Why I read it?
My 2026 word of the year is Stories. Hearing that, a friend of mine recommended this book. She encouraged me further by saying that even though Donald Miller is best known for his book Blue Like Jazz, she thinks this is his most impactful and inspiring work. Two chapters in, I agreed.
What is it all about?
The book is written in first person as Donald chronicles the experience of working on turning his memoir into a movie. However, I could easily summarize it as a discourse on the importance of living your life like a story someone else would want to read. Donald intertwines real life stories and experiences into his writing seamlessly, and almost every chapter left me crying, smiling and always curious to read more.
What caused me to pause?
This book reminded me that every day I make a choice about the character I’m playing in my own story. I can be grateful while still being tired. I can be hopeful while still navigating hard things. And most importantly, I can create a legacy that I’m proud of by remembering that each day I write another page.
How will this book change my habits or influence me?
This book validated my word of the year in every way. I’m an optimistic person but I struggle with patience. This book is a master class on how to reframe situations where my temper is flaring, and look for humor, the silver lining, or a reason the circumstances will make a great story over a cocktail someday.
Add this to your reading list if…
You love a good story – especially one you’ve lived through. It’s a really encouraging read (or listen) when it comes to stringing together memories in a meaningful way.
Pickle Rating: I would give this book a 5 out of 5!
The World is Your Oyster