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The Magnolia Story

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Description

An exclusive look at America's first family of renovation! Taking you behind the scenes, Chip and Joanna Gaines share the story of how they met, the ups and downs of being an entrepreneurial couple, and how they built a life they love.The Magnolia Story is the first book from dynamic husband-and-wife team Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of HGTV’s Fixer Upper. Offering their fans a detailed look at their life together, they share everything from the very first renovation project they ever tackled together to the project that nearly cost them everything; from the childhood memories that shaped them, to the twists and turns that led them to the life they share on the farm today.While they both attended Baylor University in Waco, their paths didn’t cross until Chip checked his car into the local Firestone tire shop where Joanna worked behind the counter. Even back then Chip was a serial entrepreneur who, among other things, ran a lawn care company, sold fireworks, and flipped houses. Soon they were married and living in their first fixer upper.Four children and countless renovations later, Joanna garnered the attention of a television producer who noticed her work on a blog one day, leading to the incredible Fixer Upper phenomenon.In The Magnolia Story, fans will finally get to join the Gaines family behind the scenes and discover:The time Chip ran to the grocery store and forgot to take their new, sleeping babyJoanna’s agonizing decision to close her dream business to focus on raising their childrenWhen Chip buys a houseboat, sight-unseen, and it turns out to be a leaky wreckHarrowing stories of the financial ups and downs as an entrepreneurial coupleMemories and photos from Chip and Jo’s weddingThe significance of the word magnolia and why it permeates everything they doThe way the couple pays the popularity of Fixer Upper forward, sharing the success with others, and bolstering the city of Waco along the wayAnd yet there is still one lingering question for fans of the show: Is Chip really that funny? “Oh yeah,” says Joanna. “He was, and still is, my first fixer upper.” Read more

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Thomas Nelson


Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 18, 2016


Edition ‏ : ‎ 1st


Language ‏ : ‎ English


Print length ‏ : ‎ 208 pages


ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0718079183


ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 85


Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 13.6 ounces


Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.35 x 1 x 9.35 inches


Best Sellers Rank: #113,679 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #223 in Television Performer Biographies #418 in Rich & Famous Biographies #487 in Christian Family & Relationships


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Top Amazon Reviews


  • A sweet story of a Godloving, hardworking, and inspirational couple.
Format: Hardcover
I became a fan of Joanna and Chip Gaines when I first watched the first season of Fixer Upper on Netflix. I was mostly drawn to their genuine and charismatic energy between one another, but also drawn to the amazing work they both do. Reality TV is not something that I am normally interested in, nor is fixing up and selling homes. However, the Gaines’ are people I believe are truly rare to find on television. The most important reason of why I believe I have been drawn to them is the fact that they are very similar to me, my family, and our beliefs and values. Joanna touched upon it in the book, but I believe it’s worth mentioning it here. She said that one of the reasons why they make such a great team and why they seem to pull through those tough times is because of their strong foundation they’ve built together, which most importantly includes their ultimate trust and faith in God. I admire that they do not apologize for being forthright about their faith. I am a true believer in karma. And Chip and Joanna have been through way too many experiences of karma that one would dare to deny of its existence. It is refreshing to see people like them, who instill the belief of “treat others the way you want to be treated” into their own lives, are still out there in the world doing many great and positive things that enrich not only their own lives, but the lives of many others. Without sounding preachy, religious, or righteous, I believe that type of foundation is what lacks many families these days. I believe many couples give up too soon and take the easy way out in order to deal with their issues (big or small). I believe that our society has been over-inflated with narcissism and a lack of accountability. I rarely experience or observe humbleness and graciousness. These two are definite examples of these diminishing traits in our society. And I respect them and admire them for that. One other thing I would like to mention was what Joanna mentioned toward the end about the difference between surviving and thriving. I find that aspect of her personal story very compelling and relatable to my own life (and in fact, many other women’s lives, especially moms who feel pressured by social media and other facets of society). Her insightfulness will definitely be a thought in my head whenever I am feeling like I am just “surviving” through life. So I thank her for that personal insight. My one wish is for Chip and Joanna to not change, regardless of how much they make or how much fame they accumulate from their TV show. I am sure it is often a challenge to resist the temptations of fame and fortune, but I am almost certain that these two will be just fine. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on November 1, 2016 by cainsrazor

  • New favorite people~loved it!!
Format: Kindle
Great book~ very inspirational. It’s good to know there are a few “real” people on reality programming. It’s clear, if the reader has watched any of the “Fixer Upper” episodes, the dialogue from both Chip and Joanna is genuine. I read it in a day~
Reviewed in the United States on July 13, 2026 by Jean

  • "Go and Find What it is That You Love, and Go Do That Until it Hurts."
Format: Kindle
"Have you ever looked at the bud of a magnolia flower? It's a tight little pod that stays closed up for a long time on the end of its branch until one day, out of nowhere, it finally bursts open into this gigantic, gorgeous, fragrant flower that's ten times bigger than the bud itself." Up until a few months ago, I hadn't ever heard of Chip and Joanna Gaines, mostly because I don't have a lot of time to watch TV and also, because anytime the TV is on, we are watching a kids' show. A friend of mine told me about this book and I was interested because she raved about it and it kept showing up as a recommendation. Finally, I caved and I ended up enjoying The Magnolia Story more than I thought I would! Chip and Joanna Gaines are a husband and wife team who specialize in fixing up old houses and making them beautiful again through Chip's construction knowledge and Joanna's design tastes. They are based in Waco, Texas and have their own show called Fixer Upper, which airs on HGTV. "Go and find what it is that inspires you, go and find what it is that you love, and go do that until it hurts." The Magnolia Story tells the story of how they got started, their lives from even before they met, and how the two of them grow closer the more time they spend together. Chip and Joanna Gaines are the authors and most of the story is told from Joanna's point of view but Chip also adds quite a bit to the book (you'll be able to tell who wrote what based on the font). I don't want to spoil the story for anyone because I, personally, loved starting this without knowing much about it but I would like to say this. Chip and Joanna Gaines are two down-to-earth people who never imagined that doing what they loved would get them this far. They love and believe in each other and Joanna talks about her faith. There are several instances where Joanna references God and talks about her faith, which are sprinkled throughout the story. I loved reading this book and, while it talks about their lives, it also contains important messages about doing what you love and never giving up so it's inspirational in that aspect as well. Chip and Joanna have a good sense of humor and it was fun to see that shown through the writing. Reading this book makes me want to take a trip to Texas and start watching their show! I purchased the Kindle version which contains an extra chapter of questions and answers as well as lots of pictures that I loved to see. I have a Kindle Paperwhite and was able to view the pictures just fine. I loved reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in it. It is truly inspiring! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on February 7, 2017 by Kristin B.

  • Sweet
Format: Hardcover
This book is SO wholesome. Their story is inspiring, funny, and full of heart. If you're a Fixer Upper fan, you’ll fly through it. Total feel-good read. 🤍
Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2025 by Louise T

  • An Inspiring and Joyful Read!
Format: Hardcover
I felt very led by God to read this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed the testimonies of Chip and Joanna Gaines! Their transparency is so genuine and refreshing! I love the conversational style of the book by which they relate to their readers; each of them taking turns. The book is a true dialogue rendering their entire story -- which is miraculous, by the way. It's a joy to read! Having read the book, I can truly appreciate their struggles and all they've overcome to achieve the success they enjoy today. And it's no wonder why God has blessed them so richly with such a strong and vibrant platform! Their lives echo the sentiments so many Americans miss and long for, yet struggle to attain: the strength of family, a satisfying life that is truly fruitful, strong work ethic, strong community, loving friendships, and the joy of nature -- and of course, a love for God with a genuine faith. It all shines in this heartfelt book! I read the book in 8 hours and it is a page-turner. It's style is truly unique in that I feel I've just sat down with Chip and Joanna themselves for a long sweet visit over a pot of coffee. I have come away refreshed in my faith to see all God has done and continues to do in and through their lives. Their light shines for the world to see, and I am so grateful for ALL they are doing. I look forward to when I can visit Waco, TX! It is on my destination list! This is more than just a story or memoir. It's a testimony to God and His favor and blessing upon two people who serve Him as they serve others. An easy five stars! Thank you Chip and Joanna for sharing your hearts and lives so transparently. You are a great gift and example to many. God bless you, your family, and Magnolia for generations to come! Your legacy will endure. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2017 by Erin

  • Absolutely phenomenal!
Format: Kindle
I've always went to books for guidance and on what to do next if I had a quandary in life. This time around I was struggling on how to be a wife, stay-at-home, and run my own successful business, while all trying to keep my sanity and maintain my individuality. Then the light bulb went off, I said to myself, "Hey, I remember Chip and Joanna had written a book. I'm sure she'll have some advice on how to maintain it all!" Well the book has exceeded my expectations. I didn't want to put the book down and I was quite sad when it ended. The first half of the book Chip is hilarious! Throughout the book you can learn many life lessons through their story, which is beautifully written. The chapter that has helped me to live a more quality of life regarding my concerns as to why I initially bought the book, is chapter 13: striving or thriving. To my surprise Joanna had experienced the same struggles of juggling it all and found a new way to approach the demands of wearing so many titles ( hats ). She simply changed her paradigm and made the necessary adjustments accordingly to live a better quality of life. I received my answers on how to tackle my roles concurrently. Thank you Chip, Joanna, and Mark for an outstanding job on this book and sharing it with the world. It was truly inspiring. Keep up the awesome work in all your family endeavors and many more blessings from above. - The Howell family ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2017 by Booklover

  • Beautiful & Inspiring!
Format: Hardcover
I've been a HUGE fan of Chip & Joanna's since Fixer Upper first hit the airwaves! I love everything about them! Their relationship & family, their designs & renovations, their website... I've bought 3 Jimmy Don signs: 1 for myself, & 1 for each of my kids & their families. I do housework in my DEMODAY t-shirt. I binge-watch reruns of Fixer Upper - over & over! - as I eagerly await each new season. Fixer Upper is part of MY daily inspiration! I want my home to be a sanctuary, so I love watching Chip & Jo create sanctuaries for their clients. But for me, their best gift so far is this book! And the highlight for me is how they each respond in their own unique ways to God's Voice! Just as Joanna wants to remind us all that, "Yes, you do have a gut!" & "People know what they love!", God wants to remind us all that He holds OUR dreams, as well, & is eagerly waiting to get our attention & guide us, just as He does Chip & Jo. This book succeeds on SO many levels! It teaches us that it's good to have dreams, & not only that, but that God actually pays attention to our dreams! It teaches us how to do marriage & family God's way. It teaches us about embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth, & never giving up. It's a book about Chip & Jo's artistry as renovators & designers, & their ethics & morals as entrepreneurs & businesspeople. It's a book that affirms that God really does have a plan & purpose for our lives, & that as we look back, we can see Him weaving all the threads of His plan from the very beginning of our days! This is a book to savor, ponder, & savor once again! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on November 4, 2016 by Annie Tomlin

  • Beautiful lovely story
Format: Kindle
So this book was so pleasing to read. I absolutely loved how candid it was written. It gave you the sense like they were right there telling you the whole story. It sounds weird but while I was reading this I felt like God was speaking to me through it because for example, I would reach a chapter about hardships and stuff and I would end up tearing up and really feeling like that chapter was tailored for me, to encourage me. And this book was very encouraging. It was honestly a delight to read. Very cool to see how their vision and dreams come through and how God was always very faithful. Its definitely not a religious book though. Its just a beautiful story of their lives, dreams, and what ended up coming of it. If you love these people as much as I do, you should read this book. I even laughed a few times. That Chip guy is sweet and hilarious. I love Jo! I want to meet these people some day. I wish they were my neighbors! lol ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2016 by Daniela

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