Bamboozled by Jesus : how God tricked me into the life of my dreams /

Emmy-nominated actress and comedian Orji offers an intricate account of how Jesus "tricked" her into success in Hollywood. She details her unconventional journey of becoming a comedian, landing the role of Molly on HBO's Insecure, and opening on tour for Chris Rock. She masterfully parallels her life lessons to the experiences of characters from the Bible, which she affectionately calls DGB (Da Good Book). Her contemporary dissection of biblical stories makes for a fresh and straightforward interpretation. Although Orji doesn't shy from portraying Christianity as her guiding light, her cultural colloquialisms and honesty leave room for all readers to relate, no matter their religious beliefs. Orji unpacks universal topics like the artist's struggle, disappointment, depression, and even what to do when you reach your wits' end. The writing is engaging and her comedic timing is absolute gold. Readers are sure to find themselves laughing out loud one minute and clutching their chest out of empathy the next. Inspiration practically leaps off the pages and into the hearts of readers--a feeling Orji demands be followed up with action. After the last page, readers will have no doubt that Orji is a cheerleader and best friend for every dreamer.HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: Orji has garnered fans worldwide for her Insecure role and comedy special, and with a new show in the works, her star is only rising.

A stand-up comedian and actor, Orji combines humor and faith in her delightful debut. "God has custom-designed your life to be magnificent," she writes, "and by default, the magnificent is uncertain and daring." Using motivating principles ("God isn't out to 'get you,' but He is out to get something for you") and reflecting on biblical stories, Orji warns readers that achieving the best life requires sacrifices that take time to pay off. Interpreting the rain God sent to drown the earth and float Noah's ark as "whatever God is gonna send in your life, whether it's a job opportunity, a spouse, or property," she advises readers on "becoming your best self" to be ready for any situation: "Building your ark is your way of being prepared and staying ready to receive His abundance." Orji recounts her career trajectory from aspiring to be a doctor to focusing on comedy--much to her family's chagrin--and her own doubts when starting out. She also opens up about her depression after lost chances and other professional challenges, and how she uses her faith as a bulwark against fear: "you gotta make those defeatist thoughts think twice about messing with you. That's how scared your fear should be of your faith." Stressing the importance of service and filled with empowering affirmations ("God doesn't choose the perfect, He perfects the chosen"), Orji's spirited biblical interpretations and boundless enthusiasm will appeal to her fans and newcomers alike. (May)