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actually_belle's review against another edition
1.0
I typically don’t give bad reviews to books, but this was perhaps one of the worst books I have read. Even though it possesses a few redeeming qualities, this book just seemed to miss the mark in nearly every respect.
The premise is simple: a mother-daughter collaboration, an ode to the “hilarious” events that have happened throughout their lives. Lisa, the mother, attempts very hard to incorporate humor into her stories. Her stories are forced and cringe-worthy, topped off with heaps of bad writing. The incessant references to Bradley Cooper were irritating. The use of the phrase, “Let me explain...” was used at least 10 times. I’ve heard her other books are incredible, so it surprised me to find her stories just so...awful. Francesca, the daughter, is a better writer than her mother. She doesn’t try to be funny (as much), and even though her writing is trite and unoriginal, her stories are passable entertainment.
Overall, I would not recommend this book. This is, at best, equivalent to that of a mediocre blog post that should have probably never been published.
The premise is simple: a mother-daughter collaboration, an ode to the “hilarious” events that have happened throughout their lives. Lisa, the mother, attempts very hard to incorporate humor into her stories. Her stories are forced and cringe-worthy, topped off with heaps of bad writing. The incessant references to Bradley Cooper were irritating. The use of the phrase, “Let me explain...” was used at least 10 times. I’ve heard her other books are incredible, so it surprised me to find her stories just so...awful. Francesca, the daughter, is a better writer than her mother. She doesn’t try to be funny (as much), and even though her writing is trite and unoriginal, her stories are passable entertainment.
Overall, I would not recommend this book. This is, at best, equivalent to that of a mediocre blog post that should have probably never been published.
librariangie's review
3.0
Lit & Laughter Book Club for April. Group discussion: there were some funny moments for sure. People found they could relate to the daughter or the mother, depending upon their age. People seemed to appreciate that. Light reading. I do have an interest in reading more of mother Lisa's books - I am curious how this seemingly-slapstick comedienne writes dark thrillers. Lisa calls herself the Jekyll and Hyde of authors. Overall, a quick, fine read.
sketchnsew's review
2.0
Based on some other reviews I thought I might enjoy it since some thought the stories were funny. Lisa’s stories felt like she was trying too hard to be funny. Francesca’s stories were a little entertaining to read but not funny, which I was ok with because it didn’t seem like she was trying to be funny.
charlottelynn's review
4.0
I am not a short story collection fan. I like a storyline, a set of characters, and an ending. I Need a Lifeguard Everywhere But the Pool changed my mind on everything I thought I needed. I read this on a plane and caught myself laughing out loud, smiling, and cringing at the stories. They are told in separate chapters by both Lisa and Francesca.
There were numerous times that I could relate to what was happening in their lives. The reactions to different events were so real that I could see myself in their stories. I found it fun to get a glimpse into the author’s lives and see that they are normal, real, everyday people. The situations they find themselves in are the same as their readers.
Reading I Need a Lifeguard Everywhere But the Pool made both Lisa and Francesca seem more like my friends. I believe both these amazing ladies would fit in perfectly with my friends and family.
Thank you Jordan Hanley at St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
There were numerous times that I could relate to what was happening in their lives. The reactions to different events were so real that I could see myself in their stories. I found it fun to get a glimpse into the author’s lives and see that they are normal, real, everyday people. The situations they find themselves in are the same as their readers.
Reading I Need a Lifeguard Everywhere But the Pool made both Lisa and Francesca seem more like my friends. I believe both these amazing ladies would fit in perfectly with my friends and family.
Thank you Jordan Hanley at St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
notesonmyshelf's review against another edition
4.0
I've read and enjoyed several other of the Lisa/Francesca books and this one did not disappoint. The stories are short and cute and I love the alternating voice and perspective between Lisa and Francesca.
I've listened to the audio versions of their other books, so I was a little apprehensive about reading this one. I shouldn't have worried; their voices come through loud and clear.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've listened to the audio versions of their other books, so I was a little apprehensive about reading this one. I shouldn't have worried; their voices come through loud and clear.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
sherwoodreads's review against another edition
This is the second book by this mother and daughter team that I've read. Comprised of short anecdotes or commentary, it makes perfect beach or commuter read. The two cover every subject under the sun that might be of interest to American women of the mainstream: there's aging, and being a thirty-something, sports, the election (their hope was painful to read in retrospect), and the dream of owning a white picket fence. While aware of the status of 'white picket fence' in American lore.
But they also explore the inexplicables of modern life: owning an iPhone, nude dining (yes, apparently it's a thing), when to wear a bra and when not to bother, dieting, dog ownership, the excruciating "games" at bridal showers, weird stuff you find on the Internet, and the etiquette of Twitter. Male birth control. Weird super foods, and how big butts are supposed to be a sign of longevity. Some of these will cause a snicker, at least they did for me.
Here and there you get a glimpse of the writing life, which I enjoyed even though my process couldn't be more different (Lisa likes the sound of the TV running, which would drive me insane), and between the snickers there are thoughtful anecdotes, and one lovely one about taking the summer ferry to Ellis Island.
Mostly, though, it's quick reads aimed unapologetically at a female audience. Odd ducks as we all are, or feel ourselves to be (I cringed in sympathy at the one about attending a big publisher party, at which you know no one), there is a solidarity in fellow-feel.
Copy provided by NetGalley
But they also explore the inexplicables of modern life: owning an iPhone, nude dining (yes, apparently it's a thing), when to wear a bra and when not to bother, dieting, dog ownership, the excruciating "games" at bridal showers, weird stuff you find on the Internet, and the etiquette of Twitter. Male birth control. Weird super foods, and how big butts are supposed to be a sign of longevity. Some of these will cause a snicker, at least they did for me.
Here and there you get a glimpse of the writing life, which I enjoyed even though my process couldn't be more different (Lisa likes the sound of the TV running, which would drive me insane), and between the snickers there are thoughtful anecdotes, and one lovely one about taking the summer ferry to Ellis Island.
Mostly, though, it's quick reads aimed unapologetically at a female audience. Odd ducks as we all are, or feel ourselves to be (I cringed in sympathy at the one about attending a big publisher party, at which you know no one), there is a solidarity in fellow-feel.
Copy provided by NetGalley
sassysparky's review against another edition
3.0
It was okay. Not as deep or engaging as the last one in this series. I want more from Francesca, her life seems really interesting ( it that might be because we’re same generation)