A review by filipacm
Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
2.75
In all honesty, it was the Funny You Should Ask's red and pink cover that caught my attention while browsing my online bookstore. After that, I read the synopsis and figured it would be a fun reading experience.
Chani Horowitz and Gabe Parker were both likeable characters, and I found it interesting that Sussman's writing (in two intertwining timelines) allowed the reader to compare two versions of them. It contributed to understanding how they grew and changed in the ten years that separated the interviews. I also really appreciated that it dived into themes such as substance abuse and diminishing relationship partners.
Chani Horowitz and Gabe Parker were both likeable characters, and I found it interesting that Sussman's writing (in two intertwining timelines) allowed the reader to compare two versions of them. It contributed to understanding how they grew and changed in the ten years that separated the interviews. I also really appreciated that it dived into themes such as substance abuse and diminishing relationship partners.
Even so, I think the narrative was too unlikely for my taste. Call me sceptical, but how is it possible to fall madly in love with someone after spending only 3-6 days with them? Despite the fact they "knew" each other through their careers (and I must say following someone's career for ten whole years is a lot of commitment), I don't think they could know each other enough for love.
I didn't dislike it, but it didn't convince me either.
I didn't dislike it, but it didn't convince me either.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic relationship, Alcoholism, and Addiction
Moderate: Homophobia and Death of parent