We All Want To Be Happy: A Book of Thoughts, Volume 2

By: Ann Mullen-Martin
Publisher: Annmuma Publishing
Publication Date: December 15, 2024
ISBN: 979-8-9914644-8-2
Reviewed by: Rebecca Jane Johnson
Review Date: December 11, 2024

We All Want To Be Happy: A Book of Thoughts, Volume 2 is just as generous as Volume 1, and it warms the heart with charming anecdotes and relatable humor.

The author, Ann Mullen-Martin, grew up as Olevia in Louisiana, moved to Dallas, fell for a man she met on the road; they got married and on their wedding night, he gets arrested. Everything may or may not work out in the end, but that incident lives on to color the author’s life. Another story describes memorable holidays; another story reveals the importance of first impressions. The characters in each story go about solving their everyday problems with sensible solutions. Each story is told with an artful grasp of the most necessary details for a compelling story. Each character comes alive through witty dialogue. There is plenty of honest truth-telling, humanity, and authenticity in these short stories. Yes, there is sincere sentimentality, too. When a grandmother and granddaughter think of the best Thanksgiving ever, they discover the art of domestic coziness and contentment.

The ends of each episode satisfy the reader by extending pithy remarks that reveal lessons learned and hard-earned wisdom won. These remarks invite the reader into an intimate, shared contemplation. Other readers have likened the experience of reading this book to chatting with a shrewd and dear friend across the kitchen table—the two of you, eyes alive, ending every conversation in awe or laughter.

One of Mullen-Martin’s wise gems says, “We can’t always plan the events that will mark our lives forever. But we can look back and pick the best parts of each planned and unplanned event to create important additions to the family fabric. Those pieces come together to create a warm quilt of love and acceptance.” So, relax, advises Mullen; we don’t need to control life.

Quill says: This is a wise book from a mature author who has proof to reassure readers that life’s struggles are difficult, but struggles also reveal the key to contentment.

For more information on We All Want To Be Happy: A Book of Thoughts, Volume 2, please visit the author’s website at: www.annmuma-publishing.com

Author Interview