Picture a storyteller who weaves faith, family, and the beauty of everyday moments into prose that feels like a warm hug—meet Shauna Niequist! This American author, beloved for her New York Times bestsellers like Present Over Perfect and I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet, invites readers to embrace authenticity and find grace in life’s messiness. With her heartfelt reflections, Shauna has become a beacon for those seeking a simpler, more soulful way of living.
Now based in New York City with her husband Aaron and their two sons, Shauna’s writing resonates with readers worldwide. Her ability to turn ordinary experiences into profound lessons makes her a unique voice in Christian and inspirational literature. Ready to dive into her story?
The Making of Shauna Niequist
Born on August 17, 1976, in Barrington, Illinois, Shauna grew up in a family deeply rooted in faith. The daughter of megachurch pastor Bill Hybels and activist Lynne Hybels, she was surrounded by spiritual conversations from an early age. Shauna studied English and French literature at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, honing her love for words. After college, she began writing about the intersections of faith, friendship, and food, drawing inspiration from her life as a wife, mother, and passionate gatherer of people around the table.
Shauna’s early career was shaped by her blog and speaking engagements, where her vulnerable storytelling caught the attention of readers and publishers. Her first book, Cold Tangerines, marked her debut as an author who could make the mundane feel magical, setting the stage for her rise as a bestselling voice.
Shauna Niequist’s Unforgettable Stories
Shauna’s books are like conversations with a wise friend—honest, warm, and full of hope. Her debut, Cold Tangerines: Celebrating the Extraordinary Nature of Everyday Life (2007), is a collection of essays that find joy in life’s small moments, from eating ripe fruit to singing with the windows down. It’s a love letter to embracing the present, flaws and all.
Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace, and Learning the Hard Way (2010) dives deeper, exploring life’s highs and lows with grace. Shauna’s reflections on loss and growth struck a chord, earning praise for their raw honesty. Then came Present Over Perfect: Leaving Behind Frantic for a Simpler, More Soulful Way of Living (2016), a game-changer that hit #2 on the New York Times bestseller list. This book chronicles Shauna’s journey from burnout to balance, urging readers to trade perfectionism for presence.
Her latest, I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet (2022), reflects on upheaval—health challenges, a cross-country move, and evolving faith—with courage and curiosity. Shauna’s style blends memoir, spiritual reflection, and practical wisdom, making her work accessible yet profound. Her themes of vulnerability, faith, and community resonate across generations, inviting readers to live intentionally.
Why Shauna Niequist Matters
Shauna Niequist’s impact lies in her ability to make readers feel seen. Her books have sold over 1.3 million copies, touching lives with their message of slowing down and savoring what matters. By sharing her struggles with perfectionism, health issues, and family transitions, she’s fostered a community of readers who value authenticity over appearances. Her influence extends beyond books—she’s a sought-after speaker, podcast host, and even collaborated on the Belong Tour, a national event celebrating connection.
In a world obsessed with hustle, Shauna’s call to rest, reflect, and reconnect feels revolutionary. Her work has inspired countless readers to rethink their priorities, making her a guiding light in Christian and inspirational literature.
- Born: August 17, 1976, Barrington, Illinois
- Key Works: Cold Tangerines, Bittersweet, Present Over Perfect, I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet
- Notable: Interviewed by Oprah Winfrey on Super Soul Sunday
- Fun Fact: Loves gathering people around the table for food and conversation
Snag Present Over Perfect or I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet and dive into Shauna Niequist’s soulful, life-changing prose! Her words will remind you to slow down, embrace the mess, and live with grace.