Customer Reviews

Stick A Geranium in Your Hat and Be Happy!

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(11)

 

 

I was given this book to read shortly after coming out to a relative, back in the early nineties. What a cruel joke that was. Luckily, my relative has since learned how terrible that move was. A large portion of this book is dedicated to Ms. Johnson's gay son and the "burden" placed upon her by his very being. She is proud to say that she has estranged herself from him. There's nothing funny, sweet, or even mildly loving about that.

In 1991, I had been depressed 7 out of every 10 years for the last 30 years and was grieving for my lost business that was a 1987 stockmarket "correction" casualty. Depression was a way of life for me, though, so that business loss wasn't much worse than what I'd been through before, only this time I read Barbara's book and decided that, if she had faced adversities far beyond mine and could find things to be grateful for, I could pick myself up and find out what was left of my life. I could "Put a Geranium in My Hat" and determine that misery was not going to be my option. I praise Barbara for not condoning her child's choices, but upholding scripture and giving him the anchor of a mother who believes what she says she believes. Now I'm a widow and Barbara's life story set the example for tending my husband for 3 years and for turning to God in all circumstances. Nobody said it would be easy but God is with us. Keep it up, Barbara! See you at the town dump tonight!

I have read and re-read this book many times during my husband's fight with cancer and his recent death. So many things have happened to my family but when I need guidance and uplifting spirit I can find it in one of Barbara's books. Thank you and keep on writing!

This book is very encouraging and talks about viewing life with a sense of humor. She talks about Joy and Cheer and finding happiness in tough tough times. She obviously has a big heart! You will be encouraged and find joy in reading this book.

Want to be encouraged? Read this book. Despite her hardships, Barbara (the author) rediscovers laughter and finds a Godly perspective on life's challenges. This can help you get perspective on your own challenges - getting older, guilt, lack of laughter, being too busy! She talks about normal everyday life.

As an intimate view of a Christian's less than perfect reactions to one of life's most sobering challenges, Ms. Johnson speaks candidly and from the heart on her feelings and responses to finding out her son is gay. I found her faith and her willingness to seek and spread the joy God provides in life incredibly encouraging.

I was very satisfied with my purchase--was on time and in great condition. I am about 2/3 the way through and it is a great book--well written. There are points in there that make you feel better---like "hey, I'm not alone!) Very good confidence builder.

This book is a breath of fresh air. It keeps you laughing and thinking positively in spite of whatever comes your way in life. It is a GREAT book for a no good very bad day!

I purchased the book because the optimistic tone of the title appealed to me. But I found the text to be trite and Ms. Johnson's views shallow and overly simplistic to the point of being childish

This book was referred to me by a friend because of a family crisis. I'm not quite finished reading it, but already it has spoken to my heart. Every emotion and feeling I have had since my daughter announced she might be gay has been addressed in this book. It feels so good to know that someone has felt this exact same way and that God does grant peace. I know I will re-read this book many times (after I pass it along to my husband and other daughter). I just wish I knew how to get on her mailing list for SPATULA.