The book I chose to take on holiday with me was Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me by Mindy Kaling. I knew even before I had read a page that I would love it. The title drew me in, as I'm sure I'm not the only one who has had this concern. When I saw that the first chapter was called 'Chubby for Life' I knew me and this book would get on well.
I have to admit I'm slightly biased and really admire Mindy, as a woman of colour myself (regular viewers of the Mindy project should get that reference) I see her as a brilliant role model. Before I go any further I should say that this book is not entirely an autobiography. There are chapters which are indeed autobiographical, and some are essays which are Mindy's musings on life and her views on things. I did feel the latter part of the book included some 'filler' chapters, but who doesn't like to look at narcissistic photos.
The first thing I should say is this book will definitely make you smile. It's just what I needed to read and a quick escape from life stuff. Parts of the book did make me laugh out loud and I did get a few weird looks on the plane. Talking of the plane journey, I did notice the lady next to me peeping over to see what I was reading. Normally I hate that but in this case I thought, you should really read this, in fact all women of all ages should read this. I found myself nodding along and thinking "finally someone is talking about this". For example 'what does hooking up actually mean?' Mindy continues to ask the questions out loud that we're all secretly wondering, she does so with such whit and charm that you can't help but want to be her friend. There were parts in the book where I was reading and thought to myself, this is exactly like me and my best friend. We're not total weirdos after all, or maybe we are. Her honesty and original writing style makes it feel like you are reading a pals diary and you leave knowing them a lot better. I've recommended this book to all my friends and exclaimed "look she's just like us! And look how much she's achieved." It's empowering, without trying to be.
Mindy, (yes, I feel I can call her that because in my head we are totally bff's) was hired as a writer for The Office when she was just 24! If that isn't impressive enough she was the only female writer in a team of eight! Her book details events which took place before, during and after The Office. I enjoyed reading about pre Office times most, as I found it more relatable. That's probably where I am in my life, the awkward early 20's, where everything seems like a learning curve. I feel this is is the book that every woman of any age should read, I wish I had read it sooner. It does have a slight 'coming of age' feel to it. Men of the world, there is a chapter for you, and what you should and shouldn't wear/do. A subject I can go on and on about. For the record Min, (yeah we're that close) I agree with what you said. Especially about the Converse, replace them regularly please.
Overall, a very enjoyable and easy read, perfect to take to the beach. If it fails to make you smile it will definitely leave you pondering the question, why does it take men so long to tie their shoes?
While I continue to crush on Mindy Kaling, tell me the books you've been enjoying.
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I love Mindy! I too am a 'woman of colour' and when I first saw her show, I was so pleased to see an Indian girl, starring in a TV show, where it's not actually about her being Indian. It's rare enough to see Indian women on TV, and then when they do (e.g. New Girl with the arranged marriage storyline) they have to make it a 'thing'. Whereas Mindy is just Mindy, and she's portrayed as funny and successful - amazing! I loved the book too, she just has a way of making you feel like you know her - I could so hear her voice saying the words in my head as I read the book! Great review, and thanks for letting me know it was up! xxx
ReplyDeleteHi Amber, thanks for reading my post. I completely agree with you, I was also so pleased to see an Indian girl starring and writing a TV show without it being focused on her being Indian. Its such a breath of fresh air away from all the cliche arranged marriage story-lines. I love the show, something about it feels so current and unique, not to mention it makes me laugh so hard. By the way, I've been mooching around your blog and really enjoy reading it. I just noticed we started blogging at the same time! Can't wait to see what else you post!
DeleteSammi
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I've not watched her show but I did watch the Office which I thought she was great in. This has made me want to give this a read, it sounds really good!
ReplyDeleteJenn
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Hi Jenn, definitely give a read its quite a short book and won't take very long but it will make you laugh.
DeleteSammi
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