring. I am happy to have read her life story - to be able to see a person make a brilliant life for herself, despite the obstacles, is always really wholesome.
One of my favorite things Lauren teaches about rejection, is this: "Just because someone cannot see the obvious talents you possess doesn't mean they're not there." That is certainly a thing to keep in mind, and I'll leave this review with that vibe.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
November 22, 2010
Title: Unstoppable in Stilettos
Author: Lauren Ruotolo
Pages: 200
Date Published: October 1, 2010
Publisher: Health Communications, Inc.
ISBN: 978-0-7573-1514-5
Genre: Memoir; Self-Help
Source: TLC Book Tours
Rating: 4 out of 5
Publisher Summary: How does a girl who was originally predicted to live a wheelchair-bound existence become adventurous, self-assured, successful, and . . . unflappable? Standing 4 feet 2 inches tall in flats (which she would never be caught dead in, anyway), Lauren Ruotolo has spent her thirty-four-ish years seeing the world from a unique angle—upward facing. Lauren was born with McCune-Albright syndrome, a mysterious and rare genetic disease that researchers say occurs in anywhere between 1 in 100,000 and 1 in 1 million people. Some people with the condition tend to go the wheelchair route, but that was never a road Lauren wanted to travel. Her preferred method of transportation, instead, includes stiletto heels. Lauren has avoided the label of 'disabled' through uniquely discovering who she really is, and now you, too, can learn the secrets to living life in a big way.
In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Lauren offers you 'Lauren's Lessons,' in which she shares her hard-earned wisdom and life experiences to offer you a unique brand of life philosophies that you can apply to any of the rights of passages you may be experiencing as a Twenty-first Century Woman, including:
Navigating social pressures
Avoiding the label game
Overcoming insecurities
Combating career confusion
Turning rejection and obstacles into triumph
Dealing with toxic people
Discovering true self-expression
and so much more.
With Unstoppable in Stilettos you will have the tools to carve out your own path to self-confidence, success, and individualism . . . and have a blast along the way.
My Thoughts: Lauren Ruotolo's Unstoppable in Stilettos is an inspirational combination memoir and self help book. Throughout she gives very good, helpful and practical advice which comes from her experiences in life. Ms. Ruotolo's would be called accomplished even if she wasn't disabled, and the obstacles she is continually overcoming are substantial and nothing to be scoffed at. I should know. I have the very same rare bone disease as Ms. Ruotolo, namely, McCune-Albright's Syndrome. It's this commonality that gives me a somewhat unique perspective when reviewing this book.
I have great admiration for all that Lauren has done, "making it" in her chosen field of entertainment. Her charismatic attitude is an "in your face" tsunami. She refuses to be put down or held back. The fact that she doesn't care if people are put off by her demeanor and determination is a big part of her charm and an even bigger reason for her successes. From a young age, Ms. Ruotolo was determined not to be labeled as disabled and to not "give in" to the disease. She shunned a wheelchair despite the advice of doctors, who were advocating a policy of "better safe than sorry". She worked with a physical therapist to strengthen her muscles in the hopes this would help her bones. Her parents supported her and helped her make these difficult choices which turned out for the best. Ms. Ruotolo learned from her mom and dad to question doctors, to stand up for herself when someone said she couldn't do something and most important of all, to persevere.
Although our lives have taken divergent paths, I can relate to many of the challenges Ms. Ruotolo faced to get where she is. McCune-Albright's is extremely rare as Ms. Ruotolo explains. Currently, very little is known about it. Even less thirty years ago, making treatment a guessing game for doctors. The disease varies greatly person to person and, combined with its rarity (according to wrongdiagnosis.com, there are less than two hundred thousand known cases in the U.S.) the result has been researchers and pharmaceutical companies have little interest in the disease. Like Ms. Ruotolo, I feel the stares of people on the streets. I experienced the hardships of getting a job and I've known the prejudices of ignorant adults (children, interestingly, are rarely a problem!) that come with this particularly complicated disease. It would only be natural that I found the memoir aspect of Unstoppable in Stilettos fascinating, having known only a few people with McCune-Albrights, and enjoyed reading about Lauren Ms. Ruotolo's "big" life. And, if I'm honest and try to remove my personal connection with the author, I think most people would feel that sense of interest and shared triumph reading about her life. In other words, you don't have to be disabled to enjoy the book and connect with Lauren's overcoming obstacle after obstacle.
Unforgettable in Stilettos is filled with interesting, entertaining anecdotes and plenty of helpful advice. Ms. Ruotolo's experiences in life and the obstacles she's faced have taught her many optimal lessons about living life that she wants to pass on to others. She offers great advice on a variety of situations most of us encounter. The chapters "Naysayers and Non-Doers and Why I Don't Associate With Them" and "Pay Your Dues" provide several key points about finding the right job and excelling in your career. "Coupla Things About Coupling" discusses coping with the pitfalls of dating and how to learn to love yourself first. Though Ms. Ruotolo doesn't say so, I think it's important to note that although her obstacles are numerous and major, they are no more important than the challenges others confront. In other words, the degree of difficulty anyone faces is relative to them. Whether you are facing the loss of a job, a break-up or life-threatening surgery, Ms. Ruotolo's positive points are applicable and very helpful.
Ms. Ruotolo's voice is positive and upbeat throughout the book. But I had some difficulty with her writing style. It's a bit choppy and opaque at times, making it hard to follow or understand points she's trying to convey at various places in the book. Take this sentence, for example: "Too many women get so caught up in the self-examination/self-hatred game that they don't look good for the things that do fit them well and compliment them in every way." At times it seems as if Ms. Ruotolo is so excited to offer guidance on living life the best way possible that her words become jumbled and her ideas somewhat confusing. Nevertheless, her energy is infectious and she shares some invaluable lessons.
I also found Ms. Ruotolo's advice hampered by two kinds of contradictions throughout the book which often left me confused. The first kind are specific examples. Ms. Ruotolo talks about "identifying someone as 'something' or placing them in a group category that reeks of judgment and hypocrisy", but then, in at least two instances, she herself is guilty of applying labels to others. One is in connection with a doctor whom she labels based solely on his looks: she's waiting to meet a top neurosurgeon when a young, small, black man dressed in scrubs comes to talk to her and her mother. Ms. Ruotolo, expecting someone more like Brad Pitt riding in on a stallion, thinks the young, small black man is an intern. But he is the top neurosurgeon.. Another is regarding a man with a limp who approaches and speaks to Ms. Ruotolo as she's walking with friends while on vacation in St. Lucia. Ms. Ruotolo calls him "homeless", which is every bit as much a label as "disabled"
The second kind is a contradiction that pervades the whole book. In the introduction, Ms. Ruotolo claims she is not pretending to be an expert on how to live. However, in countless instances she claims she "knows she's being a role model" while authoritatively dispensing advice in and at the end of every chapter. I found this lack of self awareness unsettling and it tends to undermine her integrity.
Ms. Ruotolo wants people to see and remember her for her personality and her shining inner qualities and not because she is a disabled, short girl with a big voice. I feel safe in saying we can all understand and relate to this. (I know I can!) But I was a little disappointed that she seemed so anxious to dismiss or 'hide" that she is handicapped with McCune-Albright's Syndrome. Hence the insistence on wearing heels and shunning a wheelchair, health consequences and comfort be damned. To me, it's a difference to be celebrated. I've had too many days when "why me?" went through my head. But I am who I am and have accomplished what I have in good part because of the McCune-Albright's Syndrome. It's obvious to whoever reads this book that fighting and conquering the obstacles that stood in her way made her who she is today! There is no shame in being disabled. Ms. Ruotolo's on the board of at least three charitable organizations that support girls and women, which is admirable and important, of course, and I'm sure time consuming. But, I hope the day comes when Ms. Ruotolo finds a way to apply her intelligence, personality and fight in support of the disabled as well. This book could have done that. There are only two instances where she begrudgingly acknowledges that her disease has played some role in helping to shape who she is. For the most part, however, she chooses to look at her success as something she's accomplished in spite of her disability, perhaps sending a mixed message to the physically challenged.
In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Ms. Ruotolo offers up inspiration and helpful advice along with an engrossing story. Although the writing in this fascinating book doesn't always flow smoothly, it's a small price to pay for the victories you get to share with the author. I think the advice and guidance provided in this book would be best suited for younger people, especially women, just starting out. But that doesn't mean one should discount the life lessons this soldier of adversity has gleaned in her amazing years so far. Even if Ms. Ruotolo's advice isn't for everyone, her infectious personality and charismatic attitude along with her amazing story make this a book for everyone!
I received a copy of Unstoppable in Stilettos through Lisa at TLC Book Tours.
Author: Lauren Ruotolo
Pages: 200
Date Published: October 1, 2010
Publisher: Health Communications, Inc.
ISBN: 978-0-7573-1514-5
Genre: Memoir; Self-Help
Source: TLC Book Tours
Rating: 4 out of 5
Publisher Summary: How does a girl who was originally predicted to live a wheelchair-bound existence become adventurous, self-assured, successful, and . . . unflappable? Standing 4 feet 2 inches tall in flats (which she would never be caught dead in, anyway), Lauren Ruotolo has spent her thirty-four-ish years seeing the world from a unique angle—upward facing. Lauren was born with McCune-Albright syndrome, a mysterious and rare genetic disease that researchers say occurs in anywhere between 1 in 100,000 and 1 in 1 million people. Some people with the condition tend to go the wheelchair route, but that was never a road Lauren wanted to travel. Her preferred method of transportation, instead, includes stiletto heels. Lauren has avoided the label of 'disabled' through uniquely discovering who she really is, and now you, too, can learn the secrets to living life in a big way.
In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Lauren offers you 'Lauren's Lessons,' in which she shares her hard-earned wisdom and life experiences to offer you a unique brand of life philosophies that you can apply to any of the rights of passages you may be experiencing as a Twenty-first Century Woman, including:
Navigating social pressures
Avoiding the label game
Overcoming insecurities
Combating career confusion
Turning rejection and obstacles into triumph
Dealing with toxic people
Discovering true self-expression
and so much more.
With Unstoppable in Stilettos you will have the tools to carve out your own path to self-confidence, success, and individualism . . . and have a blast along the way.
My Thoughts: Lauren Ruotolo's Unstoppable in Stilettos is an inspirational combination memoir and self help book. Throughout she gives very good, helpful and practical advice which comes from her experiences in life. Ms. Ruotolo's would be called accomplished even if she wasn't disabled, and the obstacles she is continually overcoming are substantial and nothing to be scoffed at. I should know. I have the very same rare bone disease as Ms. Ruotolo, namely, McCune-Albright's Syndrome. It's this commonality that gives me a somewhat unique perspective when reviewing this book.
I have great admiration for all that Lauren has done, "making it" in her chosen field of entertainment. Her charismatic attitude is an "in your face" tsunami. She refuses to be put down or held back. The fact that she doesn't care if people are put off by her demeanor and determination is a big part of her charm and an even bigger reason for her successes. From a young age, Ms. Ruotolo was determined not to be labeled as disabled and to not "give in" to the disease. She shunned a wheelchair despite the advice of doctors, who were advocating a policy of "better safe than sorry". She worked with a physical therapist to strengthen her muscles in the hopes this would help her bones. Her parents supported her and helped her make these difficult choices which turned out for the best. Ms. Ruotolo learned from her mom and dad to question doctors, to stand up for herself when someone said she couldn't do something and most important of all, to persevere.
Although our lives have taken divergent paths, I can relate to many of the challenges Ms. Ruotolo faced to get where she is. McCune-Albright's is extremely rare as Ms. Ruotolo explains. Currently, very little is known about it. Even less thirty years ago, making treatment a guessing game for doctors. The disease varies greatly person to person and, combined with its rarity (according to wrongdiagnosis.com, there are less than two hundred thousand known cases in the U.S.) the result has been researchers and pharmaceutical companies have little interest in the disease. Like Ms. Ruotolo, I feel the stares of people on the streets. I experienced the hardships of getting a job and I've known the prejudices of ignorant adults (children, interestingly, are rarely a problem!) that come with this particularly complicated disease. It would only be natural that I found the memoir aspect of Unstoppable in Stilettos fascinating, having known only a few people with McCune-Albrights, and enjoyed reading about Lauren Ms. Ruotolo's "big" life. And, if I'm honest and try to remove my personal connection with the author, I think most people would feel that sense of interest and shared triumph reading about her life. In other words, you don't have to be disabled to enjoy the book and connect with Lauren's overcoming obstacle after obstacle.
Unforgettable in Stilettos is filled with interesting, entertaining anecdotes and plenty of helpful advice. Ms. Ruotolo's experiences in life and the obstacles she's faced have taught her many optimal lessons about living life that she wants to pass on to others. She offers great advice on a variety of situations most of us encounter. The chapters "Naysayers and Non-Doers and Why I Don't Associate With Them" and "Pay Your Dues" provide several key points about finding the right job and excelling in your career. "Coupla Things About Coupling" discusses coping with the pitfalls of dating and how to learn to love yourself first. Though Ms. Ruotolo doesn't say so, I think it's important to note that although her obstacles are numerous and major, they are no more important than the challenges others confront. In other words, the degree of difficulty anyone faces is relative to them. Whether you are facing the loss of a job, a break-up or life-threatening surgery, Ms. Ruotolo's positive points are applicable and very helpful.
Ms. Ruotolo's voice is positive and upbeat throughout the book. But I had some difficulty with her writing style. It's a bit choppy and opaque at times, making it hard to follow or understand points she's trying to convey at various places in the book. Take this sentence, for example: "Too many women get so caught up in the self-examination/self-hatred game that they don't look good for the things that do fit them well and compliment them in every way." At times it seems as if Ms. Ruotolo is so excited to offer guidance on living life the best way possible that her words become jumbled and her ideas somewhat confusing. Nevertheless, her energy is infectious and she shares some invaluable lessons.
I also found Ms. Ruotolo's advice hampered by two kinds of contradictions throughout the book which often left me confused. The first kind are specific examples. Ms. Ruotolo talks about "identifying someone as 'something' or placing them in a group category that reeks of judgment and hypocrisy", but then, in at least two instances, she herself is guilty of applying labels to others. One is in connection with a doctor whom she labels based solely on his looks: she's waiting to meet a top neurosurgeon when a young, small, black man dressed in scrubs comes to talk to her and her mother. Ms. Ruotolo, expecting someone more like Brad Pitt riding in on a stallion, thinks the young, small black man is an intern. But he is the top neurosurgeon.. Another is regarding a man with a limp who approaches and speaks to Ms. Ruotolo as she's walking with friends while on vacation in St. Lucia. Ms. Ruotolo calls him "homeless", which is every bit as much a label as "disabled"
The second kind is a contradiction that pervades the whole book. In the introduction, Ms. Ruotolo claims she is not pretending to be an expert on how to live. However, in countless instances she claims she "knows she's being a role model" while authoritatively dispensing advice in and at the end of every chapter. I found this lack of self awareness unsettling and it tends to undermine her integrity.
Ms. Ruotolo wants people to see and remember her for her personality and her shining inner qualities and not because she is a disabled, short girl with a big voice. I feel safe in saying we can all understand and relate to this. (I know I can!) But I was a little disappointed that she seemed so anxious to dismiss or 'hide" that she is handicapped with McCune-Albright's Syndrome. Hence the insistence on wearing heels and shunning a wheelchair, health consequences and comfort be damned. To me, it's a difference to be celebrated. I've had too many days when "why me?" went through my head. But I am who I am and have accomplished what I have in good part because of the McCune-Albright's Syndrome. It's obvious to whoever reads this book that fighting and conquering the obstacles that stood in her way made her who she is today! There is no shame in being disabled. Ms. Ruotolo's on the board of at least three charitable organizations that support girls and women, which is admirable and important, of course, and I'm sure time consuming. But, I hope the day comes when Ms. Ruotolo finds a way to apply her intelligence, personality and fight in support of the disabled as well. This book could have done that. There are only two instances where she begrudgingly acknowledges that her disease has played some role in helping to shape who she is. For the most part, however, she chooses to look at her success as something she's accomplished in spite of her disability, perhaps sending a mixed message to the physically challenged.
In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Ms. Ruotolo offers up inspiration and helpful advice along with an engrossing story. Although the writing in this fascinating book doesn't always flow smoothly, it's a small price to pay for the victories you get to share with the author. I think the advice and guidance provided in this book would be best suited for younger people, especially women, just starting out. But that doesn't mean one should discount the life lessons this soldier of adversity has gleaned in her amazing years so far. Even if Ms. Ruotolo's advice isn't for everyone, her infectious personality and charismatic attitude along with her amazing story make this a book for everyone!
I received a copy of Unstoppable in Stilettos through Lisa at TLC Book Tours.
January 18, 2021
Unstoppable in Stilettos
A Girl's Guide to Living Tall in a Small World
by Lauren Ruotolo
BooksGoSocial
Biographies & Memoirs | Entertainment
Pub Date 05 Dec 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Unstoppable in Stiletto’s through BooksGoSocial and Netgalley:
Despite having a rare condition called McCune-Albright syndrome that doctors said would mean she would spend her life in a wheelchair Lauren had other plans, she was going to be confident and successful. Lauren refused to live the life the doctors had set out before her and instead she decided to flip the script. She ditched the wheelchair for her preferred method of transportation: stilettos. She threw out the “disabled” label in favor of authentic self-discovery. And she turned her small stature into a big, beautiful life full of love, joy and success.
In this book Lauren reminds us that as people we are not meant to fit into labels, labels are best reserved for clothing, and products.
Lauren talks about the lessons she has learned on this journey, and about how she has learned to live large despite life’s obstacles. From her unique, upward-facing vantage point, she shares tips, secrets and hard-earned wisdom.
If you are a woman who is wanting to take on today’s hectic world, and find success Lauren’s fun, offbeat life philosophies will give you the tools you need to carve your own unique path to self-confidence, happiness, and success—no matter what obstacles you face, and you’ll have a great time along the way!
I give Unstoppable in Stilettos five out of five stars!
Happy Birthday!
May 1, 2020
The picture of success is on the cover of this enthusiastic and positive memoir. Lauren Tuotolo is our “guide to living tall in a small world.” She has an exciting career at the peak of entertainment PR, and yes, she’s only 4’2”. A small part of her story is that she has a rare genetic disease. The tall part of her tale is she strapped on her stilettos and created an exciting life- and she’s sharing her wisdom and skills with us.
In each chapter of this upbeat and snappy book, the author begins with Lauren’s Lesson and then uses her life to show us how it’s done. Get ready for the “top ten things I find unforgettable”, “refuse to be anyone but yourself”, and “the road might be tough, but that’s no excuse for sitting on the curb.” What’s the most important thing you can do for yourself? Her answer- “love yourself”. Now, Ms. Tuotolo began to figure this all out when she was five!
What a great book to give yourself. You will enjoy the author’s stories and her energy! Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a review copy. This is my honest review.
In each chapter of this upbeat and snappy book, the author begins with Lauren’s Lesson and then uses her life to show us how it’s done. Get ready for the “top ten things I find unforgettable”, “refuse to be anyone but yourself”, and “the road might be tough, but that’s no excuse for sitting on the curb.” What’s the most important thing you can do for yourself? Her answer- “love yourself”. Now, Ms. Tuotolo began to figure this all out when she was five!
What a great book to give yourself. You will enjoy the author’s stories and her energy! Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a review copy. This is my honest review.
July 17, 2022
As an individual diagnosed with Fibrous Dysplasia/MAS, it was very special to read this book written by Lauren Ruotolo. It is very heartwarming to read a motivational book from the viewpoint of someone with the same rare disease I have and that added greatly to my enjoyment of this book. Lauren is inspiring and her positive outlook in life is something I really admire. This book is filled with many helpful concepts of how to approach life and to be authentically yourself, it is a testament to Lauren’s positive nature that she has created this book to help others find their own voice and personal sense of self. Thank you for writing this and for helping to raise awareness for FD/MAS.
May 30, 2020
This book feels like sitting down for coffee with your best friend. It’s warm and comforting and funny and sad all wrapped into one and full of wit and wisdom that can only come from someone who has grown up with struggles that have never held her back. As she says herself she does not ever accept the word no and that’s how this book feels. It’s open and honest and has put a smile on my face I only wish I could walk in stilettos but I’m unsteady enough on my feet without adding to the issue lol (sorry Lauren).
September 14, 2020
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the gifted copy, all thoughts are my own
I thought it sounded interesting. She has a very upbeat and positive attitude which is great, the tone is very conversational so it's like talking with an old friend but the content or advice felt like it could have come from anyone.
⭐⭐⭐
I thought it sounded interesting. She has a very upbeat and positive attitude which is great, the tone is very conversational so it's like talking with an old friend but the content or advice felt like it could have come from anyone.
⭐⭐⭐
June 29, 2019
I truly give all respect to author but, did nor find inspiration.
April 23, 2020
OK. Maybe I've read too many "I kick butt and you can too!" motivational books. I admire her determination and her attitude and how she's managed to make a career in an extremely cutthroat industry.
Read
May 9, 2020DNF
Wasn't my type of book, but thanks to Netgalley for offering me a free ARC anyway.
Wasn't my type of book, but thanks to Netgalley for offering me a free ARC anyway.
Read
November 6, 2010Unstoppable in Stilettos: A Girl's Guide to Living Tall in a Small World is a memoir meets self-help book by Lauren Ruotolo. Ruotolo was born with an extremely rare (1 in 100,000 to 1 in 1 million) and mysterious disease called McCune-Albright syndrome which causes her to have short legs, hormonal imbalances, and easily breakable bones. For this reason Ruotolo had started her period at nine months and broken her hips 4 times by the time she was eight years old. Despite these setbacks, she refused to live life from a wheelchair and instead manages each day using her own method of transportation- stiletto heels and crutches. Not only do the heels add to her 4 feet 2 inches, but they also happen to look fabulous. All throughout her life, Ruotolo has never been one who lets other people tell her what she's capable of, so when she has thirty job interviews without being hired (possibly because potential employers think she'll need special medical insurance or benefits), what does she do but go on a thirty first which turns out to the lucky one.
In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Ruotolo uses her own life as an example for her positive philosophy, which focuses on a woman having self-confidence and surrounding herself with positive influences. Ruotolo refuses to conform to other peoples labels for her and she shows the reader why they don't have to either. You may not have a genetic medical condition standing in your way, but everyone has barriers, and this book contains eight steps for helping to get past them. What makes Unstoppable in Stilettos sparkle is Ruotolo's fun voice, even though I'm not at all into fashion but I still enjoyed what she had to say. I appreciated that although Ruotolo preaches confidence, she admits that nobody is ever going to be 100% happy with their body- sure, she doesn't like her hips which have been deformed because they have broken so many times, but instead she shows off parts of her body she does like. The main theme in Unstoppable in Stilettos is about focusing on the positive, because although nobody's life is perfect, there is always something good and it's something I took to heart when writing this review by also focusing on the good stuff. Unstoppable in Stilettos isn't a perfect book, but overall Ruotolo offers a positive message that certainly can't hurt to be reminded of.
In Unstoppable in Stilettos, Ruotolo uses her own life as an example for her positive philosophy, which focuses on a woman having self-confidence and surrounding herself with positive influences. Ruotolo refuses to conform to other peoples labels for her and she shows the reader why they don't have to either. You may not have a genetic medical condition standing in your way, but everyone has barriers, and this book contains eight steps for helping to get past them. What makes Unstoppable in Stilettos sparkle is Ruotolo's fun voice, even though I'm not at all into fashion but I still enjoyed what she had to say. I appreciated that although Ruotolo preaches confidence, she admits that nobody is ever going to be 100% happy with their body- sure, she doesn't like her hips which have been deformed because they have broken so many times, but instead she shows off parts of her body she does like. The main theme in Unstoppable in Stilettos is about focusing on the positive, because although nobody's life is perfect, there is always something good and it's something I took to heart when writing this review by also focusing on the good stuff. Unstoppable in Stilettos isn't a perfect book, but overall Ruotolo offers a positive message that certainly can't hurt to be reminded of.
March 1, 2012
Lauren Ruotolo has the rare genetic disorder McCune-Albright syndrome, which has left her with fragile bones and kept her from growing any taller than 4’'2”". However, it'’s had no detrimental effects on her intellect and personality. Her determination not to see herself as “disabled” - or for anyone else to view her in that light either - has brought her into her mid-thirties with a successful career in her chosen field, a prosperous lifestyle, and an eagerness to share what a challenging life has taught her.
Unstoppable in Stilettos is a fast, breezy read, written very conversationally. It's author’s voice comes through strongly. At times, she came on just a bit too strong for me, actually, but she seems pretty self-aware about her bold personality, because it’'s what she’s chosen to develop. Lauren'’s condition was diagnosed when she was a small child, and she was fortunate to have parents who advocated for her and supported her drive not to get special treatment because of it. She came across to me as fiercely positive, but not without a willingness to be introspective, and she has some fun and interesting stories to tell.
I would have liked to know more specifics about Lauren'’s condition itself and how it’s affected her, but perhaps because she has chosen not to dwell on it or let it limit her, she really doesn'’t talk about it much beyond the basics. The “life lessons” she shares struck me as pretty basic too, but that’s probably because I’'m older than what I perceive as the intended audience for them (and I admit to a bias against prescriptive advice books).
Aside from the self-help aspects, I found this a pretty enjoyable read. Lauren Ruotolo tells her story in an engaging and open manner, and I liked getting to know her.
Unstoppable in Stilettos is a fast, breezy read, written very conversationally. It's author’s voice comes through strongly. At times, she came on just a bit too strong for me, actually, but she seems pretty self-aware about her bold personality, because it’'s what she’s chosen to develop. Lauren'’s condition was diagnosed when she was a small child, and she was fortunate to have parents who advocated for her and supported her drive not to get special treatment because of it. She came across to me as fiercely positive, but not without a willingness to be introspective, and she has some fun and interesting stories to tell.
I would have liked to know more specifics about Lauren'’s condition itself and how it’s affected her, but perhaps because she has chosen not to dwell on it or let it limit her, she really doesn'’t talk about it much beyond the basics. The “life lessons” she shares struck me as pretty basic too, but that’s probably because I’'m older than what I perceive as the intended audience for them (and I admit to a bias against prescriptive advice books).
Aside from the self-help aspects, I found this a pretty enjoyable read. Lauren Ruotolo tells her story in an engaging and open manner, and I liked getting to know her.
Read
April 24, 2014Unstoppable in Stilettos: A Girl's Guide to Living Tall in a Small World
By: Lauren Ruotolo
Lauren Ruotolo humbly inspires readers in her Unstoppable in Stilettos: A Girl's Guide to Living Tall in a Small World to metamorphose themselves for the better with her lessons. She amazingly lets you empathize with her although she lives a completely different life than most. Lauren lives a life with McCune-Albright syndrome; a disease that only 1 in 100,000 and 1 in 1 million people are diagnosed with. She humorously titled her book “Unstoppable in Stilettos”, not only for her love of fashion, but because she uses her virtues/tools as her stilettos in life to ultimately become successful and most definitely unstoppable from any genetic disorder.
Lauren describes what she has experienced from diagnosis, to her career, to her love-life. As someone who lives with McCune-Albright syndrome, Lauren Ruotolo learns to never allow herself to be a victim of her height. Although, Ruotolo worked hard, she was rejected from jobs because employers believed she would need special treatment and “special health insurance”. Eventually, she would find solutions to her conflicts and Lauren shares her accomplishments as consequences of her positivity.
“Unstoppable in Stilettos is an entertaining book that benefits the reader through universal life lessons. Lauren Ruotolo clearly speaks to the reader via humor and her bright personality and always keeps the reader interested in each of her lessons.
I feel that any female could relate and gain something from this book. Lauren Ruotolo had me laughing throughout her book, and I’m sure will have you too!
By: Lauren Ruotolo
Lauren Ruotolo humbly inspires readers in her Unstoppable in Stilettos: A Girl's Guide to Living Tall in a Small World to metamorphose themselves for the better with her lessons. She amazingly lets you empathize with her although she lives a completely different life than most. Lauren lives a life with McCune-Albright syndrome; a disease that only 1 in 100,000 and 1 in 1 million people are diagnosed with. She humorously titled her book “Unstoppable in Stilettos”, not only for her love of fashion, but because she uses her virtues/tools as her stilettos in life to ultimately become successful and most definitely unstoppable from any genetic disorder.
Lauren describes what she has experienced from diagnosis, to her career, to her love-life. As someone who lives with McCune-Albright syndrome, Lauren Ruotolo learns to never allow herself to be a victim of her height. Although, Ruotolo worked hard, she was rejected from jobs because employers believed she would need special treatment and “special health insurance”. Eventually, she would find solutions to her conflicts and Lauren shares her accomplishments as consequences of her positivity.
“Unstoppable in Stilettos is an entertaining book that benefits the reader through universal life lessons. Lauren Ruotolo clearly speaks to the reader via humor and her bright personality and always keeps the reader interested in each of her lessons.
I feel that any female could relate and gain something from this book. Lauren Ruotolo had me laughing throughout her book, and I’m sure will have you too!
December 23, 2010
Unstoppable in Stilettos is the tale of Lauren Ruotolo with some self-help tips thrown in. Ruotolo’s life is inspiring. Her stories are unbelievable, but I failed to be moved by the whole book in general.
Each chapter is centered around an all encompassing lesson. Unstoppable is geared to relate to all female readers, and the surface level this is probably true. For example, Lauren discusses avoiding labels, naysayers, and paying your dues. All good lessons. All applicable to everyone. I liked Lauren’s voice. She is very personable, and her tone throughout the book was beyond likable. The problem become the advice. Although I am sure these maxims have allowed Lauren to overcome huge obstacles, I found them trite and cliche. I was sure I had heard them somewhere before, and I wasn’t that motivated to hear them again.
Her stories are amazing, and I couldn’t help but admire her hard work and dedication. I just didn’t feel the same way about her advice though. I was looking for something more original than I felt I got in Unstoppable. I do, however, think that Lauren has an excellent writing style, and it is probably true that this book just wasn’t for me.
Each chapter is centered around an all encompassing lesson. Unstoppable is geared to relate to all female readers, and the surface level this is probably true. For example, Lauren discusses avoiding labels, naysayers, and paying your dues. All good lessons. All applicable to everyone. I liked Lauren’s voice. She is very personable, and her tone throughout the book was beyond likable. The problem become the advice. Although I am sure these maxims have allowed Lauren to overcome huge obstacles, I found them trite and cliche. I was sure I had heard them somewhere before, and I wasn’t that motivated to hear them again.
Her stories are amazing, and I couldn’t help but admire her hard work and dedication. I just didn’t feel the same way about her advice though. I was looking for something more original than I felt I got in Unstoppable. I do, however, think that Lauren has an excellent writing style, and it is probably true that this book just wasn’t for me.
March 8, 2011
What does one do when stuck in a bookstore with the snow coming down in torrents (yes, snow, not rain)and not properly clothed (wearing her favorite suede moccasins that are not slush-proof) nor in the right mindset to tackle the snow, she picks a book that is completely not her type of book, but is pulled in by the title, and then finds herself gobbling it up in an hour or so. Who can explain it? I can't. Sigh.
I did learn some things from this very small author, 4 ft 2 in, affected by McCune-Albright Disease, but a very larger-than-life character who has climbed over, burst through and broken down some mighty big walls of obstacles that most of us will never have to even consider in our lifetime. I'm glad I read it. She has some cajones. Perhaps because of it I will have become just slightly more (is there a nice word for ballsie?, if there is I don't know it, certainly not that fits here) dot dot dot.
I did learn some things from this very small author, 4 ft 2 in, affected by McCune-Albright Disease, but a very larger-than-life character who has climbed over, burst through and broken down some mighty big walls of obstacles that most of us will never have to even consider in our lifetime. I'm glad I read it. She has some cajones. Perhaps because of it I will have become just slightly more (is there a nice word for ballsie?, if there is I don't know it, certainly not that fits here) dot dot dot.
January 7, 2013
I do not wear stilettos. A two inch heel? Sure, if it is a decent diameter. Walk down all the steps of the Greek Colosseum in them? Not on your life. Not the case for Lauren Ruotolo. Not only does she sport spikey high stilettos, she is tromping about the Greek Colosseum in them … on crutches! Unstoppable in Stilettos is the name of her book, and she is definitely that.
I love Lauren’s writing style. It’s conversational, but she does not pull any punches. She has a been there, done that, bought the t-shirt, let’s move on attitude, and she expects the same from us. That’s my type of gal. Acknowledge the challenge then for goodness sake do something about it.
Unstoppable in Stilettos is refreshing and funny. And it is to the point. No fluffy stuff. Lauren makes every word count.
To read the full review visit http://silverandgrace.com/book-review...
I love Lauren’s writing style. It’s conversational, but she does not pull any punches. She has a been there, done that, bought the t-shirt, let’s move on attitude, and she expects the same from us. That’s my type of gal. Acknowledge the challenge then for goodness sake do something about it.
Unstoppable in Stilettos is refreshing and funny. And it is to the point. No fluffy stuff. Lauren makes every word count.
To read the full review visit http://silverandgrace.com/book-review...
March 12, 2010
I already knew that Lauren was an amazing woman, but was even more inspired after reading this book. Something like this could have not come at a better time for me and I wholeheartedly recommend it to all of my goodreads gals!
I also posted an amazon review! http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/...
I also posted an amazon review! http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/...
November 26, 2010
I did not receive this book in time to do a proper review but it can be viewed here.
I was able to finally read this memoir and truly enjoyed it.
I was able to finally read this memoir and truly enjoyed it.
April 23, 2011
This was an interesting look at someone with a disability that she doesn't let stop her. I'm not sure I agree with a lot of her career philosophies but she has had success so it must be working for her. I share her love of shoes and accessories so I really enjoyed how she tied these in.
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