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The Grumble-Free Year: Twelve Months, Eleven Family Members, and One Impossible Goal
USA Today bestselling author Tricia Goyer and her family of eleven embark on a yearlong quest to eliminate grumbling from their home and discover a healthier, more thankful approach to life together. The Goyer home--with two parents, eight kids, and one eighty-eight-year-old grandmother with dementia--is never without noise, mess, activity, and, often, complaining. And it's not just the kids grumbling. After adding seven children in less than six years through adoption, the Goyer family decided to move out of survival-mode and into unity- and growth-mode. They decided to tackle the a grumble-free year. With grade-schoolers, teenagers, and a grandmother who believes children should be seen and not heard, plenty of room exists for flunking the challenge. Add to that seven children being homeschooled together in close quarters, and what could possibly go awry? In The Grumble-Free Year , the Goyers invite readers into their journey as they go complaint-free and discover what it looks like to develop hearts of gratitude. They share their plans, successes, failures, and all the lessons they learn along the way, offering real-life action steps based in scripture so that readers get not just a front-row seat to the action but also an opportunity to take the challenge themselves and uncover hearts that are truly thankful. X
224 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2019
About the author
Tricia Goyer
165 books1,576 followersTricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
October 24, 2019
"Everything doesn’t need to be fixed overnight, but set your mind to work on solutions instead of struggles."
I think we can all agree on one thing, it's no fun to be around grumbling people.
We all grumble and make our self miserable and feel guilty for doing so.
Tricia's book takes you through a year of her family's attempts to grumble less and praise him more.
Very encouraging and fulfilling this is just what we all need to start us on the right track to have a more spiritually fulfilling life.
Reflection questions at the end of each chapter are great for conversation with your family.
The author shares what works and what didn't work for her family on her journey.
I am once again reminded of what I am grateful for even the little things we take for granted in life, like the last clean pair of socks in the drawer or the beautiful Fall leaves on the trees in the view from my window. Thank you, God!
This book is a true blessing to me!
Expected publication: November 5th 2019 by Thomas Nelson .
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I think we can all agree on one thing, it's no fun to be around grumbling people.
We all grumble and make our self miserable and feel guilty for doing so.
Tricia's book takes you through a year of her family's attempts to grumble less and praise him more.
Very encouraging and fulfilling this is just what we all need to start us on the right track to have a more spiritually fulfilling life.
Reflection questions at the end of each chapter are great for conversation with your family.
The author shares what works and what didn't work for her family on her journey.
I am once again reminded of what I am grateful for even the little things we take for granted in life, like the last clean pair of socks in the drawer or the beautiful Fall leaves on the trees in the view from my window. Thank you, God!
This book is a true blessing to me!
Expected publication: November 5th 2019 by Thomas Nelson .
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
September 23, 2019
When I heard about this book it interested me so much I reached out myself to the publishers to see if I could review a copy. I’m so glad I did. This is a social experiment book. I have read other books like this but didn’t know the term until this book. It basically means that the author (and in this case the author’s family) partake in a social experiment and write about how it goes in the book.
Other books of this time I’ve read include The Know it All and The Year of Living Biblically.
I really enjoyed The Grumble-Free Year, even though it’s not a 100% do this and your family will never grumble again book. I honestly don’t think that’s possible. This book was more real by being a social experiment. Things went wrong. Things went right too but not as anyone expected. The author learned just as much if not more than the kids.
The following quote was one of the most moving to me, the one that really made me feel like grumbling is more than just a little bad:
“John Piper says, ‘Grumbling is an evidence of little faith in the gracious providence of God in all the affairs of the lives. And little faith is a dishonor to him. It belittles his sovereignty and wisdom and goodness.'” – pg 177
I also loved this one:
“As Zig Ziglar says, ‘Be grateful for what you have and stop complaining – it bores everybody else, does you no good, and doesn’t solve any problems.'”
Besides the parts about losing the grumbling, I loved learning about Tricia Goyer’s home and family. Tricia is a mom of 10, eight of which live at home, plus Grandma and her husband. Seven of her children were adopted!
I don’t think I’ll be taking the grumble-free year challenge exactly as they did but I do plan to implement some of the ideas to help my family learn that there are different types of grumbling and that even silent grumbling is grumbling against God so it’s not okay. I have a lot to change in myself before I try to expect something more from my kids.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review
Other books of this time I’ve read include The Know it All and The Year of Living Biblically.
I really enjoyed The Grumble-Free Year, even though it’s not a 100% do this and your family will never grumble again book. I honestly don’t think that’s possible. This book was more real by being a social experiment. Things went wrong. Things went right too but not as anyone expected. The author learned just as much if not more than the kids.
The following quote was one of the most moving to me, the one that really made me feel like grumbling is more than just a little bad:
“John Piper says, ‘Grumbling is an evidence of little faith in the gracious providence of God in all the affairs of the lives. And little faith is a dishonor to him. It belittles his sovereignty and wisdom and goodness.'” – pg 177
I also loved this one:
“As Zig Ziglar says, ‘Be grateful for what you have and stop complaining – it bores everybody else, does you no good, and doesn’t solve any problems.'”
Besides the parts about losing the grumbling, I loved learning about Tricia Goyer’s home and family. Tricia is a mom of 10, eight of which live at home, plus Grandma and her husband. Seven of her children were adopted!
I don’t think I’ll be taking the grumble-free year challenge exactly as they did but I do plan to implement some of the ideas to help my family learn that there are different types of grumbling and that even silent grumbling is grumbling against God so it’s not okay. I have a lot to change in myself before I try to expect something more from my kids.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review
January 5, 2023
4.5⭐️
Grumbling and complaining can be so pervasive in our lives and often we do it without realizing it. I liked how genuine the author was in sharing her struggles and how God worked in her life while she was trying to help and teach her children.
Quotes
"Our job as parents is to help train and guide our children to overcome whatever is holding them back; which also means overcoming whatever is holding us back."
The Bible is very clear that God put you on earth to do two things: to learn to love God and to learn to love other people. Life is not about acquisition,accomplishment, or achievement."
God is worthy to be praised, no matter what. Our praises are about Him, not our situation.
Grumbling and complaining can be so pervasive in our lives and often we do it without realizing it. I liked how genuine the author was in sharing her struggles and how God worked in her life while she was trying to help and teach her children.
Quotes
"Our job as parents is to help train and guide our children to overcome whatever is holding them back; which also means overcoming whatever is holding us back."
The Bible is very clear that God put you on earth to do two things: to learn to love God and to learn to love other people. Life is not about acquisition,accomplishment, or achievement."
God is worthy to be praised, no matter what. Our praises are about Him, not our situation.
October 18, 2019
I am currently on the launch team and have had the opportunity to dig into the book before the release. This book has been an amazing wake up call for me. I have been struggling to find solutions to our crazy life with four kids and a dog! I can find myself spiraling down a path of discontentment and complaining without even knowing it. This book has been a wonderful and life changing. An excellent read to look forward to when it comes out!
September 30, 2019
This was another great self-help type book by Tricia Goyer. With a hope of creating a home without grumbling, Tricia decided to help her children learn how to live happily together without bickering, fighting and bad relationships.
She incorporated her plans of going a full year without complaining into her homeschooling learnings. She used scripture, using it to correlate with their goals that they had each set. They did activities to see what causes the grumbling in their household. And she writes about how they decided to try to resolve them.
At the end of each chapter there is a reflection page where you can ponder on some of the questions that are also there. This is a good section to help people to visualize where problems may lie. As you think about them you realize some of the directions in your life. She discusses that change begins in your heart. And what should we do to work on "not grumbling". We all need to own up to our own shortcomings. Are they caused by our insecurities? We need to learn to trust in God's Plan for us.
We all experience hard seasons in life so it is easy to find things to grumble about.
I felt that there was a lot of learning in this book, personal experiences that would relate to the majority of us. It's a good book to ponder and to help with some of the problems that keep us from having the happy co-existence we all hope to have in our family life.
I highly recommend this book and am sure that there is much to learn from it.
I received an ebook version of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
She incorporated her plans of going a full year without complaining into her homeschooling learnings. She used scripture, using it to correlate with their goals that they had each set. They did activities to see what causes the grumbling in their household. And she writes about how they decided to try to resolve them.
At the end of each chapter there is a reflection page where you can ponder on some of the questions that are also there. This is a good section to help people to visualize where problems may lie. As you think about them you realize some of the directions in your life. She discusses that change begins in your heart. And what should we do to work on "not grumbling". We all need to own up to our own shortcomings. Are they caused by our insecurities? We need to learn to trust in God's Plan for us.
We all experience hard seasons in life so it is easy to find things to grumble about.
I felt that there was a lot of learning in this book, personal experiences that would relate to the majority of us. It's a good book to ponder and to help with some of the problems that keep us from having the happy co-existence we all hope to have in our family life.
I highly recommend this book and am sure that there is much to learn from it.
I received an ebook version of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.
October 1, 2019
Goyer realized that her family needed to change. This book was a bit of a social experiment to see if the author’s family could go a year without grumbling. Definitely an interesting concept, though I’m not sure it’d be possible for many people to go 100% grumble free. The book definitely gives the reader a lot to consider and ways to put this into practice.
Goyer incorporated her plan into her homeschooling lessons. That plan, along with this book, used relevant Scripture verses to show how God feels about grumbling.
Each chapter gives a topic and example of how things went with the author’s family. Chapters end with “Reflection Questions” and “Your Turn.” These allow the reader points to ponder when examining their own family to see how things could possibly be changed.
The book is divided into three sections: Gearing UP, The Challenge Begins, and Winding Down. Some chapter titles are: Perfectly Imperfect, The Gratitude Jar, Prayer Makes a Difference, and The Greatest Reward.
Some of my favorite quotes:
-“God doesn’t expect any of us to be perfect, but complaining is something he takes seriously.”
-“My grumbles were just a story—a negative story—about how my life was working at the moment.”
-“The 0pposite of anxiety is paying attention to what is right and what is possible. Our thoughts are just thoughts, not facts.”
-“Change must always start with our hearts.”
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
Goyer incorporated her plan into her homeschooling lessons. That plan, along with this book, used relevant Scripture verses to show how God feels about grumbling.
Each chapter gives a topic and example of how things went with the author’s family. Chapters end with “Reflection Questions” and “Your Turn.” These allow the reader points to ponder when examining their own family to see how things could possibly be changed.
The book is divided into three sections: Gearing UP, The Challenge Begins, and Winding Down. Some chapter titles are: Perfectly Imperfect, The Gratitude Jar, Prayer Makes a Difference, and The Greatest Reward.
Some of my favorite quotes:
-“God doesn’t expect any of us to be perfect, but complaining is something he takes seriously.”
-“My grumbles were just a story—a negative story—about how my life was working at the moment.”
-“The 0pposite of anxiety is paying attention to what is right and what is possible. Our thoughts are just thoughts, not facts.”
-“Change must always start with our hearts.”
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
October 13, 2019
I got the privilege of being on the book launch for this book and was able to read an advanced copy. I wasn't quiet sure what I was getting myself into when I started reading this book. I am so glad I was able to read it though! I loved that Tricia's children were a huge part of this book. Their personalities and Tricia's writing made this book fun, interesting and thought provoking. I enjoyed the questions at the end of the chapters. This book was awesome! It was on time in my own life and really made me think about my own grumbling! I related so much to the authors attitude and thoughts. A great book for understanding what's behind the grumbling and how God can teach you so much more, if you're willing and allow Him to.
October 5, 2019
I found this quick read from Tricia Goyer (about the ups and downs of living grumble free during a crazy year) to be inspirational and motivational. I love how she ties it all in to trust in God, his goodness and timing.
October 16, 2019
Tricia Goyer and her family have inspired me to start focusing more on gratitude than grumbling. I’ve become aware that I grumble more than I realize and have some practical ideas of how to get my kids back on track when they start grumbling as well.
February 5, 2021
Confession: I was already hooked the moment Tricia mentioned the title to her new book. :) I love that she and her family took this on! Honest, inspiring, and challenging!!
October 3, 2019
The Grumble-Free Year by Tricia Goyer is a powerful book that has the power to change your life. For a whole year Tricia Goyer and her family practiced being grateful and tried not to grumble. Their results are recorded within the book.
Grumbling can destroy relationships. It achieves nothing. Having an attitude of gratitude in us will build others up. This book explains what the Goyer family did and what they learned along the way.
Tricia Goyer writes in a personable way. The book feels like a letter from a friend as we eaves drop on the Goyer family. Each chapter ends with reflective questions and suggestions as to how we can live grumble free.
It is important to set goals. We can always choose our responses. So choose joy and do not grumble. Remember “our thoughts are just thoughts, not facts.” Do not let your thoughts drag you down.
We all go through difficult times. “How to be thankful when life is hard and how to love when we’re overwhelmed… it’s not easy.” In the difficult times we need to lift our eyes to God. Our circumstances may not change but our perspective will. “God was worthy to be praised, no matter what.”
It is important to have open hands and hearts towards God. If we are closed, we cannot receive from Him.
When life is good – pray. When life threatens to overwhelm – pray. Prayer is powerful and changes lives.
Tricia Goyer talks about the Glad Game from Pollyanna and suggests playing it. She says “faith is trying to be glad and see the good because God is in control.” There is also the suggestion of having a gratitude jar.
It is good to review our progress. Suggestions that will help are:
• “Things I changed
• Things I still need to change
• Things that helped me change”
Trying to live grumble free may not change our outward lives but there will be an inward transformation. Instead of being destroyed from the inside out by grumbling, develop a joyful, thankful spirit.
The Grumble-Free Year was a powerful book. It was also a book full of common sense. There were scriptures quoted as Tricia Goyer unpacked the heart of God for His children. This is a brilliant book to work through as individuals, as families or in connect groups.
Banish those grumbles and pick up a grateful heart.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Grumbling can destroy relationships. It achieves nothing. Having an attitude of gratitude in us will build others up. This book explains what the Goyer family did and what they learned along the way.
Tricia Goyer writes in a personable way. The book feels like a letter from a friend as we eaves drop on the Goyer family. Each chapter ends with reflective questions and suggestions as to how we can live grumble free.
It is important to set goals. We can always choose our responses. So choose joy and do not grumble. Remember “our thoughts are just thoughts, not facts.” Do not let your thoughts drag you down.
We all go through difficult times. “How to be thankful when life is hard and how to love when we’re overwhelmed… it’s not easy.” In the difficult times we need to lift our eyes to God. Our circumstances may not change but our perspective will. “God was worthy to be praised, no matter what.”
It is important to have open hands and hearts towards God. If we are closed, we cannot receive from Him.
When life is good – pray. When life threatens to overwhelm – pray. Prayer is powerful and changes lives.
Tricia Goyer talks about the Glad Game from Pollyanna and suggests playing it. She says “faith is trying to be glad and see the good because God is in control.” There is also the suggestion of having a gratitude jar.
It is good to review our progress. Suggestions that will help are:
• “Things I changed
• Things I still need to change
• Things that helped me change”
Trying to live grumble free may not change our outward lives but there will be an inward transformation. Instead of being destroyed from the inside out by grumbling, develop a joyful, thankful spirit.
The Grumble-Free Year was a powerful book. It was also a book full of common sense. There were scriptures quoted as Tricia Goyer unpacked the heart of God for His children. This is a brilliant book to work through as individuals, as families or in connect groups.
Banish those grumbles and pick up a grateful heart.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
October 15, 2019
The Grumble-Free Year: Twelve Months, Eleven Family Members, and One Impossible Goal by Tricia Goyer is an inspirational, self-help book with quotations from scriptures. Ms. Goyer incorporates scriptures with everyday life and common sense. She uses real life actions to help readers incorporate a grumble free heart and to have a more grateful heart. An educational and inspiring Book. Ms. Goyer's experiences are real life.
It was a blessing to follow her and her family to having a more grumble free life.
A well written book which gives readers insights, into a grumble free life for themselves. I enjoyed how she incorporated her desire to have to a grumble free year with everyday experiences. At the end of each chapter, Ms. Goyer gives the reader questions for reflections. A "Grumble Free Year" has been a blessing to me, as I'm sure the reader will enjoy reading and learning to live a more grateful heart. Thank you, Ms. Goyer for writing this powerful, educational and using everyday realities, that the reader can understand and incorporate into their on lives!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: N/A
Reviewer: AprilR
It was a blessing to follow her and her family to having a more grumble free life.
A well written book which gives readers insights, into a grumble free life for themselves. I enjoyed how she incorporated her desire to have to a grumble free year with everyday experiences. At the end of each chapter, Ms. Goyer gives the reader questions for reflections. A "Grumble Free Year" has been a blessing to me, as I'm sure the reader will enjoy reading and learning to live a more grateful heart. Thank you, Ms. Goyer for writing this powerful, educational and using everyday realities, that the reader can understand and incorporate into their on lives!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: N/A
Reviewer: AprilR
October 9, 2019
Reading this excellent book reminded me of the blessings and joys in life. I am pausing to think of how many times I have "grumbled" recently. What a great reminder to be thankful for each moment and to praise God in our joys and our concerns. This book has questions for reflection at the end of each chapter. This book has blessed me in many ways. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
October 6, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this book. I think mrs. Goyer did a great job on describing how grumbling takes our focus off of God and more on us. She gives lots of practical ideas and Bible verses to encourage the reader and their families if they want to embark on a grumble free life. A definite must read!
November 4, 2019
Have you ever been around people who grumble and complain all the time? It is not pleasant and makes you want to scream. What if your family was the one grumbling all the time? In this book the author takes us on a challenge and journey to freedom from grumbling for a year.
As in everything that is different from your routine, this book will motivate you into rethinking how you react to every day life. I would love to have been in the family meeting when the author suggested this eye opening exercise. I know I grumble a lot and yes I have even been called a nag. I decided that I was going to try this book out on myself. I will begin it in January and see how it goes.
The author’s house is full of people from different ages and I loved how she shared their experiences. There are scriptures included and at the end of each chapter a reflection page. It was so fun to take this journey with the author and her family. I laughed as one of them hoped to get famous through the book, while another wanted to know if a famous author would be following them around for a year. I think they forgot that they live with a very famous and gifted author.
I really enjoyed each chapter and loved how the author and her family slowly changed their thinking as they became more joyful and less stressful. In reading the book one of the key ingredients to a grumble free life is our heart. We need to look at ourselves inside and deal with any bitterness that is preventing us from being happy. It is important to look at all the good that is in our life and focus on what God has done for us. Another point that the book made was how important communication was. How will our spouse know what is wrong if we don’t let them know? Keeping things bottled up brings out bitterness which leads to unhappiness.
I loved getting to know the author and her family as they took a journey that showed them how to be thankful, joyful and content. I learned through the book to be happy where I am at in my life and to thank God each day for His unconditional love. The book is filled with scriptures and examples in the Bible that helps us see how a grumble free life can bring peace. The author does a great job of being transparent throughout the book and I appreciate her sharing this journey with her readers. The challenge now is for us to decide if we want to be grumble free.
“Change must always start with our hearts.”
“God doesn’t expect any of us to be perfect, but complaining is something He takes seriously.”
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
As in everything that is different from your routine, this book will motivate you into rethinking how you react to every day life. I would love to have been in the family meeting when the author suggested this eye opening exercise. I know I grumble a lot and yes I have even been called a nag. I decided that I was going to try this book out on myself. I will begin it in January and see how it goes.
The author’s house is full of people from different ages and I loved how she shared their experiences. There are scriptures included and at the end of each chapter a reflection page. It was so fun to take this journey with the author and her family. I laughed as one of them hoped to get famous through the book, while another wanted to know if a famous author would be following them around for a year. I think they forgot that they live with a very famous and gifted author.
I really enjoyed each chapter and loved how the author and her family slowly changed their thinking as they became more joyful and less stressful. In reading the book one of the key ingredients to a grumble free life is our heart. We need to look at ourselves inside and deal with any bitterness that is preventing us from being happy. It is important to look at all the good that is in our life and focus on what God has done for us. Another point that the book made was how important communication was. How will our spouse know what is wrong if we don’t let them know? Keeping things bottled up brings out bitterness which leads to unhappiness.
I loved getting to know the author and her family as they took a journey that showed them how to be thankful, joyful and content. I learned through the book to be happy where I am at in my life and to thank God each day for His unconditional love. The book is filled with scriptures and examples in the Bible that helps us see how a grumble free life can bring peace. The author does a great job of being transparent throughout the book and I appreciate her sharing this journey with her readers. The challenge now is for us to decide if we want to be grumble free.
“Change must always start with our hearts.”
“God doesn’t expect any of us to be perfect, but complaining is something He takes seriously.”
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
May 14, 2020
Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 13 and up for mildly difficult situations.
I started listening to this book on Scribd right before the world seemed to start coming apart due to Covid-19. God used the upheaval and this book to address the grumbling that had snuck into my life. This lesson proved even more valuable as I tore my calf muscle and couldn’t walk for a few weeks.
While I don’t have the privilege of being a mom or wife yet, I felt like I could relate to Tricia Goyer easily and quickly. I too like to plan and come up with creative ways to accomplish my goals. I felt like I understood how Goyer thought. There were so many moments that I laughed or cringed because I saw myself in what she was doing. Even some of the parenting blunders I could totally see myself doing someday.
Goyer’s honesty about the ups and downs, the victories and defeats made this book a joy to listen to. The narrator brought the story to life and I really felt that I was riding along with her family for the journey.
Aside from her honesty, I think the thing that helped me the most was the chapter on grumbling styles. While it wasn’t a completely new way for me to see it, it was a much-needed refresher course. It helped me to see some things that I really needed to work on.
This book is about one family’s journey to grumble less. It is also a wonderful book that will help spur on your way to rooting out of your own life. I know it helped me.
I highly recommend this for every Christian who wants to grumble less, enjoys non-fiction written in a personal style, and likes books that you can laugh over and be convicted by.
Best for Ages: 13 and up for mildly difficult situations.
I started listening to this book on Scribd right before the world seemed to start coming apart due to Covid-19. God used the upheaval and this book to address the grumbling that had snuck into my life. This lesson proved even more valuable as I tore my calf muscle and couldn’t walk for a few weeks.
While I don’t have the privilege of being a mom or wife yet, I felt like I could relate to Tricia Goyer easily and quickly. I too like to plan and come up with creative ways to accomplish my goals. I felt like I understood how Goyer thought. There were so many moments that I laughed or cringed because I saw myself in what she was doing. Even some of the parenting blunders I could totally see myself doing someday.
Goyer’s honesty about the ups and downs, the victories and defeats made this book a joy to listen to. The narrator brought the story to life and I really felt that I was riding along with her family for the journey.
Aside from her honesty, I think the thing that helped me the most was the chapter on grumbling styles. While it wasn’t a completely new way for me to see it, it was a much-needed refresher course. It helped me to see some things that I really needed to work on.
This book is about one family’s journey to grumble less. It is also a wonderful book that will help spur on your way to rooting out of your own life. I know it helped me.
I highly recommend this for every Christian who wants to grumble less, enjoys non-fiction written in a personal style, and likes books that you can laugh over and be convicted by.
October 7, 2019
What would you do if you felt led of the Lord to challenge your family to twelve months of no grumbling? Maybe your first thought is “no sweat.” Maybe your family includes you, your spouse, and one or two kids, so the idea is not that daunting. But consider this: Tricia Goyer and her husband John had ten children. Two adult children were already on their own, while one adult son was still at home, plus seven adopted children from the ages of six to seventeen. In addition, Tricia’s grandmother, who was in the early stages of dementia, lived with them. Imagine eleven people in one home setting out on a year-long journey of no grumbling. Follow along as she shares their experiences of learning and growing together through some extremely difficult times. Although time does not permit sharing every detail of the year, she does not sugarcoat any of it, but has a good mix of successes interspersed with troublesome situations. Each chapter includes questions for reflection and material to help other families to evaluate where they are and how they are progressing. Readers are encouraged to do more than simply read the material but to apply the lessons in their own families. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own. #thegrumblefreeyear
April 1, 2020
Experiences and a few tips for implementing a grumble-free year in your own home. It was easy to read, and I liked the focus on needing to do some heart change before expecting any lasting change on the outside.
Could have been more meaningful for me if I had done the reflection questions at the end of each chapter.
Could have been more meaningful for me if I had done the reflection questions at the end of each chapter.
November 2, 2019
Did you read the title and think, "Yeah, maybe their family, but we could never do it? I need to be able to talk about feelings and not stuff them."
No, just me?
Read this book to discover that this is exactly the book you should be reading then. The Goyer family are not a Hollywood version of a Hallmark film. Instead, you have real, live kids that struggle, a grandma with dementia and other health issues amongst others that decided to cut out grumbling. Instead encouraging talking about feelings in a productive way, praise your children when you see them trying hard, rather than pointing out their failures and other great tips!
This book was a breath of fresh air. Most of the books like this are like this "If you do step one, step two and step three, you will have a perfect family. If not, you did it wrong and go back and repeat the steps. If the second time you fail, well, you are probably a lost cause."
This one will instead offer support for when they will fail, (and they will fail).
It offers stories, encouragement and humor that will make you laugh, cry and commiserate with this mother of ten. This book is worth reading.
It is worth buying for all your friends as well.
No, just me?
Read this book to discover that this is exactly the book you should be reading then. The Goyer family are not a Hollywood version of a Hallmark film. Instead, you have real, live kids that struggle, a grandma with dementia and other health issues amongst others that decided to cut out grumbling. Instead encouraging talking about feelings in a productive way, praise your children when you see them trying hard, rather than pointing out their failures and other great tips!
This book was a breath of fresh air. Most of the books like this are like this "If you do step one, step two and step three, you will have a perfect family. If not, you did it wrong and go back and repeat the steps. If the second time you fail, well, you are probably a lost cause."
This one will instead offer support for when they will fail, (and they will fail).
It offers stories, encouragement and humor that will make you laugh, cry and commiserate with this mother of ten. This book is worth reading.
It is worth buying for all your friends as well.
August 18, 2020
"Taking a family of eleven, full of personalities and viewpoints and individual struggles, through an entire year without grumbling was a monumental task, but I sensed we were on the verge of something special. And I couldn't wait to see what God had in the works."
What an incredibly authentic look into the life of a large family struggling to communicate with words of truth and gratitude, rather than resorting to grumbling and complaining. The Goyers learn so many life lessons along the way, including the fact that true change begin deep inside the heart.
"Grumbling was ultimately a heart issue. A heart issue only God could fix."
Take the challenge. "'The Grumble-Free Year' is just the beginning."
What an incredibly authentic look into the life of a large family struggling to communicate with words of truth and gratitude, rather than resorting to grumbling and complaining. The Goyers learn so many life lessons along the way, including the fact that true change begin deep inside the heart.
"Grumbling was ultimately a heart issue. A heart issue only God could fix."
Take the challenge. "'The Grumble-Free Year' is just the beginning."
October 4, 2019
Whether a person homeschools, or not, whether a person has a big family, or not, this book is worth the read. Tricia Goyer sets a goal for her family to be Grumble-Free for a year. She shares her experiences of what worked for her family, and what didn't, and all that was learned in the whole process. It doesn't feel like a preachy book though she gives some good spiritual advice for those of us who walk in the Christian faith with Jesus. It feels more like she's coming alongside the reader by sharing her family's experiences and encouraging her readers to learn from them and apply some of the principles her family learned to the reader's own life. She does this is by asking reflection questions and offering practical tips in the Your Turn sections at the end of each chapter. I personally appreciate these additions to the chapters because it helps me know what Tricia Goyer hopes I take away from her book. Somehow it helps me to have more of an invested interest in both her experiences and having my own Grumble-Free year with my family, AND encouraging others to have one too!
April 27, 2023
An Excellent Reminder for the Old and Young Alike
Even though my husband and I do not have children, we are well-acquainted with grumbling and how it can invade our home, steal our joy, and create a negative mindset. I found this book to be very helpful in identifying the different types of grumbling, as well as pointing to varying ways to control the grumbles. While the book is full of many nuggets of wisdom, the reminder that struck me the most was that life is not about me trying harder. Change doesn’t happen when I fight more and try harder and beat myself up for failing. Change comes from within. It’s about turning to God and allowing Him to do the work in me. And while I’ve known this for many years, it’s often difficult for a control-freak like me to let go and let God. I feel like I have to fix me, but this book reminded me that that’s not the case. God can fix me if I’ll let Him. And I’m pleased to say I’ve definitely noticed a change in my heart and overall attitude since reading this book. Yes, I still grumble from time to time, but I’m catching myself and not allowing myself to dwell on the negative. I’m leaning more on God and feel Him helping me through each day. What a blessing! Whether you live alone or have a huge family, this book is a must-have! You won’t be sorry.
Even though my husband and I do not have children, we are well-acquainted with grumbling and how it can invade our home, steal our joy, and create a negative mindset. I found this book to be very helpful in identifying the different types of grumbling, as well as pointing to varying ways to control the grumbles. While the book is full of many nuggets of wisdom, the reminder that struck me the most was that life is not about me trying harder. Change doesn’t happen when I fight more and try harder and beat myself up for failing. Change comes from within. It’s about turning to God and allowing Him to do the work in me. And while I’ve known this for many years, it’s often difficult for a control-freak like me to let go and let God. I feel like I have to fix me, but this book reminded me that that’s not the case. God can fix me if I’ll let Him. And I’m pleased to say I’ve definitely noticed a change in my heart and overall attitude since reading this book. Yes, I still grumble from time to time, but I’m catching myself and not allowing myself to dwell on the negative. I’m leaning more on God and feel Him helping me through each day. What a blessing! Whether you live alone or have a huge family, this book is a must-have! You won’t be sorry.
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November 15, 2019What I wouldn't do to eliminate grumbling in my home. This book gives a great perspective on what can happen if we all commit to doing our best to stop grumbling. This is something that my husband and I want to do in our home and hope to incorporate what Tricia has outlined in this book at the start of the new year.
I received a free digital copy of this book. All thoughts above are my own.
I received a free digital copy of this book. All thoughts above are my own.
July 9, 2022
I live in a large family with lots of kids...and lots of grumbles. This book was perfect. It offered a lot of great ideas for how to limit grumbles - not only on the outside, but on a heart level as well. It was filled with fun, hilarious stories, too - always a bonus!
October 10, 2019
It was an honest journey of a family in their pursuit of less grumbling. And a helpful guide for all to achieve less grumbling. Each chapter includes questions and activities to try to be grumble free. I liked the encouraging tone of the book.
November 10, 2019
This book is a fun read that’s simultaneously light-hearted and deeply impactful! Tricia teaches some powerful lessons about the power of grumbling... and the even stronger power of leaning onto Jesus for support through all the occasions we would rather grumble. Highly recommended for friends of all ages.
*I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions expressed are my own.
*I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions expressed are my own.
October 31, 2019
I really enjoyed “the Grumble- free year”. Tricia Goyer (author) and her family set out for an entire year to not grumble (and any other of the cousins of grumbling; whine, pout, complain, etc.) It is easy to look at what others have and want it. To complain about how it is not fair that such and such family always gets to go on vacation, or how their children are always so well behaved instead of looking at what we do have and being grateful for it.
This book shows that it is a process that needs to take time to get a hang of. Their family didn’t instantly become grumble free overnight. They needed to own up to their own faults. Including the parents!
Tricia writes that some our grumbling is a result of unrealistic expectations. I am guilty of that. I often expect my 4 sons to act or do something the same way as me, without me explaining to them what I want done. To clean something in the style or method I would. I have had years of learning how to maintain something they have not but yet I expect them to care the same way I do and uphold the same manner! It is easy to look at life happening (messes!) and complain about it.
Tricia reminds us that life often throws us curve balls. But we shouldn’t let those extra balls thrown at us cause us to forgot what all God has down for us. This summer I had a lot planned that I wanted to do with my family. But my husband’s health took presence and he ended up in the hospital over an hour away two different times for a week each time. Leaving me home with our 4 sons and infant daughter. Most of the summer was him recovering and unable to help out around the house due to restrictions. Instead of being grateful that I had my husband and his bout of severe pain that he had been experiencing for over 8 months was gone I wanted to complain that we didn’t get to go on outings, hikes, our yearly camping trip, the list goes on and on. I had forgotten what God had done for us. I allowed the spirit of grumbling to take over.
Tricia reminded us in this book about how in the Bible when Moses was leading God’s people in the desert, they often forgot what God has done for them and complained a lot. As a result of that they never saw the promised land. Uh-oh! I needed to repent. I highly recommend this book. I have a lot to be grateful for and need to look at that rather than be discontent with what god has blessed me with.
This book shows that it is a process that needs to take time to get a hang of. Their family didn’t instantly become grumble free overnight. They needed to own up to their own faults. Including the parents!
Tricia writes that some our grumbling is a result of unrealistic expectations. I am guilty of that. I often expect my 4 sons to act or do something the same way as me, without me explaining to them what I want done. To clean something in the style or method I would. I have had years of learning how to maintain something they have not but yet I expect them to care the same way I do and uphold the same manner! It is easy to look at life happening (messes!) and complain about it.
Tricia reminds us that life often throws us curve balls. But we shouldn’t let those extra balls thrown at us cause us to forgot what all God has down for us. This summer I had a lot planned that I wanted to do with my family. But my husband’s health took presence and he ended up in the hospital over an hour away two different times for a week each time. Leaving me home with our 4 sons and infant daughter. Most of the summer was him recovering and unable to help out around the house due to restrictions. Instead of being grateful that I had my husband and his bout of severe pain that he had been experiencing for over 8 months was gone I wanted to complain that we didn’t get to go on outings, hikes, our yearly camping trip, the list goes on and on. I had forgotten what God had done for us. I allowed the spirit of grumbling to take over.
Tricia reminded us in this book about how in the Bible when Moses was leading God’s people in the desert, they often forgot what God has done for them and complained a lot. As a result of that they never saw the promised land. Uh-oh! I needed to repent. I highly recommend this book. I have a lot to be grateful for and need to look at that rather than be discontent with what god has blessed me with.
February 8, 2020
I am so excited about this book. I can't wait to incorporate it into our family as the new year approaches. It was amazing how much I was able to relate to the content of the book as Tricia shared her story. It was kind of like, "Wow, I could be writing this book." It is so easy to fall into an attitude of discontentment without even realizing it, or become a grumbling martyr. I found so much in common with her.
I am still reading through my copy, because even though I could read through it quickly, I want to take it all in and be prepared to share the message with my family and incorporate it. Seeing the negativity in others is often so easy, but we fail to see it in ourselves. When does stating facts, or truth about a matter or situation turn into actual complaining and negativity and how to do we determine the difference? I know that's something I struggle with personally. In trying not to complain, I end up sounding and feeling more like a martyr and often taking on way more than I should.
Tricia shares her heart and her family's challenge to live a grumble free year more as a story than a self help book with tons of tips and advice. You'll be challenged as they were to give thanks instead of complain, and when you start paying attention, you may realize you complain way more than you thought you did.
I am so thankful to be a part of Tricia's launch team. I received a free e-copy of her book. However, I was not required to write a positive review of her book and all opinions are my own.
I am still reading through my copy, because even though I could read through it quickly, I want to take it all in and be prepared to share the message with my family and incorporate it. Seeing the negativity in others is often so easy, but we fail to see it in ourselves. When does stating facts, or truth about a matter or situation turn into actual complaining and negativity and how to do we determine the difference? I know that's something I struggle with personally. In trying not to complain, I end up sounding and feeling more like a martyr and often taking on way more than I should.
Tricia shares her heart and her family's challenge to live a grumble free year more as a story than a self help book with tons of tips and advice. You'll be challenged as they were to give thanks instead of complain, and when you start paying attention, you may realize you complain way more than you thought you did.
I am so thankful to be a part of Tricia's launch team. I received a free e-copy of her book. However, I was not required to write a positive review of her book and all opinions are my own.
August 4, 2020
I was fascinated to discover how a family of eleven even functions! And she challenges them to be grumble free for a year. What?
The concepts, premises, and actions detailed by Tricia Goyer that attributed to her goal didn’t come out of thin air. She shares her struggles, often her own challenges to not murmur complaints. Her family may have dynamics that yours doesn’t but the creative solutions might fit.
Her deep desire to change their hearts, not only their words impressed me the most. She looked for permanent differences in how each one handled distress or unhappiness about events or other people. She realized she was the catalyst. They all would be looking at her. Would she be the example they could look to as they transformed?
Intense moments occurred between Tricia and her children that heighten the need in their home to stop the complaining. Big obstacles arrived during their year that seem to interfere but actually maximized the goal.
I found this book to be insightful and applicable with concrete answers to this common family attitude challenge. The author explains why things worked and didn’t work. She employs spiritual methods including prayer, scripture memorization and trust in God for changes.
This will be a resource for years as I deal with my own grumblings. Thank you,Tricia Goyer!
The concepts, premises, and actions detailed by Tricia Goyer that attributed to her goal didn’t come out of thin air. She shares her struggles, often her own challenges to not murmur complaints. Her family may have dynamics that yours doesn’t but the creative solutions might fit.
Her deep desire to change their hearts, not only their words impressed me the most. She looked for permanent differences in how each one handled distress or unhappiness about events or other people. She realized she was the catalyst. They all would be looking at her. Would she be the example they could look to as they transformed?
Intense moments occurred between Tricia and her children that heighten the need in their home to stop the complaining. Big obstacles arrived during their year that seem to interfere but actually maximized the goal.
I found this book to be insightful and applicable with concrete answers to this common family attitude challenge. The author explains why things worked and didn’t work. She employs spiritual methods including prayer, scripture memorization and trust in God for changes.
This will be a resource for years as I deal with my own grumblings. Thank you,Tricia Goyer!
October 27, 2019
God had blessed me with the opportunity to be on the book launch team for this title. I'd been a fan of Tricia Goyer for a while, but this book, by far, has had the most impact on my life. Now, I have to admit, I'm a family of one .. single with no children. However, I grumble .. and .. reading this book was just what I needed.
Questions are included, as well as ideas for assignments and as I read thru, I honestly answered them. There was a huge personal take away for me in chapter eighteen. The assignment at the end of that chapter was just what I needed. Cannot tell me that Our Heavenly Father did not place this in my life at just this exact moment for a very specific reason.
Forever blessed and changed by reading this book. I pray all readers will come away as I did.
Questions are included, as well as ideas for assignments and as I read thru, I honestly answered them. There was a huge personal take away for me in chapter eighteen. The assignment at the end of that chapter was just what I needed. Cannot tell me that Our Heavenly Father did not place this in my life at just this exact moment for a very specific reason.
Forever blessed and changed by reading this book. I pray all readers will come away as I did.
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