Cover Image: Professional Troublemaker

Professional Troublemaker

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

Luvvie Ajayi Jones, the New York Times bestselling author of "I'm Judging You," has once again unleashed her trademark wit and warmth in her latest book, "Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual." With a delightful blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, Jones takes us on a journey of fear-conquering and audacious living.

Jones fearlessly admits that she, too, has faced the dreaded enemy called fear. From hesitating to label herself as a writer to almost backing out of a life-changing TED talk due to imposter syndrome, she reveals her vulnerable moments. And guess what? We are not alone in our fears either. In "Professional Troublemaker," Jones embraces our shared anxieties and encourages us to become professional troublemakers who defy fear's grip on our lives.

The book reminds us that fear can paralyze us from asking for what we truly want, from being our authentic selves. We fear being different, too much, or not enough. But Jones urges us to leave behind the safety of the known and venture into the unknown, where transformative change awaits. Guided by her Nigerian grandmother, Funmilayo Faloyin, a professional troublemaker herself, Jones teaches us the necessary inner work we must embark upon to confront our fears head-on.

"Professional Troublemaker" is a rally cry for using our voices for the greater good. Jones empowers us to put words into action, urging us to break the silence we've imposed upon ourselves. Truth-telling, she emphasizes, is a muscle we must exercise. It's refreshing to read a book that acknowledges that fearlessness is not the goal; rather, it's the recognition of our fears and the courage to forge ahead regardless.

Although the book provides an inspiring roadmap for living boldly, there is one aspect that could have been further explored. While Jones delves into the internal journey of overcoming fear, it would have been valuable to have more tangible strategies and examples of how to apply these principles in real-life situations. A few more actionable steps would have enhanced the book's practicality.

That being said, "Professional Troublemaker" is a delightful and empowering read that encourages us to step outside our comfort zones and embrace the uncertainties of life. Jones's infectious energy and humorous storytelling make this book both entertaining and thought-provoking. She reminds us that the rewards of living authentically and fearlessly far outweigh the risks. So, let's grab our capes and join Luvvie Ajayi Jones on this audacious adventure!

Was this review helpful?

Hilarious self-help book about overcoming your fears. We should all strive to be professional troublemakers. I highly recommend.

Was this review helpful?

A different take on something that I’ve read a lot about. Jones has a different style and vibe then others' I have read which I am sure will appeal to some.

Was this review helpful?

Luvvie Ajayi Jones does not disappoint. No matter what she is doing, she shows up, in her whole self, and tells you how it is!

I loved her first book, "I'm Judging You: The Do Better Manual," and it's been a crowd favorite when shared at my library's storytime for adults program. As one of my go-to staff picks, I had to check out her latest book. I would recommend all women pick up "Professional Troublemaker" for the chapter on pay equity and salary negotiation alone! That is full of facts and will do more for women and equal pay than I can imagine if we can just get them to read this and be confident enough to ASK FOR MORE MONEY. (Or more time off or benefits or what-have-you, because as Luvvie points out, time is money and there's a whole package to negotiate.)

Full of Luvvie's signature side eye and wisdom, this book is a humorous, but passionate, examination of not letting fear dictate your whole life. It's a manifesto and I'm here for it! As Luvvie says in her introduction, "Let's get to it."

Thank you to NetGalley and to the Volumes app for an advanced copy and audio version (which is phenom!). Also I pre-ordered this book so I could own my copy and refer back to it - because - GOOD STUFF!

Was this review helpful?

I'm a fan of Luvvie's online presence, her now-famous TED talk, and her first book, so I had high expectations for this one. In it, she takes on a common enemy of personal progress — that plays-dirty voice in your head called "fear." Using common sense and uncommon wit, therapy-style wisdom, the inspiration of her Nigerian grandmother, and her own lived experience, Luvvie shows you how to side-eye the fear right out of your head so you can put action to intention and live your best life.

Unfortunately, it all fell just a little short for me. Luvvie's perspective and certainly her relationship with and the inspiration she draws from her grandmother are unique and powerful but the overall messaging here felt fairly basic and the content felt a little stretched and repetitive. Your mileage may vary, of course. This is the kind of book for which previous experience and exposure are key. I could definitely see it being a great graduation gift or be a powerful boost for a young professional.

Was this review helpful?