Just Watch Me

By: Judge Rosemarie Aquilina

Narrated by: Judge Rosemarie Aquilina

Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins

Publisher's Summary

A powerful memoir about finding your voice and using it to change the world - created specifically for the audio format.

Judge Rosemarie Aquilina made headlines with her unprecedented judicial decisions during the Nassar sentencing hearing, but in a life filled with unconventional choices and bold decisions, this was only one of her many extraordinary moments. In this empowering memoir, Judge Aquilina finally shares her own deeply personal story. 

Every time Rosemarie was told she couldn’t do something, her response was a resounding, “Just watch me”. She lived these words, first, as a young woman when told she couldn’t pursue a career in the male-dominated legal field. Next, as a government staffer when told she couldn’t be a Judge Advocate General Officer in the Michigan National Guard and a mother. And finally, as a judge when told she should not allow every Sister Survivor to speak in the Nassar case. 

Through it all, Judge Aquilina’s grit and perseverance resulted in a uniquely courageous life story. Now she’ll inspire you to make your own bold choices and stand strong in the face of life’s greatest challenges. 

©2020 Rosemarie Aquilina (P)2020 Audible Originals, LLC.

Just Teach Me

Meaning, I learned so much from this book: tools I can use in every day life to have a better relationship with my family and help them to have a better life. For instance, I now understand why my kids get defensive and angry when I simply asked them why they made the choices that they made. I now ask “ what would you like me to know, and how can I help” when they are in trouble, and also when I just want more information. I approach strangers if I think they might need some help, especially if they are disabled, because I can do so more respectfully.
I loved that the author narrated the book herself because she has such an emotional yet thoughtful and literate manner of speech.

Unlike some other reviewer‘s I did not expect or even want this to be a detailed story of the Nassar case. I like the examples of cases sprinkled through the book, but I wanted to know what makes this woman who she is today. Some of this is aided by her grandparents, and a mentors, but she has remarkable drive to achieve her dreams. And she tells how she tries to give this to others, especially the less fortunate. What a unique and inspiring story!

A Must Read Story That Inspires and Empowers

Just Watch Me is one of the most inspiring and empowering books I have ever listened to. I followed the Nassar trial as it unfolded. I was so excited to get my hands on this book because I wanted to know more about Judge Aquilina. One of the best parts of this book is listening to Judge Aquilina's story before her work as a Judge. It made me feel even more connected to her and her ability to give the gift of healing for survivors of all kinds. When she spoke about her courtroom and interest in knowing the people who stood before her I wanted to stand up and applaud. The healing that she provided as she shared her story will inspire so many. I will be recommending this book over and over again to survivors and their supporters. Just Watch Me will change lives, just like Aquilina does in her daily job as a Judge. She does a beautiful job narrating the book and helping readers understand the importance of finding their voice and the healing that comes from being heard!

I true inspiration! A must read!

This woman continues to amaze me. If you’re looking for an inspiring and motivational read, I highly recommend Judge Rosemarie Aquilina's audible, Just Watch Me. It was released last Friday (December 10, 2020) and I finished it yesterday (December 12, 2020) because I couldn’t put it down.

Rosemarie has been such a role model to me. She’s faced such adversity in her life and career, and still has achieved so much. Her relentless work has opened doors for so many. Her character of integrity, fairness, selflessness and compassion is the standard to which we all should aspire.

In Just Watch Me, Rosemarie is real and authentic as she shares her life experiences, what she’s learned from them, and how it’s made her who she is today. She discusses the following topics: childhood, giving birth, being bullied, career path, being a single parent, facing a serious medical issue, having five kids, managing difficult relationships and navigating through her marriage. When met with challenge, she pushes harder and never gives up.

Not only did I learn about her life, but so much of what she said resonated with me and made me reflect on my life and helped me understand some patterns in my life. It also helped me put language to some of my experiences that were hard for me to explain. Most importantly, Rosemarie stresses the importance of using your voice and how every voice matters and every person matters.

I know you better now.

What I love about this book, is that you are not afraid to share your whole life and how you have chosen to navigate through it.
I understand more how your courtroom is run, and who you are as a person - or more a woman. And, how you understand what victims need. And, I love the phrase "What do you want me to know?" And, I believe you have answered that question for us. You have given us what we would like to know about you. Who you are and why. Thanks for being you. I hope you continue to do your magnificent things.

A Memoir that Can’t Be Missed. Listen Right Away!

Just Watch Me, written by Judge Rosemarie Aquilina is, without a doubt, the most inspiring memoir I have ever had the pleasure of listening to.

This audiobook was made infinitely more enjoyable because it is narrated by Judge Aquilina herself. Because of this, and the fact that Her Honor is also the author of three fiction novels, the events of her life seem to come alive. I felt like I was observing her life as her descriptions are incredibly vivid.

The narration itself is so well done, mostly likely because Judge Aquilina holds an English degree and is a Reading Specialist.

I have always been inspired by Judge Aquilina. This book intensified this feeling. By sharing her life experiences openly and honestly, I learned many valuable life lessons. She encourages people to use their voice, as she has spent her entire life being a voice for the “voiceless.”

It was hard to listen to some events from her childhood, especially the bullying she experienced. In “pure Aquilina” style, she became a better person because of this.

Her Honor is a Mom, daughter and sister. Those are the most important roles to her. What people may not realize because she is so humble is that she worked for a state Senator for 10 years, is a tireless advocate for children and families, a lawyer, a Judge, a Veteran, and a Professor at TWO law schools.

Her Honor values family and I enjoyed learning about her private life. I wish I had been blessed with grandparents like hers. Judge Aquilina has been though tough situations that have shaped who she is; the stories usually told with a hint of humor. I am impressed that she talks about difficult life events from her perspective as a child and also as a grown woman.

Judge Aquilina has always demands that she be given the same opportunities as men and that her opinions mean as much as those of men. She provides real world examples by delving into topics that many women can relate to, though some aren’t easy to talk about. Some include her experiences giving birth, difficult people in her life, navigating a marriage that didn’t end up working out, the challenges of being a single parent, getting kids ready for school on a tight schedule in the morning and facing a serious medical issue. “You can’t just leave a hospital!”

Her Honor speaks with great pride about the privilege of serving in the military. It made me even prouder to be an American.

This book reaffirmed for me that my voice matters, that I matter. Her Honor always believes in herself, despite what others say. She inspired me to think that I can be that way too. I was reminded of the importance of family, staying positive and turning even the most challenging times into learning experiences.

I would recommend this book to anyone.

Just Watch Me is truly one of Judge Aquilina’s “magnificent things.”

Just watch me. ...you will love her courage!

Exactly what I needed to read/listen to, thank you again, Judge Rosemarie Aqualina ! I recommend this book strongly. If you are not familiar with this incredible woman, come along on her life changing accomplished journey. I watched the victim witness statements all day, every day of the disgusting Dr Larry Nassar's trial. I became an lifetime admirer of her then.

Worth the listen!

I accidentally used a credit for this book. I decided to give it a listen instead of exchanging it. I’m so glad I did! The guts & determination of the author give a whole new meaning to the title ‘Mother of the Year’. I applaud Ms. Aquilina for sharing her story.

Compassion and justice are interconnected in this courtroom

iTo hear how Judge Aquilina became a judge who can honor everyone in her courtroom, uphold the law, and dare to bring the concept of healing into it is truly encouraging. I’ll be listening again, or possibly reading, to let this inspiring story sink in deeper. And I will be watching to see what she does next, empowering those who feel less-than to speak.

Perseverance, self discipline and dedication to our country and legal system= Judge Aquilina

Judge Aquilina’s memoir takes you on a journey through her life of triumphs and failures. Her honesty and frankness is refreshing in a world of fake posts and pictures. Hard work, self discipline and independence propelled Rosemarie through life. This prepared her for life in a judges robe and presiding over the Larry Nassar case. She gave a huge voice to the “sister survivors” not only to the Nassar case but voices in cases all over the world. Thank you Judge Aquilina!

enjoyable listening

I truly enjoyed listening to this audible nook. the judge was fair and listen and also her why's n why not. I understand more of a judges life not only as a judge.. very good..I will recommend it to others.

Thank you Rosemarie Auqillina!

This is the first audio book I have listened to.
It has been an enriching experience. Judge Rosemarie speaks so well; is open, honest and has sound advice. I have even made some notes. I feel more educated about the American justice system and how everyone can be listened to if they just keep going and moving forward. This book is very empowering.