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megachick's review against another edition
3.0
Hmm. I hated her halfway through the first chapter. It wasn't the sarcasm itself but the shallowness and obsession with 'fashion'; her absolute dedication to style over substance. I couldn't wait to get to the part where she had to go to the unemployment office. She does have a fantastic way with words though and her occasional pauses to describe certain objects in vivid, poetic detail (like the Cadillac) were appreciable. But as she grew to appreciate how precarious her success was and how foolish she had been, I began to see the raw character beneath the sheen. Her fidelity to and support of Fletch, her love for the dogs, and ultimately, her acknowledgment of the more important things in life redeemed this book for me. The crazy thing is, I had a visceral reaction to her honesty about their dire financial situation- I've been there and I understand how that can change a person's perspective. I found myself in a state of anxiety all over again reading those chapters. Outside of that panic, though, the book did have some truly funny moments. I may try another of her books someday.
laughstooeasily's review against another edition
5.0
So silly! Every once in a while i had to stop and remember this is a memoir not just a fictional story. It's super enjoyable and a great summer read.
annarosereads's review against another edition
4.0
Jen Lancaster's memoir about her fall from the charmed life after the dot-com crash is laugh out loud funny. At the same time it is a really eye opening look at the experiences of thousands of unemployed people in America. This book allows the reader to see first hand how soul-sucking the job market can be and how desperate the situation can turn. At one point Jen and her husband have to choose between his prescription anti-depressants and food! Although there are really heavy moments like that in the book, Ms. Lancaster's snarky writing style quickly has you laughing again.
latoyak's review against another edition
2.0
The book was funny, I have to admit I laughed at most of the situations she got into, but I did not like the main character...AT ALL. Every time she was nasty to someone or purchased something she didn't need, she annoyed me.
melissarochelle's review against another edition
3.0
I never felt bad for Jen Lancaster while listening to her story...probably because she never really felt bad for herself. And she's kind of annoying.
It wasn't as funny as I thought it would be, I think I expected more laugh out loud moments. But I'm still willing to listen to more by the woman that narrated this one...and if Jen Lancaster wrote it.
It wasn't as funny as I thought it would be, I think I expected more laugh out loud moments. But I'm still willing to listen to more by the woman that narrated this one...and if Jen Lancaster wrote it.
ktko17's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
ruthiealthaus's review against another edition
5.0
Jen Lancaster: what a woman! Read this book at the insistence of my sister and was NOT disappointed! Her unapologetic biting wit and sarcastic disposition make her an instant would be best friend of mine. Aside from that, she is relatable and strong. Not everything is Pollyanna sunshine and daffodils for Jen, between reconciling with unemployment and a new forced identity things go downhill for her pretty steadily and she is not bashful or ashamed to say that it sucks. Despite this, Jen is able to use her humor not just as a viewfinder but as a catalyst for change in her own life and I for one found it inspired.