bookysue's review

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3.0

To me, it was amusing more than funny, although I probably laughed out loud at least three times. Not spectacular, but worth a quick read.

amber_lea84's review

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4.0

I started reading this because of an interview I heard with Chris Gethard on a podcast called Citizen Radio. As a New Jersey transplant I find his stories effing hysterical.

Now, I went into this book having no idea who Chris Gethard is, but I really appreciate honest, inappropriate stories so I picked up a copy. A lot of the time I either personally related to his stories, or I was like, "Oh man, that is so my boyfriend." I think it helps that he's only a few years older than I am, so my upbringing was somewhat similar.

I have to say, it bothers me that some people were disappointed that Chris got serious and started talking about his struggles with depression and bipolar disorder. As if it's only okay for people to present their outrageous behavior as entertainment and it's necessary to keep it light for the comfort of the readers.

I don't feel like he's obligated to always be funny. I felt like this book was very human. He presented his story, warts and all.

Honestly, I think he could have said a bit more in the final chapter, because it felt like it tapered off and wasn't very solid...but still, I enjoyed this book for a lot of different reasons.

There's actually a review here by someone named "Davie" who wrote, "if you like reading a book that is the equivalent of meeting someone with a very eventful life who has a tendency to overshare, this is it."

I think that sums it up pretty well.

gimchi's review

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4.0

excellent.

i didn't think that goat pellet poop and a colonic story would be so hilarious. i love his honesty with his manic depression and the story about how he reached out to a fan regarding his own thoughts of suicide (http://thechrisgethardshow.tumblr.com/post/31345619495/for-gethard-anonymous-asks-gethard-i-know-youve)

amazing.

pebblespenguin1's review

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5.0

This book was honestly one of the best books that told the story of ‘my life’. It was truly enjoyable .The experience is Chris went through in his life are so unbelievable and funny. He seriously chose some bad ideas and got himself into some crazy situations. I found myself laughing at some of the things he did or what happened to him. Other things like his problems with anxiety and panic attacks. I could relate to. I went through my many years of suffering at the hands of my out of control, anxiety. So I can really understand and feel for him.

Chris's life definitely wasn't a boring one, and neither is this book. You really don't know what to expect next. In this book his life isn't like any other I've ever read about the stories were just so insanely intriguing and funny and out of this world. Insane things happened to him starting at a very young age and he chose decisions that most of us would avoid at all costs.

I loved reading this outrageous biography and I would love to see you show as well. I wasn't familiar with Kris until this book and I can say I am a fan now. This book was definitely a great comic relief life story! I would highly recommend it, and I give it five stars!

maritsaaa's review

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4.0

I feel messed up for saying some parts seem fake (earlier)... I guess he just has some pretty crazy stories. I ended up liking this book (I laughed and cried while reading) am definitely reading his second book. Now, off to the comments!

scottnap's review

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challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective sad fast-paced

3.5


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lisamariepe's review

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5.0

Laughed out loud.

davekan's review

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4.0

The thing I like the most about Chris Gethard is how open and honest he is about himself. Each of these stories shows his progression as a person and he is not afraid to show the ugly side of things.

bethreadsandnaps's review

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2.0

In all honesty, this was more like a 2.5 stars to me, and I chose to round down. Some essays were better than others. I found the colonic one funny. There was a bizarre one about a goat that I just skimmed. I found the high-speed chase kind of sad. The best description/essay in the book, in my opinion, was working at a Loews movie theater in New Jersey.

I think self-deprecation can be quite funny, but the author takes it to an extreme and when you combine it with his manic depression, it can be quite a mess.

As a side note, I don't believe I've ever seen the author perform as a comedian. Perhaps some context would have helped me.

rhiannatherad's review

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4.0

May not be able to watch back episodes of The Chris Gethard Show since barely have internet at home, but at least he could still consume my time in book form.

And I'm happy his book held up so I can continue being obsessed.

Now who wants to go see him in Indiana with me in September???