How To Be A Woman
Moran’s book is a funny autobiographical feminist polemic.
Each chapter illustrates an aspect of growing up and living as a woman using events in her own life.
Her anecdotes are usually hilarious, occasionally moving and nearly always enlightening.
I found much to admire in her take on feminism, but that’s not too surprising given how well it chimes with my own views.
It’s currently available as a cheap paperback or ebook and is well worth buying.
It’s Lovely To Be Here
Pleasantly enjoyable jaunt through Yorkston’s tour diaries as he travels the world playing solo shows as headliner and support act.
He’s a fine raconteur with a nice line in self-deprecating yarns but to be honest there’s nothing more to the book than that.
Worth it only if you’re already a fan of his music.
My Shit Life So Far
Of the comedian’s biographies I’ve read this year, this is closest to an actual biography. True it contains substantial chunks of his stand up routine, but it also feels like you’re getting some insight into what makes Boyle the man he is.
It is of course very funny in places.
I’d say it’s worth picking it up dirt cheap someplace – no need to encourage him too much.
Tuesdays With Morrie
Sentimental, touching and occasionally escapes cliches and triteness
Pies and Prejudice
A look at the reality of the north of england that starts slowly and gradually gets more and more enjoyable as Maconie falls back in love with the places and people of his youth.
Tickling The English
A look at the English from the perspective of the famous Irish comedian as he tours the country.
A decent book, with more to it than you’d expect.
Chuck Klosterman IV
A loose collection of artist profiles, opinion columns and random other bits of writing. Klosterman is a very readable writer but can take some very annoying positions on popular culture.
He’s got a whole more broadminded than thou thing going on, combined with a popular is good except when I don’t like it stance. Like I say, annoying.
Kiss Me Like A Stranger
Second autobiography this year. Like Alda’s it’s tremendously revealing about some things and goes into far too little detail about some of the most interesting things in his life.
Witty and very readable, it’s a fun read.
Jelleyman’s Thrown A Wobbly
Lightweight memoir mainly focusing on stories from the Soccer Saturday studio.
So insubstantial as to not be worth full price.
Nevertheless it’s still pretty entertaining.
My Boring-Ass Life
Simultaneously mundane and explicit, this book is for the most part quite entertaining.
Smith seems an affable enough bloke, who is quite aware of just how much of a role luck plays in his career.
The fact remains that the two (seemingly) most interesting stories are tantalizingly referred to and are not discussed any further.
I’d recommend it if you like Smith, his movies, or can find a copy as cheap as mine was!