About Faces™ Book Reviews

5-✮ AJ Maloney (Nov 21, 2024) - Great memories with reverence. Laurie brought to mind many people that we both encountered at Cathedral-Carmel. Great memories that were well presented with the reverence they deserve. Thank you, Laurie, for giving me a remembrance of those great times and people.

5-✮ Mary Miller (Nov 20, 2024) - Definitely a 5-star read. Very interesting and lighthearted book about the life and times of Laurie James. I grew up going to the iconic Mervine Kahn’s department store in Rayne that her family owned. The book takes you with Laurie on her journey into adulthood leading to the successful entrepreneur and mentor, Ragin’ Cajuns supporter, faithful servant that she is now, and it shows you how she got there.

5-✮ Mark Barton (Nov 13, 2024) - Fun read. I shared the quote from Bud Chalmers about not quitting with his son Russell, a good friend of mine. Russell recalled his dad saying, “If you start something, you are going to finish. You are not going to quit.” I particularly liked the chapter about Charlton Lyons and Reagan. My dad transferred to Lafayette with Lyons Petroleum and was a delegate at the Kansas City Republican Convention in 1976. I got to attend and shake Reagan’s hand. My dad went on to become Dave Treen’s Finance Chairman for Louisiana. Congratulations on your book.

5-✮ James Reeves (Nov 9, 2024) - Inspiring and interesting. Laurie is a talented author. Most of us had no idea of the many adventures she experienced and how it all contributed to the talented young lady we all know.

5-✮ Ginger O’Fleurty Broussard (Nov 6, 2024) - Brave, Worldly Woman. Written in a way so easy to read—and then made you think about the story and how it might be a reflection of your own life. Full of life, love and laughter!!

5-✮ Deborah Gesser (Nov 6, 2024) - Great Example. WOW! I bought the book out of curiosity of Laurie's talent for writing. I met her in college in sorority 40 years ago and can't say enough how totally impressed I was with the book. I picked it up and never left the chair till I finished, always curious what was her next impressionable moment. I always enjoy reading about people's journeys, especially as it relates to their careers, from what they finished in at college through all the meandering turns to the successful person they became on the other end. She even brought in some of the moments in her childhood and early teens that shared substance to her life and to the development of her strong faith, not once holding back on her true self. She shared with the reader and showed true gratitude for all of the people that helped to shape her journey. She wove in some of that great Louisiana culture of family. Her parents were more than willing to share their home with many, entertaining so many of us in college, always icing down the beer in the washing machine. Who would have thought of that. I feel truly blessed to call her my friend and can say the "orange lip stick" story is one I remember vividly to this day. The book was such a positive and authentic read. Truly uplifting! Great job Laurie! I can't wait to see what is next.

5-✮ Stephen H. Green (Oct 31, 2024) - Great Example. Beautiful example of Sir Isaac Newton’s quote … “If I have seen further, it is by standing in the shoulder of giants.” Newton was acknowledging the scientist who blazed trails before him. Laurie’s book is a great example of how she stood on the shoulders of those incredible folks who mentored her early in her life …but more importantly … her book is a testament of how Laurie has and is blazing the trail for us all as we stand on her shoulders witnessing great advances and accomplishments in her personal life, profession, and her faith. WELL DONE, LAURIE!!

5-✮ Joy Moncla Youngblood (Oct 30, 2024) - Well Written, Humorous, Inspirational, and a Positive Guide. I loved Laurie Jankower James’ book, "About Faces!" I knew I would, because everything Laurie has ever done has been exceptional. The book is a history of Laurie's interesting life - and the tapestry of her life intertwines with the tapestry of all who grew up in Lafayette during that time period. I was able to relate to so many of the people, places and occasions, which really made it come alive for me. It's also very well written, humorous, inspirational and a positive guide for navigating life's ups and downs. Laurie was blessed with wonderful parents who were great role models, and her husband had been a perfect match for her. God truly has always had a special plan for her life. Her vivacious spirit inspires us all, and we have no doubt that she'll go on amazing us all with her energy, courage and entrepreneurial spirit in the future!

5-✮ Marjorie Crosthwaite (Oct 29, 2024) - Laughter, Love, and Lessons. The tag line of Ken Davis’ “Lighten Up and Live” ran through my mind as Laurie shared her experiences and people that molded her to be the best “her” she is today. It is an easy read that you can enjoy the laughter of positivity in her life lessons. The love in her love stories and the encouragement through never giving into the knocked down moments. Fabulous read for everyone at any age.

5-✮ Eileen Fourcade (Oct 25, 2024) - Oh, My God … Brilliant!!!! I just completed reading this incredible labor of love!! Laurie is indeed a gift to us all!!

5-✮ Mark Polunsky (Oct 24, 2024) - Great revelations, easy read. I knew most of the characters and enjoyed reading the stories. It is like having a front seat at behind the scenes of history. Wow, never knew how interesting your life has been. Cannot wait for your next book.

5-✮ Lisa Adelman (Oct 23, 2024) - I enjoyed the read!! I loved getting the details to the stories I had heard and her ability to always see the best in everyone and learn from tough situations.

5-✮ Holly Hammond (Oct 23, 2024) - Absolutely loved it! I met Laurie through my son. We have spoken via email, text, and phone. From day one I loved speaking with Laurie and found her truly inspiring. After reading this book I feel like I really know her, and I am looking forward to her “What’s next” and meeting her in the near future, face to face! Thanks for sharing!

5-✮ Anonymous (Oct 18, 2024) - Thanks for sharing this book. Your book should be an inspiration to anyone who reads it to realize that even though we face hurdles in life, there is always something positive to learn and we should never give up. I know that your family is proud of you.

5-✮ Lisa Glass (Oct 17, 2024) - Couldn’t put it down! It was so refreshing and down right hilarious at times! Definitely a must read if you haven’t already.

5-✮ Mary Fontenot (Oct 17, 2024) - A wonderfully entertaining book. I had no idea Laurie had led such an eclectic life with so many interesting characters waltzing in and out of it. Couldn’t put it down anticipating her next adventure!

5-✮ Grant Cooper (Oct 16, 2024) - Laurie’s Memoir is Moving & a Fun Read! Laurie cold-called me in 2001 or 2002 and convinced me to join her wonderful organization, the Professional Resume Writers & Research Association, and attend a national conference in Atlanta, GA. I had already established a successful resume practice with national accounts, and saw little reason to join at that point, but Laurie won me over with her effervescent personality & engaging pitch. That turned out to be one of the best professional decisions I have ever made. After she went on to other pursuits years later, I kept in touch with Laurie and recently ordered her book. It is a great read, applies to so many aspects of life, and is written in a fun, easy-to-consume style. Anyone who has ever met Laurie knows that she is a "force of nature," with her incredible energy, optimism, intelligence, professional demeanor, world-class speaking voice, and caring personality. When you read this book, you will see the "how" and "why" she has become such an inspiring, motivational person who has touched so many lives.

5-✮ Anonymous (Oct 14, 2024) - Humanness. Loved the family stories and humanness that shines through.

5-✮ Stephanie Maynard (Oct 14, 2024) - Countless riches at her hands. I have known Laurie for several years and have read her book. This bible verse sums it up best for me: “Yet all good things together came to me in her company and countless riches at her hands.” Wisdom 7:11.  

5-✮ Cindy Pitre (Oct 13, 2024) - Written from the heart. As you read this book, you might think to yourself, “This can’t be true…” but it is. I was there for some of it! Laurie remembers the positive experiences with sparkling laughter and the tragedies with enlightening wisdom. I am waiting for volume 2. Maybe she will recount how Marilyn trapped Mikhail Baryshnikov for his autograph!   

5-✮ Dan Hughes (Oct 12, 2024) - Entertaining Read. Ms. James reminds us all to laugh at ourselves and never get too full of one’s self with accomplishments. Thoroughly enjoyed the memories and the humor. Thanks for sharing. I now need to get back to laughing at myself since Anita just told me that she did not know that when we married that my ears were sold separately.

5-✮ Tommy Kreamer (Oct 12, 2024) - A Light Read That Makes You Smile and Laugh. In today’s rapidly changing world, we are often faced with difficulties and challenges. This book leaves the reader with a sense of joy which is refreshing. About Faces is a fun and lighthearted read that is filled with an incredible and surprising group of people who have impacted the life of the author. Her positive can-do attitude is encouraging and uplifting. She leaves her reders cheering for her success!

5-✮ Carl Breaux (Oct 11, 2024) - A book that makes you smile. Funny, inspirational and heartwarming. Author’s writing style made for an easy and enjoyable read as she shared theups and downs of her journey thru life. A book that made me smile while reading it.

5-✮ Anonymous (Oct 11, 2024) - Heartwarming stories that inspire! A fast easy reading book about all the people, including Ronald Reagan and Kris Kristofferson, who influenced Laurie’s life and made her who she is today. Very uplifting and enjoyable read.

5-✮ Crosby Richardson (Oct 11, 2024) - A Good Read. Reading this book brought back memories that Laurie and I shared together. From singing, musicals, dancing, working on many projects together. Each mentioned situation is describe in true Laurie form. Made me miss Laurie’s dad even more!

5-✮ Charlene Bernard (Oct 11, 2024) - I LOVED it! A definite Must Read and on my list of great Page Turner books. I LOVED it!  

5-✮ Don M. (Oct 11, 2024) - Enjoyable, interesting read. Ms. Jankower-James entertaining book describes her story from childhood to mid-life, focusing on the friends, family, and occasional celebrity who have influenced her decisions and the fabric of her life. The reader will feel they know the author well as she describes her education and job choices, the warmth and humor of her family and friends, and most interestingly, her getting to know personally Ronald Reagan and Kris Kristofferson. The book is a fun, easy read and I recommend it highly.  

5-✮ Theresa Smith (Oct 8, 2024) - Easy-to-Read True Story. I was thrilled to be gifted a book for my birthday, About Faces, written by my friend Laurie J. James! It is a delightful read about life's ups and downs and overcoming obstacles that happen to us all. We’ve all been touched by so many as we walk through life, and Ms. James captured this so eloquently in this easy-to-read true story about those who have influenced her and having to make hard life decisions. I have known Laurie James for several years and learned so much about her journey. It is touching, and inspirational and made me reflect on my own life’s journey! I highly recommend it!

5—Anonymous (Oct 7, 2024)—I laughed, smiled, and thoroughly enjoyed the read. Wow. It was very inspiring, witty, and motivating/encouraging. It was a good read. I had no idea of all the things you and your family have been a part of and accomplished.

5-✮ Denise Laborde Domingue (Oct 6, 2024) - An Inspiring Novel. This was a very moving piece of literature. Laurie and I have been friends for about 43 years.  In that time, I’ve known her as an accomplished singer, actress, master career director, and an award-winning image coach. She has added budding author to my list. The book entertained me.  I feel like the book was a personal blessing.  I’m sure there’s a second book!  I have been told by mutual friends and feel myself that we want more!

5-✮ Anonymous (Oct 6, 2024) - Great job! I really enjoyed the book. It was well-written and kept my interest. I recommend “About Faces”!

5-✮ Carla Quebedeaux (Oct 3, 2024) - Fascinating and Entertaining. Laurie’s book About Faces was fascinating and very entertaining. It’s a must read. It shows Laurie’s character in her life today.

5-✮ Cathy Falcon (Oct 3, 2024) - Heartwarming and Enjoyable. About Faces is a heartwarming look at the many people who have inspired Laurie as she ventured from childhood to her life today. Laurie shares stories of growing up in a humorous and enlightening way that inspire each of us to embrace the life we are given. I truly enjoyed this book, having known Laurie since our college days as Chi Omega sisters!

5-✮ Dan Hamm (Oct 2, 2024) - This book had to be wrtten. This is a book that had to be written, and I'm so happy Laurie mustered the time and energy to do exactly that. Her story and that of her family is an essential part of local history and other histories. Their impact on the community and my life has been deeply felt. This tome ensures it will not be easily forgotten. And I Iove the faces motif! Very cutesy, very demure.

5-✮ Thorn12 (Oct 1, 2024) - Laurie’s Journey Coming at Ya!!! Interesting read, especially the family history content! Not to mention the brushes with the likes of Kris Kristofferson and Ronald Reagan.

5-✮ Gretchen Anderson (Sep 23, 2024) - Delightful stories from all walks of life! What a heartwarming book and delightful perspective on EVERYTHING and EVERYONE! I have known the author for some decades and always knew her to be upbeat. I didn’t know about some of the heartaches and yet she turned them around to work out —- that means anyone can find the best in their situations as well! Geaux Laurie!

5-✮ Jimmy Domengeaux (Sep 21, 2024) - Importance of confidence, grit, spirituality and success. I recommend Laurie Jankower James’ recently released book entitled, “About Faces”;very good read! A nice retrospect of people in Laurie’s life as well as the importance of confidence, grit, spirituality and success. Book can be bought on Amazon.

5-✮ Marianne Hebert (Sep 20, 2024) - About Faces: Charming, Witty, Inspiring! In About Faces, Laurie James masterfully unveils her life, inspiring us to reflect on our own and gain deeper insights into how our experiences have shaped us. True to her uplifting and positive nature, she highlights the good in every situation and the character forged through life's challenges. Laurie brilliantly encourages readers to triumph through life's journey.

5-✮ Tanya Greenwald (Sep 10, 2024) - Truly uplifting read. This is an uplifting, witty, quick read which outlines the fact that Laurie is an intelligent and accomplished woman with a flair of optimism and joy as she travels her life journey. Loved this book!

5-✮ Mark Streva (Sep 7, 2024) - WOW!!!! WOW!!! WOW!!! I greatly enjoyed the book.

5-✮ Jenny Courville (Aug 26, 2024) - Entertaining and inspiring! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this inspirational and uplifting true story of one fascinating woman’s journey to where she is today!

5-✮ Kerry Maggard (Aug 23, 2024) - An inspiring story of loyalty, adventure, and finding your purpose! “About Faces” is well written and truly, an account of an inspiring woman and her amazing family. The author leads readers to consider each life encounter, that may lead down an unforeseen path, and open doors to life-changing experiences! Her faith journey was so intricately orchestrated and beautiful. The book vividly portrays the value of loyalty and the whole-hearted love of PEOPLE!

5-✮ Betsy Richard (Aug 23, 2024) - About Faces is precious! Laurie has been to many interesting places and had lots of cool encounters. It is a blessing to get to know her story. We all have a story, and Laurie helps me realize that most are more interesting than others would think until they are told.

5-✮ Mark Hamilton (Aug 22, 2024) - Great read! Inspiring, uplifting and insightful - Laurie is a gem! I spent the morning with About Faces. It was as Laurie promised in the forward, funny and comfortable, while promoting reflections of my own. What a glorious place, this Lafayette, Louisiana is; we are blessed and delightfully different for our experiences in that fabulous city. It was a treat to read of your life there (and other places) and make the connections to your family and to the tapestry of people that framed your experience. Thank you for writing this uplifting and inspiring story. An honest, energetic, in sincere story from an author that shares those same traits! Loved it!

5-✮ Candace Carroll (Aug 14, 2024) - Find a positive in every day life. Great little book about personal life experiences. Makes you sit and reflect on your life, the events or people that have shaped it. The bonus was the humor. Sometimes we have to laugh at a situation and move on. ❤️

5-✮ Angella Blanchet (Aug 12, 2024) - Entertaining, quick read with great positive messages throughout. This book is full of the energy, positivity and motivational messages that Laurie Jankower James is known for. It is largely centered around an extremely interesting family and personal history, but Laurie's quick wit and often self-depricating humor make this a fun read that anyone can relate to. Highly recommended for those who enjoy turning that last page feeling a bit uplifted and inspired.

5-✮ David Eason (Aug 10, 2024) - Loved it. Absolutely loved About Faces, and I was able to remember quite a few of the incidents that Laurie referred to. Very easy reading which makes it a book that people of all ages can relate to.

5-✮ Mike Hebert (Aug 8, 2024) - Recommend this book. If you want a positive message on how to navigate the game of life, this book is for you. You will meet the interesting people who help Laurie do so. Perhaps it will make you appreciate the special people in your life! Learning about the people in Laurie’s life which she has relied upon for her success, makes me appreciate the special people in mine.

5-✮ Karl Moeller (Aug 6, 2024) - Simply Brilliant. Today I finished About Faces, by Laurie Jankower James. It was an easy enjoyable read. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. It is an encouraging and motivational read. If you are from Lafayette from the 60's, 70's, or 80's, it's a must-read. You will recognize and relive many of your memories. Laurie's book is simply brilliant!

5-✮ gigitexas (Aug 6, 2024) - Very entertaining and a beautiful story. Loved the book and its messages and gorgeous cover.

5-✮ Janie Varisco (Aug 6, 2024) - Such a great book!! "About Faces" by Laurie Jankower James is a delightful and engaging read that captures the essence of the author's life and the remarkable individuals who have inspired her along the way. Each story is a vivid snapshot, offering glimpses into her experiences and the people who have shaped her journey. I was particularly captivated by the intimate look into her family history, uncovering details and anecdotes I never knew before. Laurie has a unique talent for bringing her characters to life, making you feel as if you are part of her extended family. The narrative flows effortlessly, making it an easy and enjoyable read from start to finish. The book's charm lies in its heartfelt storytelling and the relatable, often poignant moments that resonate with readers. Whether you are looking for inspiration, a good laugh, or simply a cozy read, "About Faces" delivers on all fronts. It's a testament to the power of personal stories and the lasting impact of those who touch our lives. Highly recommended!

5-✮ J.B.Z. (Aug 6, 2024) - Truly a fun read! I thought I had known Laurie for 50 plus years. It took me reading About Faces to realize that I really didnt know her at all! I do remember her regaling us with stories of Ross Brupbacher and Ed Hargett visiting her home. As a football obssessed 10 year old I was captivated. We went our separate ways as we got older but Lafayette, La was a small city and our paths continually crossed. Laurie always had a warm greeting and a big hug available when I was fortunate enough to run into her. You must read her book, find out about all the Faces that lead her to become the successful, well rounded, outgoing, self assured, beautiful person that she is. Peace.

5-✮ Anonymous (Aug 5, 2024) - Great read from a personal perspective. I have never understood why people get all choked up over happy, inspirational things, but Laurie’s kindness and empathy changed that. This book is an excellent read on the memories and life of a genuinely kind person I have known for over 35 years. This is an informative read about her experiences when it is about a woman's life. It is about growing up in the fabric of, say, a small town in Louisiana, making friends and learning from each interaction, and being thrown into a fantastic time with many famous people, taking their positions over several years and using them to the best advantage possible. I usually cringe at words like 'inspirational' because they have become so overused and clichéd, but I cannot help but say that Laurie truly is an inspiration. Having had the privilege of knowing her, hearing her wonderful voice, and feeling her enthusiasm in person, I can attest to her warmth, humor, and down-to-earth nature. She is one of the most genuine, innovative, and relatable people I have ever met. And yes, we present what we want to see, but she and her words are genuine. She cares about people—especially her community—and wants to give them better lives and opportunities. Her authenticity makes you feel connected and valued. She is intelligent, but she also needs to gussy up her words. She talks straight, with an openness and honesty rarely seen. She has been one of the most powerful women and had a successful career, yet she has remained that same girl from a great family. I believe that anyone who reads this book will benefit from it. It beautifully encapsulates Laurie's life and thoughts, allowing everyone to experience the joy of her friendship. It is like being warmly welcomed into a comforting circle of friends.

5-✮ Brenda Bertrand (Aug 5, 2024) - Great book! Really enjoyed reading About Faces! It’s filled with stories about her life with a positive message at the end of each chapter. You will fill encouraged and uplifted. I would definitely recommend this book!

5-✮ Bonnie Mahoney (Aug 5, 2024) - Great read. The author does an incredible job of using personal experience to elicit laughter, provoke thought, and inspire change. Beautifully done, highly recommend.

5-✮ Karen Meaux (Aug 5, 2024) - A pure pleasure to read. “About Faces” is such a fun and enjoyable read!! I’ve not only known the author since the fifth grade, I’ve also been her best friend since then, and she, mine!! Laurie is a wonderful and entertaining writer and I rediscovered this when I had the pleasure of getting a copy of her book into my hands. Consider taking the delightful journey through Laurie’s life experiences and meet the “faces” who have impacted her journey!!

5-✮ bricks1 (Aug 5, 2024) - Entertaining Read! Laurie’s book About Faces is a sweet and engaging snippet of the author’s life that gives readers an optimistic perspective of life despite all its difficult moments. She turns her memories into positive lessons that we all can learn from!!

4-✮ Tim Allis (Aug 2, 2024) - Fun and inspiring. Laurie James looks back on her colorful life and careers PLURAL with moxie in an unconventionally structured, fast-paced romp that bounces along with humor and surprise and loads of life lessons and inspirations.

5-✮ Anonymous (Jul 29, 2024) - Amazing! You can truly feel the pride and joy that Laurie put into this book! It’s a lighthearted book that leaves you smiling at the end!

5-✮ Camille Breaux (Jul 10, 2024) - Great read! I really enjoyed reading about the stories that shaped Laurie’s life! The stories were super interesting and I loved how Laurie incorporated humor throughout the book.

5-✮ Robbie Mahtook (Jul 8, 2024) - Great memories! About Faces brought back so many memories. I’m so impressed with your dad. From athletes to politicians, he was “the man.” What a great gift you’ve given. To allow us to re-experience our past and to know more about great friends who were with us for some of our most wonderful moments.

5-✮ Bobby Jumonville (Jul 6, 2024) - Kudos Merv and Marilyn! Mary and I both enjoyed the book very much. Some chapters were new to me, others I knew of. Enjoyed all the CCHS stuff, especially Br. Richard (my favorite teacher: 10th grade English). He taught me the value of spoken/written word, with God involved. Thank you. Kudos Merv and Marilyn! The journey continues!

5-✮ Elliott James (Jul 6, 2024) - Thanks!! I enjoyed the entire book!!

5-✮ Anonymous (Jun 29, 2024) - Great job. Really enjoyed it.

5-✮ Maria Lopez-Kimbrough (Jun 27, 2024) - Easy read. Great, easy read book! Well-written, engaging and relatable!

5-✮ Ellen Carroll (Jun 19, 2024) - Hometown People. Laurie’s book was a one-seating read and reminded me of our hometown, Lafayette, LA. Her Mom, back in the day, was my teacher as a freshman at USL and the prettiest woman ever!!! Laurie’s book was a light read and a look back at memories of her life’s story. This, in turn, had me recall many of the people who have touched my life. Great read and very very well written, Laurie 👏🏻

5-✮ Ashley Dugas (Jun 11, 2024) - Her Voice Shines Through. If you’ve never met Laurie, this book will give you a vivid picture of her character. Her enthusiastic voice shines through, punctuated with exclamation points that mirror her vibrant spirit. It’s evident she poured her heart into this project, as she does with all her endeavors.

5-✮ Tim Schmidt (Jun 6, 2024) - I enjoyed the stories that impacted Laurie’s life! I enjoyed the stories that impacted Laurie's life--the book is entertaining with a good life message at the end of each chapter. Laurie made me think of the people who have impacted my life too! So if you want an enjoyable read with good life messages I would recommend this book.

5-✮ Sarah (Jun 2, 2024) - Enjoyable and inspiring! I've known Laurie (and her mom) for just over a decade. She has always been the person to light up a room, and her positive energy is simply infectious! I could feel that warmth through the pages of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and learned so much about her life and her family that I never knew. While reading through each chapter, it really felt like I was taking a journey with a friend. There were moments that made me laugh out loud, and there were other moments that made me pause to reflect. Overall, this was a very enjoyable and inspirational read from start to finish!

5-✮ Jane Roqueplot (Jun 2, 2024) - Even if you know Laurie, you will learn many new inspirational facts! Laurie's book is a great story of her incredible life. From the adrenaline-charged world of professional and college athletes to the profound insights of a speech and debate expert, Laurie shares stories that are both compelling and enlightening. Her encounters with legendary figures like Kris Kristofferson and Ronald Reagan add an intriguing dimension, offering readers a front-row seat to moments that have shaped her unique perspective. As an entrepreneur, Laurie has faced numerous challenges, each bringing its own set of triumphs and trials. Her resilience and unwavering faith serve as a beacon of hope, providing "glimmering pearls of wisdom" for anyone navigating the tumultuous seas of life. Her candid reflections on prejudice and the solace she found in God's love are both moving and inspiring. What truly sets this book apart is its ability to serve as a "trusty compass and steadfast companion" for readers. Laurie’s genuine warmth and positivity shine through, making this not just a memoir, but a guide to living with purpose and grace. This book is a treasure trove of inspiration and insight. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the human spirit. Reading it feels like having a heartfelt conversation with a dear friend who always knows just what to say to lift your spirits and guide you forward. Laurie and her book are an inspiration for all, if you thought you knew her personally or are meeting her for the first time through her book.

5-✮ Esther Atkins (Jun 1, 2024) - great read. It was like the author was sitting down with me having a conversation.

5-✮ Teal Billeaud (Jun 1, 2024) - Most enjoyable! My mother confiscated it and laughed out loud several times. That made me smile.

5-✮ Kathleen Trahan Lanthier (Jun 1, 2024) - Proud. (Your) Dad is very proud, and so am I.

5-✮ Renée Revett (May 30, 2024) - Emotional read! I’ve smiled, I’ve wept a little, remembered why I love you so much. Bravo my friend. What a beautiful gift to your dad’s desire to write a book.

5-✮ Laura A. Gauthier (May 30, 2024) - This is a must-read. Do yourself a favor and add this to your collection! This was the book I didn't know I needed. Aptly named, About Faces is well-written, witty, and contains stories of the myriad of times the author, Laurie Jankower James, was forced to pivot, pull new skills from her backpack, and begin a new and unprecedented journey. Laurie is a wizard sprinkling humor and positivity into every situation; a virtual tap-dancing, baton-twirling, cheer-leading flamingo in your corner reminding you to remember your superpower, put on your face, and take the next step in courage and with the confidence of a two-year old in a Batman costume. This is a must-read. Do yourself a favor and add this to your collection!

5-✮ Terry Richard (May 28, 2024) - If you need inspiration, here is your book! Being a local person, I know Laurie and I can profess that I didn't know all the information. Laurie is a positive energy force that can light up any room! Her openness to her life struggles and how she managed to come out a better person will inspire anyone to not give up on their dreams. I am so grateful for this book and for Laurie in showing me that if it is worth it, it is worth it! You might just take someone along with you that needs a positive change in their life.

5-✮ Anonymous (May 26, 2024) - Very good book. Love this book. Love the author.

5-✮ Adele Connelly (May 23, 2024) - Enjoyed the book. This book brought back some good memories. Thank you so much for writing it.

5-✮ Nanette Oliver (May 19, 2024) - Interesting Book! I really enjoyed reading About Faces and am truly impressed with Laurie's talent and interesting family! Bravo Laurie!

5-✮ Mary Stuart Smith (May 18, 2024) - Life lessons through a life well lived. This was a wonderful story of life lessons from a life well lived. Very well written and entertaining. Really enjoyed it.

5-✮ Debbie Powell (May 15, 2024) - Very Inspiring Book. This is a very heartfelt and well written book that gives the reader a glimpse into the fascinating life of Laurie Jankower James and her wonderful, loving and very interesting family. I’ve known Laurie since our Chi Omega days in college, and I learned so many incredible things about her life and family that I never knew. Wow! What a remarkable upbringing and career she’s had. I experienced the full gamut of emotions reading her stories … one moment laughing out loud (especially at how her parents got together in Chapter 1 and the Diet Coke and “munchies” stories in Chapter 12 — truly hilarious!), and the next moment being moved to tears. But most of all, what I consistently felt throughout was uplifted and in awe of Laurie’s always optimistic approach to life’s ups and downs. Laurie’s book reveals that like most of us, she had her share of sorrow, disappointment, and struggle, but with God’s help and her usual sunny demeanor and enthusiastic, can-do attitude, she never let it stop her from achieving her goals … even if it meant creating new ones or taking a different route to get there. Her positive, graceful spirit in the face of adversity is truly an inspiration and completely embodies the saying “When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.” And she makes a mean lemonade. Additional Note: I neglected to include that my only disappointment in reading this book, as I previously told its author, was when I turned the last page and realized I had come to the end and there would be no more pages to read. I just wanted it to go on and on. Here’s hoping there are other books in her future, as I believe she has many more inspiring words to share.

5-✮ Daryl Davis (May 12, 2024) - A Six-Star Treasure of Inspiration. One tell-tale sign of a meaningful read and a worthwhile journey -- that slight sadness when the end of a good book approaches -- abundantly present here, is yet far outshined by the cumulative, powerful and abiding sense of joy and faith Laurie's About Faces conveys to her readers. With a characteristic humor, energy, and humility, she gives thanks and recognition to her greatest life influences, highlighting lessons gleaned from each, all in the hope of helping others overcome any setback and transcend any challenge, so as to achieve their ultimate personal and professional goals. It was truly a pleasure to follow the highs and lows of her early educational, dating and career paths, as well as to trace the rich history of her distinguished family and their often noteworthy acquaintances -- even as her nascent faith blossomed like a determined pink lily, growing first outward from family to friends, then onward to mentors, colleagues and clients, before reaching upward to God, and perhaps simultaneously inward, as it finally brought in full flower her faith in herself -- by which, years later, now a highly accomplished professional backed by a heaven-sent husband, she yet bends the radiant bloom of her faith to further nurture our faith in ourselves.

5-✮ Craig Colomb (May 8, 2024) - Fantastic Read. I recently finished reading, “About Faces”, and I must say, it was a fantastic read. I could relate to so many aspects, especially considering past conversations and my personal knowledge of both Laurie and Lafayette. Congratulations on this milestone, and I look forward to the next one.

5-✮ Doug Brodhead (May 2, 2024) - The Jankower Family legacy! Laurie’s family played a pivotal role in my life. From college choice to marrying the girl I’ve been with for nearly 50 years now. Reading each chapter was like reliving so many moments shared with her family. Some chapters were also a revelation as i wasn’t aware of Laurie’s twists and turns in life. Her writing made for easy reading. She has such a rich history to share. I would definitely recommend reading, especially if you’re from Louisiana and familiar with the Kahn family of Rayne. Truly great people and I’m forever indebted to her parents for helping guide an only child who grew up in the country to parents who through no fault of their own never finished high school but were hard working people! This unworldly guy sure was blessed to be taken under the wing of the Jankower family. Laurie’s story is a must read. One that will surely motivate you to travail the path life takes you and make lemonade out of whatever God sends your way.

5-✮ Kathy Jones (May 2, 2024) - About Faces is an excellent read. Laurie Jankower James is a great author and storyteller. In her recent book, she inspires us as she entertains. This is a captivating summary of her life’s lessons that will give readers a blueprint to a life of meaning and joy.

5-✮ Linda Lipstate (Apr 30, 2024) - Uplifting and inspirational stories. Everyone has a story to tell….and some people have multiple stories they want to share. Such is the case with author Laurie James who has collected stories her whole life and sees humor, and sometimes destiny, in the way people are connected through every day events. This collection of stories inspires one to see the positive side of encounters and events through the eyes of a true optimist. If you need coaching in the power of positive thinking this book will guide you gently and amuse you at the same time.

5-✮ Sara Baker (Apr 29, 2024) - Good read. Enjoyed the book very much. I felt uplifted after reading it.

5-✮ Kay Wolf (Apr 25, 2024) - Quick easy read. Just got your book and finished reading it! So good! I felt every emotion. Easy to read, funny and thought provoking. Your sweet Daddy would be so proud of you.

5-✮ Dinah L. Bolotte (Apr 24, 2024) - Absolutely fabulous! I truly enjoyed reading your life story! Now I know you a little better and love you even more. ❣️ Your Dad would be so very proud of you!