What I'm Reading Wedensday {The Magnolia Story}

Hey y'all,

One thing I really hope to get back to this year is sharing the books I read. I love reading and I do get asked for recommendations a lot in my personal life (it might be due to being in a book club or the fact that I spent four years of college reading in order to complete a BA in English Literature). My goal this year is to read at least 50 books and post at least two book reviews a month here to share the books I loved and the ones I think you could skip. So, lets start with my latest read:

The premise:

Are you ready to see your fixer upper?

These famous words are now synonymous with the dynamic husband-and-wife team Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of HGTV’s Fixer Upper. As this question fills the airwaves with anticipation, their legions of fans continue to multiply and ask a different series of questions, like—Who are these people?What’s the secret to their success? And is Chip actually that funny in real life? By renovating homes in Waco, Texas, and changing lives in such a winsome and engaging way, Chip and Joanna have become more than just the stars of Fixer Upper, they have become America’s new best friends.

The Magnolia Story is the first book from Chip and Joanna, offering their fans a detailed look at their life together. From the very first renovation project they ever tackled together, to the project that nearly cost them everything; from the childhood memories that shaped them, to the twists and turns that led them to the life they share on the farm today.

They both attended Baylor University in Waco. However, their paths did not cross until Chip checked his car into the local Firestone tire shop where Joanna worked behind the counter. Even back then Chip was a serial entrepreneur who, among other things, ran a lawn care company, sold fireworks, and flipped houses. Soon they were married and living in their first fixer upper. Four children and countless renovations later, Joanna garners the attention of a television producer who notices her work on a blog one day.

My Thoughts:

I actually didn't read this book but instead enjoyed the audio book on my work commute (about 25 minutes each way). I really recommend getting the audio book version from your local library or Audible since Chip and Joanna read the book and it feels like you are sitting with them as they share their story. I loved hearing the meaning behind Magnolia, the first homes they renovated, how they met at the Firestone shop, and their background before the cameras came around. I thought it was a fun and mostly lighthearted book that put me in a great mood. Yes, Chip and Jo have struggled but they have such a wonderful attitude and reliance on the Lords provision. It was a quick read at only 5 hours so I would say enjoy this book at the beach or driving to and from work!

Have you read The Magnolia Story?

Are you a fan of Fixer Upper?
What book should I pick up next at the library?

Best,