Who Do I Think I Am?

Stories of Chola Wishes and Caviar Dreams

By: Anjelah Johnson-Reyes

Narrated by: Anjelah Johnson-Reyes

This hilarious and thoughtful memoir from comedy legend Anjelah Johnson-Reyes explores questions of identity, belonging, and her two dreams as a kid: to be an actress and to be a chola.

You may know Anjelah Johnson-Reyes for her viral sketch "Nail Salon" (over 100 million views globally) or her beloved MadTV character Bon Qui Qui, but it's her clean humor and hilarious storytelling that make her one of the most successful stand-up comedians and actresses today.

With her razor-sharp wit, Anjelah recounts funny stories from her journey—from growing up caught between two worlds (do chips and salsa go with potato salad?) to unexpectedly embracing faith (“I love Jesus, but I will punch a ‘ho”) to her many adventures in dating (she may or may not have accepted dates simply for the food). Through it all, Anjelah transforms from a suburban-adjacent kid with Aquanet-drenched hair into a devoted Christian who abstains from drinking and premarital sex, into a mall-famous Oakland Raiders cheerleader, and then an actually famous comedian traveling the world and meeting people from all-walks of life, including Oprah. No biggie. (Huge biggie.) As she travels the world, Anjelah has eye-opening experiences, and she morphs from square, rigid Anjelah into “Funjelah,” and learns that she can still ride with Jesus without squashing the other parts of her personality.

Anjelah's stories explore subjects such as navigating your racial identity, finding your place in the world, chasing your crazy dreams, embracing the messiness of an evolving faith, and searching for belonging and meaning. Through her journey, Anjelah gets closer to discovering her true identity and encourages readers to have the audacity to dream big.

Critic reviews

“How many years have we been quoting Anjelah’s comedy in our household? Too many to count! I’m a HUGE fan professionally and personally. What’s not to love about a woman who has a laugh-out-loud sense of humor and loves Jesus? SIGN ME UP!!”
—Candace Cameron Bure

“Anjelah is one of the greatest voices of our time. This book is what we all need.”—Amy Schumer

“Anjelah represents our community and our stories that are important, hilarious, and relatable to everyone. She’s awesome!”

—Fluffy (Gabriel Iglesias)

"Anjelah Johnson-Reyes's first book isn't just good, it's a blazing tour-de-force: so smart, dazzlingly funny, disarmingly wise, and deeply tender--you won't know what hit you. The same intuition she has when she performs in a room crackles in every word here, yet she brings a whole different level of electricity, artistry, and intimacy in print. Because Who Do I Think I Am?, like Anjelah herself, exists at multiple intersections; it defies easy categorization. Memoir? Spirituality? Comedy? Pure magic is what it is. Read this fierce, hilarious marvel of a book."—Jonathan Martin, Author of How to Survive a Shipwreck and The Road Away from God

“The world is a better place because Anjelah works at her craft, brings a smile to our collective faces, and is continually (and consistently) herself. We all know she’s hilarious and daring…but she shows us in Who Do I Think I Am? that she is also brave with vulnerability and humble with sincerity. She is not trying to prove anything, not trying to impress anyone, not trying to force a bestseller…and that makes reading this book an absolute delight. Bravo my friend.”—Carlos Rodriguez, Founder & Director of The Happy Givers

“A book as funny, smart, and delightful as its author. I’ve had the good fortune of calling Anjelah my friend and watching her blossom through the years. This book will give you insight into what makes this woman so special. Enjoy!”—Valerie Bertinelli

"The very first comedy show I ever saw in LA was at The Improv, and it was headlined by none other than Anjelah Johnson. Her brilliant set made me laugh so hard I had tears running down my face. I found her energy and her comedy so relatable, I became an instant fan. Years later, I am so grateful to call her a friend. Her book is hilarious and enlightening and inspiring...just like Anjelah. And for those of us who have spent our lives feeling like we're caught between two worlds or two cultures, I am so happy someone like us is sharing her story so we can all feel a little less alone."—Melissa Fumero

“Anjelah’s story will make you laugh, cry, and feel inspired. I was moved by the way she evolved in her faith without losing her moral foundation. Her courage and charisma jump out at you in this book. It’s a definite must read!!!”—Brie Bella, WWE Superstar

Funny, Deep and Does not Disappoint

I loved getting a bird’s eye view into the life and career of Anjelah Johnson-Reyes. I knew she was talented, funny and smart and I had fun getting to know her quirks, listening to her processing of insecurities and her hilariously busy love life.

About 12 years ago I was really going through a rough time. My husband and I were watching comedy and just happened to run across one of her specials. I want to say thank you, Anjelah for allowing the real you to shine. That night I laughed hearses than I had in months and I knew you were (and still are) my favorite comedian.

This book does not disappoint. Enjoy the ride! It is all over the place and will keep you in stitches!

SECURRRIITY!! :-)

This book will not disappoint! As a fan, I knew I would love it! Selfishly, I wish it were longer. Love that it’s narrated by Anjelah herself. I’m in awe that Tia Mary is 102!?!?!? Anywho , if you are debating whether or not to get this audible book, don’t! It’s amazing!

Made me laugh 😃 😀

The book was HILARIOUS!! Anjelah was the best at narrating her story..I really enjoyed it.

Love Anjelah even more

I was really hoping Anjelah would read the book and she did (clap clap x100)! I knew it was going to be funny but what I did not expect, how spiritual it would be. She writes about her life journey in her own way, with her comedy and spirituality leading the reader behind the scenes of what we think we know of her. I loved her comedy and memorable role as Bon Qui Qui. I am recommending this book to my wife, so she can learn about Anjelah’s journey which in some ways mirrors my own spirituality but find it hard to express. I think the way Anjelah has worded it, my wife will finally understand the parts of my spirituality I struggle to explain. Oh and she will want to finally build her herb garden after she finishes the book.

I have tried many times to catch one of Anjelah’s shows but they sell out so fast. This time around, I have my tickets and are going to her show in August. Can’t wait to see her live and put an exclamation point and a check mark on my bucket list!

Go Anjelah! And you should have your own comedy show. That is my wish for you ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Who do I think you are?

Anjelah, you are a breath of fresh air! I laughed and nodded my head throughout this audiobook. I don’t know you but I am so proud of you! My daughter laughingly made me listen to the nail joke! I was right there with you in the salon! In fact, you are in my head every time I get my nails done.
Your spiritual heart is a gift. You, are a gift!
I want to put this audiobook as a must listen for everyone!
Thank you for sharing this with me. I am taking this personally.
Best of life to you and yours.