I have a very serious problem that’s simultaneously ruining my life and making it 100 times better.
That problem is the comedian memoir, and it is taking over my life. I’ve read more comedian memoirs than a normal person should. I’m still not sure if it’s a good thing or a bad thing.
Of course, I try to branch out and read other kinds of books, but something about these books keep reeling me in. They make me laugh, cry and think. They only take a few hours to read. They almost always bring some sort of new insight about the author or the industry they are in.
And I love it. I love these books so much. I’ve read many of them multiple times and I have a few audiobook versions that I’m embarrassed to admit how many times I have listened to them. These books are my favorite way to spend my time.
So, since I’m kind of an expert when it comes to this genre, I thought I’d share with you my top picks.
If I ever get married, I plan on having someone read from “Bossypants.” It’s that important to me. Fey is funny and honest as she talks about her early years in improv, time at SNL and creating 30 Rock.
2. “Egghead: Or, You Can’t Survive on Ideas Alone” by Bo Burnham
This one is a little different. It’s a book of short poems and great doodles. Burnham is a seriously talented writer who can make you laugh, cry and question the meaning of life all within one sitting.
3. “Yes Please” by Amy Poehler
I just finished reading this one yesterday, so we’re still kind of in the honeymoon phase. This book just made me happy that Amy Poehler is a person we have in the world. She talks about her life, her kids, her divorce. She’s unapologetic about who she is, and I love that.
Did you read that title? Yes, it’s as good as it sounds. It’s humorous, heartbreaking, and Kasher’s life is so completely different from anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s awesome.
5. “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)” by Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling is very important to me. She completely understands my love for TV, food and Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s friendship. She talks about what it’s like being a female minority in an industry that predominately white males and how she’s never let that stop her from doing what she loves. She is who she is and she wants to do what she loves.
6. “Born Standing Up: A Comic’s Life” by Steve Martin
We all know and love Steve Martin. This book is so great because it’s mostly about his early life in standup in a time where standup comedy isn’t really a career option. It was more common to have variety acts or to be a magician than a standup comedian. It’s also very fun to read about how as a teenager Martin would ride his bike to Disneyland to his job where he only paid $0.25 for lunch. What a world.
Of course, honorable mention goes to all of Chelsea Handler’s books and Ellen DeGeneres’ books. They’re pretty great, too.
