The Middle Matters
Why That (Extra)Ordinary Life Looks Really Good on You
by Lisa-Jo Baker
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Pub Date Jul 23 2019 | Archive Date Nov 10 2020
WaterBrook & Multnomah | WaterBrook
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Description
“I want to give Lisa-Jo’s book a standing ovation.”—Aarti Sequeira, chef and TV personality
Do you ever wonder how you woke up one day with all the responsibilities of a grown-up who secretly enjoys buying groceries in bulk, can no longer recognize the tween celebrities on the magazines at checkout, but is still surprised when a Starbucks barista calls you “ma’am”—because your inside self is frozen in time to about twenty years ago?
So does Lisa-Jo Baker.
In these intimate reflections on midlife, Lisa-Jo invites us to get a good look at our middles and gives us permission to embrace them—beyond what the media, the mirror, or the magazines say. Through gutsy, beautiful storytelling, she admits out loud what most of us are thinking about marriage, parenting, the bathroom scale, and how badly we all want to buy those matching Magnolia Market mugs.
Her delicious stories come from not being afraid of who she is, because Lisa-Jo knows that the middle might be the best part of the love story of life, kids, faith, doubt, marriage, failure, wonder, and the muffin top—and that these are all good things. She’s not asking you to seize the day, just to make sure you actually see it for all its wildly ordinary glory.
Welcome to the middle!
Praise for The Middle Matters
“What a thought-provoking collection of reflections and wisdom! Through personal stories about love, loss, and life in the middle, Lisa-Jo invites us to take a long look inside our own mind’s secret nooks and crannies, which aren’t nearly as dark, scary, or ordinary as we might think.”—Layla Palmer, The Lettered Cottage blog
“With captivating wit, hard-won wisdom, and breathtaking honesty, Lisa-Jo has written a love letter to the delicious middle.”—Mandy Arioto, president and CEO of MOPS International and author of Have More Fun
“With Lisa-Jo’s guts as our unfettered guide, may we finally learn the sumptuous truth of our years: that a grilled cheese sandwich without the middle is just toast.”—Erin Loechner, founder of OtherGoose and author of Chasing Slow
“Thank you, Lisa-Jo, for reminding women everywhere how important it is to find meaning in the midst of the confusing middle.”—Joy Prouty, artist and educator
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9780525652847 |
| PRICE | $22.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 272 |
Featured Reviews
Chandra H, Reviewer
Reading books by Lisa-Jo Baker is like having a good friend over for tea while you sit and chat about what's on your heart.
"The Middle Matters" is a perfect example of her down to earth, relatable style. I don't know her personally, but while reading, I'm often saying "me, too" or "wow, I'm not alone".
The book is written in easy to read, essay format. You can easily bounce from part one to part 8 and then back to part 5. I personally love this format. It made the book feel more like she was emailing me a note helping me through stages of life. I recommend The Middle Matters to any woman in the middle of life, middle of parenting babies to teenagers to adults. This book is relevant to those in the middle of doubting faith to strong in faith.
I did receive an advanced copy for my honest review. This is my honest review, and I would highly recommend this book.
Deena P, Reviewer
I wish I could give Lisa-Jo Baker's new book TEN stars, but five will have to do. This collection of essays about loving the middle years of our lives is breathtakingly gorgeous.
I cried my way through these pages, nodding my head as she met me right where I am. Trying hard to see the beauty in a photo instead of focusing on my double chin.
Remembering the frustration and struggle of nightly homework with my youngest daughter, worrying that she wouldn't receive a diploma but only a certificate of completion. Crying and remembering how proud I was when she graduated at the top of her class.
These pages are soaked in grateful tears, and I urge you to read every word. Let them seep into your heart and take root. Because every day of our lives really matters. It's too easy to forget that...Let Lisa-Jo remind you.
Kacie S, Reviewer
Lisa-Jo is the galpal every girl wishes she had. I love the truth and relatability in her writing. Her wisdom and humor are so refreshing. As a woman who is faster approaching the middle but still feels like a little girl on the inside, this book really hit home for me in so many ways. I also love how Lisa-Jo points women to God and helps us to remember that even with our flaws, we are still loved and adored by our Father. This book is a must read for all women, especially worn out mamas in the middle.
Anna G, Reviewer
As a Mom who also lost her Mom to cancer as a teen, and as a woman who was hesitant to become a mother, this book resonated with me deeply. It's hopeful, encouraging, and Lisa-Jo shows great insight and compassion as she cheerleads women in this specific stage of life. It's entertaining and a subtle mentorship at the same time. She is vulnerable and honest, and her dependence on Jesus and love for Him also shines through, weaving a wonderful story of how motherhood is a spiritual work that impacts generations, as well as a physical act of love.
Liz L, Reviewer
Another great book by Lisa-Jo Baker! As a middle child myself and a mom of 3 boys, there was so much insight and truth in this book. I highly recommend!
Missy P, Reviewer
I absolutely love Lisa Jo Baker. This wasn’t my first interaction with her. This book is amazing!! And I can relate to everything that Lisa wrote about here. The middle does matter. We do need to realize as we get older, priorities change, body changes and our needs. Lisa shares her experiences and wisdom along with God’s word with her humorous wit. I laughed and I even tested up, cause it felt like she was talking straight to me and I needed to read this book.
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