Best for: Anyone who enjoys a great collection of essays. In a nutshell: Samantha Irby shares stories from her life that are at times so funny you’ll stop someone on the street to read a passage just so they can share in your joy. Line that sticks with me: “No one ever tells attractive children how much they suck, and then the rest of us get stuck with insufferable, narcissistic adults who can barely tie their shoes because someone else is busy either doing it […]
Mostly good
Best for: People who enjoy Ms. Solnit’s writing. In a nutshell: Essays on the experiences of women. Line that sticks with me: “The entitlement to be the one who is heard, believed, and respected has silenced so many women who may never be heard, in so many cases.” Why I chose it: I’ve enjoyed Ms. Solnit’s writing in the past. Review: I wish I had more energy to do this review justice. I definitely enjoyed many of the essays in this book, and as always […]
Rebecca Explains it All (In a Good Way!)
3.5 stars, rounding down because when I think back on it (I finished it a few weeks ago), the things that bugged me stick out more than the things that didn’t. This might’ve been a four star book for me if I’d checked at all on what it actually was. I’d hoped it would be a deeper dive into the title concept, aka “mainsplaining” (although Solnit herself did not coin that term and is not a fan of it). The title essay was fantastic, so […]
Charades with Nicole Kidman
Best for: Those interested in some fairly dark but also interesting personal essays. In a nutshell: Columnist Meghan Daum writes multiple essays on fairly mundane topics, but with a more unexpected voice. Line that sticks with me: “I am convinced that excellence comes not from overcoming limitations but from embracing them. At least that’s what I’d say if I were delivering a TED Talk. I’d never say such a douchy thing in private conversation.” (p192) Why I chose it: My sister recommended it. So far, […]