Book Reviews
Reader feedback on Ann's Books
“Growing Up in Rural Louisiana takes us through the life of a young girl raised in a tight-knit community in rural Louisiana from 1943 to 1963. Mullen-Martin captures the heart of her upbringing, starting with her early childhood, family dynamics, and the cultural influences of the time. The book revolves around key moments like the impact of local events, like tornadoes, school experiences, and the deep connection she had with her family, particularly her mother. The memoir paints a vivid picture of the challenges and joys of growing up in a small, rural Southern town during that era.
What really drew me into this memoir was the simplicity and warmth in the writing. Mullen-Martin’s voice is like sitting down with a friend who is telling you about her life over coffee. The way she describes her family’s interactions, especially her relationship with her mother, is heartwarming. The blend of vulnerability and humor, especially when the narrator reflects on events from her childhood, gives the memoir a really personal and intimate feel.
The sense of place and time in this memoir is so well done. You really get a feel for rural Louisiana, the community dynamics, and how life was structured around the land and small-town events. The descriptions of the family home, the small town of Tioga, and the importance of things like the local school or the family’s shotgun house add layers to her story. I loved how Mullen-Martin talks about their humble home with a picket fence. It’s a simple image, but it conveys so much about the pride they had in what they owned.
There were parts that felt especially nostalgic, even for someone who didn’t grow up in rural Louisiana. For instance, when she talks about the vase her brother brought back from the war and how it became such a significant symbol of her family’s connection, I felt that. It’s not just a vase, it’s memories and love wrapped into an object that carries her mother’s legacy. The way Mullen-Martin recounts this memory made me think of items in my own life that hold that same weight of history. And that’s what makes this book so relatable. It’s those small, everyday things that tell the bigger story of who we are and where we come from.
I recommend Growing Up in Rural Louisiana to anyone who enjoys memoirs that focus on family, place, and personal history. If you appreciate stories of simpler times, or if you’re curious about life in the rural South during the 1940s to 1960s, this book will definitely resonate.”
“Growing Up in Rural Louisiana by Ann Mullen-Martin is a meticulous memoir detailing her journey from 1943 until 1962. Ann was born in Tioga, Louisiana, on November 11, 1943. She has two daughters, one son, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. In this memoir, she recounts many of her childhood memories, starting with the 1948 storm that destroyed a large portion of their town and the surrounding villages when she was five years old. She then describes how one of her mother’s clients surprisingly stepped in to help them buy the House on the Hill, relieving her mother of a heavy burden. Hilariously, she also narrates the difficulty she envisioned in joining school as she imagined being apart from her mother, who gave her everyday validation and acceptance.
Mullen-Martin’s affection for “porch time,” where they learned to value the most fundamental thing in life—who they were—is clear. Among her other greatest and most unforgettable experiences—which she describes in great
detail—was witnessing her father’s softer side, which was typically hidden under the minutiae of everyday life. On one occasion, he forced her mother into a ditch by driving their car—which lacked seatbelts, door locks, and other safety features—down a tight turn. He then called to her, “Mary, what’d you get out for?” This incident demonstrates his humorous side, which would make even the driest ribs tingle.
Every family is different, and they all have stories to share. While some family stories are heartwarming, others are tragic, and Mullen-Martin’s primarily takes on the former in this read. Her family’s closeness, strong bonds, and exceptional affection undoubtedly worked together to produce an exceptionally strong and lovely family. Mullen-Martin’s mother’s heroic life and its conclusion, written with the highest deference and humility, immerse readers in the delicate world of a family, aware that a loved one is about to depart. However, the book’s highlight is her father’s subsequent involvement in enhancing his children’s lives. Although her affection for her family is clear, she also recognizes their shortcomings and is not hesitant to point them out, including her personality, attitude, and self. Particularly noteworthy are the conversations she has with her family members, which provide them with the serenity of daily life, the bond, the optimism, and the faith in a brighter future.
Beyond that, Mullen-Martin’s guidance on “the trick to winning” in life and how to create an environment where your adversary is thrilled about your win is crucial to every aspiring entrepreneur and decent citizen. Her deft use of language, description, and phrasing makes it easy to become engrossed and want to read more. She has a great sense of humor, an acute attention to detail, and a profound passion for inspiring others.
Quill says: Readers of Ann Mullen-Martin’s Growing Up in Rural Louisiana will be brought back to the turbulent years of adolescence and young adulthood, as well as the hardships that came with it. This book is beautiful, engrossing, and full of enduring lessons. Despite its length, it is worthwhile to explore both its goal and its essence. -Lily Andrews, Feathered Quill Reviews
What really drew me into this memoir was the simplicity and warmth in the writing. Mullen-Martin’s voice is like sitting down with a friend who is telling you about her life over coffee. The way she describes her family’s interactions, especially her relationship with her mother, is heartwarming. The blend of vulnerability and humor, especially when the narrator reflects on events from her childhood, gives the memoir a really personal and intimate feel.
The sense of place and time in this memoir is so well done. You really get a feel for rural Louisiana, the community dynamics, and how life was structured around the land and small-town events. The descriptions of the family home, the small town of Tioga, and the importance of things like the local school or the family’s shotgun house add layers to her story. I loved how Mullen-Martin talks about their humble home with a picket fence. It’s a simple image, but it conveys so much about the pride they had in what they owned.
There were parts that felt especially nostalgic, even for someone who didn’t grow up in rural Louisiana. For instance, when she talks about the vase her brother brought back from the war and how it became such a significant symbol of her family’s connection, I felt that. It’s not just a vase, it’s memories and love wrapped into an object that carries her mother’s legacy. The way Mullen-Martin recounts this memory made me think of items in my own life that hold that same weight of history. And that’s what makes this book so relatable. It’s those small, everyday things that tell the bigger story of who we are and where we come from.
I recommend Growing Up in Rural Louisiana to anyone who enjoys memoirs that focus on family, place, and personal history. If you appreciate stories of simpler times, or if you’re curious about life in the rural South during the 1940s to 1960s, this book will definitely resonate.”
via Goodreads - Growing Up in Rural Louisiana
We All Want To Be Happy, Volume 3 follows the author’s brother John from Thanksgiving 1963 into the mid and late sixties, as he hitchhikes between army posts, small Louisiana towns, and Dallas, chasing work, women, and some kind of peace in his own skin. We watch him drift out of the military, land in miserable factory jobs, fall under the spell of fiery revivals, marry Ruth, and throw himself into Bible reading and lay preaching. The book moves in episodes rather than a single big plot, and each one shows John wrestling with family, faith, money, and that quiet longing for “peace of mind” that sits at the heart of the volume.
I felt pulled in most by the way the writing handles scenes. The hitchhiking trips, the tin roof at Grandpa’s, the Resistol hat factory full of “toads,” the Davis Street auditorium with its bluegrass band and healing line, the Stratton Cleaner sales meeting that feels suspiciously like a revival meeting, all of that felt sharp and specific. The dialogue rings true and carries a lot of weight, especially between John and the older men in his life. I noticed how often the author lets a joke land flat in the moment, then uses that silence to show John’s insecurity. The prose itself is plain and direct, which fits the world. Sometimes scenes run a bit long, but the voice never feels fake. It reads like someone who has lived close to these places and these people, and that authenticity resonated with me more than once.
The book is not just about religion; it is about how a hungry soul can latch onto anything that promises meaning. John throws himself into Pentecostal revival life, studies the Bible every spare minute, works in a hat factory while trying to save coworkers and even a confused cop at White Rock Lake, then slowly realizes that zeal does not automatically equal peace. The tent revival scenes with Brother Gene Ewing, the healing spectacles, the baskets circling for offerings, all raise hard questions without turning the story into a sermon. I felt both moved and uneasy in those chapters, which I suspect is exactly the point. The book keeps circling this tension between genuine spiritual hunger and human ego, between being “saved” and being honest with yourself. By the time John gets pulled into high-pressure sales culture with Stratton, the echo between religious hype and commercial hype feels deliberate and pretty biting.
I came away feeling that We All Want To Be Happy, Volume 3 is a thoughtful portrait of a young man trying to grow up without losing his soul. It will suit readers who enjoy memoirs and biographies set in Southern or Southwestern life in the sixties, working-class families, and evangelical church culture with all its beauty and contradictions. If you are curious about how faith, work, and family pressure shape a person over time, and you do not mind sitting in some emotional discomfort while he figures that out, this book is a good fit.
“A sincere volume about deciding to be happy. In this motivational work, Mullen-Martin encourages readers to take an active role in their own happiness.
Mullen-Martin takes the reader on a cheerful walk down a path beset on all sides by potential tragedies. She does so in the hopes that, by the end, her readers will be able to continue on with the same joy for living that she has managed to muster.”
Kirkus Reviews
“I came across Growing Up in Rural Louisiana and thought, “This is the kind of story people should be talking about.” Your memoir feels like a gentle yet powerful reminder that, as Laura Ingalls Wilder once said, “It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.”
Your writing seems to hold that rare gift of transporting readers to a place that is both deeply personal and universally familiar. As I read about the slower pace of Tioga, I couldn’t help but think of Maya Angelou’s wisdom: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” You’ve taken that step to tell yours and in doing so, you’ve preserved not just your memories, but the echoes of an entire generation.
The beauty of a memoir like yours is that it doesn’t just recount events; it connects people. George R.R. Martin once wrote, “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.” Through your pages, readers live the joys, the challenges, and the rhythm of rural Louisiana. And in a way, they rediscover their own families, their own roots, their own forgotten moments.”
Clare H.
“In We All Want To Be Happy: A Book of Thoughts by Ann Mullen-Martin, the author shares many stories with her readers and in the process offers inspiration to how she worked through a particular situation. In offering her thoughts, it leaves the readers with plenty to contemplate and the possibilities for them to apply these same ideas in their lives.
Although Mullen-Martin holds no degrees in psychology or psychiatry, she aspires to share life pointers with everyone and hopes in doing so they, too, will experience the happiness she continually experiences in her own life.
This reviewer found this book truly motivational and enjoyed reading the author’s stories and inspirations in how she dealt with particular circumstances. There were a few pointers worth mentioning and the first one that resonated truly with me was that no one else can make you happy. Happiness must come from within, or else it does not come at all. These are words that readers can relate to and hopefully they can allow the words to sink in and apply to themselves. They should actively take part in making happiness their own responsibility, without projecting the responsibility onto others around them. If you want to be happy, take charge and do it for yourself. You’re so worth it!
Another pointer to discuss was how when the author was younger, she found herself sad at one point. Her mother told her to write down a list of everything that made her happy. Once the list was completed, they discussed each item on the list. Although this was something she did as a child, this reviewer loved the idea and wanted to share it with readers. Why not make a list from time to time of the things that make you happy no matter what age you might be at the time? This is a wonderful idea that everyone can do to reassess your life and by using your list, you can see how many things bring you happiness. If it’s not on your list already, well then that’s the perfect opportunity to take action and get it on your happiness list.
An additional inspiration Mullen-Martin wrote was that everyone has dreams of tomorrow, no matter how big or small they might be, but we shouldn’t forget that today is someday. There’s no time like the present to start fulfilling a few smaller dreams that might be easily achievable for you to enjoy here and now. It’s wonderful having long term dreams, but don’t lose sight of smaller ones which can make you happy in your present moment.
Quill says: We All Want To Be Happy by Ann Mullen-Martin is one book that readers should not miss because the motivations and inspirations offered within these pages will help you invest in yourself. There’s no time like the present to start on your journey of self- happiness.“
Feather Quill
“This book is such a pleasure to read. It’s like reading stories a favorite aunt or grandparent may have told you but you never paid close enough attention. The stories are all relatable in one way or another. The book is written without ANY judgement. The author simply tries to encourage the reader to find their own happiness and gives some true to life experiences that help.
It’s refreshing not to read what a PhD has to say based on books and school, but on what one person actually experienced. The Big Chief Tablet was a valuable tool I learned. Often, usually at night, I pull out my Big Chief Tablet (in my mind) and try to fill it up as best I can.
I look forward to reading more from Ann Mullen as I hope she has the opportunity to give her readers much more encouragement and advice.”
“This wonderful book looks at life’s experiences as a glass full of happiness and wonder, even if the glass is only half full. As I read the simple truths, I found myself nodding my head, “She’s right about that, and that, and that..”
The book is easy to read and fun while considering the experiences that life brings. With some gentle prodding and on-the-mark insights, this author offers a plethora of observations for the reader’s consideration.
This is on my Christmas-giving list.”
“Thanks for the book. I really enjoyed it. My favorite chapter was Coming to Grips with Getting Old. I could relate to it.
The chapter on Finding Truth took me back to my days of seeking the meaning of life. My discoveries led me to be almost 100% in agreement with Ann’s. The only time I really think about it is when one of my sisters will start preaching their beliefs & telling me how sorry they are that I’m going to hell.
It was a great book. I think I will first share it with my daughter.”
Timothy K.
via Email
“An earnest, humorous collection of essays from an octogenarian’s perspective.
Mullen offers more hard-won knowledge on how to lead a good life in this
nonfiction volume, the second in a series.
Age brings wisdom, and with 80 years under her belt, the author has accumulated
quite a bit of it. With this second compendium of essays, she offers her
experiences with the aim of helping her readers find greater contentment. “It
took a while, but I eventually accepted that I am not in control of life,” writes
Mullen in her foreword. “I have learned the best option is to greet every day with
curiosity, acceptance, and a good sense of humor while continuing to follow the
string.” Some examples: when your new boss sees you trip over a fire hydrant, it’s
best to laugh it off. Ditto for when you accidentally start a fire in a co-worker’s
wastepaper basket. Indeed, the author’s initial displeasure with an off-color joke
nearly prevented her from going out with the man who would eventually become
her second husband. (Luckily, he apologized, and the two had a laughter-filled
first date at Cracker Barrel.)
Across these essays, Mullen instructs her readers on
the fine arts of making the most of a canceled flight, bluffing one’s way into a
better rental car, and spotting jabirus in Belize. One memorable essay describes
her thrifty father, who kept everything valuable in the trunk of his car, including
the family’s supply of toilet paper. (An employee of the Missouri-Pacific Railroad,
he considered a “perk of [his] job” his ability to bring home some of the toilet
paper that the railroad ordered by the caseload.) Not every piece is so
lighthearted; one chapter is formatted as a letter to God, which the author wrote
following the loss of her second husband to Covid-19. There are also short
philosophical chapters in which she discusses her thoughts on the afterlife, the
concept of solitude, and equality.
Mullen’s folksy narration unites the varied pieces, displaying characteristic good
humor and a gift for memorable phrasing. Here she writes about Barbara, a
beloved stray poodle that adopted her family soon after they moved into a new
home: “Unfortunately, we discovered the first time she came into heat that she
had the personality of a sex worker in desperate need of clientele. The size of the
potential mate created no obstacle for Barbara, and our confinement attempts
were less than successful.”
While most of the chapters take the form of personal
essays, some break format—there are poems, a chapter from her
granddaughter’s point of view, a short story guest-authored by her brother John,
and even an imagined interview with God. Though the author’s Christian faith
informs several chapters, the book is not heavily religious or dogmatic, and
Mullen appears to have as many questions regarding the nature of God as she
does answers.
The book’s unpredictable organization may vex some readers, and
the author’s conclusions are not always as sage or inspiring as she means them to
be. Nevertheless, fans of the previous volume will appreciate this longer sequel.
An earnest, humorous collection of essays from an octogenarian’s perspective.”
Kirkus Indie
“What I loved about this book is that it doesn’t pretend life is perfect. Ann Mullen shares stories that feel familiar, like something from your own life.
There’s a lot of heart here, and her joy in the little things comes through on every page. It’s honest, encouraging, and written with kindness. A beautiful reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles or celebrations.”
“This book made me happy! Not only did reading it give me a sense of joy and hopefulness, it made me want to pay it forward. The book is well-written, short and sweet, but with a powerful message that can change your life for the better.
I highly recommend this book and plan to share it with everyone I know! Peggy J.”
“Excellent writing. It’s joyful too and a book that you will read more than once.”
“This book made me feel seen in the best way. Ann Mullen shares real moments that reminded me of my own experiences. Some stories made me laugh and others made me reflect. It’s the kind of book I want to keep on my nightstand.”
“Each story felt like sitting down with a friend over coffee. Ann’s words are warm, honest, and relatable. I appreciated the way she wove humor into even the tougher moments. It reminded me that joy can exist even in hard times.
I highly recommend it for anyone going through life’s ups and downs.”
Victoria S.
“This book is a heartfelt and inspiring collection of thoughts that truly lifts the spirit. Each page offers gentle reminders about gratitude, peace, and finding joy in everyday life, this book is easy to read. Its deeply meaningful, making it perfect for reflection or daily encouragement.”
“The book shares short reflections that are easy to read and apply in daily life. Some ideas feel a little familiar, but the simplicity makes them relatable. If you enjoy light, reflective reading, this is a calming pick.”
“I really enjoyed reading this book. It’s filled with her life stories and they are really interesting and inspiring to read. Definitely the best book I read in a while.”
“Sweet book looking into Ann’s life. She is such a great storyteller! I felt like she was a close friend sharing details and stories about her past with me. After each chapter, I wanted to “hear” more!”
“This book was eye-opening in a way. Reading about the segregation in the 50s and more modern-day trials and tribulations. Throughout the book, the author remained positive, even amid the peaks and valleys of her life.
Her brother wrote a chapter in the book describing his life as a sheep owner, wanting to get rid of the wolves that eat the sheep. Hearing about new strategies to get rid of the wolves, his thoughts went to “the wolves were here first.” A reminder that it is important to remember history and work to find a balance.”
“Finding happiness can be quite the challenge. We all want to be happy, but life has a way of distracting us from achieving happiness. In this book, the author shares their own personal stories about how they went about achieving happiness and peace within their lives along with their family lives.”
“The first volume of We All Want To Be Happy was excellent. Volume 2 is even better because it’s longer. In this volume, she writes compelling stories that give insight into living and being happy. Each story illustrates a life lesson worth knowing. I think people will nod their heads as they read, thinking, Yep, that’s right..”
“Mullen’s reflections feel like advice from a wise friend. I loved how grounded and sincere each story was. Perfect for anyone craving calm clarity. A beautiful reminder that happiness is always within reach.”
“The author, Mullen-Martin, and narrator, Olevia, both have distinct voices, which help create a nice and easy read. In this case, that style of narration fits well with the book as it is a memoir. In a notable number of chapters, pictures accompany the chapter titles. This creates interesting formatting that helps catch the reader’s eye.
The book is also a snapshot of the mid-1900s, with its references to segregation and the kkk present as well. These mentions don’t sugar coat history, but on the downside, the narrator brushes them off more often than not without a thought to how they affected her life and worldview.
Due to the style of narration, it’s clear that some of the earlier stories are very much stories, as the narrator would have been too young to remember a word-by-word account. Most people do not have an eidetic memory, so they will not remember stories word-for-word. A smaller issue is that some formatting is inconsistent with the chapters. Some chapters have pictures, chapter numbers, and titles separated from the text itself, but others (like chapter 6) don’t.”
“The author, Mullen-Martin, and narrator, Olevia, both have distinct voices, which help create a nice and easy read. In this case, that style of narration fits well with the book as it is a memoir. In a notable number of chapters, pictures accompany the chapter titles. This creates interesting formatting that helps catch the reader’s eye.
The book is also a snapshot of the mid-1900s, with its references to segregation and the kkk present as well. These mentions don’t sugar coat history, but on the downside, the narrator brushes them off more often than not without a thought to how they affected her life and worldview.
Due to the style of narration, it’s clear that some of the earlier stories are very much stories, as the narrator would have been too young to remember a word-by-word account. Most people do not have an eidetic memory, so they will not remember stories word-for-word. A smaller issue is that some formatting is inconsistent with the chapters. Some chapters have pictures, chapter numbers, and titles separated from the text itself, but others (like chapter 6) don’t.”
“Ann Mullen’s Growing Up in Rural Louisiana is a heartfelt, engaging read that transports you straight into the rhythms of small-town life. Her vivid storytelling, warmth, and honesty make each chapter feel like a conversation with an old friend. The memoir captures both the challenges and charm of rural childhood with grace and humor. If you enjoy Southern stories or reflections on family, resilience, and identity, this book delivers.“
“This book is a fantastic look back into rural southern living. The writer immerses you in the life of child in the 1950’s and allows you to experience the joy and trials of life without the modern conveniences we take for granted today. Just a wonderful journey and great time.”
“This author has great gift for putting her memories into written word. Such a gift. Made me laugh and it made me cry. I loved it!”
“This book was like stepping into a time capsule. The author painted such vivid pictures with her storytelling of her small town life. The book captured the joy and struggles of simpler times. The anecdotes felt personal yet universal.
They had me thinking about my family as I read. Some of the stories made me smile and some tugged at my heart, but overall, this book reminded me of the importance of slowing down and taking the time to savor life. Beautifully written and touching read. Great for those who value family and memories.”
“This book shares the life of a young girl and rural Louisiana from 1943 to 1963. Shares many moments that shaped her life. Here are a few tornadoes, local events, and more.. Gives a picture of how the times were in this era. I felt through what I read that she and her mother relationship was special.
I like the way the author had you there with her in Louisiana through her descriptions well done. Also enjoyed her memoirs about her family and personal belongings. Easy read to reminisce about that era the good and bad.”
Catherine M.
“This book contains stories from 1943 to 1963 which was a simpler time in Louisiana. I love how it highlights small town life and family as these are every important to me and I relate to this. Would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys looking back and learning about the past”
“This memoir beautifully captures the essence of growing up in rural Louisiana. The vivid storytelling and authentic voice bring every moment to life, from childhood adventures to heartfelt family traditions. A nostalgic, moving read that resonates deeply. Highly recommend!”
“This book felt like sitting on a porch listening to someone tell stories from way back — sometimes funny, sometimes heavy, sometimes just kind of wandering. I liked the glimpse into what life was like in rural Louisiana back then, especially the little details about daily life that you don’t really think about today.
That said, there were moments where I wanted the author to slow down and dig a little deeper, especially when bigger topics like segregation came up — it felt like those parts were just skimmed over. Still, it’s an easy read, and the photos sprinkled throughout were a nice touch. Worth your time.”
“Ann Mullen’s We All Want to Be Happy Volume 2 is an intimate blend of autobiographical reflections, heartwarming anecdotes, and thoughtful essays. Each chapter offers a slice of life, rich with vivid memories and lessons learned. From navigating youthful challenges to poignant explorations of faith and family, the book paints a picture of resilience, humor, and humanity, culminating in a celebration of everyday happiness.
Mullen’s storytelling style feels like chatting with a dear friend over coffee. Her humor and self-awareness shine, especially in moments like the rainy-day escapade in Chapter One, where a fire hydrant and a disheveled new employee collide. I couldn’t help but chuckle at the visual of her boss witnessing this comedic disaster, which perfectly encapsulates her theme: we don’t control what happens to us, but we do control our response. It’s this mix of wit and wisdom that makes the book relatable.
However, not all moments are lighthearted. Mullen recalls the frantic night when she scrambled to free her new husband from jail, relying on family and humor to navigate a stressful situation. It’s raw, emotional, and deeply human, showcasing her knack for finding meaning and even levity in chaos. These stories, while personal, evoke universal themes of love, trust, and resilience. Some essays take a more reflective turn, delving into spirituality and the nature of existence. Mullen invites readers to ponder life’s bigger questions, gently challenging them to embrace curiosity and faith. While not every reader may share her beliefs, the sincerity of her musings is undeniable and adds a layer of depth to the narrative.
We All Want to Be Happy is for anyone who enjoys heartfelt, candid storytelling. Whether you’re in the mood for laughter, nostalgia, or quiet introspection, Mullen delivers it all with charm and authenticity. This book is a gem for fans of memoirs and self-help with a personal touch. It’s like a warm hug for the soul, and I’d recommend it to anyone seeking both comfort and inspiration.”
Literary Reviewer
“What an endearing memoir! I was hooked on Mullen-Martin’s writing from her opening sentence. Her writing flowed beautifully and her story really shed light on Southern living. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!”
“What an endearing memoir! I was hooked on Mullen-Martin’s writing from her opening sentence. Her writing flowed beautifully and her story really shed light on Southern living. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!”
Catherine M.
