Explores the grosser side of butterfly habits that aren't brought up too often when discussing them, though it is not as gross as the title makes it oExplores the grosser side of butterfly habits that aren't brought up too often when discussing them, though it is not as gross as the title makes it out to be, but passable. ...more
A collection of short stories, written by David Sedaris and a handful of illustrations by Ian Falconer, that are similar in vein to Aesop's Fables. EaA collection of short stories, written by David Sedaris and a handful of illustrations by Ian Falconer, that are similar in vein to Aesop's Fables. Each story focuses on a certain critter and the hassles of everyday life and thought. Such many that would provoke thought on what if animals were given more human characteristics in their personality. In which, insanity is the answer: you get some would be fussing over the most trivial things or attempt to bring awareness of their own misery to others. As such, if one were to replace the animals with human characters, they would see how even more the stories pack to our realities.
Some were funny, some were a drag, and some were confusing as in most short story collections. David Sedaris' style is something I'm new to, and yet something intrigues me about his writing from this book. If you want something that's a little thought-provoking in a subtle way, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk is the one. ...more
A picture book about animal butts. Humorous in it's minimal text of different animals proudly showing off their bottoms and describing what their che A picture book about animal butts. Humorous in it's minimal text of different animals proudly showing off their bottoms and describing what their cheeks are like. Saito has done well in illustrating the behinds of her animals in this book, as they have great details in their appearance and yet, reminiscent of old picture book art styles. ...more
Alvin Ho is one kid who is virtually afraid of almost anything. Compared to Diary of a Wimpy Kid, it is a humorous series of a little kid who's overreAlvin Ho is one kid who is virtually afraid of almost anything. Compared to Diary of a Wimpy Kid, it is a humorous series of a little kid who's overreaction ends up causing much of the situation to go worst for him. Though, I don't see much comparison to Greg Heffley than I do more to Junie B. Jones, in that Alvin is naive little boy who let's his fears get the best of him. To which, he often learns the hard way of how to deal with them, getting into embarrassing moments, and driving his parents crazy much like Junie B.
This was a fun read of Alvin's day-to-day life as he deals with invitations to a girl's party, having fart attacks, and being stalked by the ghost of Louisa May Alcott. I hope to see that the other books live up to this one....more
What happens when you combine A Midsummer Night's Dream with Christopher Moore? You get Shakespeare For Squirrels, of course. The fool, Pocket of Dog What happens when you combine A Midsummer Night's Dream with Christopher Moore? You get Shakespeare For Squirrels, of course. The fool, Pocket of Dog Snogging, and his nitwitted apprentice, Drool, are stranded in the land of Athens, where fairies, goblins, and Amazons roam the land with mortals. As they tried to find a way to get out of Athens, Pocket is mistaken for another fool, Puck, a notorious fool who had his way with some powerful queens. But Puck is soon killed and Pocket is blamed for his death, he must find a way to prove his innocence, and that means solving the murder case. He teams up with fairies, a rag team of amateur theater troupes, and makes a deal with three powerful figures: Oberon, King of the Goblins; Titania, Queen of the Fairies; and Theseus, Duke of Athens all to catch the individual behind Puck's slaying. Of course, there is much squabbling between our lead hero and his team that it almost derails the mission from the start, in some of the most humorous of ways.
Initially, I did not know this book was part of a trilogy, though this one doesn't require the first two to understand the plot. I only read one other book by Moore, that being The Stupidest Angel: A Heartwarming Tale of Christmas Terror, which I found to be quite the chuckle, given its large cast and witty humor that I enjoy. This book is similar in that it has both qualities as well, but I guess the pacing is one issue for me. The first third really felt like nothing was going on, other than Pocket and Drool exploring the unfamiliar realm. The second act is where the mystery begins and picks up some speed, and the third act is where tensions really built up that I got interested into the story much more. That's not bad, as I wouldn't say that I am a Shakespeare fan, if I'm being honest. I think another reason why I wasn't as attached was due to the large cast. While it's all from Pocket's view, many of the characters are named similarly, so I was a little confused at times who they were speaking of, which Moore acknowledged in the afterword of facing the same issue. However, like I said, the climax was where I was regaining interest and a lot more of the comedy was thoroughly funny enough for me to flip through the pages.
While Shakespeare For Squirrels is not bad, I do think it could be better. And with that, I still look forward to reading other books by Christopher Moore as I find his writing to be both funny to my liking while being easy enough to read at a decent pace. ...more
How To Be A Man is a humorous take on what makes a man a man by James Breakwell. Using his past experiences, Breakwell comes up to multiple conclusionHow To Be A Man is a humorous take on what makes a man a man by James Breakwell. Using his past experiences, Breakwell comes up to multiple conclusions on what true masculinity is, some of which could come off as probably is most embarrassing moments. From giving his mom a heart attack, purchasing the wrong engagement ring, having four car accidents in a short period of time, and being labeled a lawn gnome thief by the police, if there is one true answer you should take from the author is that a man can always improve by accepting and improving on his flaws. Clearly the author learned that from the hard way with a lot of the mistakes he encountered in his life.
Written in a sarcastic and snarky way, Breakwell provides helpful insights to answering the questions of modern masculinity. And if you're looking for humorous works on philosophical ideas, this is for you, especially if you are into deadpan snark. Though I advise that one can only truly understand the meaning of his words by actually living through the same lifestyle he did. I won this book through the giveaway, and am I glad I read this immediately. ...more
Sharing the same qualities as Captain Underpants, Dog Man is the successor series for Pilkey. There are many potty jokes, childish drawing, and spelliSharing the same qualities as Captain Underpants, Dog Man is the successor series for Pilkey. There are many potty jokes, childish drawing, and spelling errors of George and Harold. The main difference is that this is a full-on comic and much of the plot being less complex than Captain Underpants. Not sure if it's meant for even an even younger audience than those who liked the former, but I can give a few more books a try. ...more
I had not read any Wimpy Kid book since the Long Haul, heck I forgot that this series is still going on! It's clear that I am going to read this serieI had not read any Wimpy Kid book since the Long Haul, heck I forgot that this series is still going on! It's clear that I am going to read this series a little out of order, given that there are at least 4 others I skipped over for this one. Like Long Haul, this is a summer vacation event that lasts over the course of a month. And when I thought things could not get any crazier for Greg and his family, this book clearly proved me wrong with how much more out of control fate has for the Heffleys. Whether it be God's will or just pure stupidity, I was smirking throughout reading and that's what counts....more
I had read this back in my elementary days, they were fun and full of potty humor. Still holds up pretty well actually, one of the best standalone booI had read this back in my elementary days, they were fun and full of potty humor. Still holds up pretty well actually, one of the best standalone books in the series before the big story arc that comes after this one. Perhaps I'll reread the rest in the future, since this is one of two I owned....more
Funny, You Don't Look Autistic is a comedic memoir by Michael McCreary, a rising comedian who is also on the autism spectrum. McCreary recounts his 20Funny, You Don't Look Autistic is a comedic memoir by Michael McCreary, a rising comedian who is also on the autism spectrum. McCreary recounts his 20-something years from the time he was diagnosed up to the point his stand-up career appears to be taking off. Throughout the book, the tone is very upbeat, humorous and informative about what autism is to those who don't know. He shares moments of accomplishments such as: getting a bully to change ways and getting his first screenplay becoming a theater production to some moments of low humiliations: finding out his date forgot to tell him to breakup, getting into a fumble with the police for an expired bus pass to even having major screw ups on his gig as a camp counselor.
Despite all of this, he continues moving forward to live the life he wants, regardless of his autism. He joined theater and therapy groups to help guide him on a path that can help him know how to work around his limits. In doing so, he also debunks many stereotypes about autistic people in the process, providing many insights on how autism affects the mindset. I do agree with others that this is a short, but witty and inspirational tale of Michael McCreary of how he got the world to overlook his disability and making his dreams a reality in the process. ...more
Sunny Acres was once the happiest farm in the world, until Grumpy Goat came with his grumpiness. No matter what the other farm animals did, Grumpy GoaSunny Acres was once the happiest farm in the world, until Grumpy Goat came with his grumpiness. No matter what the other farm animals did, Grumpy Goat scared them off and prefers his solitude. But when Grumpy discovers and cares for a little dandelion, little did he know it's the start of new friendships.
I've always known Brett Helquist as an illustrator, specifically for his works in Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, the art mystery series by Blue Balliett, and other standalone novels like The Storm Makers. So I was kind of anxious to see how well Helquist at writing to go along with his drawings. From what I read here, he could pass off as a small-time author. While the text is bare minimum, Brett does more showing than telling in this story of how our actions can make different perceptions from others. In the case of Grumpy Goat, who started off as rude & anti-social, the tenderness he shows to the dandelion, attracts the other farm animals to extend their arms to him and becomes much more friendlier in the process. Although all the illustrations were animals, Helquist's style is still very much remarkable in adding details and creating an ambient atmosphere. ...more
Pride and Prejudice is a famous satire novel, and a piece of classic literature by Jane Austen. Now, Smith had reinvented this classic with a zombie tPride and Prejudice is a famous satire novel, and a piece of classic literature by Jane Austen. Now, Smith had reinvented this classic with a zombie twist which attracted new audiences. Though his input has changed the initial tone to more black comedy, the essence, and text of Austen's vision is still around. In which, the overarching theme of putting love & happiness in marriage is valued over customs & traditions. Elizabeth Bennet is a skilled warrior who is proud of her skills to use against the even growing zombie apocalypse, but her family's financial problems and low social rank leaves her worried about her future and her sisters' as daughters cannot inherit their fathers' property.
While her mother frets with prospective marriage plans for them, Elizabeth is determined to live her own life. And upon meeting a man like Mr. Darcy, while wealthy but with such a cold personality, she outright rejects the idea of being with him. But as time passed, the two do gradually become more fond of each other before thinking a partnership is more worthwhile. All the while, her life is further complicated with the arrival of Wickham and Mr. Collins, both of whom opened Elizabeth's eyes to her own flaws.
I admit, I had never read the original novel, having watched and enjoyed the movie made me pick up this book. Despite that, much of the text is just like the original. Of course, the 18th century style is a little hard to understand at times. The zombie bits did play like it really was a part of the story, never out of place, and kept my interest going, as shallow as that could sound. It was really surprising to see how much the movie decided to change as there was a lot more to the characters during the last third of the book. I thoroughly agree with the afterword that the zombies further improve upon the themes and critiques that Austen made with her work during her lifetime, as it can be applied even now with challenges to social norms. Even the discussion questions promote harder analysis of the legacy this book has to society. Overall, despite the issues I had while reading, it was a real treat to read this parody as I had a good laugh and feel some appreciation for classical literature. ...more
Clarice Bean is an imaginative and energetic little girl in her big family. But one day, both her parents are needed to be gone for a week, and the onClarice Bean is an imaginative and energetic little girl in her big family. But one day, both her parents are needed to be gone for a week, and the only one who can babysit is her Uncle Ted. Clarice is all too excited because Ted is fun to be around, almost too much like her to an extent! Mom gives Ted strict instructions on what to do while she's gone and for a while things seem to go smoothly. But as soon as the class pet guinea pig goes missing, chaos ensues in the house. The older siblings hog the phone and lock themselves in their rooms, Grandpa wonders off, Minal gets knocked out and stuck in between a fence, and Clarice gets into a fight with neighbor Robert while searching for the guinea pig. And just as soon as Mom arrives back, does things calm down and the family gets to enjoy a little backyard party as the fire crew runs up to them.
I never read any of the Clarice Bean books outside of this one, but I am familiar with the author's works. This was a fun and unique presentation of a little girl who has much to discover in the world and her crazy schemes to fixing problems. I love the paper cutout style to this book, it's very vibrant with how the author found the write scraps to make her art, and the text is written as if it were a child's mind, which is all over the place. It's clear that there is many more crazy things to come in the life of Clarice Bean!...more
The title has the intentions of something that I thought would be a black comedy horror. And it is, sort of. It's got zombies, with lots of gore on hoThe title has the intentions of something that I thought would be a black comedy horror. And it is, sort of. It's got zombies, with lots of gore on how they are killed, and you got your protagonists who are somewhat slightly smarter than most horror-themed MCs and their dry humor dialogue.
I laughed at some parts, especially during the panic mode, and Scott Sowers is a good narrator for the story. The main drawback for me was of how the writing tends to fall flat occasionally, making the plot dull to pick up on the next chapter. This premise could have worked a lot better, but I did find it funny to say the least....more
It has been more than a decade since I read any manga, let alone one from a new series. The Way of the Househusband fulfills that niche just right, asIt has been more than a decade since I read any manga, let alone one from a new series. The Way of the Househusband fulfills that niche just right, as I finally got a chance to read it now.
The Immortal Dragon was once a feared yakuza, forming many legends during his tenure, but since getting settled, he retires to become a househusband. When his wife is gone to work, he's busy doing the household chores: cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, earning shop points, etc. Along the way, he meets familiar faces, many of which are not too happy to see him, but that doesn't stop him from taking them down a notch in the most peaceful way possible. While he has gotten into doing a routine day-to-day life, being a perfect husband is much harder than it looks as every event leads to another chaos for him to deal with. Much of with is left to the confusion of his neighbors, or occasionally, his own self-destruction.
A slice of life manga, it is humorous on its take of domestic roles, sometimes edging on hammy, but it works for this series, as none of the characters seems to take themselves too seriously. Each chapter has a focus on a different, day, so there's no continuation, yet still enjoyable. I feel a little cheated because I was unable to get a copy to read for a while and ended up binging the Netflix series, which adapted most of the chapters already in the first few releases. So it may seem reductive to read this after viewing the show, but luckily, there are bonus chapters included so there are some nice surprises for myself to discover. I would say I am happy to continue tagging along with this ongoing series to see more potential!...more
Red, White & Royal Blue is a gay, romantic comedy between two boys of a president and a queen. Alex is an up and coming politician who is very much liRed, White & Royal Blue is a gay, romantic comedy between two boys of a president and a queen. Alex is an up and coming politician who is very much living the playboy lifestyle, and yet, he is confused to find himself falling for the handsone, stoic Prince Henry after a PR stunt to make amends. When Henry returns his feelings, their relationship must be kept secret not only for the sake of the monarchy, but also the upcoming reelection might be compromised.
The story is easy to follow through, with likeable and relatable characters, though Alex borderlines to being an unsympathetic comedy protagonist at certain points. The dialogue is humorous for the most part, creating great chemistry between Alex and Henry. At times it can come off as campy, but it works. With positive messages of social change and self-love, one can expect a wonderful lighthearted tale from this story, I know I needed it....more
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