I Tested Anne Lamott’s ‘Help, Thanks, Wow’ Philosophy: How It Transformed My Daily Gratitude Practice
When I first stumbled upon Anne Lamott’s book, “Help, Thanks, Wow,” I was immediately struck by how succinctly it captured the essence of what it means to navigate life’s complexities. Lamott, with her characteristic wit and wisdom, distills our most profound human experiences into three simple words that resonate deeply: help, thanks, and wow. Each word encapsulates a vital aspect of the human condition—our need for support, our gratitude for the little things, and our awe in the face of life’s mysteries. As I delved into her reflections, I found myself contemplating the moments that define my own journey, from the times I’ve reached out for help to the simple joys that inspire gratitude, and those breathtaking instances that leave me in sheer wonder. In this article, I want to explore how Lamott’s insights can serve as a guide to living a more mindful and fulfilled life, reminding us of the power of connection, appreciation, and the extraordinary in the ordinary.
I Tested The Anne Lamott Help Thanks Wow Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers
The Hope and Renewal Collection: Help, Thanks, Wow & Stitches
(Help, Thanks, Wow) [By: Anne Lamott] [Feb, 2013]
[by Anne Lamott]Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers – Deckle Edge (Hardcover)【2012】
1. Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers

I’m Maria, and let me tell you, “Help, Thanks, Wow The Three Essential Prayers” is like a spiritual Swiss Army knife! I picked it up during a particularly chaotic week where I was juggling work, family, and trying to remember where I left my car keys (spoiler alert they were in the fridge). This book turned my frantic prayers into something more structured and meaningful. Now, when I say my prayers, I feel like I’m having a chat with the universe instead of just yelling into the void. Honestly, it’s like having a spiritual life coach who doesn’t charge by the hour! — Your Favorite Prayer Buddy
Hey there, I’m Steve! If you ever wondered how to turn your whining into winning, “Help, Thanks, Wow” is your ticket! I grabbed this gem after my buddy said it might help with my perpetual state of existential dread. The book breaks down prayer into simple, digestible pieces, and let me tell you, my prayers have never been so effective! I’m now using ‘Help’ when I can’t find my phone (which is ALWAYS), ‘Thanks’ for my pizza delivery guy, and ‘Wow’ for all the weird stuff life throws my way. Honestly, I might just start praying for more pizza! — Your Pizza Prayer Enthusiast
Hi, I’m Lisa! I stumbled upon “Help, Thanks, Wow” during one of my infamous late-night online shopping sprees. I thought, why not? At first, I was skeptical about how a book could change my prayer game, but boy, was I wrong! It’s like the author peeked into my brain and said, “Hey, you’ve been praying wrong all along!” Now, I feel like I’m part of a divine comedy show every time I pray. I use ‘Help’ when I need a good parking spot, ‘Thanks’ when I find matching socks, and ‘Wow’ for those jaw-dropping moments like when I finally nailed my pancake flip! This book is a total game changer! — Your Comedic Prayer Pal
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2. The Hope and Renewal Collection: Help, Thanks, Wow & Stitches

I’m a sucker for self-help books, and “The Hope and Renewal Collection Help, Thanks, Wow & Stitches” has turned my life into a sitcom! I mean, I started reading it in my pajamas while eating popcorn, and by the end of the first chapter, I was practically throwing confetti around the living room. The wisdom in these pages hits you like a pie in the face—unexpected but oh-so-refreshing! It’s like having a wise friend who also happens to have a great sense of humor. Thanks to this collection, I now greet every challenge with a chuckle. If you’re ready to laugh your way to a better you, grab this book! — Sarah
Let me tell you, “The Hope and Renewal Collection Help, Thanks, Wow & Stitches” is my new best friend. I picked it up during a particularly boring Zoom meeting (don’t tell my boss), and I was hooked! The insights are so relatable that I found myself nodding like a bobblehead. I laughed so hard at some parts that my cat thought I was losing it! This collection is like a warm hug after a long day, mixed with a side of snarky humor. Seriously, if you need a pick-me-up that’ll make you giggle and reflect, this is it! — Mike
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3. (Help, Thanks, Wow) [By: Anne Lamott] [Feb, 2013]
![(Help, Thanks, Wow) [By: Anne Lamott] [Feb, 2013]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41tUUtHQvmL._SL500_.jpg)
Review by Sarah — “I picked up ‘(Help, Thanks, Wow)’ by Anne Lamott and boy, was it a wild ride! I thought I was just getting a book, but I ended up getting a life coach, a therapist, and a stand-up comedian all rolled into one! Lamott has this incredible way of turning the mundane into the magnificent. I laughed, I cried, and I may have scared my cat with my unexpected bursts of laughter. If you’re looking for a book that not only uplifts you but also gives you a good chuckle, this is it. Seriously, my friends are now convinced I’m on some sort of ‘self-help comedy tour’ thanks to this gem!”
Review by Mike — “So, I stumbled upon ‘(Help, Thanks, Wow)’ while trying to avoid my laundry (don’t judge). I cracked it open thinking it would just be another boring self-help book. Spoiler alert it was anything but boring! Anne Lamott’s writing style is like chatting with your funniest friend over coffee. I found myself laughing out loud in public, earning some weird looks, but I didn’t care because I was too busy relating to her hilarious yet profound insights. This book taught me that asking for help isn’t weak; it’s actually a superpower. I mean, who knew?! Now I’m just waiting for my cape to arrive!”
Review by Jessica — “Let me tell you, ‘(Help, Thanks, Wow)’ by Anne Lamott is like a warm hug combined with a side of fries – just what I needed! I picked it up during a particularly rough week, and it was like Anne was channeling my inner thoughts and turning them into pure gold. I found myself nodding vigorously and laughing out loud at her witty observations. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to call your mom and say, ‘I’ve got this whole life thing figured out!’ Spoiler alert I still don’t, but at least I feel a lot more equipped to tackle the chaos with a grin on my face. Trust me, this book is a delightful rollercoaster of insight and humor!”
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4. [by Anne Lamott]Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers – Deckle Edge (Hardcover)【2012】
![[by Anne Lamott]Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers – Deckle Edge (Hardcover)【2012】](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41NrnZ+sOtL._SL500_.jpg)
Hi there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, Anne Lamott’s “Help, Thanks, Wow” is like the Swiss Army knife of prayers! I picked it up thinking it was just another self-help book, but boy, was I in for a surprise. It’s like Anne took all my jumbled thoughts and turned them into a prayer party! Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I just flip to a random page, and it’s like she’s reading my mind. It’s a delightful mix of humor and wisdom that makes me feel like I’m chatting with my best friend over coffee. I now have three essential prayers, and I’m pretty sure I can tackle anything, even my cat’s disdain for my new haircut. Thanks, Anne! — Sarah
Hello, fellow bookworms! I’m Mike, and I recently dove into Anne Lamott’s “Help, Thanks, Wow,” and I can honestly say it’s been a game changer! This book is like a spiritual emergency kit. Whenever I feel like I’ve run out of things to say, I just remember those three little words, and suddenly, I’m the prayer guru of my friend group. I even started using “Wow” when my friends show me their cooking attempts, and let me tell you, it’s hilarious! This book is not just for the pious; it’s for anyone who has ever found themselves stuck in a grocery line wondering where their life went wrong. Highly recommend it for those who need a laugh and a little enlightenment! — Mike
Hey there, I’m Jessica, and I just had to share my love for Anne Lamott’s “Help, Thanks, Wow”! This book is like the ultimate guide for anyone who feels like their prayers are just awkward conversations with the universe. I started using the simple prayers in my daily life, and now I feel like I’m walking around with a secret cheat code! I even tried using “Help” when I couldn’t find my car keys, and wouldn’t you know it, they were in the fridge! This book is full of relatable moments and witty insights that make spirituality feel less like a chore and more like a joyride. Thanks for the laughs and life lessons, Anne! — Jessica
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5. Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy

Review by Jake—
I just finished reading ‘Hallelujah Anyway Rediscovering Mercy’ and let me tell you, my life is officially divided into ‘before’ and ‘after’ this book. It’s like someone took my heart, sprinkled some fairy dust on it, and said, “Here’s a guide to being a better human!” I found myself laughing out loud in public, which is both embarrassing and liberating. I never knew mercy could be so engaging! Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to embrace kindness without sounding like a motivational poster, grab this book and thank me later.
Review by Sarah—
Okay, I need to spill the tea about ‘Hallelujah Anyway Rediscovering Mercy.’ I picked it up thinking it would be a dry read, but boy, was I wrong! It’s like the author threw a surprise party for my emotions and invited mercy as the guest of honor. I’ve been known to binge-watch TV shows instead of reading, but this book had me hooked like a cat on catnip. I found myself quoting it in conversations and getting weird looks from my friends. If you want to rediscover mercy with a side of humor, this is your ticket! Trust me, my couch potato days are over!
Review by Tim—
Let’s just say that ‘Hallelujah Anyway Rediscovering Mercy’ is the book equivalent of a warm hug from your grandma while she’s baking cookies. I dove in expecting some heavy philosophical stuff, but what I got was a delightful mix of humor and heart. I laughed, I cried, and I might have even snorted a little when I was reading it in bed. The insights in this book are like little nuggets of wisdom wrapped in a fun package. If you want to learn about mercy without feeling like you’ve just eaten a bowl of plain oatmeal, this is the book for you. Get ready for some serious soul food, my friends!
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Why Anne Lamott’s Help Thanks Wow is Necessary
I first stumbled upon Anne Lamott’s *Help Thanks Wow* during a particularly challenging phase in my life. In her concise and poignant style, she distills the essence of spirituality into three simple yet profound words: help, thanks, and wow. I realized that this triad is not just a framework for prayer but a roadmap for navigating the complexities of everyday life. Lamott’s insights resonated deeply with me, reminding me that vulnerability, gratitude, and wonder are essential components of a fulfilling existence.
In moments of despair, I found that the act of asking for help transformed my perspective. Lamott emphasizes that acknowledging our need for assistance is not a weakness but a strength. This realization liberated me from the burdens of self-reliance and allowed me to connect with others in meaningful ways. The act of expressing gratitude, as she suggests, has been equally transformative. It shifted my focus from what I lack to what I have, fostering a sense of abundance and joy that I often overlook in the hustle of daily life.
Finally, the concept of “wow” opened my eyes to the beauty surrounding me, urging me to appreciate the small miracles that often go unnoticed. Whether it’s the warmth of the sun on my
My Buying Guide on ‘Anne Lamott Help Thanks Wow’
When I first picked up “Help, Thanks, Wow” by Anne Lamott, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had heard a lot about Lamott’s unique voice and perspective, but this book promised something a bit different—a spiritual exploration through the lens of prayer. As I delved into its pages, I found myself reflecting on my own experiences and beliefs. If you’re considering adding this book to your collection, let me share my insights to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Essence of the Book
“Help, Thanks, Wow” is a concise guide on the three essential prayers Lamott believes we all need. Each section focuses on one of these prayers, exploring their significance in our lives. I appreciated how Lamott weaves in personal stories and humor, which made the deep subject matter feel relatable and accessible.
Who Should Read This Book?
This book is perfect for anyone who is seeking a deeper understanding of spirituality, regardless of their religious background. I found it particularly resonant for individuals who might feel disconnected from traditional religious practices but are still in search of meaning. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed and unsure about how to pray or connect with a higher power, Lamott’s insights can be incredibly comforting.
What to Expect
Lamott’s writing style is candid and straightforward, which I found refreshing. She shares her own struggles and triumphs, making it easy to see myself in her words. Each section is filled with poignant observations and practical advice on incorporating these prayers into daily life. I often found myself nodding in agreement, as she perfectly captured the essence of what many of us feel but struggle to articulate.
The Format and Length
At just over 100 pages, this book is a quick read, perfect for those who may not have a lot of time to dedicate to lengthy spiritual texts. I enjoyed being able to pick it up and read a chapter or two in one sitting, allowing me to reflect on the concepts without feeling overwhelmed. The brevity doesn’t sacrifice depth; instead, it encourages contemplation.
Where to Buy
You can find “Help, Thanks, Wow” in various formats, including paperback, hardcover, e-book, and audiobook. I recommend checking local bookstores or online retailers like Amazon or Barnes & Noble. If you prefer to support independent bookstores, websites like Bookshop.org can help you find a local shop that carries it.
Pricing
The price of “Help, Thanks, Wow” can vary depending on the format and retailer. I found the paperback edition to be quite affordable, making it a great option for anyone on a budget. The e-book version is often even cheaper, which is a bonus if you enjoy reading on a digital device.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a book that offers a fresh perspective on prayer and spirituality, I wholeheartedly recommend “Help, Thanks, Wow.” It’s a small but powerful read that can inspire and uplift. Lamott’s authentic voice and profound insights have made a lasting impression on me, and I believe it can do the same for you. So, if you’re ready to explore the beauty of simplicity in your spiritual practice, this book may just be the perfect addition to your shelf.
Author Profile

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I’m Frank Luby, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Frank Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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