I’m really excited to write today’s post because it is about a really funny book. I was inspired to read Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling because of Essie Button’s #buttonsbookshelf. Funnily enough, I had been eyeing this book the day before I watched her video, and I hadn’t bought it but I took it as a sign that I needed it in my life. And I’m glad I did, because gurrrrl this was hilarious.
I used to be a big fan of The Office but never got into the American one. I guess I was one of those people who just dismisses re-dos of beloved series (perhaps wisely). However, this unfortunately has lead me to have a severe lack of Mindy Kaling in my life, which I now realise is a crying shame. I was even hesitant to watch The Mindy Project, and when I did try, I didn’t get into it straight away. What was wrong with me? I don’t know if I’ll ever know.
This book is part autobiography, part stand up comedy routine. Each serious line is tempered with an equally entertaining joke, and she writes in a way that sounds as if she is just speaking (a train of thought, if you will). I love this type of writing style, because it feels really authentic and almost as if you know the person who’s writing. I think it’s a gift, and it goes to show why Mindy Kaling is one of the most successful comedy writers today – and as a woman, that ain’t no joke!
One of the things I really enjoyed about this book is that Mindy talks about her early life as well as her successes later in life, and sprinkled amidst it all are her theories and thoughts on such random topics as why men take so long putting on shoes to her ideas for movie sequels. I much preferred this over Tina Fey’s Bossypants, because I never felt like I got to know the real Tina. In this book, it’s all Real Mindy.
Mindy writes with a lot of wit, but also with kindness. I never felt like she was taking advantage of her position or poking fun at people that couldn’t do it back. She seems like a really nice person and one that is more than aware of the crap that goes on behind the scenes. I particularly liked when she listed the items included in award show goodie bags (much cheaper and tackier than you may first think).
Another favourite part was the pure adoration when she talked about Amy Poehler. She was hired to write a few episodes of SNL and her highlight of the whole experience was being able to hang out with her, even just for a short while. I love how Mindy also has such a love of and passion for comedy; it’s her passion, something she’s loved since childhood. It’s really inspiring to read about someone chasing their goal and achieving it – and still striving to achieve it even after great success.
After not finishing a book this year so far, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? was a real relief and a joy. Sometimes I forget what a pure pleasure it is to sit and read an engrossing book, and this one reminded me of that feeling. I read it in a couple of days and occasionally laughed out loud. If I could eat this book, I would (Mindy would be proud).
So if you’re in the market for a funny, light but not-too-light, well-written and incredibly funny book, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? is the one for you. Thank me later!
Steph x