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Lessons Learned: From the Short Stories of My Life
Everyone has a story. Laurie Koss has five hundred and fifteen.
In her page-turning debut book, the award-winning Canadian artist has crafted a memoir like no other. Each page of Lessons Learned is a single story concluding with a thought-provoking quote.
Perfect for today’s busy lifestyle, Lessons Learned is unique because the reader can choose to enjoy the stories chronologically like a novel, flip to a random page to uncover which lesson they chance upon, or read one-story-per-day for a daily dose of inspiration.
The quotes that complete each story originate from diverse literary, cultural, and historical sources. They make Lessons Learned a one-of-a-kind experience as the reader is encouraged to take a moment at the end of each page to ponder the lesson or have a laugh.
Koss’ childhood stories begin in 1960’s Vancouver, B.C., with topics spanning from her budding interest in art to her keen intuition and family ghost stories to the tumultuous family dynamics created by a loving but alcoholic parent. With each story—and each life lesson learned—readers witness the coming-of-age and self-discovery of a young artist determined to create the life she dreams of living.
But life rarely goes as smoothly as we plan. Following the dips and successes of her romantic life, family, and career, Koss also illustrates the unexpected heartache of a life-altering illness and ongoing struggles with friendships—and the spiritual growth that can arise when we’re open to learning from these experiences.
Offering a blend of introspection, vulnerability, and creativity, Koss brings to life universal experiences that connect us all, interspersed by unique and often hilarious “Only Me” moments.
Koss’ storytelling takes the reader on an unforgettable journey from 1960s hippies to the 2020 pandemic. Her tales are a time portal to various eras and a reminder that we, too, have stories and history worth sharing. Story by story, quote by quote, Laurie Koss entertains with self-effacing humour, compassion, and insight, proving there is a lesson to be learned in every moment life offers.
Lessons Learned is a collection of short stories to treasure, savour, and share with loved ones. It is sure to become a must-read for those seeking a refreshing, laugh-out-loud, heartfelt, and entertaining book.
What You’ll Discover
Praise for Lessons
“What a beautiful and insightful memoir. I loved every minute I spent with it.” — Lisa Peterson
“I thoroughly enjoyed Lessons Learned from start to finish! I loved the one-page story format and how the quotes “put a bow” on each page. I can’t think of anyone this book wouldn’t appeal to!” — Holly Bobyn
“I loved the flow, the insights, the story-telling, and the descriptors in Lessons Learned. Words that came to mind while reading brave, vulnerable, joyful, uplifting, funny, and raw—just to name a few.” — Michele Morris
“I loved many things about Lessons Learned—especially the fact that each page is a story in itself. Laurie describes situations vividly, and I felt like I was right there with her! The quotes she chose were so appropriate and amazing. I found the book easy to read and each story made me feel like I wanted more!” — Maureen Murray
“It is a rare treat to read such a revealing book! Laurie describes her life’s lessons so openly and honestly. I felt the pain of her tough lessons and laughed along with her at the joyful ones. She truly has a gift for writing, and it made her book such a pleasure to read.” — Lynn Sparling
In her page-turning debut book, the award-winning Canadian artist has crafted a memoir like no other. Each page of Lessons Learned is a single story concluding with a thought-provoking quote.
Perfect for today’s busy lifestyle, Lessons Learned is unique because the reader can choose to enjoy the stories chronologically like a novel, flip to a random page to uncover which lesson they chance upon, or read one-story-per-day for a daily dose of inspiration.
The quotes that complete each story originate from diverse literary, cultural, and historical sources. They make Lessons Learned a one-of-a-kind experience as the reader is encouraged to take a moment at the end of each page to ponder the lesson or have a laugh.
Koss’ childhood stories begin in 1960’s Vancouver, B.C., with topics spanning from her budding interest in art to her keen intuition and family ghost stories to the tumultuous family dynamics created by a loving but alcoholic parent. With each story—and each life lesson learned—readers witness the coming-of-age and self-discovery of a young artist determined to create the life she dreams of living.
But life rarely goes as smoothly as we plan. Following the dips and successes of her romantic life, family, and career, Koss also illustrates the unexpected heartache of a life-altering illness and ongoing struggles with friendships—and the spiritual growth that can arise when we’re open to learning from these experiences.
Offering a blend of introspection, vulnerability, and creativity, Koss brings to life universal experiences that connect us all, interspersed by unique and often hilarious “Only Me” moments.
Koss’ storytelling takes the reader on an unforgettable journey from 1960s hippies to the 2020 pandemic. Her tales are a time portal to various eras and a reminder that we, too, have stories and history worth sharing. Story by story, quote by quote, Laurie Koss entertains with self-effacing humour, compassion, and insight, proving there is a lesson to be learned in every moment life offers.
Lessons Learned is a collection of short stories to treasure, savour, and share with loved ones. It is sure to become a must-read for those seeking a refreshing, laugh-out-loud, heartfelt, and entertaining book.
What You’ll Discover
Praise for Lessons
“What a beautiful and insightful memoir. I loved every minute I spent with it.” — Lisa Peterson
“I thoroughly enjoyed Lessons Learned from start to finish! I loved the one-page story format and how the quotes “put a bow” on each page. I can’t think of anyone this book wouldn’t appeal to!” — Holly Bobyn
“I loved the flow, the insights, the story-telling, and the descriptors in Lessons Learned. Words that came to mind while reading brave, vulnerable, joyful, uplifting, funny, and raw—just to name a few.” — Michele Morris
“I loved many things about Lessons Learned—especially the fact that each page is a story in itself. Laurie describes situations vividly, and I felt like I was right there with her! The quotes she chose were so appropriate and amazing. I found the book easy to read and each story made me feel like I wanted more!” — Maureen Murray
“It is a rare treat to read such a revealing book! Laurie describes her life’s lessons so openly and honestly. I felt the pain of her tough lessons and laughed along with her at the joyful ones. She truly has a gift for writing, and it made her book such a pleasure to read.” — Lynn Sparling
544 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
3 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
July 16, 2024
“Lessons Learned” by Laurie Koss is a heartwarming and insightful collection that delves into the intricacies of family life, presenting an array of stories that are as diverse as they are engaging. Through the lens of her personal experiences, Koss invites readers into her world, sharing tales that reflect the beauty and complexity of familial bonds. This book stands out not only for its honest portrayal of a so-called dysfunctional family but also for the way it celebrates these imperfections, painting them as sources of strength, humor, and learning. Each story in the collection serves as a window into Koss’s life, offering readers a chance to witness the trials, triumphs, and tender moments that have shaped her and her loved ones. From humorous misadventures to poignant reflections, Koss navigates the spectrum of human emotion with a deft hand, grounding each narrative in authenticity and relatability. Whether recounting the challenges of finding male friends for a contest, the anxieties surrounding a medical procedure, or the simple joy of sharing her son’s favorite toys with his classmates, Koss demonstrates a remarkable ability to find meaning and message in the mundane.
A standout feature of “Lessons Learned” is Koss’s use of quotes to punctuate each story, weaving together narrative and wisdom in a way that resonates deeply with the reader. These carefully chosen words serve to underscore the universality of her experiences, reminding us that, in the end, we are all navigating this journey called life, learning as we go.
For those who appreciate a good short story, “Lessons Learned” offers a delightful mix of entertainment, insight, and inspiration. Koss’s candid storytelling and reflective musings make for an engaging read that is both light-hearted and profound. It’s a book that not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons, encouraging readers to embrace the quirks and complexities of their own families.
In closing, Laurie Koss’s “Lessons Learned” is a testament to the power of storytelling to connect, uplift, and educate. With its relatable content and memorable characters, it is a collection that will resonate with readers long after the last page is turned. Here’s hoping Koss continues to share her unique perspective and life lessons with the world, for there is much to be gained from her wisdom and wit.
A standout feature of “Lessons Learned” is Koss’s use of quotes to punctuate each story, weaving together narrative and wisdom in a way that resonates deeply with the reader. These carefully chosen words serve to underscore the universality of her experiences, reminding us that, in the end, we are all navigating this journey called life, learning as we go.
For those who appreciate a good short story, “Lessons Learned” offers a delightful mix of entertainment, insight, and inspiration. Koss’s candid storytelling and reflective musings make for an engaging read that is both light-hearted and profound. It’s a book that not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons, encouraging readers to embrace the quirks and complexities of their own families.
In closing, Laurie Koss’s “Lessons Learned” is a testament to the power of storytelling to connect, uplift, and educate. With its relatable content and memorable characters, it is a collection that will resonate with readers long after the last page is turned. Here’s hoping Koss continues to share her unique perspective and life lessons with the world, for there is much to be gained from her wisdom and wit.
December 31, 2023
“Lessons Learned: From the Short Stories of My Life” by award-winning artist Laurie Koss is one of the most inspiring memoirs I’ve read this year. The transformative nature of her life story can help you sort through your own thoughts and feelings as you travel along your personal journey. The life lessons captured here are true lived experiences that most readers will be able to relate to on some level. It’s memoirs like this that transcend the meaning and nature of autobiography and become a near self-help guide. We learn so much from others, and this book is just one shining example.
Koss is courageous and honest in sharing her ups, downs, and nuggets of wisdom that she experienced and earned. The layout is easy and inviting–a short autobiographical story on each page, with a quote. Each story is numbered in super large print, making it easy to find favorites. From the beginning story where she talks about not realizing she was from a dysfunctional family, all the way to the very memorable entry #314, where she, as a mom, now asks her sister, “Who am I?” like a lot of mothers do when they feel like they have lost their original identity. Her sister Jane’s answer is one a lot of mothers should hear.
The life lessons contained here are many and varied, sure to touch readers all over the world. Some of the stories are more serious than others, but they are balanced out with good-natured fun–over 500 stories in all. The stories are inspiring enough, but if you want even more wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration, there are quotes too, gleaned from a myriad of sources. Quotes can offer big messages in just a few words. This is another reason I like Koss’s book: it’s how she tells intricate, involved ideas in a short space.
Even though it’s a life story, you could randomly pick a page and get something very meaningful out of it. If you’re in the mood for a memoir that includes ghost stories, dysfunction, art, romance, career, illness, spiritual growth, and slices of life that you can relate to, “Lessons Learned: From the Short Stories of My Life” by Laurie Koss is a must-have for your personal library.
Koss is courageous and honest in sharing her ups, downs, and nuggets of wisdom that she experienced and earned. The layout is easy and inviting–a short autobiographical story on each page, with a quote. Each story is numbered in super large print, making it easy to find favorites. From the beginning story where she talks about not realizing she was from a dysfunctional family, all the way to the very memorable entry #314, where she, as a mom, now asks her sister, “Who am I?” like a lot of mothers do when they feel like they have lost their original identity. Her sister Jane’s answer is one a lot of mothers should hear.
The life lessons contained here are many and varied, sure to touch readers all over the world. Some of the stories are more serious than others, but they are balanced out with good-natured fun–over 500 stories in all. The stories are inspiring enough, but if you want even more wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration, there are quotes too, gleaned from a myriad of sources. Quotes can offer big messages in just a few words. This is another reason I like Koss’s book: it’s how she tells intricate, involved ideas in a short space.
Even though it’s a life story, you could randomly pick a page and get something very meaningful out of it. If you’re in the mood for a memoir that includes ghost stories, dysfunction, art, romance, career, illness, spiritual growth, and slices of life that you can relate to, “Lessons Learned: From the Short Stories of My Life” by Laurie Koss is a must-have for your personal library.
November 24, 2024
Lessons Learned is a heartwarming and inspiring memoir in which Laurie shares short stories from her life.
I loved getting to know Laurie through the pages of her book. I laughed, I cried, I swore out loud, I shook my head in disbelief and I sat in awe of Laurie’s many gifts and talents.
I loved reading about her beautiful family and all of their trials and tribulations and how they found love through forgiveness.
Lessons Learned serves as a powerful reminder to embrace life’s challenges, to trust our intuition and above all to love with our whole hearts.
I loved getting to know Laurie through the pages of her book. I laughed, I cried, I swore out loud, I shook my head in disbelief and I sat in awe of Laurie’s many gifts and talents.
I loved reading about her beautiful family and all of their trials and tribulations and how they found love through forgiveness.
Lessons Learned serves as a powerful reminder to embrace life’s challenges, to trust our intuition and above all to love with our whole hearts.
September 11, 2025
Lessons Learned is a beautiful reminder that every life is filled with stories worth telling. Laurie Koss captures her journey with honesty, humor, and heart, weaving five hundred and fifteen short pieces that are as easy to read as they are hard to forget. I found myself laughing one moment, reflecting the next, and often pausing to soak in the wisdom of the quotes that follow each story. This is the kind of book you can return to daily for comfort, inspiration, and perspective. Truly a gift of a memoir.
September 11, 2025
Laurie Koss has created something truly special with Lessons Learned. Each short story feels like sitting down with a wise, funny friend who isn’t afraid to share both the joys and struggles of life. Some stories made me laugh, others moved me deeply, but every single one carried a nugget of truth or inspiration. The mix of humor, honesty, and thought-provoking quotes makes this book one I’ll keep close to reread again and again.
September 11, 2025
Laurie Koss has written a memoir like no other. With 515 one page stories, Lessons Learned is both entertaining and inspiring perfect for busy readers who still crave depth and meaning. Every page holds a gem, whether it’s a laugh, a heartfelt moment, or a lesson that makes you stop and think. This book is uplifting, relatable, and endlessly re-readable. A true celebration of life’s ups, downs, and everything in between.
September 11, 2025
Laurie Koss has created a masterpiece of life storytelling in Lessons Learned. Each one page chapter feels like a window into her world, filled with honesty, humor, and unforgettable insights. The variety is incredible family, art, love, loss, resilience, even ghost stories and yet every piece connects with the reader on a personal level. This is the rare kind of book that entertains, teaches, and comforts all at once. I’ll be recommending it to everyone I know.
September 11, 2025
Lessons Learned is an absolute gem. Laurie Koss turns ordinary moments into extraordinary reflections, each story carrying wisdom, humor, or heartfelt truth. I loved how easy it was to pick up the book anytime whether for a quick burst of inspiration or to get lost in a string of life experiences that feel both personal and universal. This isn’t just a memoir; it’s a companion you’ll want to keep nearby for encouragement, laughter, and perspective.
September 11, 2025
Lessons Learned is a treasure trove of 515 one-page stories that are funny, heartfelt, and deeply relatable. Laurie Koss writes with warmth and wit, turning everyday moments into lessons that stay with you long after reading. I loved that I could flip to any page and find something inspiring, surprising, or laugh-out-loud funny. A beautifully written memoir that doubles as daily inspiration, I’ll be revisiting this book often.
September 11, 2025
Lessons Learned is more than a memoir, it’s a mirror reflecting pieces of our own lives. Laurie Koss writes with such honesty and vulnerability that I often found myself pausing, smiling, or even tearing up as I recognized my own experiences in her stories. The blend of humor, resilience, and wisdom makes this book both comforting and inspiring. It’s the kind of book you don’t just read once, you return to it whenever you need a reminder that every moment, no matter how small, holds meaning.
September 11, 2025
This book touched my heart in ways I didn’t expect. Laurie Koss takes us through 515 moments of her life, and with each story, she reminds us that even the smallest experiences can carry the biggest lessons. I laughed, I reflected, and at times I even felt like she was telling my story. The honesty, humor, and courage in these pages make it not just a memoir, but a companion for anyone searching for meaning and connection. A truly unforgettable read.
September 11, 2025
What an absolute gem! Lessons Learned is more than a memoir it’s a collection of life’s truths wrapped in humor, honesty, and heart. Laurie Koss has a rare gift for turning everyday experiences into meaningful lessons that feel both personal and universal. Whether you read it cover to cover or dip into a single story each day, this book uplifts, entertains, and inspires. A must read for anyone who loves stories that celebrate the beauty of life.
September 10, 2025
A Life Fully Lived, Story by Story
Laurie Koss’ Lessons Learned is a captivating collection of 515 one-page stories, each paired with a thought provoking quote. From whimsical childhood memories to poignant life lessons, Koss blends humor, honesty, and insight in a way that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable.
This book is perfect for quick daily inspiration, reflective reading, or simply escaping into someone else’s rich, fascinating life. Every page reminds us that even small moments carry big lessons making this a truly unforgettable read.
Laurie Koss’ Lessons Learned is a captivating collection of 515 one-page stories, each paired with a thought provoking quote. From whimsical childhood memories to poignant life lessons, Koss blends humor, honesty, and insight in a way that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable.
This book is perfect for quick daily inspiration, reflective reading, or simply escaping into someone else’s rich, fascinating life. Every page reminds us that even small moments carry big lessons making this a truly unforgettable read.
September 10, 2025
Heartfelt, Funny, and Inspiring!
Lessons Learned by Laurie Koss is a delightful collection of 515 one-page stories, each ending with a thought-provoking quote. From childhood adventures in 1960s Vancouver to the challenges of adult life and unexpected twists, Koss shares her experiences with humor, honesty, and heart.
Every story is a tiny gem perfect for a quick read, reflection, or a daily dose of inspiration. This book will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear. A truly unique, uplifting, and unforgettable memoir one that reminds us all there’s a lesson in every moment.
Lessons Learned by Laurie Koss is a delightful collection of 515 one-page stories, each ending with a thought-provoking quote. From childhood adventures in 1960s Vancouver to the challenges of adult life and unexpected twists, Koss shares her experiences with humor, honesty, and heart.
Every story is a tiny gem perfect for a quick read, reflection, or a daily dose of inspiration. This book will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear. A truly unique, uplifting, and unforgettable memoir one that reminds us all there’s a lesson in every moment.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews