Surprising Content

(If you know the artist, please let me know how to attribute this beautiful piece.)

I'm a podcast and audiobook junkie.  There, I said it.  My playlist/library includes various selections and subject matter, but I must confess that - by vast majority - it's mostly wellness related.  Blame it on my upbringing where self-help books were among the few volumes of books that inhabited my childhood home - it was those books and the Funk & Wagnall Encyclopedia set.  

Now, not only do folks rarely seek out paper encyclopedias for information, but many of us hardly read anything paper-bound at all.  I even take my tablet to church with me and utilize apps on that device rather than carry my beloved paper Bible along.  The popularity of digital media is undeniable.  I'd be willing to bet you have a digital reading app on your smartphone, and that you've listened to at least one podcast.

One source of audible digital media is, well, Audible.  My current listening fodder is a book I've gifted a couple of ladies and decided I'd better familiarize myself with should they begin discussing it.  You've likely heard of it by now:  

It's not at all what I thought it was, even when I gave it to a couple friends...  It's a memoir packed with edifying candor that exposes the author while it encourages the reader/listener. To my bemused delight, Girl, Wash Your Face isn't one of those sappy self-care, stuff-you'll-never-actually-do books.

I am nearly finished with it and sure to replay it, even though I don't have children and am quite content in my post-widowhood "single" status.  If you are able to listen, as this childless widow has, with a mind open enough, you're certain to laugh and even learn along the way.  I found validation that my personal brand of weirdness is no cosmic goof (or maybe all us writer/creative types are just weirdly wired the same way).

It's not a long book, but the potential for discussion is significant.  Even though I honestly don't have much in common with her, I found the author's story relatable.  You might too.  And if you're like me and enjoy a good read over your earbuds or sound system, here's a deal you can use to try Audible.

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Jotting With Johnna
What books or biographies have surprised you?  Which stories compel you to review them?  What have you learned from the stories of others?

Remember:  you are so very worthy of equipping yourself with empowerment and education, even and especially when that material makes you laugh out loud.

Stay tuned.  Stay focused.  Stay well.